This contest was sponsored by Charlie’s Soap (http://www.charliesoap.com/).

Congratulations to Nodmicks!

Nodmicks has won:

A 17 oz bottle of all-purpose cleaner and an 80 load container of laundry powder.

Thank you to everyone who entered!

This contest is sponsored by Charlie’s Soap (http://www.charliesoap.com/).

If you’ve been a member on the forums for a while, you’ve read many members raving about Charlie’s Soap. Here’s one thread you can read: http://www.frugalvillage.com/forums/laundry/127595-charlies-soap.html

Like Charlie’s Soap on Facebook, too.
http://www.facebook.com/charliesoap

The products are wonderful and because I like them so much, I thought a contest would be a great idea. This contest is for U.S. only. Disclaimer: While this is a sponsored contest, this is not a sponsored post. I did receive products and wanted to try them before hosting a contest. Images are provided by Charlie’s Soap.

The winner will receive:

A 17 oz bottle of all-purpose cleaner and an 80 load container of laundry powder.

To enter: Post a comment below that says I want Charlie’s Soap!

If you have tried Charlie’s Soap and love their products, share your experience!

Good Luck. Deadline to enter is January 22, 2011. I’ll randomly select one winner. Please read our standard contest rules.

Congratulations to DixieJ.  You’ve won a BISSELL Steam&Sweep. Enjoy!!

Special thank you to BISSELL  and to everyone that entered.

This contest is sponsored by BISSELL.

I own another brand steam mop that had awesome online reviews. In fact, the hype partially encouraged me to buy it. It didn’t live up to the hype. I was disappointed. I’ve only used it three times in the last year. It’s sad when you prefer a mop and bucket over a steam mop you bought for the sole purpose of making a chore easier to bear. And no, I am not going to say which steam mop it is. I believe that it just isn’t the right steam mop for ME. I will say that when I tried that mop, my first words were…oh COME ON!

We are a family of 6 and the majority of our house has hardwood or hard floors. Only two rooms have carpet, Disclaimer: So I was happy BISSELL sent me a BISSELL Steam & Sweep. I am really happy that it sweeps and steams simultaneously. I always sweep before I mop, but I’m thrilled that I don’t have to worry about small debris that I might leave behind, and if I choose not to sweep ahead of time, it’s got my back. But no, it’s not going to suck up large items like an industrial shop vac, so don’t expect it to. It’s very easy to maneuver which beats my old steam mop, too. It is heavier than my other steam mop, but this isn’t a negative issue. This actually makes it easier to maneuver. It has a wider base and I can simply feel and see the difference in both quality in construction and performance from my other steam mop. The mop pads are easy to put on and remove. It has a long cord and easy to fill and good sized water reservoir, so less refills are needed (I used it for 15 minutes and the tank was still over half full.) and easy to empty dust bin. I’m happy with it and think you’ll like it, too. I’m hard pressed to find anything wrong with it. Maybe having to hold the lever down for the steam release, but that isn’t a very big deal.

Disclaimer: The following information, images and contest is provided and sponsored by BISSELL.

As hard floors continue to gain popularity, consumers are seeking simple, effective and time-saving solutions for keeping them clean. That’s why BISSELL is introducing the Steam & Sweep hard floor cleaner, a fully powered, 100 percent chemical-free combination steam mop and sweeper that picks up dry debris and cleans hard floors, all in one pass.

BISSELL® Steam & Sweep
Dual action steam machine offers complete hard floor cleaning in one fell swoop

Consumers can kiss that tiresome broom, mop and bucket routine goodbye thanks to BISSELL’s Steam & Sweep hard floor cleaner. The Steam & Sweep is a fully powered combination steam mop and sweeper that picks up dry debris and simultaneously cleans hard floors in one pass, using the natural power of steam. It provides a powerful, thorough clean and eliminates unnecessary steps from the hard floor cleaning process – no more struggling with dustpans, wringing out dirty mop heads or hauling buckets of soapy water. Plus, when used as directed, the Steam & Sweep kills many germs and bacteria that can reside on hard floors.

