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Stay Alert in the Ford Fusion

Ford Fusion Alert Driving

Raise your hand if you ever have fallen asleep driving?  Even one of those nanosecond naps counts as falling asleep. It’s estimated that more than 250,000 people fall asleep behind the wheel a day.  As many of you travel in the coming week, I wanted to highlight some initiatives to keep you safe. I went to an event recently to test drive the new Ford Fusion. Part of the new design are a few bells and whistles to help keep you alert and safe on the road. The idea is that the advancement of technology in cars can act as preventative measures, instead of reactive.

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I also got to hear from John Paul, the “Car Doctor” from AAA at the Ford Driving event.  He shared some scary stats about how dangerous the “micro nap” can be. Maybe you don’t fall asleep behind the wheel, but the driver next to you might. He suggests taking a 15-20 minute nap if you are doing long distance driving. The other factors are getting a little exercise and caffeine. A large Starbucks is the most caffeinated coffee you can buy.

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Michael Kane, a Ford Vehicle Engineering Supervisor, shared with us the latest in technology in the Fusion. (also available in some other Ford models)

  • Lane keeping system.
  • BLIS (Blind Spot Information System)
  • Active Park Assist (I did this in the Escape driving event, loved it!)
  • Auto Start Stop (no more idling!)
  • Cross Traffic Alert (gives you a heads up when backing out of a parking lot space if a vehicle is in your way.)

This video about the Lane Keeping System explains it in this short video.

Ford Fusion Lane Keeping System Animation

Ford Fusion Lane Keeping System Animation

Driving the Fusion was a pleasant, and quiet, experience.  Besides the fact that my kids were not in the car, I noticed how extremely quiet the car drove. I love that feature. The drive was great, pick up top notch and it has all the cool Sync technology built in. Plus, I love the commitment to new safety features in an affordable car.

Love the eco friendly options in the Ford fleet!

Love the eco friendly options in the Ford fleet!

I helped coordinate this event and wanted to give a huge thank you to L’Aroma Cafe in West Newton. The scones and coffee were delicious! Urban Sitter kept the kids occupied so we could focus on learning about the Fusion. Thank you to all the participants who brought in donations for the local food pantry as well!

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The Ninja-My Little Kitchen Helper {Giveaway}

Ninja Cooking System Giveaway Random RecyclingIf you are a regular reader of my meal plans, you know that I often use a slow cooker.  What you don’t see is how often I use it for non-dinner meals and for making homemade yogurt. About six months ago, I realized we need a second slow cooker.  Luckily, I got the opportunity to review the Ninja Cooking System.  It has all the features I wanted in a slow cooker, plus a few more.

Here were my requirements in my new slow cooker, which the Ninja is able to do.

  • Programable timer for either low or high heat
  • Ability to saute/braise right in the slow cooker insert (less dirty dishes to wash)
  • Hold a roast chicken that is five pounds
Only one and half hours to cook this chicken.

Only one and half hours to cook this chicken.

Here are the other cool features I like about the Ninja.

  • Oven function. You can set it like a normal oven temp, then set a cook timer.
  •  Stove top function. At low, medium or high, you can sauté and braise without having to clean a second pan.
  • Easy clean up.
  • Steam baking. Haven’t tried this yet but the recipes will get a second look from me in the new year.

Ninja Cooking Chili Random Recycling

When I made chili the first time and could brown the beef in the Ninja without having a second pan to clean was the biggest selling feature for me. I often try to make the chili before heading out to church on Sunday so it’s a crazy rush and not coming home to a greasy pan is just a nice treat. One note to those who love the ease of a slow cooker-when you use the oven or stove top function, it’s considered “active” cooking.  You should still be around when you have the Ninja on using one of these functions.

My baked pasta dish in the Ninja.

My baked pasta dish in the Ninja.

So how would you like to own a Ninja Cooking System for your kitchen?! I get to giveaway one to my lucky readers, it’s the Ninja MC701 3 in 1 Cooking System, a $200 value. Contest is open to US residents only. Ends at midnight on 12/27.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Note: I couldn’t make my yogurt in the Ninja so far. I’ve tried twice. I think because it can heat faster than a traditional slow cooker, my temps are a bit off. The official chefs in the Ninja kitchen may test it out. If I revise my yogurt recipe for the Ninja, I’ll let you know!

