If you are a chocoholic like I am, then you will surely want to skip this review and head right on over to Upper Canada Soap & Candle Maker's website and order their complete Body Truffles collection.
OK--stick around for the review, then head on over.
I received their Lip Butter (see review on Makeup Minute), Massaging Souffle, Body Creme and Warming Fondue Scrub. The Lip Butter and Fondue Scrub came in Belgian White Chocolate and the Massaging Souffle and Body Cream in Creamy Milk Chocolate. I get hungry just thinking about it.
The Warming Fondue Scrub is awesome. It is a thick paste that looks like icing when you squeeze it out of the tube. It warms up upon contact with your skin and smells and feels fabulous. Your skin never felt so soft from a chocolate binge.
The Massaging Souffle has a gorgeous pearl color and glides effortlessly on your skin. The Creamy Milk Chocolate scent will remind you of a Hershey's Chocolate bar.
The Body Creme is non-greasy and so moisturizing. However, if you buy it, I am not liable if you feel keen on nibbling on your arm.
The Lip Butter is reviewed on my other blog, but I will tell you that the taste alone is well worth purchasing this moisturizing lip balm.
Have you tried this line? Are you as smitten as I am?
Tags: beauty, bath and body, skincare
Review: Upper Canada Soap & Candle Makers Body Truffles
Review: Upper Canada Soap & Candle Makers Body Truffles
If you are a chocoholic like I am, then you will surely want to skip this review and head right on over to Upper Canada Soap & Candle Maker's website and order their complete Body Truffles collection.
OK--stick around for the review, then head on over.
I received their Lip Butter (see review on Makeup Minute), Massaging Souffle, Body Creme and Warming Fondue Scrub. The Lip Butter and Fondue Scrub came in Belgian White Chocolate and the Massaging Souffle and Body Cream in Creamy Milk Chocolate. I get hungry just thinking about it.
The Warming Fondue Scrub is awesome. It is a thick paste that looks like icing when you squeeze it out of the tube. It warms up upon contact with your skin and smells and feels fabulous. Your skin never felt so soft from a chocolate binge.
The Massaging Souffle has a gorgeous pearl color and glides effortlessly on your skin. The Creamy Milk Chocolate scent will remind you of a Hershey's Chocolate bar.
The Body Creme is non-greasy and so moisturizing. However, if you buy it, I am not liable if you feel keen on nibbling on your arm.
The Lip Butter is reviewed on my other blog, but I will tell you that the taste alone is well worth purchasing this moisturizing lip balm.
Have you tried this line? Are you as smitten as I am?
Tags: beauty, bath and body, skincare
Review: Upper Canada Soap & Candle Makers Body Truffles
If you are a chocoholic like I am, then you will surely want to skip this review and head right on over to Upper Canada Soap & Candle Maker's website and order their complete Body Truffles collection.
OK--stick around for the review, then head on over.
I received their Lip Butter (see review on Makeup Minute), Massaging Souffle, Body Creme and Warming Fondue Scrub. The Lip Butter and Fondue Scrub came in Belgian White Chocolate and the Massaging Souffle and Body Cream in Creamy Milk Chocolate. I get hungry just thinking about it.
The Warming Fondue Scrub is awesome. It is a thick paste that looks like icing when you squeeze it out of the tube. It warms up upon contact with your skin and smells and feels fabulous. Your skin never felt so soft from a chocolate binge.
The Massaging Souffle has a gorgeous pearl color and glides effortlessly on your skin. The Creamy Milk Chocolate scent will remind you of a Hershey's Chocolate bar.
The Body Creme is non-greasy and so moisturizing. However, if you buy it, I am not liable if you feel keen on nibbling on your arm.
The Lip Butter is reviewed on my other blog, but I will tell you that the taste alone is well worth purchasing this moisturizing lip balm.
Have you tried this line? Are you as smitten as I am?
Tags: beauty, bath and body, skincare
Review: Upper Canada Soap & Candle Makers Body Truffles
If you are a chocoholic like I am, then you will surely want to skip this review and head right on over to Upper Canada Soap & Candle Maker's website and order their complete Body Truffles collection.
OK--stick around for the review, then head on over.
I received their Lip Butter (see review on Makeup Minute), Massaging Souffle, Body Creme and Warming Fondue Scrub. The Lip Butter and Fondue Scrub came in Belgian White Chocolate and the Massaging Souffle and Body Cream in Creamy Milk Chocolate. I get hungry just thinking about it.
The Warming Fondue Scrub is awesome. It is a thick paste that looks like icing when you squeeze it out of the tube. It warms up upon contact with your skin and smells and feels fabulous. Your skin never felt so soft from a chocolate binge.
The Massaging Souffle has a gorgeous pearl color and glides effortlessly on your skin. The Creamy Milk Chocolate scent will remind you of a Hershey's Chocolate bar.
The Body Creme is non-greasy and so moisturizing. However, if you buy it, I am not liable if you feel keen on nibbling on your arm.
The Lip Butter is reviewed on my other blog, but I will tell you that the taste alone is well worth purchasing this moisturizing lip balm.
Have you tried this line? Are you as smitten as I am?
Tags: beauty, bath and body, skincare
Review: Emerita Day Face Cream SPF15
(Review done by Paula--aka my mom)
Emerita is a company that creates natural wellness products for women who are perimenopausal and menopausal. My mother meets that criteria and thanks to The Winning Pitch, she was able to receive Emerita's Day Face Cream SPF15 to review:
Emerita's Day Face Cream is fragrance free; I liked that it didn't compete with the other fragrances that I wear. It is very thick and creamy, I thought it would go on heavy, but it absorbed rapidly. I noticed right away how soft and smooth it made my face feel.
After two weeks of using it I was asked if I did something different to my skin. I was surprised that there was already such a difference in my skin that someone noticed. It also has a SPF of 15, so combined with my makeup (I use Bare Escentuals) I got additional protection from the sun for my face.
It really helped with the dry skin areas around my nose; I don't have any peeling or flaking since using it. I really liked this product a lot and would definitely recommend it for women 40+.
Compare prices on Emerita skincare products.