The increased popularity of steam as an environmentally-friendly hard floor cleaning alternative has given rise to this high-quality steam cleaner, which can be used for overall cleaning as well as for tackling sticky spots. The Steam & Sweep leaves floors fresh and dry without the fumes or residue of harsh chemicals, and is safe and effective on virtually all hard floor surfaces, including marble, ceramic, stone, vinyl, laminate, linoleum and sealed hardwood floors.

In addition to being powerful and 100 percent chemical-free, the eco-friendly Steam & Sweep offers the following features and benefits:

• Dual functioning cleaning foot that boasts both sweeping and steaming capabilities
• Switches that allow the unit to be used as a steam mop, sweeper, or both at once
• Easy-to-maintain foot with an easy empty dust bin and high quality, washable microfiber mop pads
• Steam on Demand trigger, which delivers the ideal amount of steam when and where you need it
• Maneuverable swivel head, making those hard to reach places a cleaning breeze
• Easy-to-fill, high capacity, removable water tank that can be filled right from the tap – no need for cups and funnels
• Water purification system that leaves floors spotless and extends the life of the machine
• High quality construction, designed for longevity
• Fast-acting water heater – ready to use in 30 seconds

The BISSELL Steam & Sweep is available at Sears, Target, Lowes, Shopko and Meijer stores for $129.99. To learn more about BISSELL cleaning products and the company’s commitment to effective, yet eco-friendly practices, visit www.bissell.com.

http://www.bissell.com/steam-and-sweep/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/bissell?v=wall

Additonal Video: http://www.bissell.com/how-to-videos/steam-and-sweep/

Contest details:

One reader will win a BISSELL Steam & Sweep. I will randomly select the winner. To enter, simply post I want a BISSELL Steam & Sweep in the comment section below. One entry per person, per household. Deadline to enter is November 21. 11:59pm. Please see our contest rules. Good Luck!

Congratulations to Ashley Tilton. You’ve won the Kraft HOMESTYLE Macaroni & Cheese dinner contest. Thank you to everyone that entered and special thank you to Kraft Foods, Inc.

This contest is sponsored by Kraft Foods, Inc.

I was given three samples to try. I enjoyed them. My kids liked the Classic Cheddar Cheese Sauce best. I think it’s because it tasted a lot like the Deluxe version. I liked using the oven finish option and liked all three flavors. It was a bit awkward preparing it. But not hard to make. I’ve made classic boxed Kraft macaroni and cheese so many times in my life, that I don’t really even have to pay attention when I make it other than boiling the macaroni. I just eyeball the milk and butter and mix away. Some of you know what I mean. This takes slightly more thought. But all three were tasty and pass as acceptable for our household for lunch or as a side. Keep in mind we’re a family of 6.

Images and the following information provided by Kraft Foods, Inc.

Rather than sneaking a bite of your kid’s Mac & Cheese at the dinner table, why not make a meal sure to satisfy the entire family’s taste buds? With KRAFT’s NEW HOMESTYLE Macaroni & Cheese Dinner, you’ll be able to give the whole family delicious homemade taste in minutes.

KRAFT HOMESTYLE Macaroni & Cheese Dinner is bound to become a family favorite with rich and creamy real cheese sauce over steaming macaroni and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs. There’s even an optional oven finish that will leave them thinking you created an entire meal from scratch.

Three mouth-watering flavors include:

– Classic Cheddar Cheese Sauce
– Hearty Four Cheese Sauce
– Old World Italian with Parmesan and Romano Cheese Sauce

Enter to win one package of each flavor. Simply comment below and say I want to win Kraft Homestyle Macaroni and Cheese. I’ll randomly choose one winner. Deadline to enter is 11:59pm October 11th. One entry per person, per household. Please read our contest rules. Good Luck!

