First Alert Giveaway!!!

CO is a colorless and odorless gas known as “the silent killer.” According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, CO poisoning is the number one cause of accidental poisoning in the United  States and is responsible for an average of 450 deaths each year.

“During the winter months, many families turn to heating sources they might not use at other times of the year,” said Deborah Hanson, director of external affairs for First Alert, one of the most recognized safety brands in America. “While these devices may be effective at providing warmth, they also can pose great risks if not used properly. To help protect loved ones and belongings from harm, it is important for homeowners to take proper precautions when dealing with any kind of alternative heat source.”

Experts recommend the following tips and tools for keeping your home and loved ones warm – and safe – this winter:

Protect Against CO Poisoning

•         Run kitchen vents or exhaust fans anytime the stove is in use. The kitchen stove is among the most frequent sources of CO poisoning in the home. To help eliminate danger of overexposure, always run exhaust fans when cooking, especially during the holidays when stoves are left on for longer periods of time. Also open a nearby window periodically when cooking to allow fresh air to circulate.
•         Never use generators indoors. In the case of a power outage,portable electric generators must be used outside only. Never use them inside the home, in a garage or in any confined area that can allow CO to collect. And,be careful to follow operating instructions closely. Also refrain from using charcoal grills, camp stoves and other similar devices indoors.
•         Have fuel-burning appliances inspected regularly. Arrange for a professional inspection of all fuel-burning appliances (such as furnaces,stoves, fireplaces, clothes dryers, water heaters and space heaters) annually to detect any CO leaks.
•        Install/test CO alarms. CO alarms are the only way to detect this poisonous gas,yet nearly one-half of Americans report not having CO alarms in their homes1. For as little as $25, a First Alert CO alarm can help protect a home and family from potential tragedy. Install alarms on every level of the home and near each sleeping area for maximum protection. Test alarm function monthly and change batteries every six months.
•         Be mindful of the garage. Running vehicles inside an attached garage, even if Theodor is open, is hazardous, as CO can leak into the home.
•         Know the number. Call 911and leave the home immediately if the CO alarm sounds.

Additional CO Alarm Guidelines

•         Clear CO alarms of all dust and debris. 
•         Ensure that alarms are plugged all the way into the outlet or, if battery operated, have working batteries installed. Check or replace the battery when you change the time on your clocks each spring and fall.
•         Make certain each person can hear the CO alarm sound from his or her sleeping room and that the sound is loud enough to awaken everyone. If young children are in the house, consider a new Child Awakening Smoke and CO combination alarm from First Alert. Studies have shown that children ages six to 10 wake more easily to a voice than to the traditional audible beep of an alarm. 
•         Make sure the alarms are installed at least 15 feet away from sources of CO to reduce the number of nuisance alarms.

So why not enter to win a First Alert VOICE Combination Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarm and rest assured that your family is safe during the winter months.

Giveaway!

Leave a comment of why you would like to win this product.

For additional entries: Follow @chicstylemodern on Twitter and on my Facebook page.

Follow @FirstAlert on Twitter and their Facebook page.

Good Luck! Winner will be announced January 10, 2012 after 10pm EST!

Stocking Stuffer

When it comes to shopping for my husband, I really try to find new brands and items he has never came across. I also try to be very creative, but somethings he just needs. He is very particular about his earphones. Someone mentioned dB Logic to me though, and I knew they would be perfect for him!

Their products definitely match what they say. "Be good to your ears." ~dB Logic
LOVE how they make earphones that are so small and give you such a loud sound that is clear. There is nothing worse than listening to your music as you run or work, and all you hear is static or the sound is muffled. That is what we would call "cheap." Sometimes you do have to spend a little more for products like these to make sure you are getting an item that is made well and will deliver a big sound.


The dB Logic earphones also come with small, medium, and large rubber tips to fit any size ear snug. I love how they come with a case too! So when you are not using them, store away to keep them in great shape! Lightweight so when you are working out they will not bother you at all.

Here is more information from dB Logic on why their earphones are the best.

