Three Really IS The Magic Number!

Red is a really hot look this season, but, with so many shades, brands, varieties, variations, etc. etc. to choose from it can not only be overwhelming... it can be downright intimidating.  However, once in awhile, the heavens shine down upon you and the never ending sea of cosmetics split apart as one golden ray beams down on what you have been searching for your whole life.

Clearly we take our red very seriously here at Team Coalition.

Three Custom Color Specialists are one of the most amazing makeup teams around.  Yes, this is THEE company that can recreate that discontinued MAC eyeshadow you've been crying over relentlessly since '89.  Well, this conglomeration of  awesome has collaborated with Talbots to create a limited edition (Yes, LIMITED) red lipstick called Charmed.  This is a gift with purchase of $150 or more at Talbots.

You are going to go crazy over this little red number.  It is not over the top or too blue, the sexy factor is through the roof, best of all?  The color is flattering on most skin tones.  Three Custom has altered, re-created and effectively reshaped the classic shade of red using their award-winning sheer buildup formula.  Bottom line, this ultra-moisturizing, buildable coverage, tube of color will not disappoint even the harshest of color critics.  Be sure to pair Charmed with your smokey eye to have one of the hottest looks this Fall.

You need new clothes for the new season so why not head on over to Talbots, get what you need, and get Charmed in the process.  This offer only lasts from September 9th through the 18th, and is only good at Talbots... So, mark your calendars ladies!

Now if I can just get Three Custom Color to create a super fair foundation for me.. Hmm..

Until next time.

xo.
-mae

Things You Should Be Eating and Drinking... But Probably Aren't... Part 2

This is Part 2 of a three part article.  

Today I want to talk to you about yogurt.  Not just any yogurt, Greek yogurt.  Now, you may or may not be too familiar with Greek yogurt, but, that's okay!  This article is here to save the day... as well as spare you from any Greek yogurt purchasing mishaps.  What exactly am I getting?  Chobani, that's what.  As far as I'm concerned this is the ONLY Greek yogurt on the market.  I refuse to eat anything else but Chocani.  Before I continue, I want to bring you up to speed on yogurt history.

The oldest writings mentioning yogurt are attributed to Pliny the Elder, who remarked that certain nomadic tribes knew how "to thicken the milk into a substance with an agreeable acidity".  Traditionally yogurt or "yoghurt" has been a staple in the diets of people from Europe and Asia.  This creamy goodness is rich in protein, calcium, riboflavin, Vitamin B6, and B12.  The nutritional benefits surpass those of regular milk.  Yogurt can promote weight loss, good gum health, help prevent anti-biotic related diarrhea, and people who are moderately lactose-intolerant can consume yogurt without ill effects, because much of the lactose in the milk precursor is converted to lactic acid by the bacterial culture.

Chobani Greek yogurt is made in New York State by artisan yogurt maker (I didn't even know there was such a thing!) also dubbed "The Master" Mustafa Dogan.  This company not only shines when it comes to experience, they are commited to quality products and manufacturing processes.  Want to know what sets Chobani apart from the rest?  Keep reading!

• They do not cut corners. The company uses three pounds of milk for every one pound of yogurt in their delicate yogurt making process.
• Unique straining process. Greek yogurt is made by straining or removing the whey from regular yogurt. This results in a much thicker and creamier product. The Chobani company utilizes a unique straining process that gives their yogurt its distinctive thickness.
• Natural products. You will not find artificial additives or preservatives in these products. The company focuses on all-natural ingredients and real fruit flavors to make a healthy product you will be delighted to give your whole family.
• Healthy and safe. The nonfat or lowfat milk used in this yogurt contains no growth hormones Additionally, it contains a hefty amount of protein and plenty of calcium for strong bone health.
• Allergy-safe. This yogurt is free of corn, nut, and soy allergens.
• Live and active cultures. The majority of your brand-name yogurts contain live and active cultures, but Chobani has five, including three probiotics, which help your digestive system. 

