Blog Posts

Magic in the kitchen with the Nutri Ninja!

4/8/2017

Tom gets on these health kicks. That's not a problem but it does influence what we eat around here. Plus having two small kids and a baby on the way makes eating a healthy diet even more of a priority. Enter the smoothie world. Enter Ninja. Like peanut butter and jelly. Batman and Robin. Snoopy and Charlie. You can't have one without the other. No smoothie without a Ninja. It does the job and does the job best. Period. That's why I have used a Ninja for so many years. We love smoothies because you can't mess them up....right? A few berries, a little chocolate protein, yogurt and those delightful frozen bananas. What could possibly go wrong? In fact, there's plenty of nights when I haven't wanted to cook so smoothies it is again for dinner. But it gets even better because a Nutri Ninja can actually make dinner. It can whip up snacks, full meals, desserts, drinks and appetizers just by hitting the button. This is why I've been such a Ninja fan for so many years. Simplicity. You should try one too!

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12 more must-have hospitable houseplants!

4/4/2017

Christmas cactus

Today, I'm back on my plant platform. What can I say? I need plants. You need plants. Where you live plays a big roll in how soon you can grow outdoors (where are you from by the way...)? We have long and bleak winters here in Buffalo, NY. Holiday decor from Hobby Lobby does help but only up to a point. And I've read over and over again how working with plants increases positive mood, self-esteem, feeling of calm and optimism, and gives a sense of stability. Sounds a lot cheaper than therapy to me. Just like having a cat, NASA studies have indicated that plant people have tested for lower blood pressure and heart rate. Not too shabby. So if you missed part I of my must-have plant series, you'll want to start here. Otherwise, keep reading to learn what other plants you need to get your hands on soon to boost your morale!

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Are you a sucker for succulents with LiveTrends Design & giveaway!?

3/29/2017

How old are you in gardening years? Are you a Baby Boomer gardener? Perhaps a Gen X-er? If you find yourself getting into this post then you just might be a Millennial gardener. But I digress. Because honestly, I think regardless of your age if you're into plants it almost doesn't matter the type. You like them all.....right?! Lately, I find myself getting more and more into succulents and air plants. Low-maintenance and fun to watch grow. How unique they all are. So regardless of your age, make sure you enter this incredible live plant giveaway from LiveTrends Design whom I am a big fan! I've purchased from their collection for many years now at my local Wegmans grocery store but I was thrilled to get this set in the mail. You'll be equally enthused with this 7-piece collection from LiveTrends Design if you win. To enter, like the Raise Your Garden Facebook page and comment & share on Facebook or sign up for our newsletter. For three entries, do both. Let us know that you have entered by telling us which you prefer...air plants or succulents! Tough call. So let's talk about plant trends today!

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Say goodbye to your dated & rusty radiators with NeatHeat!

3/23/2017

When inquiring about the status of a project that I've requested my husband to tackle, it's not often that I find myself uttering "Whaaat...? You're done already? I take that back. I have never said that before. Because it has never happened. Until now. Until NeatHeat came into my life. Within an hour of these beauties arriving on my doorstep they were installed and looking sharp and sophisticated in all three of my bathrooms. Yep. We're talking radiators today. It's March and we're tackling every last project we can before the baby arrives in May! Not to mention the start of gardening season. Our bathroom radiators? Whoa. What an eyesore. We remodeled two out of our three bathrooms and the very last task on the list was those hideous radiators. We didn't know how to deal with them. They were ugly. Rusted. Pathetic. The cost of replacing metal radiators? It would be cheaper to sell our house and move. So Tom started googling and found NeatHeat. The below/after photo's will blow your mind. NeatHeat solved our ugly radiator problem without spending a mint. They can solve yours too! This is how.

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How-to keep your lawn lush & green: the organic way

3/17/2017

You've finally done it! Looking out the window of your house, you can see a gorgeous green expanse of beautiful lawn. Your family loves it, your neighbors are justifiably envious, and your pets appreciate it too. The questions now are "How can I keep my lawn lush organically?" and "How can I break my lawn's dependence on herbicides, pesticides, and synthetic fertilizers?" Well, today is your (and your lawn's) lucky day. By following the four tips recommended today, your chances of maintaining the lawn of your dreams organically will be much increased.