"SPL2 Technology limits sound pressure levels. What’s sound pressure? Sounds are essentially air vibrations—called sound waves, and these waves exert pressure. Larger waves exert greater pressure, which is measured in decibels (dB). With long-term exposure to high pressure, you can lose your hearing throughout time. A unique, proprietary innovation, dBLogic’s SPL2 Technology reduces this exposure by limiting sound pressure to 85dB, based on Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and European Union (EU) guidelines.

Why limit at 85db? In the USA, OSHA has offered the guidelines here, while the EU has offered various guidelines that are very well summarized on this site, entitled "personal music players and hearing". On the basis of these guidelines as well as advice generally stated by audiologists, dB Logic has chosen to provide limiting at 85dB SPL.

Though limiting the pressure, SPL2 technology carries the clear sound you want to hear without distortion, clipping or interference. How, exactly? It modifies the original sound wave while closely matching the original profile.
Conveniently set in your headphones and earphones, SPL2 technology is the only battery-free and distortion-free SPL limiting technology on the market today." dB Logic

Hester Van Eeghen

I LOVE this brand I recently came across and had to share for the holidays! I shop all the way up to the last day before Christmas. Why not? I love it! Fa la la la la!!! I know I'm not the only one out there who does. So, you may be asking...."Well, what is the brand??" Meet Hester Van Eeghen. I like the name, kind of catchy but formal. They have very stylish and modern handbags that I just LOVE!

Now when it comes to the quality and prices and a handbag, I always spend more. I have been through many handbags and the ones that cost $50 versus a few hundred, well they do not last long at all. In the long run I keep spending more on the cheap bags and they never hold up! Well, Hester Van Eeghen has modern handbags that you can choose from.

One handbag that I cannot take my eyes off of is the Monocle. This is a limited edition handbag that has a very simple design, but will turn heads.

What do you think? Isn't it beautiful!? It really is. The colors really pop and work so well together too. Another one of my faves is the Inner Circle. Once again, this handbag comes in a few colors that pop, and they quality is amazing. This is truly a handbag that will last and gives you that luxurious modern look.

Hester Van Eeghen also has other products as well for both men and women. Wallets, office bags, and more! Head over to their site http://www.hveus.com and check out their products. They will last! Like their Facebook page, and follow on Twitter @hveus.

Kidorable Dragon Collection and Umbrella Giveaway!

We all LOVE their adorable sets. What matters the most is that the kids do. Kidorable has really been creative when designing their rain jackets and umbrellas and other accessories. I just love everything they make. How can you not get the entire set for your child. They will never want to take the rain jacket or the boots off. Let's not forget the umbrella!

My son has been wanting a umbrella and boots so bad. I have found a few but I just was not a huge fan of the quality. Having Kidorable products before for my daughter, I knew it was a must for him to have their products as well. Plus, the Dragon Knight Collection is perfect for him! It is adorable!!! I could say that word so many times in this post because it is so true.

How cool do those look? VERY! You know your son would have a blast with those boots on his feet, with or without rain. "More than just a pair of boots, these playful puddle magnets make a wonderful gift. Made of natural rubber, they are guaranteed to be the cutest boots in your neighborhood. All styles are available in My First (size 5), children’s sizes 6-13, plus young adult sizes 1 and 2." ~Kidorable

The umbrella is even cooler. Your child will love the look and they can also open the umbrella by their selves, so they will feel proud about how independent they are becoming. "Kidorable has taken the idea of the humble umbrella and transformed it into an imagination tent. We are proud to offer the most popular assortment of whimsical umbrellas ever created. Made of 100% nylon, Kidorable umbrellas are child-sized for those little hands." ~Kidorable

So who would like to win a Dragon Knight Umbrella for their little man? Well, just follow a few easy steps and you are in the running to win!

Giveaway rules: Who would you like to win this for an why? Leave a comment.

Increase your chances of winning by doing 1, 2, and 3 below.

1. Could you like me on FB, and follow me on twitter @chicstylemodern, thanks!
2. To grow your entries subscribe to my blog.
3. Want another chance to increase your chances? Like Kidorable on FB.