Tags: Emerita, beauty, skincare
Review: Emerita Day Face Cream SPF15
(Review done by Paula--aka my mom)
Emerita is a company that creates natural wellness products for women who are perimenopausal and menopausal. My mother meets that criteria and thanks to The Winning Pitch, she was able to receive Emerita's Day Face Cream SPF15 to review:
Emerita's Day Face Cream is fragrance free; I liked that it didn't compete with the other fragrances that I wear. It is very thick and creamy, I thought it would go on heavy, but it absorbed rapidly. I noticed right away how soft and smooth it made my face feel.
After two weeks of using it I was asked if I did something different to my skin. I was surprised that there was already such a difference in my skin that someone noticed. It also has a SPF of 15, so combined with my makeup (I use Bare Escentuals) I got additional protection from the sun for my face.
It really helped with the dry skin areas around my nose; I don't have any peeling or flaking since using it. I really liked this product a lot and would definitely recommend it for women 40+.
Compare prices on Emerita skincare products.
Tags: Emerita, beauty, skincare
Review: Emerita Day Face Cream SPF15
(Review done by Paula--aka my mom)
Emerita is a company that creates natural wellness products for women who are perimenopausal and menopausal. My mother meets that criteria and thanks to The Winning Pitch, she was able to receive Emerita's Day Face Cream SPF15 to review:
Emerita's Day Face Cream is fragrance free; I liked that it didn't compete with the other fragrances that I wear. It is very thick and creamy, I thought it would go on heavy, but it absorbed rapidly. I noticed right away how soft and smooth it made my face feel.
After two weeks of using it I was asked if I did something different to my skin. I was surprised that there was already such a difference in my skin that someone noticed. It also has a SPF of 15, so combined with my makeup (I use Bare Escentuals) I got additional protection from the sun for my face.
It really helped with the dry skin areas around my nose; I don't have any peeling or flaking since using it. I really liked this product a lot and would definitely recommend it for women 40+.
Compare prices on Emerita skincare products.
Tags: Emerita, beauty, skincare
Review: Emerita Day Face Cream SPF15
(Review done by Paula--aka my mom)
Emerita is a company that creates natural wellness products for women who are perimenopausal and menopausal. My mother meets that criteria and thanks to The Winning Pitch, she was able to receive Emerita's Day Face Cream SPF15 to review:
Emerita's Day Face Cream is fragrance free; I liked that it didn't compete with the other fragrances that I wear. It is very thick and creamy, I thought it would go on heavy, but it absorbed rapidly. I noticed right away how soft and smooth it made my face feel.
After two weeks of using it I was asked if I did something different to my skin. I was surprised that there was already such a difference in my skin that someone noticed. It also has a SPF of 15, so combined with my makeup (I use Bare Escentuals) I got additional protection from the sun for my face.
It really helped with the dry skin areas around my nose; I don't have any peeling or flaking since using it. I really liked this product a lot and would definitely recommend it for women 40+.
Compare prices on Emerita skincare products.
Tags: Emerita, beauty, skincare
Review: Plantogen Cleanser, Toner & Moisturizer
I loved Plantogen's Sole Scrub and Sole Repair, so when I was approached to also give their Cleanser, Toner and Moisturizer a try, I said yes without hesitation.
I received their Purifying Cream Cleanser For Normal and Dry Skin, Toner for Normal & Dry Skin, and Hydrating Moisturizer for Normal & Dry Skin. Although my skin is oily/combination, these products weren't so overly moisturizing to my skin as to over do it.
The Purifying Cream Cleanser is a thick, creamy and even "globby" looking cleanser when you squeeze it from the tube. Yet as soon as I put my hands to my face, it immediately smoothed out and created a nice lather. It contains natural Manuka Honey, Chamomile extract and Vitamin E.It really gave your skin that great "clean" feeling.
The toner is very generous in its amount. It looks small on the website, but believe me it is a good size toner (6.8oz). The toner is alcohol free with chamomile and extracts of aloe vera. Your skin will feel refreshed after using it.
The Hydrating Moisturizer is pale yellow in color and appears to be thick. However, it smoothes over the skin nicely and doesn't feel too heavy, especially for my combination skin. If you have combination skin, this actually makes a very good night cream. "Contains natural Manuka Honey, Green Tea, Chamomile extracts and Vitamin E and Vitamin C, Wheat Germ Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil and Lecithin to help diminish fine lines, and reduce the signs of premature aging while relieving dryness." It's a very good moisturizer and my skin looked great from using it.
Have you used this line from Plantogen? What did you think of it?
Find more products from Plantogen.
Tags: plantogen, beauty, skincare
Review: Plantogen Cleanser, Toner & Moisturizer
I loved Plantogen's Sole Scrub and Sole Repair, so when I was approached to also give their Cleanser, Toner and Moisturizer a try, I said yes without hesitation.
I received their Purifying Cream Cleanser For Normal and Dry Skin, Toner for Normal & Dry Skin, and Hydrating Moisturizer for Normal & Dry Skin. Although my skin is oily/combination, these products weren't so overly moisturizing to my skin as to over do it.
The Purifying Cream Cleanser is a thick, creamy and even "globby" looking cleanser when you squeeze it from the tube. Yet as soon as I put my hands to my face, it immediately smoothed out and created a nice lather. It contains natural Manuka Honey, Chamomile extract and Vitamin E.It really gave your skin that great "clean" feeling.
The toner is very generous in its amount. It looks small on the website, but believe me it is a good size toner (6.8oz). The toner is alcohol free with chamomile and extracts of aloe vera. Your skin will feel refreshed after using it.
The Hydrating Moisturizer is pale yellow in color and appears to be thick. However, it smoothes over the skin nicely and doesn't feel too heavy, especially for my combination skin. If you have combination skin, this actually makes a very good night cream. "Contains natural Manuka Honey, Green Tea, Chamomile extracts and Vitamin E and Vitamin C, Wheat Germ Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil and Lecithin to help diminish fine lines, and reduce the signs of premature aging while relieving dryness." It's a very good moisturizer and my skin looked great from using it.
