Constant Change

   When I was a child, there was a very popular song entitled Constant Change. Basically, the message was "Life is constantly changing and we have to move along." 

      Lately, I'm sure you noticed that I haven't been posting much. It's not because I'm not committed on writing anymore or I have nothing more to share about food allergies. 

     In fact, it is the exact opposite. I have so much to share. Aside from new recipes and product finds, I also would like to talk more about our daily struggles and adventures living this allergy friendly lifestyle including restaurants we frequently go to, home management and yes my own personal goals as a mom. 

     For years, I tried to limit myself in writing. Most of the time, editing what I truly feel because I fear that I am sharing too much.  After months of self searching and evaluation, I realized that the more I edited my writing, the more it became difficult for me. How come I can readily talk about allergies to other people yet I'm scared to write it down? 

      So, after so many days and nights of contemplating, I decided it's time to move out of my comfort zone. Starting this August, you will see big changes here at The Frugalista Mom's Allergy Friendly Home. Changes I'm really excited to share with you. We've been friends for years now yet I feel that I never really welcomed you into my home. 

     As I embrace this new perspective, I ask that you also open up and share with me what you truly feel inside -  Ask me questions, share your ideas, tell me your experiences... I love to hear all of it. You can reach me in the comments section, twitter, Facebook, Instagram and even thru a direct email thefrugalistamom@gmail.com 

     Thank you for being with me for almost 3 years. Here's to many more years together. 

Love, 

Roz

CSCS Anti-Aging Serum for the Face Review

    Normally, I don't talk about beauty, more so, skin care. Though I love my bright red lipsticks (Yes, that's with an S) and rarely go out of the house without it, I'm generally a no fuss person especially when it comes to skin care routines. My arsenal is nothing more than a good facial wash and a moisturizer with SPF. That's it!

    For years, I've heard so much about the importance of having anti-aging products. It was only recently though that I started to be curious. Why? Let's just say that I realized that I'm turning 37 in a few months. Plus, I'm beginning to notice fine lines and yes, grays. Is it really that fast? 

    So when a CSCS, the makers of Hyaluronic Acid With Vitamin C Serum offered me to review their product, I accepted it with an open mind.

     For starters, I like that this Vitamin C Serum is made with 100% natural plant based ingredients. It is manufactured in a eco-friendly, cruelty free environment. Most importantly, it has no animal products and is not tested on animals. Also, it is free of harmful chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, sulfates and alcohol. Beauty product ingredients that I became very particular with after I learned about my children's allergies.

   According the makers, this Hyaluronic Acid With Vitamin C Serum restores the skin from inside out. It is rich in antioxidants, UV protection and moisturizing nutrients that penetrates deep in the skin to strengthen and defend the skin against damage from free radicals and unfavorable environmental conditions. It eliminates fine lines, wrinkles and evens out skin tone. The formula carefully combines natural ingredients such as essential oils, hydrosols, botanicals, herbal and fruit extracts.

     After using the product for a week, I did notice some skin tightening. My pores did look smaller. Though my brown spots didn't seem to lighten or disappear, I'm quite happy with the change in my skin's texture.  It's smoother and softer.

    Also, I liked how it felt in my skin. It's light and not greasy at all. There's no stinging as well. I have combination, sensitive skin.  I easily break out, experience redness or my skin easily peels when something harsh is put on my face. So far, I just experience a little peeling after using the product for 2 days. After that, there's really no significant reactions.

     Even if I haven't seen the big promises the product has claimed yet, (I just used it for a little over a week), I decided to still use the remaining product to see if there will be a big change in my skin particularly the age spots.

     Did you know that the product comes with a 100% money back guarantee? Yes, the company is so confident on their product buying it is totally risk free. You can buy the Hyaluronic Acid With Vitamin C Serum now for a sale price of $24.99.

      What's in your basic skin regimen? Love to hear your tips.


- Roz
(Note: I received free product from the distributor for this review. This set up however doesn't affect my opinions and experiences about the product. Also, this post contains affiliate links which help in the maintenance of this site. Thank you for support. Please see my full disclosure here.)

     

Beat the Summer Heat with Philly Swirl Treats

   Hello July! Are you enjoying your summer temperatures already? Just this week, we started with a 107F here in New Jersey. With the high temperatures and humidity, there's no more denying that the peak of summer is here.