This is a short giveaway. I'm announcing the winner on December 20, 2011 at noon EST! So come on and enter now!

The Holidays with American Girl!

What has your little been asking for this season? Is it a brand new bike? A new Buzz from the Toy Story? There have been so many hot toys out but there is one place that was on the top of my daughter's wish list. American Girl.

As my daughter has been getting older, she has been LOVING their dolls and books. Whenever I ask her what she wants for anything, she says, "Ummmm..." as she is tapping her face with her pointer finger. "I want American Girl dolls! Pleeeaasse Mommy!" I mean, how do you say no to a child who only asks for one thing?

American Girl has always had a spot in every little girls heart, and they are getting more popular each and every year. Their actually stores are a magical place for a little girl as her eyes will light up as she sees everything. Tis' the season to make their dreams come true! There are many different dolls out right now, but we are really loving the History dolls.

Marie-Grace and Cecile are two friends that came from different worlds. I LOVE how you can read all about their friendship and journey in a six series of books. Your daughter will sit close to you as you start from the beginning. This is also a great lesson and your child will be able to understand the true meaning of friendship.

You can also get outfits and furniture and more! You can really check out their styles from 1853. I do LOVE their Fancy Dress and Fairy Costumes! I'm sure everyone would love to have those to play up dress up with!

I could go on and on! I do know that you must get your daughter an American Girl Doll! They will be so happy and this doll with go everywhere with them. This is something that is very well made and will always be around, so get your daughter their first American Girl or another one so they can start making memories.

Look Who Was Spotted in a Mutsy Stroller!

Look who was spotted with their daughter Frances in a Mutsy 4Rider Light stroller!!! (www.mutsy.com).  Ty Burrell from the hit TV show “Modern Family”.

More HOT Items to Get For the Holidays!

There is still plenty of time to get out there and finish up your holiday shopping! We have some HOT items below that you must add to your list!

GUESS Slatter Aviators

Color: Gold

Price: $70

Where to Buy: GUESS retail locations

COYE NOKES Silvia Bootie

Colors: Black, Taupe, Chestnut

Price: $560

Where to Buy: www.coyenokes.com

RON WHITE SHOES Precious Bootie

Color: Fango      

Price: $695

Where to Buy: Lord & Taylor New York, Nordstrom’s Los Angeles

BLUSH LINGERIE Naked Envy Long Kimono

Color: Black Beauty

Price: $128

Where to Buy: see www.blushlingerie.com for a full list of vendors

The Holidays with Diapers.com

Diapers.com is a site where you can go to purchase a variety of brands of diapers as well as formula and baby food. Did you know that you can find some amazing gifts from their site? Here are a few we LOVE!

·         Stoplight Alarm Clock:  Our Merchandising Director, Miriam, loves this product because it keeps her toddler in bed until it’s the appropriate time for her to wake up.  When the red light is on, kids will understand that it is still time to sleep. When the green light turns on, kids will know that it is time to get out of bed.

·         Shrunks Tuckaire Toddler Travel Bed:  Particularly with all the travel around the holidays, this is a great travel bed solution.  It’s designed so that normal crib-size sheets and blankets tuck into the inner mattress, making toddlers feel more secure/cozy.

·         Holiday dress up:  We have a great selection of clothing for all of baby’s special appearances this holiday season.  In particular, here are a few adorable items:  Carter’s woven dress, Pediped Charlie shoes.  Feel free to pick other items if you don’t like these.

·         Vulli Sophie the Giraffe Teether:   This product receives great reviews from moms on our site and is our most popular teether.  It’s made of 100% natural rubber and food paint and squeaks, which keeps baby entertained.   

·         Trumpette socks:  These are a personal favorite of mine that I often purchase as a gift.  They are trendy socks that look like shoes. 