Have you used this line from Plantogen? What did you think of it?
Find more products from Plantogen.
Tags: plantogen, beauty, skincare
Review: Plantogen Cleanser, Toner & Moisturizer
I loved Plantogen's Sole Scrub and Sole Repair, so when I was approached to also give their Cleanser, Toner and Moisturizer a try, I said yes without hesitation.
I received their Purifying Cream Cleanser For Normal and Dry Skin, Toner for Normal & Dry Skin, and Hydrating Moisturizer for Normal & Dry Skin. Although my skin is oily/combination, these products weren't so overly moisturizing to my skin as to over do it.
The Purifying Cream Cleanser is a thick, creamy and even "globby" looking cleanser when you squeeze it from the tube. Yet as soon as I put my hands to my face, it immediately smoothed out and created a nice lather. It contains natural Manuka Honey, Chamomile extract and Vitamin E.It really gave your skin that great "clean" feeling.
The toner is very generous in its amount. It looks small on the website, but believe me it is a good size toner (6.8oz). The toner is alcohol free with chamomile and extracts of aloe vera. Your skin will feel refreshed after using it.
The Hydrating Moisturizer is pale yellow in color and appears to be thick. However, it smoothes over the skin nicely and doesn't feel too heavy, especially for my combination skin. If you have combination skin, this actually makes a very good night cream. "Contains natural Manuka Honey, Green Tea, Chamomile extracts and Vitamin E and Vitamin C, Wheat Germ Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil and Lecithin to help diminish fine lines, and reduce the signs of premature aging while relieving dryness." It's a very good moisturizer and my skin looked great from using it.
Have you used this line from Plantogen? What did you think of it?
Find more products from Plantogen.
Tags: plantogen, beauty, skincare
Review: Plantogen Cleanser, Toner & Moisturizer
I loved Plantogen's Sole Scrub and Sole Repair, so when I was approached to also give their Cleanser, Toner and Moisturizer a try, I said yes without hesitation.
I received their Purifying Cream Cleanser For Normal and Dry Skin, Toner for Normal & Dry Skin, and Hydrating Moisturizer for Normal & Dry Skin. Although my skin is oily/combination, these products weren't so overly moisturizing to my skin as to over do it.
The Purifying Cream Cleanser is a thick, creamy and even "globby" looking cleanser when you squeeze it from the tube. Yet as soon as I put my hands to my face, it immediately smoothed out and created a nice lather. It contains natural Manuka Honey, Chamomile extract and Vitamin E.It really gave your skin that great "clean" feeling.
The toner is very generous in its amount. It looks small on the website, but believe me it is a good size toner (6.8oz). The toner is alcohol free with chamomile and extracts of aloe vera. Your skin will feel refreshed after using it.
The Hydrating Moisturizer is pale yellow in color and appears to be thick. However, it smoothes over the skin nicely and doesn't feel too heavy, especially for my combination skin. If you have combination skin, this actually makes a very good night cream. "Contains natural Manuka Honey, Green Tea, Chamomile extracts and Vitamin E and Vitamin C, Wheat Germ Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil and Lecithin to help diminish fine lines, and reduce the signs of premature aging while relieving dryness." It's a very good moisturizer and my skin looked great from using it.
Have you used this line from Plantogen? What did you think of it?
Find more products from Plantogen.
Tags: plantogen, beauty, skincare
Birthday Wishes
Happy birthday to my fellow blogger, Todd, at The Fashioniste! He is 27 today.
Happy birthday to my baby brother Peter, he is 31 today. Love you Pege! xo
Birthday Wishes
Happy birthday to my fellow blogger, Todd, at The Fashioniste! He is 27 today.
Happy birthday to my baby brother Peter, he is 31 today. Love you Pege! xo
Birthday Wishes
Happy birthday to my fellow blogger, Todd, at The Fashioniste! He is 27 today.
Happy birthday to my baby brother Peter, he is 31 today. Love you Pege! xo
Birthday Wishes
Happy birthday to my fellow blogger, Todd, at The Fashioniste! He is 27 today.
Happy birthday to my baby brother Peter, he is 31 today. Love you Pege! xo
Contest Thank You's
So many people helped me spread the word for my contest and I want to take the time to thank them all (I promise to link everyone listed sometime this weekend!):
First--thank you to all of the PR firms and beauty brands who donated products to the prize pack:
Sharon Bolton Scents
Urban Apothecary
Lumiere Mineral Makeup
Belle Ringer PR on behalf of KLEAN Bath & Body
tarte Cosmetics
Marina Maher Communications on behalf of Max Factor
Jessica Mullens PR on behalf of inSpa
Besame Cosmetics
Alterna Hair Care
Coburn Communications on behalf of Boots No7
Glamour Magazine
Carmindy Acosta
Thank you to Andrea Pomerantz Lustig for helping me to choose the winner.
Thank you to all of the bloggers who helped spread the word:
The Budget Fashionista
The Daily Obsession
Makeup Moxie
Law Mummy
Babylune
ebeauty Daily
Lipstick Powder n' Paint
Beauty & Fashion Tech
The Beauty Newsletter
Koneko's *mostly* Beauty Blog
Lipstick To Crayons
Play At Home Mom
Three Kid Circus
Blogdorf Goodman
A Bookworm's Diary
From Dates to Diapers and Beyond
The Bumble Bee Nose
The Fashionable Housewife
A Fluff Life
Beauty About.com
Opinion Mom
Beautiful Makeup Search
Blog Fabulous
Dallas Maio'd
Beautynomics
All Lacquered Up
A not So Desperate Housewife
Realself
Keeping The Castle
The Life of a Ladybug
Pretty by Nature
Daily Cents
Hot Mama Daily
**If you posted about my contest but don't see yourself mentioned here--please let me know so I can add you to the list!
Contest Thank You's
So many people helped me spread the word for my contest and I want to take the time to thank them all (I promise to link everyone listed sometime this weekend!):
First--thank you to all of the PR firms and beauty brands who donated products to the prize pack:
Sharon Bolton Scents
Urban Apothecary
Lumiere Mineral Makeup
Belle Ringer PR on behalf of KLEAN Bath & Body
tarte Cosmetics
Marina Maher Communications on behalf of Max Factor
Jessica Mullens PR on behalf of inSpa
Besame Cosmetics
Alterna Hair Care
Coburn Communications on behalf of Boots No7
Glamour Magazine
Carmindy Acosta
Thank you to Andrea Pomerantz Lustig for helping me to choose the winner.
