Outdoor Inspiration With YourGardenShow.com

Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary...how does your garden grow? With silver bells and conkle shells and a little help from YourGardenShow.com, of course!

YourGardenShow.com is an interactive community where gardeners of all levels can come together and share videos, photos, ideas and inspiration. There are individual and group pages, how-to videos, garden planners and garden bloggers who share the wisdom they've "grown". Think of it as a virtual show-and-tell for green thumbs. With just one click, you can be transported from an Italian Grand Garden to a vertical window garden in downtown New York. There's something for everyone!

YourGardenShow.com also features an expansive database of over 6,000 vegetables (778 varieties of tomatoes alone!) developed by Cornell University and a 5,900 ornamental database from Missouri Botanical Garden, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the United States. "Groundskeeper" Mark Kane is the former Executive Garden Editor of Better Homes and Gardens so you know this is a valuable resource!

Now, I'm not much of a gardener but YourGardenShow.com has put a bee in my bonnet and I am ready to dig in the dirt! I love that gardening is a healthy, budget conscious summer activity that the whole family can enjoy. Watching a garden grow can teach your child about patience, how and where produce comes from and helps them to understand the circle and cycle of life. It can be a very rewarding experience to see the fruits of their labor bloom. Not to mention they can taste and appreciate the quality of true organic fruits and veggies!

If you want to get started or jazz up your current garden, head on over and join YourGardenShow.com to share photos and videos, learn about plants that match your climate and growing conditions and view other gardens for inspiration.

You'll also want to check out their blog, follow YourGardenShow.com on Twitter or fan them on Facebook to learn more tips and tricks to plant a lush dream garden that will make your neighbors "green" with envy.

Disclaimer: I was not compensated in any way for this post. I just wanted to share this information with my readers!

Review and Giveaway: Kombi Sports CLOSED

I'm more band geek than sporty chick and I'm not particularly fond of cold weather. But ironically, I've always longed to go skiing. One of my favorite parts of the Winter Olympics is tuning into the slaloms. I can just close my eyes and imagine the rush as I fly down the snowy hills, bobbing in and out of obstacles, pole in hand. Seems like so much fun!

When I'm finally ready to cash in on a trip to Lake Tahoe, I know just where to find a fashionable snowbunny style.

Kombi Sports is one of the leading suppliers of outdoor performance products, fusing fashion and textile technology to keep you warm and dry. They rely on designs and colors that fit today's active lifestyles and they work with some of the most talented names in freeskiing and snowboarding to create products that inspire. Since 1961, Kombi has had the art, science and innovation to lead the pack. Or piste. Or pipe.

Whether you're looking for baselayers, gloves/mitts or headwear, Kombi has something to outfit the entire family.



Kombi Sports was kind enough to send me their 1961 winter hat in Chocolate to review.

I know what you're thinking. Kristen, it's spring! Now, I'm a fan of sunshine like the rest of us but this hat makes me actually wish for a chill in the air! It has an acrylic knit outer and soft fleece inner so it is warm and comfy. The cap style is really trendy and would look good on or off the slopes. It meshes seamlessly with my retro peacoat. Very 19th century Sherlock Holmes. Is it fall yet?



Bottom line: If you're into winter sports or if you just want to look great while you fake it, Kombi Sports has you covered.

BUY IT: You can use the handy dandy dealer locator at www.kombisports.com to find your nearest retailer, where you can purchase the 1961 hat and other Kombi sportswear.

WIN IT: Kombi also sent me a Cute A-Z hat in Black that I am giving away to one lucky reader!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit Kombi Sports and tell me another item you like. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog and/or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You can do this daily! You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

Wishing for winter? Hit the slopes in a stylish hat from Kombi Sports @kris10chumley Ends 6/4 http://bit.ly/bWv2B4

Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry per day max)

3.) Become a fan of Kombi Sports on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Add my button to your site and comment with a link where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on June 4, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winner will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: I received two winter hats from Caitlin at True North Brand Group to facilitate an honest review. I was in no other way compensated for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are solely mine. Your experience may differ.

Review and Giveaway: All Terrain Co. CLOSED

Mid-May marks the beginning of camping season for our household. I'm more of an "indoor girl" myself but since I am surrounded by testosterone, it is only fair that I buck up, break out the flannel and explore the wilderness. Plus, since we already own the equipment, it's a cheap vacation when we need a spontaneous getaway. Can't beat that.

Last June, before his first birthday, we took Nate to the Virginia mountains for his first camping trip. I knew that the humid weather would welcome all sorts of parasites and creepy crawlies but I didn't want to trade protection for toxicity. As I researched eco-friendly alternatives, I discovered All Terrain Co.

