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I Can See Clearly Now – Firmoo Glasses Review

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I grew up with perfect vision, but was a bit scared that in my twenties my eyes would get bad for me as it did with my mom and dad.  Soon into my early twenties, my eyes started to prove genetics right and years later, I now wear glasses frequently if not daily.  Thankfully, my eyes are not yet so bad that I can’t see without them, but still… I find that I can’t see as great as before and I’m constantly looking for a pair that will not only match my pocket book and wallet requirements but also my endless change in style.  I have purchased many many pairs of prescription glasses over the last 15-20 years from high-end brands and other and I have been a fan of Firmoo glasses now for the last year.

Firmoo glasses

Let’s face it, in the age of technology – many of us find ourselves in front of a computer consistently and sometimes we find we need glasses just to read what is on our screen.  I’m also consistently changing up my frames’ styles and since I’m pretty brutal on anything I own, I need something that will hold up to the damage or affordable enough for me to change out as often as I change my clothes.  Firmoo.com offers a variety of styles and types of glasses to fit your fashionista needs.  Looking for something to wear out in the sun or a pair to wear at night?  Firmoo is not only easy to order from, but offers many shapes, styles and designs to choose from.

Firmoo prescription glasses

Not sure what styles will best fit your face shape?  Ordering online can be a bit daunting when you are trying to find the perfect style and that’s while I enjoy ordering from Firmoo.  Simply upload a photo to their Virtual Try On that you can find on their site and you can try on every pair of glasses virtually to your heart’s desire.  Find the perfect pair and order confidently.  Each pair comes with a hard case, soft case and a little kit that includes cleaning cloth and a screw driver for fixing and replacing screws.  I love that these little things are included because while I do love my Warby Parker glasses, I didn’t get extra little goodies like with Firmoo.

Firmoo prescription glasses

Did I talk about the shipping?  Well, the glasses come from overseas but let me tell you, shipping is always quick and I get my glasses in my hands and ready to use quickly and delivered in one piece.  I’m always impressed with that because I order a new pair of prescription glasses every 8 months or so and I know that I can order and have it in my hands quickly.

Have you heard of Firmoo before?  Firmoo has become a favorite of mine over the last year as I have ordered a variety of prescription and sunglasses from the site and have always enjoyed them.  Do you wear prescription glasses?  Would you try Firmoo? Comment below and let me know your thoughts.

Signature Honey

Disclaimer:  Products mentioned were sent to me for consideration and review.  While I did receive free product, all thoughts are my own and as with any post on this site, I am 100% honest.  No monetary compensation was received to provide this review.

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A Letter From The Editor – Hello 2015

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Hello my loves and WELCOME TO 2015.  I would be lying… if I said that I was ready to start 2015 with a bang.  Let’s face it, it just about smacked me across my face silly like a baseball out of left field… hmmm… did I even explain that correctly? lol  Needless to say, I really have no choice but to welcome it with open arms now that it’s here and embrace all of its many wonders while preparing myself for a year I wasn’t ready for and saying goodbye to one I wasn’t yet wanting to let go of.  As I stop and think about it all… I’m not really sad to see 2014 go… I mean, while it had some awesome benefits – seriously, the latter of the year wasn’t on my favorite’s list – so c’est la vie.  I am proud to say that while the year offered challenges that I overcame, it also opened my eyes to things I didn’t expect to experience but because of such, I am now going into 2015 with an open mind, a different outlook on life – a positive one, and an appreciation for what I have.  I am able to close the books on 2014 (well, with exception to taxes of course) and confident that I can leave all that funky excess baggage, drama and what ever else I wasn’t happy with in the past and move forward.