Chobani offers an amazing assortment of non-fat, low-fat (2%), and kids (2%) yogurt:

Nonfat Flavors

• Blueberry
• Honey
• Raspberry
• Peach
• Pomegranate
• Strawberry
• Vanilla
• Plain

Lowfat (2%) Flavors

• Pineapple
• Strawberry-Banana
• Plain

Flavors For Kids (2%)

• Verryberry
• Strawnana
• Honeynana 
• Chocolate

Now, you can use yogurt for many things, I like to layer fruit, Honey yogurt, and granola for a yummy Chobani parfait.  Here is a recipe for another one of my favorite treats to make with Chobani!!

Ingredients

• 1 frozen banana, peeled and sliced
• 2 cups frozen strawberries, raspberries, or cherries
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup Chobani Plain, Honey or Vanilla yogurt
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• 2 to 3 tablespoons honey or to taste

 

Directions

Put all the ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Pour into glasses and serve.

 
 
**For non-dairy smoothies, substitute 1 cup rice milk for the milk and yogurt. 

Want to try it out for yourself?  Click HERE for your coupon!

Macadamia Mania!

I have never been so in love with hair care products before!  I am a TOUGH cookie when it comes to hair, however, this brand had me at the name!  Being that this is one of my favorite nuts I had to try the product.  Not only do these products make your hair healthy and shiny, they truly do repair the damage you have caused to it. 

I am guilty of perming, processing, flat ironing, and abusing my poor mane.  Thankfully, the kind folks at Macadamia have a solution for people like me.  Their ENTIRE line is fabulous from A-Z!  Here is just some of what they have to offer:

Deep Repair Masque - This is AMAZING.  I have never had such fabulous results with a conditioner.  It also smells lovely.  My hair soaked this right up!

Nurishing Oil - This does not make your hair greasy!  It leaves a wonderful shine, smells awesome, and your hair will love you for it!

Pamper your pretty little head and visit Macadamia by clicking HERE your hair will thank you for it!

 New Elliott Lucca and The Sak For Fall 2010!

Elliott Lucca’s Cava Demi exudes everyday luxury in subtle metallics featuring hand-woven details, custom hardware and soft, quilted leather. Get your Cava Demi at http://www.elliottlucca.com/Collection_Cava/pl/c/359.html=EM08252010G

Also follow Elliott Lucca on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Elliott-Lucca/105477590464 and Twitter http://twitter.com/ElliottLucca -please tell Them The Cupcake Coalition sent you!!

 

Meet Penelope - casual, cool leather accessories under $60. Buy yours today at http://www.thesak.com/handbags_penelope/pl/c/565.html?cid=EM08252010E

Also follow the sak on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-SAK/21134692576?cid=EM03032010G and Twitter http://www.twitter.com/sakster   -please tell them The Cupcake Coalition sent you!!

Things You Should Be Eating and Drinking... But Probably Aren't... Part 1

I have a few addictions in life. Flavored Water, yogurt, and juice are three of them.  Yes, this is an odd mix of things, but, if odd is delicious, well... Oh, never mind, I was going nowhere with that. But, I recently had the honor and privilege to work with three companies that are making delicious healthy. Here is part one of Things you should be eating and drinking... but probably aren't.

Genesis Today started out in 2001 with a vision of maximizing human potential. Their juices, smoothies, puddings, and supplements that contain super fruits which are high in antioxidants and nutrients which are key to maintaining beauty from the inside out.

I had an opportunity to try out Veggie Blast, Acai, and Goji juices as well as their Chocolate Acai pudding.  Now, if you like vegetable juice (such as tomato juice) you are going to fall in LOVE with Veggie Blast.  I am NEVER at a loss for words, but, when it comes to this juice I am.. You NEED to try this.. I'm insisting.  The amazing people at Genesis Today have balanced flavors perfectly in Veggie Blast.  It's not salty like V8, it has a slight spice to it, the flavor is rich but not overwhelming, it has an excellent consistency, it is delicious and good for you.  I absolutely refuse to buy another vegetable juice, it is that good.