For recipes, nutritional information and coupons visit http://www.youknowyouloveit.com
You’ll also have a chance to play Noodlette. It’s a spin to win game. Maybe you’ll hit the jackpot.

For fans: Stay up to date with the newest Macaroni & Cheese Dinner deals, news and fun. It’s the easiest way to keep in touch with the KRAFT cheesy goodness you love.
http://www.kraftbrands.com/macandcheese/forfans/pages/social.aspx

Congratulations to Nichole McDowell. You’ve won a $200 Sears Shopping spree. Thank you to everyone that entered and a special thank you to Sears.

Sears has provided me with 1 $200 Sears gift card for a reader giveaway and and 1 $100 Sears gift card for myself as part of a promotional offer. Images and information are provided by Sears.

Sears’ Salute to Heroes Sale This Saturday, September 25

Sears is celebrating America’s service people (Police, Military, Veterans, Firefighters, Teachers, and Hospital Staff) with an extra 10% off of apparel, shoes, lawn and garden, tools, home fashions, electronics, automotive and more this Saturday, September 25, 11 AM to 2 PM. In a few select cities, the sale will run all day: Denver, CO; Minneapolis-St. Paul, MN and New Orleans, LA. 

There are lots of great deals –men’s dress shirts for $19.99 (reg. $42), quilts for $29.99 (reg. $59.99), etc.

“Local heroes” need to print out the Storewide Savings Pass found in the flyer available here: http://www.sears.com/salute, and they also need ID to prove their “local hero” status. 

The sale is nationwide with the exception of these cities, where it will be held on Saturday, November 13: Boston. MA; Seattle, WA; Miami, FL; Raleigh-Durham, NC; Dallas, TX and Cincinnati, OH. The offer will be the same: extra 10% off apparel, shoes, lawn and garden, tools, home fashions, electronics, automotive and more.

More information is available at http://www.sears.com/salute

Contest prize:

1 $200 Sears gift card. No expiration date.

Eligibility: Must be a part of America’s service people (Police, Military, Veterans, Firefighters, Teachers, and Hospital Staff). And willing to let me interview you for a follow-up piece if you win. You would share your story, and how the Sears shopping spree helped you. Submitting a photo would be much appreciated, too.

To enter: Simply leave a comment below that says I want to win the Sears Salute to Heroes contest giveaway.
The contest deadline is tomorrow September 25th, 11:59pm. I’ll select one winner. One entry per person, per household. Please see our standard contest rules. Good Luck!

Congratulations ssindi. You’ve won the Kraft Sandwich Shop May contest which includes 4 bottles of KRAFT SANDWICH SHOP Mayo. Flavors include Chipotle, Garlic & Herb, Horseradish-Dijon and Hot & Spicy.. Thank you to everyone that entered and special thank you to Kraft Foods, INC. for sponsoring this contest

This contest is sponsored by Kraft Foods, Inc. Information provided by Kraft Foods, Inc.

KRAFT SANDWICH SHOP Mayo allows you to create the sandwich shop experience in your kitchen—giving you a deli-quality sandwich without the price. An added bonus, three of the four flavors are reduced fat!

Product Use
KRAFT SANDWICH SHOP Mayo comes in four flavorful options—Chipotle, Garlic & Herb, Horseradish-Dijon and Hot & Spicy. Choose any flavor to make over that boring or outdated sandwich.

Nutrition
Chipotle Serving Size: 1 Tbsp. (15g); 40 calories; 4g total fat (0.5g saturated, 0.0g trans).
Garlic & Herb, Horseradish-Dijon Serving Size: 1Tbsp. (15g); 40 calories; 3.5g total fat (0.5g saturated, 0.0g trans).
Hot & Spicy Serving Size: 1Tbsp. (14g); 100 calories; 11g total fat (1.5g saturated, 0.0g trans).