Ohana Means Family New Years 2015

I’ve made a few goals for 2015 and while I’m not going to share them all with you, I thought I would use a few of them as a way to bring positiveness into your day and hopefully give you a bit of organization and tools for the new year.  One of the things I have been wanting to focus on in 2014, but didn’t get around to is to incorporate daily planning and organization in my life.  Don’t laugh… while it may seem like I am all put together behind the scenes, I tend to let things like my daily planning fall through the cracks.  Let’s face it – being a mother of 3 very active boys (2 of which are twins) and a wife to a busy busy hubby keeps me on my toes.  With proper organization, my hope is that I will not let things fall through the cracks… like blog posts – for example.  I get so backed up with things I feel like I NEED to do that I tend to let the things I WANT to do fall through.  After looking through my blog this year, while I am so proud of the accomplishments I have made, it seems as though the “personal” touches that made my blog “me”… was lacking.  With proper “blog management” and “goals” along with Daily Planning and even some journaling – I think that I can not only accomplish a lot more effectively – but also be efficient with my blog, daily duties and even unleash some of my creative side in my journal again and therefore giving me some outlet and release that I think I may be lacking in.  Since I know this is not an easy task, I am in the process of putting together a daily or weekly (not sure which yet) task list that will allow me to get it all in order.  I will share that printable with all of you once I have had the chance to finalize it.  But for now, writing things down – holding myself accountable and giving myself deadlines will help in getting this important goal in check.

Whew… long winded, I know.  But this is just a sneak peak of all things to come here.  I really took a backseat in how I have been wanting things to be and now I have really decided that while I can’t have control over everything in my life… some things I just have to let go of… this, I know I can control and it’s my goal to do so.

Wishing you all a wonderful and fabulous 2015.  I’m 5 days into the year and already feel refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to take it all on.  It’s going to be a fabulous year – you just wait and see!  So, your first post, a letter from the editor… is all about awesomeness in 2015.

Smooches & lots of wishes for blessings, love, happiness and prosperity!

Signature Honey

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Keeping Warm in Hawaii Weather With Hanes Fleece

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Contrary to popular belief, Hawaii does get cold during the winter months, in fact – some of our islands even experience a little bit of snow fall.  While you can find me bundled under a heavy comforter most of the year since we live on a mountain, my sons and husband are quite the Eskimos and normally love the cool, crisp air.  This year however, we have been experiencing mid to high 50s which is not the normal for us and because of this, keeping warm is essential for my household, especially in the early morning when the boys are off to school.  A favorite for my family are Hanes Fleece jackets and hoodies.  They are comfy, easy to throw on and light weight to allow for layering so my guys are warm, but not hot.

hanes fleece

Kevin, Luke and Isaiah love a jacket that will keep them warm in this cozy cuddly weather, but not make them too hot.  With a fun graphic design, hood and zipper that moves easily, the boys love their hoodies over a heavy jacket and the Hanes hoodies and crew sweatshirts are warm without being too bulky.

Hanes Fleece

Having active little ones means they need to be able to move freely and these are awesome for that.  This is quite possibly the boys favorite item to throw on in the morning while on their way to school because it’s so comfy.

Hanes fleece

I love that Hanes sweatshirts are great looking and are comfortable wardrobe staples for my entire family.  Whether out running errands or just lounging around the house, these sweatshirts are so cozy.  Most importantly I find that I can find a sweatshirt or hoodie to match my fashion sense, available in basic colors like grey, black and blue but also bright shades like pink, orange and green.  You don’t have to have just the basic heather grey shades any more and the colors all look great after washing.  Check out that blue in the photo above, no fading and absolutely awesome color after a wash and dry.

hanes fleece

Since my days normally consist of errands or mommy duties, it is absolutely essential that I am able to wear clothes that will keep me warm but allow me to be agile.  But these are also favorites of our family to lounge around the house and keep warm.  Since the weather has been chilly, this is great for just hanging out in the yard and spending family time with one another.

hanes fleece

The perfect addiction for keeping warm while on a Starbucks run – I love that throwing on a Hanes fleece sweater or hoodie is fast, fun and still stylish.  To embrace my girly side, I can throw on a pink sweater and still have a little dressy flare.

hanes fleece

Lightweight, but still soft after many washes – these are the perfect addition for any person or family to keep warm without overheating.  Hanes fleece sweaters and hoodies are definitely perfect for warm weather climates that are experiencing a chill during the Winter months or those looking to layer their warm clothes for the cold season.

hanes fleece

These make simple fashion statements but I love that they are just so simple to throw on.  If you are a fitness lover, you will surely love these to put on right after a work out to keep your muscles warm.  Check out the styles and colors available at Hanes.com and at mass retailers near you.

How do you and your family members stay warm during the colder months?  Are you a Hanes lover too?