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Tidying up with Gardener's Hollow Leg & giveaway!

3/12/2017

Tom and I have been married for ten years. I was positive that when we took our vows there was something in there about picking up weed piles. It was right after the "till death do us part" bit. Remember? Tom disagrees. I have this bad habit of weeding like a maniac and then leaving huge piles all over the yard. Not only does it look unsightly but it kills the lawn. The worst part is that I never seem to have any intention of picking up and disposing of those weeds. I leave them for Tom. So I'm happy today to introduce you to The Gardener's Hollow Leg, a product that not only solved my weed problem but it so versatile your head will spin. If you collect eggs, pick up kids toys, litter or beach shells; weed, harvest produce and fruit, or all of the above you'll want to enter this giveaway. So leave a comment and like the post on our Facebook page or sign up for our newsletter for your chance to win both the Gardener's Hollow Leg and the Gardener's Hollow Leg Junior! For two entries do both. International readers including all my fun Canadian friends, you are welcome to enter!

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Spring is here with Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds & giveaway!

3/5/2017

What pops into your brain when you think spring? For me it's seeds. Seeds = spring. Well that and the ducks returning from their warmer climates. And Easter chocolate arriving in stores. Not to mention the color lime green. So even though the snow is coming down at a decent pace here, I'm noticing the seed racks cropping up in many stores. It's exciting! But all seed is not equal. At Baker Creek, their seed is untreated, and they only sell non-GMO, open-pollinated varieties. With over 1800 varieties of vegetables, rare flowers and herbs to choose from, the selection is yours! So leave a comment and like the post on our Facebook page for your chance to win the Heirloom Seed Collection from Baker Creek Heirloom seeds! You can also enter by signing up for the Raise Your Garden newsletter. Which of their seeds in the Heirloom Collection would you like to try first? (I put the entire list later in this post). You also get Clyde's Garden Planner - all packaged in a sturdy, resealable, mylar bag for long-lasting storage!

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13 eye-popping houseplants with hoopla!

2/24/2017

Kalanchoe (succulent)

Have you heard? Houseplants are seriously trending for 2017. Savvy interior designers are all giving houseplants two thumbs up this year. But what kind? Which types will actually survive and thrive in your space? We don't have time for fussy plants and neither do you. So today we're giving you the plant rundown to help you reap what you sow. Some listed here are labelled as toxic to humans and/or pets. You'll have to weigh the benefits over possible side effects and do what's best for you. Neither one of my children nor pets have ever munched on my snake plant. Or wanted to for that matter. Play-doh yes. Dog food yes. Snake plant no. So for me the risks are very low. Even my cat never caved into temptation. And c'mon. The Christmas decor has come down and your house is starting to look a little bleak. It needs to be cheered up. The benefits of plants are quite numerous ranging from filtering and freshening the air to relieving stress...not to mention the aesthetic aspect of having living green art in your space. Hooray for houseplants. Here's 13 you don't want to miss out on!

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Growing vertically with Plants On Walls & $200 giveaway!

2/17/2017

Not much is green and growing in Buffalo, NY this time of year. Although I think our reputation for snow and ice is a bit overstated! So we welcome any opportunity to bring the outdoors in. Plants are soothing and refreshing, but less likely to flourish indoors unless you have a plan. Enter: Plants On Walls. Their felt vertical garden kit allows you to grow plants up your indoor wall during the cold months. As many studies reveal, green spaces reduce stress, and increase self-esteem, positive mood and productivity. And sure, you can use this awesome product outdoors too. Your choice! With all this versatility, I'm thrilled for you and your chance to win a Florafelt vertical garden kit valued at $200 from Plants On Walls. To enter, like the Raise Your Garden Facebook page and comment & share on Facebook or sign up for our newsletter. For three entries, do both. Let us know that you have entered by telling us which plants make you happy!