Packaging and Price
12 FL OZ squeezable bottle. Suggested retail price is $2.99.

Availability
KRAFT SANDWICH SHOP Mayo is available at grocery retailers nationwide

Kraft has shared these delicious recipes, too.

Spicy Chipotle Wrap
prep time: 5 minutes
makes: 1 serving

What you need
1 Tbsp. KRAFT SANDWICH SHOP Chipotle Flavored Reduced Fat Mayonnaise
1 flour tortilla (8 inch)
4 slices OSCAR MAYER Deli Fresh Shaved Roast Beef
1 slice KRAFT DELI DELUXE Process Jalapeno American Cheese
1/2 cup coleslaw blend
1/4 cup red pepper strips

Make it
MIX coleslaw blend and mayonnaise.
TOP tortilla with meat, cheese, coleslaw and peppers; roll up.

Kraft kitchens tips
SUBSTITUTE
Prepare using OSCAR MAYER Deli Fresh Shaved Oven Roasted Chicken Breast.

Santa Fe Turkey Sandwich
prep time: 10 minutes
makes: 1 serving

What you need
1 Tbsp. KRAFT SANDWICH SHOP Chipotle Flavored Reduced Fat Mayonnaise
2 slices toasted, whole grain bread
6 slices OSCAR MAYER Deli Fresh Shaved Oven Roasted Turkey Breast
1 slice KRAFT DELI DELUXE Process Sharp Cheddar Cheese
1/4 avocado, thinly sliced
1 piece lettuce leaf
2 slices red onion

Make it
SPREAD toast slices with mayo.
FILL with remaining ingredients.

Kraft kitchens tips
SPECIAL EXTRA
For more color and crunch, add thin red pepper rings to sandwich filling.
SERVING SUGGESTION
Serve with your favorite fresh fruit.

The Maui Wowie
prep time: 5 minutes
makes: 1 serving

What you need
1 Tbsp. KRAFT SANDWICH SHOP Hot & Spicy Flavored Mayonnaise
1 slice, cut in half Hawaiian bread
5 slices OSCAR MAYER Deli Fresh Shaved Honey Ham
1 slice KRAFT DELI DELUXE Process American Cheese
2 tsp. chopped cilantro
2 drained canned pineapple slices
2 thin slices red onion

Make it
SPREAD bread slices with mayonnaise.
FILL with remaining ingredients.

Kraft kitchens tips
SUBSTITUTE
Prepare using KRAFT SANDWICH SHOP Chipotle Flavored Reduced Fat Mayonnaise.

Kung Pao Chicken Wrap
prep time: 10 minutes
makes: 1 serving

What you need
1 Tbsp. KRAFT SANDWICH SHOP Hot & Spicy Flavored Mayonnaise
1 whole wheat tortilla (8 inch)
6 slice OSCAR MAYER Deli Fresh Shaved Rotisserie Seasoned Chicken Breast
1 slice, cut in half KRAFT DELI DELUXE Process Jalapeño American Cheese
1/4 cup shredded carrots
4 thin cucumber slices
1 Tbsp. cilantro leaves
2 Tbsp. drained canned pineapple tidbits
2 tsp. chopped PLANTERS COCKTAIL Peanuts

Make it
SPREAD tortilla with mayonnaise; top with remaining ingredients.
FOLD in opposite sides of tortilla, then roll up burrito-style.

Kraft kitchens tips
SERVING SUGGESTION
Serve with a piece of fresh fruit and glass of fat-free milk to round out the meal.
VARIATION
For milder flavor, prepare using KRAFT Real Mayo Mayonnaise and a KRAFT DELI DELUXE Process American Cheese Slice.