·         Fisher-Price newborn rock-n-play sleeper:  This is a must have for babies who have acid reflux or ear infections because it keeps the baby propped up. It "hugs" the baby as well, making them feel like they are still in your arms. Very helpful if you have an infant who is hard to get to sleep once out of your arms.  Also, since it’s pretty light-weight, it’s easy to move around the house. 

The Holidays with Betty Crocker

What do the holidays bring? Well.......shopping, decorating, singing, dancing, spending time with friends and family, and baking! I LOVE to bake. Cookies, cakes, cheesecakes, and more! I love to bake from scratch as well as go to my local store and grab a few mixes from trusted brands. Which brand you ask? Why Betty Crocker of course. I was lucky enough to be selected to review the Betty Crocker mix, along with utensils and an apron and pan from Betty Crocker and through MyBlogSpark. Very kind of them and I was able to bake. I was one happy lady!

Baking brownies with Betty Crocker is very easy, and is a great treat for your little ones. This is something you can grab to mix up really quick. Want to make it even more unique. Throw some cream cheese mix in there to make them a bit more special. You are able to find all kinds of great recipes on Betty Crocker, especially for the holidays!

After setting the oven to 350 degrees, you mix it all up and let it sit until the oven is ready. Throw it in and you have yourself some delicious brownies! What special treats do you like to make for the holidays?

Holiday Parade

Saturday with the entire family is so much fun! Pack a day of taking the little ones to see Santa and the holiday parade in Leesburg is exciting not only for the kids, but the adults as well. You never know what to expect or what you will see in a local parade. My sister's family and I all packed in to have a day full of fun! Even though it was very chilly outside, the parade kept us smiling and the little ones had the glimmer in their eye and their tummies were satisfied with all of the candy that was being thrown to them.

Who else would start the parade? The officers are first off coming down the street. Then there were many vehicles that were either super sleek, or they were fire trucks, work trucks, cub scouts and more! The variety was great and kept everyone entertained!

I think this was not only one of my little ones favorites, but I also though the mini train they created for the parade was great! 

They are so cute! Beautiful! I think the one below was my favorite! So cute with all the bows and tinsel!

Of course at the end of the parade was Santa himself. Strolling in on a old red car of course, he decided to come in style this year. Doesn't he always? Reminded me of that Mercedes commercial when he walks into his garage to choose which red vehicle he was going to drive to deliver all the presents. 

Welcome Anne Marie from Little Choux for the Holidays!

"Hello, I am Anne Marie from the new online children's boutique, Little Choux.  I am a working Mom with two kids, 4.5 and 3, who loves to decorate and find unique things.  When my son was just a baby I found myself constantly searching for unusual toys, accessories and products for the home.  What started as a fond obsession with Etsy, developed into a worldwide hunt for well-designed, colorful, functional and aesthetically inspiring products.  While the thought of opening a brick and mortar shop was a bit daunting with a young family, I decided an online venue would be a perfect place to showcase all of the wonderful products I was excited to have found.

Literally translating into the word cabbage, “Choux” is used as a French term of endearment that means “little darlings.” When I was a little girl, my Grandmother lovingly called me “Chou Chou.” For me, the name came to symbolize the essence of childhood—a time of nurturing, growing and establishing strong roots. My hope is that Little Choux inspires parents to cultivate a unique and memorable childhood for their children." ~Anne Marie, owner of Little Choux

I LOVE her site. You can find items for your little ones to play with. She also has storage products, decor, and items for your little ones to use when it is time to eat. Searching for clothing? Little Choux has that too! This is a one stop shop for adorable products for your little ones. Plus, just in time for the holidays you can get gifts too and use the code: OURGIFT to get free shipping through December 16th!

Make sure you connect with Anne Marie on twitter @littlechoux.

Must Get the Teva Vero Boot!

How many of you wait until it snows and then realize you do not have a good pair of boots to wear in the snow? You make sure that you little ones have everything, but you still have to go out in the snow with them. Well, if you are anything like I am, you do wait until the last second to run to the store to find a pair of snow boots so your feet do not freeze, and all you can find is hiking boots because everything is sold out. Yes, you can point and laugh at me because that was what I was rocking last year. I had to throw on thermal socks over top regular socks to keep my feet warm from the snow that leaked into my boots. So not fun.