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Making gardening a family affair

2/9/2017

Depending on where across the country you live, gardening can be a year-round activity or pretty much contained to the spring and summer months. But even if you’re looking out the window right now and see only cold rain or snow, you can begin designing a garden that will burst into bloom as soon as the weather warms up. Start making plans now, and include the kids in the early stages to get them involved and excited. Your local nursery and home improvement stores already have big displays of vegetable and flower seeds, and you can get absolutely lost exploring all of the options available online. Make it a project to plot out your yard and decide where you’re going to put everything.

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The buzz on Beessential & $50 lavender gift set giveaway!

2/6/2017

What's the only thing better than all natural body products made without any harsh chemicals, parabens or dyes? How about a natural skin care line with ingredients like beeswax, honey, olive oil, lavender and aloe that doesn't sting you with the price tag? That's what so great about Beessential. The price point. You get the high-end, made in America quality minus the boutique price. How about $2.99 for a shea butter and beeswax lip balm that's been rated #1 by Total Beauty for three years running? That's what I'm talking about! Reasonable pricing for awesome all-natural products. So I'm buzzing with excitement for your chance to win this lavender themed prize pack from Beessential valued at over $50. Set includes two body creams, one body wash, three beeswax lip balms and a candle. To enter, leave a comment on our Facebook page or sign up for our newsletter. For two entries, do both. Let us know you have entered by telling us the last beauty product you've bought!

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Indoor plant survival guide (let's stop killing our plants!)

1/30/2017

Orchids and cacti happily growing on a windowsill.

We've all killed plants. Especially during the winter. We take our houseplants out in May and bring them back indoors when fall hits, but by November many are dead. Why is this I ask myself? Light and water issues. Although I want to blame pests, insects and diseases; I'm at the root of the problem! I'm still sad over a Mandevilla plant that I bought back from down South only to kill. We can't afford to fly to Florida and so we drive. This allows me to bring back tropical plants. They cost a fraction there of what I'd pay locally in Buffalo, NY. Then I get busy and those plants tend to bite the dust for lack of water. Pathetic Laura! So I've also learned over the years to keep it simple. Know the plants' needs and meet them. Now let's talk about houseplants, how-to water them, the light they need and that last under-discussed factor.....drum roll please.....humidity. Let's kill fewer plants starting today!

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High-tech help from Click & Grow with herb garden giveaway!

1/22/2017

Time to push the herb easy button. Because you live in an apartment. Or just have a small space. Maybe gardening is a new venture for you and your first taste must be quick and easy. Then let me introduce you to Click & Grow. They make an amazing indoor growing system that allows you to grow fresh herbs, fresh fruits or flowers with zero effort. What blows my mind is having fresh herbs growing in the privacy of my own home in January. I love cooking with fresh herbs, don't you? This was never a viable option for me before as Buffalo, NY is a really cold place right now. So I can vouch for the Smart Herb Garden! Literally within minutes of arrival on your doorstep you will have this unit up-and-running. To enter, like the Raise Your Garden Facebook page and share this post or sign up for our newsletter. For two entries, do both. Let us know what fresh herbs you miss most during the winter! And international readers, you are welcome to enter! Feel the love.

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5 plants to put you to sleep & help you beat insomnia

1/16/2017

I don't sleep. Much. Ever since having a baby 7 years ago and being forced out of bed 5-6 times a night to nurse...my body revolted against rest. Now that my daughter is older, I just get up that 5-6 times to pee. Makes me wonder. Does anyone out there actually get 8 hours of straight sleep at night? And I want a natural night's sleep. Agree? No meds. Did you know that incorporating just a few plants in your bedroom can put you out at night by creating a more restful environment? Just think how you feel after a good night's sleep. Like you can conquer the world. Right? But visa versa? Uh-huh...you're tossing and turning unable to catch any zzz's with that racing mind. All you can think about is everything you didn't get done the previous day. Awful. Then you wake up miserable and cranky unable to face the day! Well we have five plants to try today to help you gain a a more natural night's sleep. Here's the rundown!

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Made from Earth vitamin enhanced face firming serum giveaway!