Garlic & Herb Pita Melt
prep time: 5 minutes
makes: 2 servings

What you need
2 Tbsp. KRAFT SANDWICH SHOP Garlic & Herb Naturally Flavored Reduced Fat Mayonnaise
1 whole wheat pita bread
2 KRAFT DELI DELUXE Process 3 Cheese Garlic & Herb Cheese Slices
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup thin cucumber slices
1 small tomato, cut into 4 slices
4 green pepper rings

Make it
SPREAD pita with mayonnaise; top with cheese.
MICROWAVE on HIGH 30 sec. or until cheese is melted.
TOP with remaining ingredients. Cut in half.

Kraft kitchens tips
CREATIVE LEFTOVERS
Substitute cut-up leftover grilled fresh vegetables for the cucumbers and lettuce.
SERVING SUGGESTION
Serve with your favorite fresh fruit to round out the meal.

The Garlic Wrangler
prep time: 5 minutes
makes: 1 serving

What you need
1 Tbsp. KRAFT SANDWICH SHOP Garlic & Herb Naturally Flavored Reduced Fat Mayonnaise
1 kaiser roll, partially split
1 slice KRAFT DELI DELUXE Process 3 Cheese Garlic & Herb Cheese Slice
6 slices OSCAR MAYER Deli Fresh Shaved Roast Beef
1 red pepper ring
1 green pepper ring

Make it
SPREAD cut sides of roll with mayonnaise.
FILL with remaining ingredients.

Kraft kitchens tips
VARIATION
To serve warm, place assembled sandwich on microwaveable plate. Microwave on HIGH 30 sec. or until heated through.
SUBSTITUTE
Prepare using 3 slices OSCAR MAYER CARVING BOARD Slow Roasted Roast Beef.
SERVING SUGGESTION
Serve with a mixed green salad and your favorite fresh fruit to round out the meal.

Bavarian Rhapsody
prep time: 5 minutes
makes: 2 servings

What you need
1 Tbsp. KRAFT SANDWICH SHOP Horseradish-Dijon Flavored Reduced Fat Mayonnaise
1 pretzel sandwich roll, split
2 CLAUSSEN Kosher Dill Sandwich Slices
8 slices OSCAR MAYER Deli Fresh Shaved Black Forest Ham
2 slices KRAFT Deli Fresh 2% Milk Reduced Fat Colby Jack Cheese

Make it
SPREAD cut sides of roll with mayonnaise.
FILL with remaining ingredients.
CUT in half.
Kraft kitchens tips
SUBSTITUTE
Substitute a 5-inch piece of Italian bread for the pretzel roll.

Smoked Tilapia Sandwich
prep time: 15 minutes
makes: 2 servings

What you need
2 Tbsp. KRAFT SANDWICH SHOP Horseradish-Dijon Flavored Reduced Fat Mayonnaise
2 submarine or french bread rolls, partially split
2 spears, chopped CLAUSSEN Kosher Dill Pickle
2 KRAFT Singles
2 tsp. chopped fresh dill
2 tilapia fillets (1/2 lb.)
1/2 tsp. smoked paprika

Make it
HEAT broiler.
MIX first 3 ingredients.
SPRINKLE fish with paprika. Broil, 4 inches from heat, 5 min. or until fish flakes easily with fork. Top with Singles.
FILL rolls with fish; top with pickle mixture.

Kraft kitchens tips
HOW TO DETERMINE WHEN FISH IS COOKED
Fish is done when it looks opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Undercooked fish looks translucent, while overcooked fish looks dry and falls apart.

FOR MORE RECIPES AND IDEAS, VISIT Kraftfoods.com/sandwich
http://www.youtube.com/user/kraftsandwichshop
http://www.facebook.com/KraftFoods

Contest prize is 4 bottles of KRAFT SANDWICH SHOP Mayo. Flavors include Chipotle, Garlic & Herb, Horseradish-Dijon and Hot & Spicy.
To enter, tell me which flavor will be your favorite in the comments section below. I will randomly select one winner. One entry, per person, per household. Please read our standard contest rules. Deadline to enter is August 15th 11:59pm.