Signature Honey

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

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Dotmine – Dutch Treat Family Time 17 Month Planner

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When it comes to organization and keeping dates in order, I’m a stickler for planners and keeping track of dates and appointments on paper or via technology.  Sometimes I’m told it’s a bit repetitious… but needless to say – it is a rare occasion that I’m late or missed an appointment because I keep my dates organized.  With three children who all have a schedule of their own, it is a requirement to keep my life planned out.

Dotmine - Dutch Treat Family Time 17 Month Planner

 

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Dotmine is a company that offers Family and Student planners that help you organize your busy schedule.  Each planner offers 17 months worth so that your planner can accommodate both school and regular calendar years without you having to sacrifice your organizational needs.  I rather like the 17 month year because I plan both for myself and my children and this allows me to not have to use a plethora of organizers for each of us in my family.

About Dotmine

 It all started with a simple “dot” back in 1999–Sarah, Lisa, and a commitment to reclaim our lives while helping you do the same.  A serendipitous meeting in a London pub had given us the idea. Our corporate days — one of us pitching underwear and the other pitching laundry detergent — were far behind us. And for 15 years, backed by supportive husbands and seven fabulous children, our planners became favorites throughout the world.

Family Time 17 Month Planner

This planner is great in organizing a busy family but also loved by teachers and nurses as well as bloggers such as myself.  Developed by a group of moms, the Family Time planner is there to help you juggle multiple schedules all in one place.  Those of you who have children or juggle more than one job I’m sure will definitely appreciate this.

The Family Planners are available in 3 designs (Dutch Treat, Free Bird and Petites Fleurs) and each retails for $24.99.  Each planner is 8.5 x 11 inches and includes dates from August to December.  Adorned with their fashionable designs that are printed on durable plastic, these cool planners include monthly and weekly pages on crisp white paper.  I especially love that they include inspirational and humorous quotes each week, which is probably one of my favorite features of any planner as those that know me know that I look for daily inspiration before starting my day.  Plastic coils keep this planner spiral bound and there are back pockets to hold important papers in place.  Perforated margins for “tear-out” lists and note pages help to make your daily planning and errands a breeze.  In my opinion, if you are looking for a quality Family or blogging planner without spending the hefty costs that some may offer – this planner will be a great addition for you.

Family Time 17 Month Planner

What I love the most about this planner is how easy it is to use.  There are pages that offer seasonal schedules which is awesome since my children are all involved in sports which often has practice and games on repetitive dates so listing these make it an easy reference for myself, my family or the sitter should I need one.  Speaking of sitter… there is a babysitter page where you can easily insert a sticky note each time you go out so that the sitter knows exactly where you are or how to reach you each time.

BabysitterPage_10_54448169-fa21-45a1-9795-092e805c3240_large

I also love that Family Time offers a guide and tips on how to use the planner… simply take a look at the first few pages where it outlines exactly what to do and how to utilize the planner.  From adding sticky notes to special dates or weeks to planning out “family business”… every detail you may have questions on can be found on the “Using family-time.mine Everyday” pages.

family time dotmine

Overall – the price point is great considering I have paid well over $100 for other planners on the market in the past.  While it is simplistic, it offers a wide range of organizational tools for you and your family.  I love the perforated tear sheet options because this allows me to write down my grocery shopping lists or notes, etc. and tear them out should I need them on the go. The note sections are large enough for me to list a good amount of information as are each week and day.  If I had to critique the planner in general, I wish there was a way to add on pockets to keep pencils or post-its or a book mark that will allow me to easily turn to my page of the day.  I can definitely DIY these options, but it would be great if Dotmine offered something like this.  I’m all about accessories and add ons and I think that those would be awesome options.  I do definitely give this planner a 5 Sparkle rating because the options are wonderful considering the price point.  For those of you that love reading my “Mommy Survival Guide” posts – this is definitely something I would add to a Mommy Survival Necessity. 🙂

Have you heard of Dotmine Planners?  Could you see this meeting your families’ organizational needs?