1/9/2017

I'm finally committed to 100% organic gardening. And more recently, I've decided it's time to banish all harmful chemicals inside my home too. When you think of how many chemicals your skin is exposed to everyday, it's time to shudder in horror. So I was on the hunt for an organic, holistic and chemical-free company that made products for my face, hair and skin that didn't have those harsh ingredients. The other stipulation? The products have to work. Otherwise, what's the point? So I stumbled upon Made from Earth and they graciously sent me a few products to review. I'm even more excited that they are giving away my favorite product from the lineup, a face serum...yours for the win! (Are you ready to eliminate a few wrinkles and spoil your face, especially around the eyes?!) To enter, like the Raise Your Garden Facebook page and share this post or sign up for our newsletter. For two entries, do both. Let us know in the comment section of this post you entered by telling me anything about your skin regimen.

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What's in/what's out for gardeners 2017!

1/3/2017

Houseplants are hot right now. They really satisfy from potting, growing, watering, rearranging and repotting, plants are fun. To keep you on trend, we've compiled a list of what's in and what's out in the New Year. Of course, lighting is always spot-on in style. You can't get enough of it indoors or out. And in case you didn't notice from the above photo.....the unique is reigning supreme. Trains in the garden? Sure. Why not. Just don't leave them out in the rain or snow. But seriously, this train garden is chugging with innovation. Keep reading to find out what else is going to spruce up your space in the coming year.

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Light up your life with HomeRight & $90 ElectroLight giveaway!

12/29/2016

Sometimes you get what you deserve. There I was sniggering at the 80-year-old guy ahead of me getting carded at the grocery store for buying Mike's Hard Lemonade only to find out I was next. My license? Huh....I ask the clerk? Yup. It's for the lighter you're buying. Whaaat? I'm thinking. I'm really getting carded for a $5 cheapie fire starter for my candles? Yep again. They need to check to see if I'm an arsonist. Nope. I'm not. But I do like to be able to easily start a quick fire when needed. Whether it's in my fire pit or fireplace, being able to get that fire going pronto is wonderful. So we were thrilled when HomeRight sent us an ElectroLight power tool to review and hope you are the lucky winner of this incredible giveaway. To enter, like the Raise Your Garden Facebook page and share this post or sign up for our newsletter. For two entries, do both. Let us know you have entered by telling us when you last started a fire.

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Merry Christmas!

12/26/2016

Joy to the World....the Lord is come! As we celebrate the season, we are so thankful for His marvelous gift. Hope you had a wonderful Christmas with your family. We are super excited about 2017 and the new joys our family is expecting!

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DIY sprayed foam insulation to lower your utility bills

12/20/2016

So Tom is trying to make a finished room in our basement. Why? Toys have taken over our lives and just about every room in the house. Granted, our house is a good size. I'm certainly not complaining and am thankful for what we have. But it would be nice to get organized and have a place for the girls to play while I'm folding laundry and trying to make dinner. The problem? In Buffalo, NY the basement can get quite cold, in particular, those outside walls! No one wants to go down there if it's freezing in winter or conversely, too hot during the summer! Fixing up the basement can greatly increase the usable square footage of your home. If not a play room, how about a craft room? A home office? A mini-movie theater? A game room with ping pong and floor hockey? The possibilities are endless. This is our journey in transforming a space that was essentially 100% storage and turning it into a fully functional space for the kids. Watch as our basement evolves!

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Recycling pallets for creative Christmas & Winter DIY projects

12/14/2016

It was love at first site. There we were at church and I was smitten with all the innovative Christmas pallet projects being displayed. Stunning! Pallets are being used for so many purposes these days. And pallets are cheap if not free to acquire. So when you're decorating for the holidays, it's a fantastic way to literally deck the halls on a dime. Why spend a paycheck at Pier 1 when you can get your creative juices flowing with pallets? This post focuses primarily on Christmas and winter ideas, but I'm sure you've seen all those America Flag painted pallets on Pinterest....right? And they look great! So here's a bunch more ideas to get you in the holiday spirit.

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Winter decor with Desert Steel & evergreen luminary giveaway!