   Speaking of hot weather, one of the most common questions I get this season from fellow food allergy parents is what type of frozen treats to I give my kids. Well, here it is --- Philly Swirl.

 
     Philly Swirl has been my food allergy kids' best friend for years. I can still remember the first time we discovered these colorful treats. While I was reading the labels of non dairy milk cartons, one of my boys who's looking through the glass case of frozen novelties said "I wish I could have ice pops again." Without even thinking, I asked and they replied,

"Is it gluten free? Yes!
"Dairy free?"        Yes!
"Nut free?"           Yes!
"Soy free?"           Yes!
"Egg free?"          Yes!

Are you sure? .... Yes!

   I got really curious and headed their way. Can this be really true? Then after a thorough examination of the ingredient list, I gave in and grabbed a box of the Swirl Stix. The rest is history.

     So, what makes Philly Swirl a big hit in our family? Well, aside from being food allergy friendly, these frozen treats are packed with flavor. Since each is made by combining two or even three types of Italian ices that go well together, one can expect a variety of flavor punch in each bite or scoop.

    Child#1 and I are crazy over the Orange Dream as it reminds us of a Creamsicle. Child#2 loves the Cotton Candy and Mystery flavor. The Dad (yup, he likes these a lot because it's also fat free) enjoys the sour notes of Very Berry and Applelicious. As for the two boys, well, they like them all!

     Another thing that we love about the Swirl Stix, Swirl Cups and Swirl Poppers is its smooth and almost creamy texture. While most ices and ice pops get really hard and actually turn into solid ice, these Philly Swirls remain smooth and silky. No breaking of teeth or plastic spoons here.

     Now, here's something really exciting. The generous people from Philly Swirls would like to give a nice treat to Five (5) TFM Friends.  Each of those 5 lucky readers will receive a VIP Coupon to personally enjoy their favorite Philly Swirl product. Isn't that cool?

      Get free entries now by doing those tasks below. This giveaway is open to all US residents and will end on Aug. 5, 2015 11:59 pm EST.

       Good luck! 

 - Roz
(Note: I received free products to review for this post. This arrangement however, has no effect on the opinions I've written about the product. Please see my full disclosure here.)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday Freebies & Deals: Allermates GF Lunchbox, Bracelets, Ebooks and more

      It has been a while since I've posted some Friday deals. This week, I found some really great back to school coupon codes.

      There are also free ebooks on paleo diet, decluttering, essential oils and medicinal herbs that are really interesting and informational. 

    Oh, there's also something cold and yummy brewing which I can't wait to share with you this coming Monday.

   Hate missing a recipe post, inspirational stories, deals or giveaway?

  Subscribe to our weekly free TFMFriends Newsletter.   Yes, just one email from me once a week. Since your privacy is very important to me, your information will never be shared or even sold to anyone. 

    Enjoy the weekend!

- Roz

(Note: This post contains affiliate links. That means if you clink on the link and make a purchase, the company gives me a small ad commission. This helps me in the costs of running this site. Thank you so much. Please see my full disclosure here.)

Coupon Codes

Allermates Gluten Free Awareness Lunchbox $5 (60% OFF retail price)
Coupon Code WGFREE
Sale ends July 19, 2015

Allermates Gluten Free Alert Bracelet Buy1 Get1 Free
Coupon Code FGBAND
Sale ends July 19, 2015

Mabel's Labels Limited Edition Camp Label Pack 15% OFF
Coupon Code ICLECC15%
Promo ends July 31, 2015



Free Ebooks

      As for posting, these ebooks are free to download. Please understand that the prices can go up anytime. I suggest that you check the price before downloading.

1001 Best Paleo Diet Recipes of all Time

The 10 Day Detox Diet

Paleo Mason Jar Meals

Essential Oils - Your Beginner's Guide to Essential Oils & Aromatherapy

Medicinal Herb Essentials

Discover Your Type of Beauty

15 Outstanding Lessons on Becoming Minimalist

Declutter Your Home Effectively

Changing Your Life and Mind by Tidying Up

Top Secrets: Packing

Summer Mango Cocktail

     Nothing says summer than a refreshing tropical drink. This ice cold drink made with mangoes, lime and mint is a big hit with the kids. Add a splash (or more) of vodka and the grown ups will surely enjoy it more. 