Thank you to all of the bloggers who helped spread the word:
The Budget Fashionista
The Daily Obsession
Makeup Moxie
Law Mummy
Babylune
ebeauty Daily
Lipstick Powder n' Paint
Beauty & Fashion Tech
The Beauty Newsletter
Koneko's *mostly* Beauty Blog
Lipstick To Crayons
Play At Home Mom
Three Kid Circus
Blogdorf Goodman
A Bookworm's Diary
From Dates to Diapers and Beyond
The Bumble Bee Nose
The Fashionable Housewife
A Fluff Life
Beauty About.com
Opinion Mom
Beautiful Makeup Search
Blog Fabulous
Dallas Maio'd
Beautynomics
All Lacquered Up
A not So Desperate Housewife
Realself
Keeping The Castle
The Life of a Ladybug
Pretty by Nature
Daily Cents
Hot Mama Daily
**If you posted about my contest but don't see yourself mentioned here--please let me know so I can add you to the list!
Contest Thank You's
So many people helped me spread the word for my contest and I want to take the time to thank them all (I promise to link everyone listed sometime this weekend!):
First--thank you to all of the PR firms and beauty brands who donated products to the prize pack:
Sharon Bolton Scents
Urban Apothecary
Lumiere Mineral Makeup
Belle Ringer PR on behalf of KLEAN Bath & Body
tarte Cosmetics
Marina Maher Communications on behalf of Max Factor
Jessica Mullens PR on behalf of inSpa
Besame Cosmetics
Alterna Hair Care
Coburn Communications on behalf of Boots No7
Glamour Magazine
Carmindy Acosta
Thank you to Andrea Pomerantz Lustig for helping me to choose the winner.
Thank you to all of the bloggers who helped spread the word:
The Budget Fashionista
The Daily Obsession
Makeup Moxie
Law Mummy
Babylune
ebeauty Daily
Lipstick Powder n' Paint
Beauty & Fashion Tech
The Beauty Newsletter
Koneko's *mostly* Beauty Blog
Lipstick To Crayons
Play At Home Mom
Three Kid Circus
Blogdorf Goodman
A Bookworm's Diary
From Dates to Diapers and Beyond
The Bumble Bee Nose
The Fashionable Housewife
A Fluff Life
Beauty About.com
Opinion Mom
Beautiful Makeup Search
Blog Fabulous
Dallas Maio'd
Beautynomics
All Lacquered Up
A not So Desperate Housewife
Realself
Keeping The Castle
The Life of a Ladybug
Pretty by Nature
Daily Cents
Hot Mama Daily
**If you posted about my contest but don't see yourself mentioned here--please let me know so I can add you to the list!
Contest Thank You's
So many people helped me spread the word for my contest and I want to take the time to thank them all (I promise to link everyone listed sometime this weekend!):
First--thank you to all of the PR firms and beauty brands who donated products to the prize pack:
Sharon Bolton Scents
Urban Apothecary
Lumiere Mineral Makeup
Belle Ringer PR on behalf of KLEAN Bath & Body
tarte Cosmetics
Marina Maher Communications on behalf of Max Factor
Jessica Mullens PR on behalf of inSpa
Besame Cosmetics
Alterna Hair Care
Coburn Communications on behalf of Boots No7
Glamour Magazine
Carmindy Acosta
Thank you to Andrea Pomerantz Lustig for helping me to choose the winner.
Thank you to all of the bloggers who helped spread the word:
The Budget Fashionista
The Daily Obsession
Makeup Moxie
Law Mummy
Babylune
ebeauty Daily
Lipstick Powder n' Paint
Beauty & Fashion Tech
The Beauty Newsletter
Koneko's *mostly* Beauty Blog
Lipstick To Crayons
Play At Home Mom
Three Kid Circus
Blogdorf Goodman
A Bookworm's Diary
From Dates to Diapers and Beyond
The Bumble Bee Nose
The Fashionable Housewife
A Fluff Life
Beauty About.com
Opinion Mom
Beautiful Makeup Search
Blog Fabulous
Dallas Maio'd
Beautynomics
All Lacquered Up
A not So Desperate Housewife
Realself
Keeping The Castle
The Life of a Ladybug
Pretty by Nature
Daily Cents
Hot Mama Daily
**If you posted about my contest but don't see yourself mentioned here--please let me know so I can add you to the list!
Mom Get Glamorous Contest Winner!
I'm sure you will agree---this mom deserves the prize hands down.
Name: Jo Coiner Burzycki
Age: 32
Location: New Mexico
Kids: 3
Finding Strength:
When I look back to my life almost three years ago and think about all the things I would let get to me, I can't help but laugh at myself. Simple things would make me yell, "My life stinks!" and it was never over anything important either. Just the usual daily stuff that we all complain about.
Then my whole life was turned upside down. It all started in September 2004 when our new family doctor noticed a large lump in my throat and asked me about it. He felt it was definitely a big deal immediately ordering blood tests and an ultrasound on my neck.
The ultrasound found four nodules on my thyroid and two weeks later I had a fine needle biopsy done. Shortly after that I had my results- medullary thyroid cancer. It's a rare form of thyroid cancer that leads to testing for a rare genetic disorder. Three weeks later those results came back and I was diagnosed with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2a or MEN2a as it's known.
You would think the bottom would fall out on my world and I would completely collapse in a puddle of tears at that point. I mean here I am not even thirty years old, I'm told I have cancer, plus a genetic disorder that causes MORE cancer. It honestly set me back on my heels but once I found out I wasn't going to die within the next 6 months, I knew everything would be okay. Sure I cried some but then I wiped the tears and went on with life. I knew I needed to because I'm the Mommy and I had to be strong for my kids.