-50 calories, 0 fat per 8oz make this a perfect snack
-This contains Lycopene aka the stuff that makes tomatoes red.  This compound also protects cells from oxygen damage (hello California!)
-Each SERVING contains 350% vitamin B12, 100% vitamin A, 100% vitamin C, and Beta Carotene.
-This is 100% juice

The Acai and Goji are also very yummy.  The Acai is a bit thicker, both sweet and tart, full of antioxidants that promote beautiful hair, skin, and nails.  Acai also supports healthy weight.  Here's a little more info on the Acai:

-130 calories, 1 gram of fat per 8oz glass.
-Contains Biotin (the stuff that promotes healthy hair, skin, and nails).
-Loaded with good Omega Fats. 


Goji Juice is like liquid sunshine!  It is citrusy, rich, juice that contains a TON of vitamin B-12!  A wonderful juice for kids and adults I would replace any of my grape, apple, etc. juices with this and feel confident letting everyone know it!! About the Goji:

-110 calories 0 fat per 8oz glass
-Insulin, a natural fiber that supports a healthy digestive track
-Lutein that promotes healthy eyes
-200% vitamin C!

The decadent Dark Chocolate Acai pudding is a great way to get both your dessert and some wonderful health benefits.  With Biotin to keep hair and nails healthy, loads of B-12 for an energy boost, vitamin C, and only 100 calories a cup you can definitely have your cake and eat it too!

Speaking of cake, here is a recipe I created just for our readers using the Dark Chocolate Acai pudding and Acai Juice.  Also, be sure to visit http://superfoods.genesistoday.com/ to find out where to pick up these yummy products!:

Genesis Today Puddin' Cakes

What You'll Need

Devils Food Cake (Regular and Vegan)

• 3/4 cup unsweetened Dutch-process cocoa powder
• 3/4 cup hot water
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 1/4 teaspoons coarse salt
• 1 1/2 cups (3 sticks) unsalted butter OR 1 cup Canola Oil
• 2 1/4 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature OR 8 T Corn Starch
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream, room temperature OR Tofutti Better Than Sour Cream

Cupcake Center

• Genesis Today Chocolate Acai Pudding

Acai Mousse Topping

•  1 cup Genesis Today Acai Juice
• 1 envelope unflavored gelatin OR agar agar (vegan)
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice 
• 1 cup granulated sugar 
• 1 cup whipping cream OR 3/4 cup Almond Milk and 1/3 Cup melted Vegan Margarine
• 1 teaspoon vanilla 

The Actual Cupcakes

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line standard muffin tins with paper liners. Whisk together cocoa and hot water until smooth. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. 
2. Melt butter with sugar in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring to combine. Remove from heat, and pour into a mixing bowl. With an electric mixer on medium-low speed, beat until mixture is cooled, 4 to 5 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, beating until each is incorporated, scraping down sides of bowl as needed. Add vanilla, then cocoa mixture, and beat until combined. Reduce speed to low. Add flour mixture in two batches, alternating with the sour cream, and beating until just combined after each.
3. Divide batter evenly among lined cups, filling each three- quarters full. Bake, rotating tins halfway through, until a cake tester inserted in centers comes out clean, about 20 minutes. Transfer tins to wire racks to cool 15 minutes; turn out cupcakes onto racks and let cool completely. Cupcakes can be stored overnight at room temperature, or frozen up to 2 months, in airtight containers. 

 Filling The Cupcakes

1. Using a chopstick or skewer, poke a hole in each cupcake. I wiggle my chopstick just a little to make a little room inside my cupcake. Be careful not to poke through your cupcake cup! (I’ve done that before and the filling comes out the bottom!)
2.  If you do not have a pastry bag, pour the Chocolate Acai Pudding into a zipper top bag. (I usually do this while my cupcakes are cooling.) Cut the corner of the zipper top bag. Don’t make your hole too big.
3. Now fill your cupcakes with pudding! Put the cut corner of your bag into the hole you’ve made in your cupcake and squeeze the bag! Be careful not to over-fill your cupcakes. You’ll notice if you’re putting in too much- your cupcake will start splitting apart.

Acai

1. In a saucepan combine Acai juice and lemon juice then sprinkle gelatin over juice. Bring to a slow boil stirring constantly. Once slow boil is maintained add sugar. Cook and stir about one minute to dissolve sugar thoroughly. 
2. Pour into a bowl and refrigerate until it becomes syrupy but not set. 
3. Whip cream and vanilla to soft peak stage. 
4. Gently pour cream into Acai gelatin mixture. Fold and stir gently until an even color is achieved.
5. Refrigerate

To finish, use a small offset spatula to top cupcakes with Acai Mousse. Refrigerate up to 3 days in airtight containers; bring to room temperature (optional) garnish with chocolate curls just before serving.