      Mangoes always have a special place in my heart and taste buds. Growing up in a tropical country where this fruit is readily available, I have seen and enjoyed mango in many forms --- cakes, candies, pastries, salads, ice cream, smoothies and drinks. 

    One of my all time favorites is a juice made from fresh, golden yellow ripe mangoes. Since the sweet varieties that I love, are a bit of a challenge to find here in New Jersey, I pick my closest alternative for this cocktail which is the Philippine Brand Mango Puree. Not only is this puree readily available in most Asian stores, it is also very affordable. 

     My kids enjoy this drink (without the vodka, of course) for breakfast in place of the usual orange juice. The recipe is also perfect for homemade ice pops. Just remove the mint leaves before freezing. 

Ingredients:

1 cup mango puree
2 cups water
1 tsp. lime juice
4-5 pcs. fresh mint leaves
2 oz vodka (optional)
ice cubes

    Mix all the ingredients in a big pitcher. Place in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.  

      Want more healthy smoothies and drinks recipes? Check out Aloha's healthy recipe collection online. I can't wait to try them all this summer. 

- Roz

Enjoying Tea Sampler Giveaway

     Summer is officially in! As the kids and I are getting used to our new schedule, I also started a new routine - just for me. Every night, usually an hour or two after dinner, I would enjoy a big cup of my favorite tea and read at least three chapters of a book from my reading list. 

     For some, the new night routine is not much but for me, it made a big difference. Not only does it helped me calm down, it inspires me to accomplish more the next day.

    Are you a tea drinker? I'm a big fan. Over the years, I have learned that there is a tea for every mood and need. A cup of tea can soothe any pain, relax or energize and even improve our emotions. With the different uses and benefits of drinking tea, I admit I've already built a quite a collection.

   

     One of the biggest challenges I encountered when building my tea collection is the big quantity of tea I'm required to purchase. Since tea is one of  those items that we can't really try before buying, there were times when I ended up throwing away a bunch when I didn't like the taste or they went bad.

    Then I was introduced to Enjoying Tea Sampler Kits. Each sampler kit contains 6-8 different types of tea. Depending on the size of the leaves, you will get between 0.5 oz and 1.5 oz per variety. That's good for at least 3 cups of tea. Each type of tea comes in its own square tin canister which is housed in a beautiful box. Prices start at $13.98 and varies depending on the type of teas included.


    The Sampler Pack I received contains 6 distinct teas:

• Jasmine Green Tea - Mild and refreshing, this green tea isn't bitter at all. I like it with some lemon juice for a cleansing effect. 
• Keemun Black Tea - Considered the finest of all black tea, Keemun is a nice treat to enjoy anytime of the day. I enjoy it full strength or with a splash of milk. 
• Roasted Mate Chai - My favorite! Usually, I often make my own chai from the recipe I learned from an Indian friend. The spice mix in this tea is really good. Quite rare for ready made mixes. 
• Earl Grey Black Tea - Earl Grey is one of the more common teas readily available in the market. Depending on the brand you get, it's taste can be subtle to none. This one however, is loaded with flavor and is not too bitter. The orange notes really come out during brewing.
• Organic Slimming Oolong Tea - This has a smooth, nutty flavor and also great for iced tea. About the slimming claims, I'm not sure because I only tried it once and I haven't noticed any changes yet. Fingers crossed! 
• Vanilla Rooibos Tea   - Caffeine free with nice hint of vanilla & almond, it's great to as an after dinner dessert tea. 

     Did I entice you to start trying different flavors of teas? Well, I worry, the generous people from Enjoying Tea is happy to give a Sampler Pack to one lucky TFMFriend here in the US.

     Simply follow the steps below to get some entries. No purchase necessary to join. This giveaway will end on July 10, 2015 11:59 pm EST.    

       What are you waiting for?

- Roz
(Note: I received free products from the company that sponsored this giveaway for review. This set up however, has no effect on my opinions about the product. My loyalty will always be to you my TFMFriends. Please see my full disclosure here.)

   

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Healthy Gluten Free Snacking this Summer with NoGii

     For years, I have seen and heard NoGii gluten free snacks. Though the brand was a staple at gluten free expos I frequent, I never actually had the chance to try the products. So, when I was contacted to sample and review their products thru Moms Meet, I didn't have to think twice. 

    When I received the box sent by Elisabeth Hasselbeck and company, I was astonished! I couldn't believe how generous this company is. 