Signature Honey

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

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Sharing Life’s Scenes With Seahorse

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It’s no secret that I am Photography obsessed.  Since the day my dad put a camera in my hands many many moons ago, I have a love of photos and taking images that is beyond passion.  After having my children, that love and passion turned into an addiction – so much so that most times when my children see a camera… they are already smiling. lol  And, if you have been following me on Instagram, you know that I’m also a Selfie Obsessed Makeup Addict – self proclaimed, of course.  Taking photos constantly and on a daily basis is a part of my life and sharing them with family and friends is important to me.  But, what if my family members don’t have Facebook or Instagram?  Well, that is where the Seahorse app makes my life in photos fun and interesting…

seahorse appThe Seahorse app is available for both iPhone and Android and is a way to privately share your images with Family and Friends.  Our life is full with different scenes whether it be a trip, a celebration, a wedding or just a day where you want to take a bunch of photos. Share those photos with those that are special to you without sharing them with the World is now easier than ever.  Gone are the days of emailing a limited amount of images because you are going over your email limit or texting galleries to family and friends.  Now you can share your images on one little app while your family/friends can add their own images and video to your scenes too.

seahorse app

Using the app is easy as pie… I have an Android Phone so here is what I did.

  • Download the app directly to your phone, iPad or Tablet.  Search “Seahorse” and you’ll see an icon with a little white seahorse against a purple toned background.
  • Download Seahorse via iPhone.
  • Download Seahorse via Android.
  • Log in (if you already have an account) or Sign Up.  Signing up is easy – simply use your Facebook, Google + or your email address to sign up for a free account.  Already have an account?  Then go ahead and log in.
  • After you have signed up, follow the prompts to create a new scene to share with your friends and family… Select… New Scene or Tap the Camera Icon on the top right of your screen and a pop up with be visible stating to “Take a Photo or Video, Import from Gallery, Import from Other services, + New Scene”.
  • Tap the “New Scene” and name your gallery – i.e. Twins Birthday Celebration
  • Be sure to invite some of your friends and family to view the gallery.  You can manually type in an email address or it will search for contacts through your contact list.
  • Select or Tap “Create”
  • You can now start adding images to your scene and your friends will receive an email with directions to download the app.

“Uploading images from your galleries on your device or computer is simple.  Just select the image from one of your galleries or a video and you’re good to go.”  

seahorse app

A huge huge benefit for me when it comes to Seahorse is that I can also upload and add images directly from my computer which is a big convenience for me.  Since a lot of my images are taken with my DSLR and imported directly to my computer, this allows me to upload directly into Seahorse without the additional steps that I may need from other applications.  I also like to have a break from my phone and tablet from time to time and this really allows me to use the source of choice easily.  And, this photog is all about resolution so I’m happy to say that Seahorse saves your images in their original resolution.

“Use Magic to shake your phone for random images from across scenes to discover a forgotten moment, milestone or celebration”

seahorse app

Uploading images, viewing your scenes and sharing images is very easy. Simply tap to upload, tap to view and tap to share. And, what I love is that the friends that are added to your scenes can also upload and add images and video to share with you.  It’s like a personal gallery that you each can enjoy.  I especially love this option because family parties or gatherings can be turned into a scene full with images from each person that attended.

“All photos and videos shared in a Seahorse scene are co-owned, or belong to, everyone invited to that scene.  Intuitive organizing and sorting by date, location, friends and scenes make it easy to find and share memories.”

Girls night out?  Yay – simply add your friends and you can each share images and video that you captured that evening.  

Since my parents don’t use social media sites, this gives all of us the opportunity to connect and share our treasured moments with one another without being bogged down by a news feed.  For those of you that have family or friends that are trying to stay away from Social Media – this is a great way to share your life’s scenes with them instantly and quickly.  Seahorse is ALWAYS private.  So feel confident knowing that you only share what you are comfortable with and whom.

seahorse app

Seahorse is offering my readers an extra 5GB of storage by using promo code: CLEVERHORSE.  This promo code is good until October 31, 2014 and it can only be used once per user.

To redeem:

    • Tap the icon on the top left corner to access your account settings
    • Tap “Redeem”
    • Tap “Write code” and enter CLEVERHORSE
    • Tap “Go” on your keyboard

Technology offers so many advancements now a days and sharing your life with those you love is now much simpler and fun.  The Seahorse app made my favorites this month and I know it will be a favorite of yours too.

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

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