Disclosure: I was provide a product sample to help facilitate this review. All opinions shared here are my own.

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NetZero 4G HotSpot Review and Giveaway

NetZero MB Logo - colorAs a mom and a blogger, I like being connected. I like to know what’s going on with my friends, my family, current events and my Google calendar. Being able to connect to the internet whenever I want to is a key part of this.  Usually my iPhone is enough, but other times I would like to read through emails and such on my iPad or laptop with a larger screen. I tested out the NetZero 4G HotSpot and now I can get connected whenever and wherever I may be. To some it may be a curse, to me it’s a blessing.

Here is my favorite part about the Hotspot.  I can take it anywhere to get work done.  In addition to this blog, I co-manage a second blog, cover social media for our local farmers market and get way too many emails a day.  I try not to spend too much time at the computer, but it’s kind of a job requirement.  My most productive time with the computer is spent at a coffee shop where I can work undisturbed.  With my NetZero HotSpot, I can go to any coffee shop.  Happily I can go to the small, local shop instead of a big chain coffee shop. It’s quieter and I’m even more productive without the distraction of major people watching.

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You can take the NetZero HotSpot to your favorite coffee shop, big or small.

One important factor in using a HotSpot is maintaining privacy.  The NetZero offers a private, protected internet connection. You can however, let a small team use the HotSpot. Up to 8 people can log in and use it. This offers great flexibility for people who work in small groups. Or, use it in a car that allows you to amplify a HotSpot for all passengers. Everyone can tune in to their own mobile devices while on the go.

Want to try it out?  Check out the NetZero website for details on all the many options available.  The hardware is on sale now for the holidays, plus the value-priced monthly data plans cover a wide range of needs. For any blogger than attends a conference, having your own wireless is a lifesaver.

NetZero is also offering a $300 value giveaway for one lucky reader. This will include 3 months of their Platinum Plan. Just think, you could be getting some work down while you sit in a waiting room, enjoy some fresh coffee or while your kids are busy at after-school lessons. The contest is open to US residents only, it ends December 20th at midnight. Please enter using the Rafflecopter below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I was provided a sample from NetZero to facilitate my review. All opinions shared here are my own. This is part of a Mom It Forward campaign. 

 

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De Odor Works natural deodorant Review

I have been testing out a new product called De Odor Works as an alternative to commercial deodorant/antiperspirant. I’m sure many of you have heard at some point there is some possible link to the aluminum in deodorants and breast cancer.  While I believe that has not been completely proven, I like the idea of using a more natural product.  Plus, so many of the deodorants on the market are not easily recycled. I already keep a small stainless steel bar near my kitchen sink because it’s one of the only things to get rid of the smell of lobster off my hands. I never thought it would work for other body odors…

De Odor Works is a stainless steel bar I used in the shower for 30 seconds under each arm to eliminate odors caused by bacteria. The bar itself is easy to handle, even under the running water.  It’s light weight, but made a racket when I knocked it off its shelf in the shower!  I tested this product for two weeks and I decided I’m going to keep using it.  Here’s why:

1. It really did keep odors away, even after taking a long walk in hot weather.
2. My white shirts didn’t turn yellow, which they always do from regular deodorants.
3. My underarms are smoother now since my pores are no longer blocked from regular deodorant use.
4. In case I forget to put deodorant on in my haste to get out the door in the morning, I’m covered!
5. I have tried the all natural salt deodorants before, but was never happy with the application of it.

One note, this product is not an antiperspirant, not does it claim to be.  When going to a hot yoga class, use some back-up protection!  I just felt a little too “au naturale” after sweating for 90 minutes.

If you are interested in this great product, you can purchase it at Amazon
The bar is $29.95 (plus shipping) and may be the last time you need to purchase a deodorant. The company also offers a refund if you are not happy with your product.  Happy shopping!

Disclosure: De Odor works provided me with a sample for review, however, the opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. No compensation was received for this review.

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