Enjoy!

Give Back With Sak!

Here is your chance to help The Sak Brand Group Give Back!!

Head over to http://stores.ebay.com/America-SCORES-Bay-Area and be the first to bid on an array of gorgeous bags from all our brands + once in a lifetime internships and shopping sprees!
And the best part, this auction is open internationally!  

Online Auction Benefits America SCORES Bay Area.  Ends 8/27/10.

Face Stockholm

Face Stockholm took me by surprise. I have never been more impressed by a brand of make-up!
Being the Queen of Red Lipstick I was excited when I received 4 different shades of red lip stick; Morkrod, Matte Secret, Matte Evita, and Silk. The first color I decided to try out was Matte Secret. While applying the lipstick all I could say or think was, "wow" and "where have you been all of my life?"
It was the most creamy and most smooth lipstick I have ever worn and it didn't smear like a lot of red lipsticks do. The color also stayed on forever without any fading. I'm in love.

I also received 4 matte eye-shadows and a small compact for them to fit into. The colors were Baby Pink Pan, Mist Pan, Aubergine Pan, and Russian Caviar Pan. The colors were perfect for my blue eyes. These eye-shadows do not mess around. They are perfect for some serious make-up artistry. You don't even need to load up your brush with that much of the shadow to get the color's full effect. After using all 4 of the shades of eye-shadow my eyes popped, and stood out probably more than they ever had!

Like I said before, I'm in love. Face Stockholm does not mess around when it comes to make-up and quality. I would be very surprised to find someone out there who wouldn't agree with me!


-E.

Girls and Gags

Do yourself a big favor and head over to girlsandgags.etsy.com, you won't regret it!

The other day I came home to a package with a photo of Bettie Grable on it which instantly made me extremely excited and curious of the package's contents. Inside were several sets of some of the most amazing hair pins/bobby pins, ever! The came neatly packaged in a nice box with a ribbon bow on the top. The four sets of super quality pins I received were:
-Teenage Zombies
-Tough Guy
-Bettie Page
-Minneapolis, MN 1963 Mug Shot


Browsing through the shop you'll find some very unique items. Album cover boxes, flasks, clocks, necklaces, etc. But the one thing that caught my attention the most was the PAINT BY NUMBER KITS!!!! They are either zombie or Dracula related kits. Anyone that knows me well, knows that I have a strange love and passion for paint by number.

If you are looking for something different, fun, and unique you can't go wrong with Girls and Gags! <3



-E.

Tanner's Tasty Paste

If Tanner's Tasty Paste won't get your child brushing his or her teeth I don't know what will. I can almost guarantee that any kid and even adult will be amazed at the flavor of this delicious toothpaste. (Yes, I called toothpaste delicious!) These natural toothpastes were created by a mom and pediatric dentist, Janelle Holden, DDS.

Cha Cha Chocolate and Banilla Bling are both anti-cavity fluoride toothpaste with xylitol. They contain no saccharin, or sodium lauryl sulfate.

Cha Cha Chocolate has to be my favorite flavor of these toothpastes. I was surprised that it didn't have an unpleasant artificial chocolate taste. The yummy flavor left my mouth feeling fresh and my teeth squeaky clean. Banilla Bling was a slight disappointment with the artificial flavor being more noticeable, but it cleaned just as well as the Cha Cha Chocolate and left my mouth fresh and clean.

Tanner's Tasty Paste also offers a toothpaste for the wee little ones, Baby Bling Vanilla Ice Cream favored toothpaste with xylitol and is safe to swallow. It's also a no-foaming toothpaste and does not contain fluoride, saccharin or sodium lauryl sulfate. This is such a great way to make brushing your little one's teeth more enjoyable for him or her.

In my opinion Tanner's Tasty Paste is a brilliant product that will probably get any stubborn kid to start regularly brush his or her teeth! It's also perfect for adults, it makes brushing your teeth a little more exciting and flavorful!