Immediately after my diagnosis we determined that my three children needed to be tested for MEN2a as well since it's genetic. You see, each child of a person with this disorder has a 50% chance of having it as well. So blood was drawn on all three kids, we crossed our fingers as we waited, and almost a month later we had our results.
That is when my world felt like it was coming apart. It's one thing to be told that you have cancer and will have to deal with it for the rest of your life but your babies? How can these perfect little people who are your whole world have to deal with this too? I prayed nightly that some miracle would happen and all three children would come back negative but I knew in my heart that our chances were very slim. One, two, and likely all three would have this. Then what would we do?
I remember the day the endocrinologist gave me the news like it was yesterday. Her exact words were "Your little one, Aidan, he came back negative" then tears started forming in her eyes and her voice broke "but your other two children tested positive, so they have this and will have to be tested and watched for the cancers". She cried some then hugged me telling me how sorry she was. Did I cry? Only a few tears then I straightened up and in my mind all I could think was "I'll be strong because I'm the Mom and I just have to be. They need me".
In January 2005, I had my first surgery removing my adrenal glands and the adrenal cancer. This put me on steroid replacement for life. Two months before my 30th birthday and I was a cancer survivor from one cancer and starting a battle with another one.
On March 30th, my oldest children both had thyroidectomies. We hoped that we were getting a jump on the medullary cancer before it could start but after surgery we found that the cancer had already started in both of them. My two amazing children were now cancer survivors at almost fourteen and ten. We got the cancer in time and they will never have to worry about it again. They will take thyroid hormone replacement for the rest of their lives but this nasty little cancer that chemo doesn't touch will not get them a second time.
Two months later I had another surgery to remove my thyroid (and any cancer there), three parathyroids, and any lymph nodes in my neck and shoulders that we could find to clean out as much medullary cancer as we could. This left me with a U-shaped scar that covers most of my neck and thyroid hormone replacement for good. When you think of what I had going in and what I traded it for, I think I've made out pretty well and feel proud of these "battle scars".
We didn't get all of the medullary cancer in time but I don't worry about it. I know I have at least 5 to 10 years with my children (if not more) and that is more than a lot of people with cancer get. I'll take any time I'm given and be more than happy with it because it means I get to watch my babies grow. I wouldn't miss that for the world.
The way I act and live with this disorder sets an example for how my oldest two children will live their lives with it. Knowing that, how could I ever possibly do anything other than be strong? I will be strong because it shows them how to be strong. I will have hope because it means they will face this with hope as well. I will love life because in turn they will learn to love life too and if they are anything like their mother, they will remember to laugh even when things get hard.
I may be a mom living with cancer but when it comes right down to it, I'm just a mom… living. I choose to fight for life and live it in the best way I can.
Mom Get Glamorous Contest Winner!
I'm sure you will agree---this mom deserves the prize hands down.
Name: Jo Coiner Burzycki
Age: 32
Location: New Mexico
Kids: 3
Finding Strength:
When I look back to my life almost three years ago and think about all the things I would let get to me, I can't help but laugh at myself. Simple things would make me yell, "My life stinks!" and it was never over anything important either. Just the usual daily stuff that we all complain about.
Then my whole life was turned upside down. It all started in September 2004 when our new family doctor noticed a large lump in my throat and asked me about it. He felt it was definitely a big deal immediately ordering blood tests and an ultrasound on my neck.
The ultrasound found four nodules on my thyroid and two weeks later I had a fine needle biopsy done. Shortly after that I had my results- medullary thyroid cancer. It's a rare form of thyroid cancer that leads to testing for a rare genetic disorder. Three weeks later those results came back and I was diagnosed with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2a or MEN2a as it's known.
You would think the bottom would fall out on my world and I would completely collapse in a puddle of tears at that point. I mean here I am not even thirty years old, I'm told I have cancer, plus a genetic disorder that causes MORE cancer. It honestly set me back on my heels but once I found out I wasn't going to die within the next 6 months, I knew everything would be okay. Sure I cried some but then I wiped the tears and went on with life. I knew I needed to because I'm the Mommy and I had to be strong for my kids.
Immediately after my diagnosis we determined that my three children needed to be tested for MEN2a as well since it's genetic. You see, each child of a person with this disorder has a 50% chance of having it as well. So blood was drawn on all three kids, we crossed our fingers as we waited, and almost a month later we had our results.
That is when my world felt like it was coming apart. It's one thing to be told that you have cancer and will have to deal with it for the rest of your life but your babies? How can these perfect little people who are your whole world have to deal with this too? I prayed nightly that some miracle would happen and all three children would come back negative but I knew in my heart that our chances were very slim. One, two, and likely all three would have this. Then what would we do?
I remember the day the endocrinologist gave me the news like it was yesterday. Her exact words were "Your little one, Aidan, he came back negative" then tears started forming in her eyes and her voice broke "but your other two children tested positive, so they have this and will have to be tested and watched for the cancers". She cried some then hugged me telling me how sorry she was. Did I cry? Only a few tears then I straightened up and in my mind all I could think was "I'll be strong because I'm the Mom and I just have to be. They need me".
In January 2005, I had my first surgery removing my adrenal glands and the adrenal cancer. This put me on steroid replacement for life. Two months before my 30th birthday and I was a cancer survivor from one cancer and starting a battle with another one.
On March 30th, my oldest children both had thyroidectomies. We hoped that we were getting a jump on the medullary cancer before it could start but after surgery we found that the cancer had already started in both of them. My two amazing children were now cancer survivors at almost fourteen and ten. We got the cancer in time and they will never have to worry about it again. They will take thyroid hormone replacement for the rest of their lives but this nasty little cancer that chemo doesn't touch will not get them a second time.
Two months later I had another surgery to remove my thyroid (and any cancer there), three parathyroids, and any lymph nodes in my neck and shoulders that we could find to clean out as much medullary cancer as we could. This left me with a U-shaped scar that covers most of my neck and thyroid hormone replacement for good. When you think of what I had going in and what I traded it for, I think I've made out pretty well and feel proud of these "battle scars".