    Then something hit me. Are they trying to bribe me with quantity because they lack quality? I suddenly became a bit skeptic. Can you blame me? After all, a good tasting gluten free bar is indeed hard to find in spite of the choices available. 

     After sorting which products are for my own consumption only (contains ingredients that aren't safe for most of the kids), I decided on tasting the Chocolate Caramel D' Lites. These 1 oz bars were an instant hit with me and Child#1 (who outgrew her peanut allergy). It was really delicious and full of flavor. This little snack has it all - sweet, salty, crunchy, gooey and yes, filling! With just 120 calories and 7 grams of protein, it is definitely a healthy treat. 

That's Child#1 enjoying her gluten free loot. 

     Next, my daughter and I tried the Peanut Butter & Chocolate Bar. After learning how filling the D'Lites bar is, we figured out that this bar will be perfect as an in between activities meal. With 20 grams of protein per bar, (now I know why it's called High Protein) this bar has become a regular in my summer bag.  Just like it's smaller counter part, this bar is really tasty and satisfying. Shhh... even my husband (who's a picky gluten free bar eater) is a big fan. NoGii is now a part of his lunch bag too. 

     Not a fan of Peanut Butter? NoGii Gluten Free NonGMO bars are also available in these delectable flavors: 

• Chocolate Coconut
• Chocolate Mint
• Cocoa Brownie
• Cookies n Creme
• Chocolate Peanut Butter Caramel
• Rocky Road

(A quick note: All the above flavors contain Soy protein)

     If you are in a Paleo Diet, you might like to try NoGii's Paleo Bars which comes in 3 yummy flavors:

• Nuts About Berries
• Nuts About Nuts
• Nuts About Tropical Fruits    

    About my earlier concern about quantity over quality, I have to say the people behind NoGii aren't just generous. They are definitely confident with their products. They know that one can will not grow tired of eating their healthy, gluten free bars. Honestly, they got me, hubby and Child#1 hooked. Even the other kids got curious. They even said that when they outgrew soy or nuts, NoGii will be the first food they will eat.

     Now for a quick treat. NoGii is currently having a contest called NoGii Tablesetters. You and one lucky guest could win a Free trip to New York City and meet NoGii creator Elisabeth Hasselbeck. Simply head on to NoGii Facebook page and complete the entry form their. No purchases needed to join.  

     Have you tried NoGii bars yet? If so, what's your favorite flavor? Mine is Cookies n Creme. 

- Roz

(Note: I received this product for free from the sponsor of the Moms Meet Program, May Media Group LLC, who received it directly from the manufacturer. As a Moms Meet blogger, I agree to use this product and post my opinion on my blog. My opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of May Media Group LLC or the manufacturer of this product. Please see my full disclosure here.)  

Friday Freebies & Deals: Enjoy Life Pentils, Herb Gardening, Decluttering and more

   Summer is in full swing in our household. What are you up to? I'm of decluttering and reorganizing before the next school year starts. I'm still buried with the papers these kids brought home. 

     If you plan to stock up on healthy snacks, now is the best time as I've found some great coupon codes for you. There's also a bunch of books on gardening and organizing.

     Do you have any savings tips or coupons to share? Let me know so that we can spread the love.

     TGIF!

- Roz

(Note: This post contains affiliate links. This means that when you make a purchase, I would get a little commission from it. Don't worry, that doesn't affect your price at all. Thanks so much for helping me maintain the blog. Please see my full disclosure here.)

Coupon Codes

Brothers All Natural Snacks Buy 3 Get 1 Free
Coupon Code: BUY3GET1FREE

Xlear Care Kit for just $25 (plus shipping)
Coupon Code: SAVE50

Enjoy Life Plentils, Crunchy Cookies, Soft Cookies Get 15% OFF
Coupon Code: JULY4TH 


Free Ebooks
 
       As of posting, these ebooks are free to download. Since the price can change anytime, I suggest you check the price before you download.

Paleo Diet by Jessica Cambridge

Gluten Free Cooking by Julius Wellington

The Busy Girl's Guide to Speed Cleaning by Elizabeth Bolling

Decluttering Tips for the Sentimental by Elena Dupont

The Practical Guide to Organic Pest Control by Paul Jackson

Organize Your Closet by Sallie Stone

The Art of Frugal Simplicity 

A Beginner's Guide to Herb Gardening

Container Gardening

How to Prepare Herbs and Store Them Properly