This year I was looking over the Teva website and saw their snow boots, the Women's Vero Waterproof Boot. Now when I say you need to get these now, I mean it! Oh my, the warmth that these boots provide for your feet are amazing! LOVE them! I could go on and on about how well these are made, and the look. I love how the bottom sort of looks like a sneaker but is still a boot. Very stylish and great for everyone who is looking for a casual snow boot. Plus you get to choose from several colors; black, black olive, brown, dark gull grey, and gray morn. These boots will definitely last too.

I LOVE what Teva says. If you like to keep your style all year long instead of throwing on the "frumpy" clothes, which we don't! Then get your hands on these boots now. You will fall in love. Below is more information about the Vero Boot from the Teva website:

T.I.D.E. GRIP

• Our White Spider Rubber sole will help keep your face a safe distance from the ground when the temperature drops
• Built on our MXT platform, meaning spontaneous adventure is always an option

T.I.D.E. HYDRO

• A waterproof leather upper can handle getting wet
• Our T.I.D.E. Seal waterproof membrane will keep your feet (and socks) dry
• The gusseted tongue keeps water out

T.I.D.E. COMFORT

• 200 grams of 3M Thinsulate™ insulation keeps your feet warm when it's freezing out
• A zipper on the side lets you get in and out quickly
• Heel to toe EVA Strobel lasting (translation: there's cushioning and flexibility in this thing from the ground up)
• A Shoc Pad in the heel makes for a smooth ride
• Our Mush® Infused Insole brings the absurd comfort of our flip flops into a boot
• Adjustable laces

If you are looking for a present, these are perfect! Make sure you get them in time to put under your tree! So which color are you going to get? Make sure you follow @Teva on Twitter and like their Facebook page to find out more about their fabulous products.



The Holidays with Value City Furniture

Before Thanksgiving my husband and I really wanted to get a new table for the holidays. Great timing to do so because you can always find fabulous deals on furniture as you move closer to Thanksgiving and Christmas. We always talked about it throughout the year, but the conversation kept arising, and I remembered a table that I saw as we passed by Value City Furniture. After reviewing the table and checking it out online, we decided it was the one.

Value City Furniture has a lot of great furniture that is affordable and made very well. That is the reason we headed there because we saw at the Plantation Cove Set. We checked it out, lifted the furniture.....it was heavy and very sturdy. What better time was it to go shopping then close to Black Friday? The store was decorated for the holidays and was beautifully set with all of their gorgeous furniture for every room of your home. The store manager was very helpful and had a great personality. It was very refreshing to walk into a store and have a sales person try to make your shopping experience a memorable one by not just trying to sell you a piece of furniture, but also trying to make your visit a fun and exciting time. I LOVED that! Now all I can do is to show you their beautiful furniture. I could have bought so much more if my wallet allowed me too!

I love the white and the black furniture together. I think it makes such a huge statement in a home and really stands out. Throw a pop of color in there with a throw pillow or a centerpiece on the coffee table with some color and your room is complete. I just love these pieces and definitely may be returning for them, Why not? At their affordable prices how can I refuse?!

The table arrived in no time and I was shocked how quickly the guys were able to bring in the table and set it up. Plus, it made such a difference in my room! I was thrilled when we were all able to sit down at such a beautiful table on Thanksgiving, and now we will be able to for Christmas. We were able to fit so much more food too! I LOVED it!

Now after the beautiful table is set.....it is always time to eat! All the food was delicious and I cannot wait to set up the table for Christmas! The candle below was made for me by my mom. I just love it! The table was of course all ready for dinner so everything was out!

Are you ready for the holidays? Do you LOVE your dinette set? Now is the time to head over to Value City Furniture to order one to make your dining room stunning! Believe me, you will love the look and even more, you will love how much more affordable it is! 

Make sure you connect with Value City Furniture on their Facebook page, and follow Value City Furniture on Twitter @ValueCityFurn.