We didn't get all of the medullary cancer in time but I don't worry about it. I know I have at least 5 to 10 years with my children (if not more) and that is more than a lot of people with cancer get. I'll take any time I'm given and be more than happy with it because it means I get to watch my babies grow. I wouldn't miss that for the world.
The way I act and live with this disorder sets an example for how my oldest two children will live their lives with it. Knowing that, how could I ever possibly do anything other than be strong? I will be strong because it shows them how to be strong. I will have hope because it means they will face this with hope as well. I will love life because in turn they will learn to love life too and if they are anything like their mother, they will remember to laugh even when things get hard.
I may be a mom living with cancer but when it comes right down to it, I'm just a mom… living. I choose to fight for life and live it in the best way I can.
Mom Get Glamorous Contest Winner!
I'm sure you will agree---this mom deserves the prize hands down.
Name: Jo Coiner Burzycki
Age: 32
Location: New Mexico
Kids: 3
Finding Strength:
When I look back to my life almost three years ago and think about all the things I would let get to me, I can't help but laugh at myself. Simple things would make me yell, "My life stinks!" and it was never over anything important either. Just the usual daily stuff that we all complain about.
Then my whole life was turned upside down. It all started in September 2004 when our new family doctor noticed a large lump in my throat and asked me about it. He felt it was definitely a big deal immediately ordering blood tests and an ultrasound on my neck.
The ultrasound found four nodules on my thyroid and two weeks later I had a fine needle biopsy done. Shortly after that I had my results- medullary thyroid cancer. It's a rare form of thyroid cancer that leads to testing for a rare genetic disorder. Three weeks later those results came back and I was diagnosed with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2a or MEN2a as it's known.
You would think the bottom would fall out on my world and I would completely collapse in a puddle of tears at that point. I mean here I am not even thirty years old, I'm told I have cancer, plus a genetic disorder that causes MORE cancer. It honestly set me back on my heels but once I found out I wasn't going to die within the next 6 months, I knew everything would be okay. Sure I cried some but then I wiped the tears and went on with life. I knew I needed to because I'm the Mommy and I had to be strong for my kids.
Immediately after my diagnosis we determined that my three children needed to be tested for MEN2a as well since it's genetic. You see, each child of a person with this disorder has a 50% chance of having it as well. So blood was drawn on all three kids, we crossed our fingers as we waited, and almost a month later we had our results.
That is when my world felt like it was coming apart. It's one thing to be told that you have cancer and will have to deal with it for the rest of your life but your babies? How can these perfect little people who are your whole world have to deal with this too? I prayed nightly that some miracle would happen and all three children would come back negative but I knew in my heart that our chances were very slim. One, two, and likely all three would have this. Then what would we do?
I remember the day the endocrinologist gave me the news like it was yesterday. Her exact words were "Your little one, Aidan, he came back negative" then tears started forming in her eyes and her voice broke "but your other two children tested positive, so they have this and will have to be tested and watched for the cancers". She cried some then hugged me telling me how sorry she was. Did I cry? Only a few tears then I straightened up and in my mind all I could think was "I'll be strong because I'm the Mom and I just have to be. They need me".
In January 2005, I had my first surgery removing my adrenal glands and the adrenal cancer. This put me on steroid replacement for life. Two months before my 30th birthday and I was a cancer survivor from one cancer and starting a battle with another one.
On March 30th, my oldest children both had thyroidectomies. We hoped that we were getting a jump on the medullary cancer before it could start but after surgery we found that the cancer had already started in both of them. My two amazing children were now cancer survivors at almost fourteen and ten. We got the cancer in time and they will never have to worry about it again. They will take thyroid hormone replacement for the rest of their lives but this nasty little cancer that chemo doesn't touch will not get them a second time.
Two months later I had another surgery to remove my thyroid (and any cancer there), three parathyroids, and any lymph nodes in my neck and shoulders that we could find to clean out as much medullary cancer as we could. This left me with a U-shaped scar that covers most of my neck and thyroid hormone replacement for good. When you think of what I had going in and what I traded it for, I think I've made out pretty well and feel proud of these "battle scars".
We didn't get all of the medullary cancer in time but I don't worry about it. I know I have at least 5 to 10 years with my children (if not more) and that is more than a lot of people with cancer get. I'll take any time I'm given and be more than happy with it because it means I get to watch my babies grow. I wouldn't miss that for the world.
The way I act and live with this disorder sets an example for how my oldest two children will live their lives with it. Knowing that, how could I ever possibly do anything other than be strong? I will be strong because it shows them how to be strong. I will have hope because it means they will face this with hope as well. I will love life because in turn they will learn to love life too and if they are anything like their mother, they will remember to laugh even when things get hard.
I may be a mom living with cancer but when it comes right down to it, I'm just a mom… living. I choose to fight for life and live it in the best way I can.
Mom Get Glamorous Contest Winner!
I'm sure you will agree---this mom deserves the prize hands down.
Name: Jo Coiner Burzycki
Age: 32
Location: New Mexico
Kids: 3
Finding Strength:
When I look back to my life almost three years ago and think about all the things I would let get to me, I can't help but laugh at myself. Simple things would make me yell, "My life stinks!" and it was never over anything important either. Just the usual daily stuff that we all complain about.
Then my whole life was turned upside down. It all started in September 2004 when our new family doctor noticed a large lump in my throat and asked me about it. He felt it was definitely a big deal immediately ordering blood tests and an ultrasound on my neck.
The ultrasound found four nodules on my thyroid and two weeks later I had a fine needle biopsy done. Shortly after that I had my results- medullary thyroid cancer. It's a rare form of thyroid cancer that leads to testing for a rare genetic disorder. Three weeks later those results came back and I was diagnosed with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2a or MEN2a as it's known.
You would think the bottom would fall out on my world and I would completely collapse in a puddle of tears at that point. I mean here I am not even thirty years old, I'm told I have cancer, plus a genetic disorder that causes MORE cancer. It honestly set me back on my heels but once I found out I wasn't going to die within the next 6 months, I knew everything would be okay. Sure I cried some but then I wiped the tears and went on with life. I knew I needed to because I'm the Mommy and I had to be strong for my kids.