All Terrain's mission is to sell quality "natural remedies for outdoor enthusiasts". They also aim to increase awareness of environmental issues and promote environmental conservation. All of their products contain all-natural ingredients and their packaging is made from recycled material, recyclable and/or biodegradable. Although they still have a long way to go, All Terrain Co. strives for "net zero consumption".

I wound up purchasing the Kids Herbal Armor Spray (ARV $7.99) for our trip. This spray is 100% DEET-free and prevents insect bites with a unique blend of five natural, essential oils. It is clinically proven to be 100% effective for over two hours, 95.8% effective for over three hours and 77.1% effective for four hours.

After we arrived and set up camp, we went for a walk and I forgot to bring along the spray. No big deal, I thought, as the bugs weren't out in full force. We went down to the lake so Daddy could fish and I noticed a dark speck on the nape of Nate's neck (he inherited Mommy's pale skin so any dark spots are very noticeable). I thought it was just dirt and went to brush it away when I realized it was a tick! It's head had already embedded in his skin and I started to freak out. Thankfully, we had tweezers on hand and we were able to wrangle Nate long enough to get it out. But you can bet your bottom dollar that I immediately grabbed our All Terrain Herbal Armor and never left without it again!

The smell is a little on the strong side so if you are sensitive to the scent of citronella, you probably won't be fond of this. But we never saw another tick again the entire weekend! We also came home with no bug bites whatsoever, even though we only reapplied every 4-6 hours. So, I am a believer! All Terrain Co. has found a fan in me.

I was delighted to have the opportunity to review two more All Terrain products from their Kids Care line.

Nate is going through a bit of a daredevil phase as of late. His fearlessness (and obliviousness to hard objects in his path) has led to quite the number of boo-boos. All Terrain's Skin Soother Gel (ARV $6.99) has really come in handy. It protects against cuts, scrapes and burns and helps to relieve dry, chapped or cracked skin. We apply it everytime Nate takes a tumble - after washing the wound but before bandaging - and it is great. It goes on clear and has a light, pleasant aloe smell. His cuts and scrapes tend to fade faster now. And best of all, it's natural! Who needs Neosporin?! This would also be great to guard against chafing (ugh, those wet swimsuits!) or to use in cooler climates to counter the drying effects of wind and cold.

As you all know, Nate suffers from mild to moderate eczema and has since he was born. My poor little crocodile baby! I decided to try All Terrain's Eczeam Cream (ARV $7.99), which uses colloidal oatmeal to protect against eczema, minor skin irritation and itching. I love the thickness of the cream; a little goes a long way. It works fast to soothe the itch from his dry patches. But don't be fooled by the name - it's not just for eczema. You can use this to relieve psoriasis/rosacea, bug bites, sunburns, chicken pox, poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac, etc., making this the perfect first aid accessory for camping or outdoor activities.

So far, I've been impressed with everything All Terrain Co. has to offer. Not only are they effective, but they are affordable too! You don't have to break the bank to go green anymore. Next, I'd like to try the antiseptic Kidswipes (made from wood pulp!) for those times when we need to get rid of goo on the go. They even have pet products so your four-legged family member can be protected too!

BUY IT: You can shop for All Terrain Co. products online or use their store locator to find the retailer(s) nearest you.

WIN IT: All Terrain Co. is generously offering one lucky reader his/her choice of product (kits not included) - up to a $12.99 value!

MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Visit All Terrain Co. and tell me which product you'd like to try. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog and/or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Follow me and All Terrain Co. on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You can do this daily! You may use the tweet below or come up with one of your own:

Love the outdoors? Win your choice of natural first aid product from @AllTerrainCo and @kris10chumley! Ends 6/1 http://bit.ly/abbomO

Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry per day max)

3.) Become a fan of All Terrain Co. on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Subscribe to the All Terrain Co. blog. (1 entry)

5.) Add my button to your site and comment with a link where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on June 1, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winner will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: I received the Eczeam Cream and Skin Soother Gel from Caitlin at True North Brand Group to facilitate my candid review. I purchased the Herbal Armor Bug Spray on my own prior to this opportunity. I was in no other way compensated for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are mine alone. Your experience may differ.

Review and Giveaway: KINeSYS Performance Sunscreen CLOSED

April showers bring May flowers and they also coax the sunshine out of its winter hibernation. I love warm weather but my son and I both have fair skin and have to be extra careful when outdoors to prevent burns and sun damage. Since we are quite active in the spring and summer with fishing, camping, swimming, walking/jogging, biking, etc., we need something that can protect us even when when we're at our most active. So, when I was contacted recently to review sunscreen, the timing couldn't have been better!