12/7/2016

Deck the halls with....pine tree evergreens. Fa la la la la. You get the drift. Christmas bling. You can never overdo it. Right?! Bigger is better. And if you happen to drive by my house and think it's tacky, I'm okay with that. But the week after Christmas? I start getting this feeling that it's time to take my decorations down. And it hurts. Which is why I love Desert Steel. Their Evergreen Luminary takes you from pre-Christmas to post holiday with ease. Simple and stunning steel. You can leave it up till March and it still looks good and will suit your surroundings in or out. Of course you can leave your real live tree up until March as well and trust me, I know plenty of people who do...but the dead needles will wreck havoc. So I'm happy for you and your chance to win this lovely luminary ARV $70 from Desert Steel. To enter, like the Raise Your Garden Facebook page and share this post or sign up for our newsletter. For two entries, do both. Let us know you have entered by telling us when you take down your Christmas tree!

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13 foolproof tips to pick the perfect live Christmas tree

11/30/2016

Do you have a Charlie Brown Christmas tree complex? When looking for the family Christmas tree each year this is my struggle. I lean towards selecting the sad, wilting tree because otherwise that tree won't have a home for Christmas. Then I have to stop. Pause. Think. And come to my senses. The tree is not a kitten. It does not have feelings and I'm not doing myself a favor by hauling home the worst one on the lot. Besides, live Christmas tree prices are typically $50 and up. In many cases you pay by the foot so I might as well get the best tree for my dollars. But what do you look for? What should you look for when picking out the perfect tree? These are my top tips so that your tree doesn't sap your holiday cheer.

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Whipping up the good life with 4-piece Product of GIR giveaway!

11/27/2016

It's time to stress out! The holidays are here. You know what this means. Lots of shopping, cleaning, cooking and baking. As if your life wasn't hectic enough. So to make your time in the kitchen just a little more joyful and a little less taxing, Get It Right is back better than ever. They want to reward you and all your culinary efforts this season with this fabulous $55 4-piece spoon set from their marvelous product line. And yes, once again, they got it right. So if you are the lucky one, you have struck gold this season. Or copper for all you Poldark watchers out there. To enter, like the Raise Your Garden Facebook page and share this post or sign up for our newsletter. For two entries, do both. Let us know you have entered by telling us what you're cooking and baking these days!

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Pick or purge? ~ the art of garbage

11/19/2016

The term "spring cleaning" has always baffled me. At this point, I've been cleaning all winter. Enough already. Time to get outside and play when spring finally strikes. Done with cleaning. Cleaning is a fall job so that I can purge all the junk I don't want to store all winter. Because storage space is prime. So I like to re-evaluate what I've got and toss what's no longer needed before winter comes. Especially with all the new stuff that arrives around Christmas. After all, you only have so much room in your basement, garage, shed and attic (if you even have all of those storage options). It's time to free yourself of the junk that you don't even know you have. Here's the essential checklist of what you should consider purging before the snow flies to save you space, time, energy and frustration. And if you ended up buying a second pair of hedge clippers because you couldn't locate yours when the time came to do the job then you know exactly what I mean. Too annoying!

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Echo $330 tool giveaway will blow you away!

11/12/2016

Do you know what the problem is with having seventeen trees under a 1/2 acre lot? Leaves. Tom and I both love the shade trees provide, but come Fall, the leaves are an issue. Left alone, they'll kill the grass. Besides, in my neighborhood, it is severely frowned upon to leave them. So we have two options. 1.) Rake them or 2) Use a leaf blower. Raking is a great workout but is time consuming. Using a leaf blower gets the job done in about one twentieth of the time. I remember the first time I saw my neighbor use a leaf blower and thought to myself, "wow, I knew there was an easier way." So I'm over the moon thrilled for your chance to win this stellar leaf blower from Echo valued at $330. In fact, it has a 4.9 rating out of 5 stars and that includes 378 reviews. Wow!! To enter, like the Raise Your Garden Facebook page and share this post or sign up for our newsletter. For two entries, do both. Let us know in the comment section of this post what you did to enter! And let me tell you why leaves make me feel a little guilty.

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