Immediately after my diagnosis we determined that my three children needed to be tested for MEN2a as well since it's genetic. You see, each child of a person with this disorder has a 50% chance of having it as well. So blood was drawn on all three kids, we crossed our fingers as we waited, and almost a month later we had our results.
That is when my world felt like it was coming apart. It's one thing to be told that you have cancer and will have to deal with it for the rest of your life but your babies? How can these perfect little people who are your whole world have to deal with this too? I prayed nightly that some miracle would happen and all three children would come back negative but I knew in my heart that our chances were very slim. One, two, and likely all three would have this. Then what would we do?
I remember the day the endocrinologist gave me the news like it was yesterday. Her exact words were "Your little one, Aidan, he came back negative" then tears started forming in her eyes and her voice broke "but your other two children tested positive, so they have this and will have to be tested and watched for the cancers". She cried some then hugged me telling me how sorry she was. Did I cry? Only a few tears then I straightened up and in my mind all I could think was "I'll be strong because I'm the Mom and I just have to be. They need me".
In January 2005, I had my first surgery removing my adrenal glands and the adrenal cancer. This put me on steroid replacement for life. Two months before my 30th birthday and I was a cancer survivor from one cancer and starting a battle with another one.
On March 30th, my oldest children both had thyroidectomies. We hoped that we were getting a jump on the medullary cancer before it could start but after surgery we found that the cancer had already started in both of them. My two amazing children were now cancer survivors at almost fourteen and ten. We got the cancer in time and they will never have to worry about it again. They will take thyroid hormone replacement for the rest of their lives but this nasty little cancer that chemo doesn't touch will not get them a second time.
Two months later I had another surgery to remove my thyroid (and any cancer there), three parathyroids, and any lymph nodes in my neck and shoulders that we could find to clean out as much medullary cancer as we could. This left me with a U-shaped scar that covers most of my neck and thyroid hormone replacement for good. When you think of what I had going in and what I traded it for, I think I've made out pretty well and feel proud of these "battle scars".
We didn't get all of the medullary cancer in time but I don't worry about it. I know I have at least 5 to 10 years with my children (if not more) and that is more than a lot of people with cancer get. I'll take any time I'm given and be more than happy with it because it means I get to watch my babies grow. I wouldn't miss that for the world.
The way I act and live with this disorder sets an example for how my oldest two children will live their lives with it. Knowing that, how could I ever possibly do anything other than be strong? I will be strong because it shows them how to be strong. I will have hope because it means they will face this with hope as well. I will love life because in turn they will learn to love life too and if they are anything like their mother, they will remember to laugh even when things get hard.
I may be a mom living with cancer but when it comes right down to it, I'm just a mom… living. I choose to fight for life and live it in the best way I can.
Review: Lumedia Facial Brightener
The term "facial brightener" means a lot of different things to a lot of different people. Facial Brighteners to me mean that they give your skin that "natural glow" look. I found that to be true of Lumedia, a 100% hydroquinone-free facial Brightener.
When I normally do a review, I don't typically look at what other reviews have said, however, I saw that on Amazon reviews were both positive and negative. Either customers saw a difference right away or not at all. Personally, I saw a difference right away. The only way I can describe the way my skin looked is to say I had a "pregnancy glow." If you are a mom or have known someone who has been pregnant, then you know the look I am talking about. You just simply shine and look to have healthy glowing skin.
Another complaint by an Amazon reviewer was the the product was yellow and smelled horrible. I'm going to guess that she had a bad batch. Lumedia is a white lotion and I think that the smell is very pretty like a perfume. Actually, the fragrance is something I noticed right away and thought that if it didn't work, I would simply wear it for the scent.
Lumedia is not a moisturizer, so you apply it to cleansed skin and after absorption you then apply your usual moisturizer. Its a very thin lotion and lightweight, so the addition of moisturizer won't make your skin feel heavy.
It is a bit pricey at $90 for 3oz., however you only need a minimal amount per application, making it last a long time.
Have you used this product? Did it work for you?
Find other products by Bremmenn Research Labs.
Tags: beauty, Lumedia, facial brightener
Review: Lumedia Facial Brightener
The term "facial brightener" means a lot of different things to a lot of different people. Facial Brighteners to me mean that they give your skin that "natural glow" look. I found that to be true of Lumedia, a 100% hydroquinone-free facial Brightener.
When I normally do a review, I don't typically look at what other reviews have said, however, I saw that on Amazon reviews were both positive and negative. Either customers saw a difference right away or not at all. Personally, I saw a difference right away. The only way I can describe the way my skin looked is to say I had a "pregnancy glow." If you are a mom or have known someone who has been pregnant, then you know the look I am talking about. You just simply shine and look to have healthy glowing skin.
Another complaint by an Amazon reviewer was the the product was yellow and smelled horrible. I'm going to guess that she had a bad batch. Lumedia is a white lotion and I think that the smell is very pretty like a perfume. Actually, the fragrance is something I noticed right away and thought that if it didn't work, I would simply wear it for the scent.
Lumedia is not a moisturizer, so you apply it to cleansed skin and after absorption you then apply your usual moisturizer. Its a very thin lotion and lightweight, so the addition of moisturizer won't make your skin feel heavy.
It is a bit pricey at $90 for 3oz., however you only need a minimal amount per application, making it last a long time.
Have you used this product? Did it work for you?
Find other products by Bremmenn Research Labs.
Tags: beauty, Lumedia, facial brightener
Review: Lumedia Facial Brightener
The term "facial brightener" means a lot of different things to a lot of different people. Facial Brighteners to me mean that they give your skin that "natural glow" look. I found that to be true of Lumedia, a 100% hydroquinone-free facial Brightener.
When I normally do a review, I don't typically look at what other reviews have said, however, I saw that on Amazon reviews were both positive and negative. Either customers saw a difference right away or not at all. Personally, I saw a difference right away. The only way I can describe the way my skin looked is to say I had a "pregnancy glow." If you are a mom or have known someone who has been pregnant, then you know the look I am talking about. You just simply shine and look to have healthy glowing skin.