KINeSYS EarthKind Performance Sunscreens provide photo-stable, broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection while topical antioxidant Vitamin E scavenges cancer-causing free radicals. Their unique microspray technology makes for easy application and the gentle, quick-dry formula is no-mess and both water and sweat-resistant. Available in scented and fragrance-free versions, all KINeSYS products are hypoallergenic, non-comodogenic, oil-free, alcohol-free, PABA-free, preservative-free, vegan and cruelty-free (no animal testing). No parabens, nanoparticles, nuts, gluten, dairy, egg, soy, sulphites or colourants are added to their products. The bottles are also 100% recyclable! KINeSYS sunscreens have received numerous awards and recognition from prestigious parenting networks such as iParenting Media, Mom's Best and PTPA.

KINeSYS generously sent me a 1 oz. travel bottle of their SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray and a full-size 4 oz. bottle of their KIDS SPF 30 Spray to review.

Have you ever tried to wrangle a toddler away from the pool to reapply sunscreen? We've all been there. The creamy goop is so messy and it takes forever to rub in and absorb. Kids just don't have the patience to sit still for all that when there's fun to be had! Not to mention it is difficult for even the most precise parents to apply in sunburn-prone crevices or sensitive areas.

KINeSYS solves these problems with its spray design. Unlike other sunscreen sprays on the market, you don't have to rub this one in! You just spray the mist in a downward motion and let dry for 2-3 minutes. It's that easy! And if you prefer, you can spray the colorless liquid into your hand to cover little faces and ears. Check out their demo video for instructions on application.

This product is simply fantastic! I love that proper sun care no longer prompts a war between my son and I. He doesn't run away. Rather, he is intrigued by the colorful spray bottle. No stinging. No crying. No funky beach smell. No oozing. Just a few short bursts of spray and we're ready to play! Nate played outside with friends in our backyard for over 2 hours on an mid-80 degree day and had absolutely no redness when we came back inside. Which was amazing since he had been running around rampant, drenched in sweat:



I was so happy with Nate's results that I decided to put my other sample to the test. The compact spray bottle was perfect to throw in my purse. This particular version had a refreshing light mango scent - much better than the typical chemical sunscreens. Again, it was so easy to apply. I could probably put it on my whole body myself. No more fetching the hubby to "get my back"! I must admit I got a little trigger happy and accidentally sprayed it in my husband's eye. Oopsie! He said it didn't hurt at all - though that could be his tough, masculine bravado coming out. Nonetheless, we were very pleased with the results. No burns! I love that it dries fast, doesn't leave an oily residue behind and it doesn't clog my pores. It also makes me feel good to use a "green" sunscreen on my family.

The only aspect that may turn people off to KINeSYS initially is the price. A 1 oz. bottle goes for $6.99 and a 4 oz. bottle retails for $18.99 - which may sound outrageous for sunscreen. However, considering it will last over 170 or 700 sprays, respectively, you will definitely get your money's worth.

Bottom line: If you're looking for a simpler way to protect your family from the elements, KINeSYS is the way to go. The fun packaging makes you want to use it year-round, which is a good thing! Plus, the vast selection of products makes it easy to find something that will work for just about anyone - even the most demanding of athletes.

BUY IT: You can purchase KINeSYS products online at www.kinesysstore.com. You'll also want to check out their green tea and vanilla-scented sunscreen for girls and their skin care line!

WIN IT: One lucky reader is going to win a 4 oz. bottle of KINeSYS 15 SPF Performance Moisturizer and a 1 oz. travel bottle of KIDS SPF 30 Sunscreen Spray - a $26 value!



MAIN COURSE (MANDATORY ENTRY): Take a look at what KINeSYS has to offer and tell me another product you'd like to try. Remember to please leave your email address in your comment if it isn't visible on your profile to prevent disqualification!

SUGAR ON TOP (BONUS ENTRIES): To maximize your chances of winning, you may do any or all of the following. Be sure to complete the above mandatory entry or your bonus entries will not count!

1.) Follow my blog and/or subscribe via reader or email. Comment telling me which method you chose. If you already follow or subscribe, that counts! (1 entry each)

2.) Follow me and KINeSYS on Twitter and tweet about this contest. You can do this daily! You may use the following tweet or come up with one of your own:

Stay safe in the sun with @KINeSYS_Inc sunscreen! Win a prize pack for your family from @kris10chumley Ends 5/20 http://bit.ly/afnALd

Just leave me a comment with your tweet link. (1 entry per day max)

3.) Become a fan of KINeSYS on Facebook. (1 entry)

4.) Add my button to your site and comment with a link where I can find it. (1 entry)

Giveaway will end on May 20, 2010 at 11:59pm EST. Open to U.S. only. Winner will be chosen via Random.org and will have 48 hours to respond to congratulatory email or prize will be forfeited and another winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: As noted above, I received two bottles of sunscreen from Christina at KINeSYS, Inc. to facilitate my candid review. I was in no other way compensated for this post. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are mine alone. Your experience may differ.