Another complaint by an Amazon reviewer was the the product was yellow and smelled horrible. I'm going to guess that she had a bad batch. Lumedia is a white lotion and I think that the smell is very pretty like a perfume. Actually, the fragrance is something I noticed right away and thought that if it didn't work, I would simply wear it for the scent.
Lumedia is not a moisturizer, so you apply it to cleansed skin and after absorption you then apply your usual moisturizer. Its a very thin lotion and lightweight, so the addition of moisturizer won't make your skin feel heavy.
It is a bit pricey at $90 for 3oz., however you only need a minimal amount per application, making it last a long time.
Have you used this product? Did it work for you?
Find other products by Bremmenn Research Labs.
Tags: beauty, Lumedia, facial brightener
Review: Lumedia Facial Brightener
The term "facial brightener" means a lot of different things to a lot of different people. Facial Brighteners to me mean that they give your skin that "natural glow" look. I found that to be true of Lumedia, a 100% hydroquinone-free facial Brightener.
When I normally do a review, I don't typically look at what other reviews have said, however, I saw that on Amazon reviews were both positive and negative. Either customers saw a difference right away or not at all. Personally, I saw a difference right away. The only way I can describe the way my skin looked is to say I had a "pregnancy glow." If you are a mom or have known someone who has been pregnant, then you know the look I am talking about. You just simply shine and look to have healthy glowing skin.
Another complaint by an Amazon reviewer was the the product was yellow and smelled horrible. I'm going to guess that she had a bad batch. Lumedia is a white lotion and I think that the smell is very pretty like a perfume. Actually, the fragrance is something I noticed right away and thought that if it didn't work, I would simply wear it for the scent.
Lumedia is not a moisturizer, so you apply it to cleansed skin and after absorption you then apply your usual moisturizer. Its a very thin lotion and lightweight, so the addition of moisturizer won't make your skin feel heavy.
It is a bit pricey at $90 for 3oz., however you only need a minimal amount per application, making it last a long time.
Have you used this product? Did it work for you?
Find other products by Bremmenn Research Labs.
Tags: beauty, Lumedia, facial brightener
Carmindy Adds Her 5-Minute Face to Mom Get Glamorous!
About 3 weeks ago I emailed Carmindy Acosta, the talented Makeup Artist on TLC's What Not To Wear, and asked if she would be willing to donate her new book "5-Minute Face: The Quick & Easy Makeup Guide For Every Woman" and autograph it for my contest prize pack.
Well last night she sent word that she would love to add her book and autograph it for the winning mom and send an autographed photo, as well. I am thrilled!
Since I can relate way too many times to the fashion victims on What Not To Wear, I watch the show religiously. I love how super fabulous Carmindy makes each woman look, so I know her book has got to be chock full of great tips (I know her newsletter is! I subscribe!).
So hooray moms! This little dream of mine to gift a deserving mom has turned out to be an awesome prize pack now worth $540!!!! Holy Smokes! And the entries are rolling in! You all are humbling me with your stories--thank you!
Ps. If you are also wondering which spray on foundation Carmindy uses--I revealed it on Beauty Pro!
Carmindy Adds Her 5-Minute Face to Mom Get Glamorous!
About 3 weeks ago I emailed Carmindy Acosta, the talented Makeup Artist on TLC's What Not To Wear, and asked if she would be willing to donate her new book "5-Minute Face: The Quick & Easy Makeup Guide For Every Woman" and autograph it for my contest prize pack.
Well last night she sent word that she would love to add her book and autograph it for the winning mom and send an autographed photo, as well. I am thrilled!
Since I can relate way too many times to the fashion victims on What Not To Wear, I watch the show religiously. I love how super fabulous Carmindy makes each woman look, so I know her book has got to be chock full of great tips (I know her newsletter is! I subscribe!).
So hooray moms! This little dream of mine to gift a deserving mom has turned out to be an awesome prize pack now worth $540!!!! Holy Smokes! And the entries are rolling in! You all are humbling me with your stories--thank you!
Ps. If you are also wondering which spray on foundation Carmindy uses--I revealed it on Beauty Pro!
Carmindy Adds Her 5-Minute Face to Mom Get Glamorous!
About 3 weeks ago I emailed Carmindy Acosta, the talented Makeup Artist on TLC's What Not To Wear, and asked if she would be willing to donate her new book "5-Minute Face: The Quick & Easy Makeup Guide For Every Woman" and autograph it for my contest prize pack.
Well last night she sent word that she would love to add her book and autograph it for the winning mom and send an autographed photo, as well. I am thrilled!
Since I can relate way too many times to the fashion victims on What Not To Wear, I watch the show religiously. I love how super fabulous Carmindy makes each woman look, so I know her book has got to be chock full of great tips (I know her newsletter is! I subscribe!).
So hooray moms! This little dream of mine to gift a deserving mom has turned out to be an awesome prize pack now worth $540!!!! Holy Smokes! And the entries are rolling in! You all are humbling me with your stories--thank you!
Ps. If you are also wondering which spray on foundation Carmindy uses--I revealed it on Beauty Pro!
Carmindy Adds Her 5-Minute Face to Mom Get Glamorous!
About 3 weeks ago I emailed Carmindy Acosta, the talented Makeup Artist on TLC's What Not To Wear, and asked if she would be willing to donate her new book "5-Minute Face: The Quick & Easy Makeup Guide For Every Woman" and autograph it for my contest prize pack.
Well last night she sent word that she would love to add her book and autograph it for the winning mom and send an autographed photo, as well. I am thrilled!
Since I can relate way too many times to the fashion victims on What Not To Wear, I watch the show religiously. I love how super fabulous Carmindy makes each woman look, so I know her book has got to be chock full of great tips (I know her newsletter is! I subscribe!).
So hooray moms! This little dream of mine to gift a deserving mom has turned out to be an awesome prize pack now worth $540!!!! Holy Smokes! And the entries are rolling in! You all are humbling me with your stories--thank you!
Ps. If you are also wondering which spray on foundation Carmindy uses--I revealed it on Beauty Pro!