-E.

GIVEAWAY!!! Four Beauty Swag Bags Totaling Over $600 Dollars! !

This is one of the easiest giveaways in the world!!  Spread the word about The Cupcake Coalition!!! These prizes will consist of TWO GRAND PRIZE BEAUTY BUNDLES  And TWO VERY SWEET beauty prize packages for the runners up!! Make sure to do SEPARATE POSTS FOR EACH ENTRY!!  Your winning swag bags will contain high end hair products, lotions, makeup, nail polish, lip glosses, and LOTS of other really swanky goodies from Mark., Philosophy, PureOlogy, Lush, and Many, many, more.  All goodies will come in DESIGNER BAGS!!!

There are a couple of minor rules, we promise nothing nutty!  Good luck! Contest ends at ll:59 cst 09/02/2010 US and Canadian residents ONLY. 

:::::MANDATORY:::::

• You MUST be our friend on GFC (google friend connect) make a post about it! +2 entries

::::::EXTRA CREDIT::::::

• Follow us on Twitter by clicking HERE. +2 entries

• Tweet about The Coach giveaway, our giveaways, etc. dig it, post it on your  blog, share it on facebook, etc. you can do this AS MANY TIMES A DAY AS YOU WANT... BUT with each one you do, you MUST post the LINK to the post you made!  UNLIMITED

•  Add our button to your page!  It's the cute cupcake towards the bottom right side. Come back and leave the link of where ever you put it.  You can post it two times (blog, facebook, etc.) +5 entries

Update Here is The Winner of Our Spontanious Giveaway!!!

 ***WINNER***

 #18 Carol!!!  What exactly did she win?  Well, we have decided to send you an awesome bag of all kinds of goodies from Hard Candy, Dermae, Exuviance, and many, many, more!! Keep your eyes glued Team Coalition as we will be doing more of these surprise giveaways a couple of times a month!!

Item from Pretty Thieves!!!!  Trust me, their stuff is AMAZING!!!  Get your entries in!  If you add http://twitter.com/petty_thieves 

all that come back here and provide us your twitter name (so we can make sure you really signed up) will be entered into a SPECIAL CUPCAKE COALITION SPONSORED GIVEAWAY!!!!  HURRY!!!!

Tweet this for an extra entry!

GIVEAWAY add @petty_thieves go here http://bit.ly/9bZznd provide your twitter name and you're entered into a ONE NIGHT ONLY GIVEAWAY!!!!

GOOD LUCK!

Winners!!!! Current Giveaways (Four Beauty Swag Bags Totaling Over $600 Dollars!), Enter To Win COACH!!!!

Hello everyone!  I hope everybody is having a great week, only three more days until the weekend!  There are some long over due announcements to make!  First, if you look to the left of the screen you are going to see this funny looking flower thing that keeps growing, well, COACH is giving away a $2500 dollar gift certificate to the BLOG WITH THE MOST TWEETS.  

Here's how it works.....



•Tweet about the poppies to make the pattern grow. The more you tweet and interact, and the bigger the pattern, the more chances for YOU to win Coach prizes. Tweet using the hashtags #CoachPoppy and #thecupcakecoalition (Click on the black poppies to connect directly to your Twitter account.)


•Here's a sample tweet: "Spread #CoachPoppy love around the web and win prizes with #thecupcakecoalition !"


•You can even use extra hashtags like #pink, #star, or #heart to add different elements to the pattern.


•Like the Poppy Project on Facebook (link at the top of the poppy pattern), and use the poppies to navigate to other sites in the project.


•If you spot a Coach Poppy bag in the pattern, click it! That's a prize, lovelies. I hear they're $100 Coach gift cards.

without any further a due here are our winners for My Lip Stuff and Mark!

The winner of My Lip Stuff is...

#84 msrodeobrat

Three Mark. Beauty Bundle winners are...


Winner of the 4 Mark. Juice Gems:


#175 Paulasue

Winner of the Entire Hookup Skin Treatment Series


#242 Cindy (czilla)


GRAND PRIZE WINNER **drum roll**


#223 Anna

Congrats to all of our winners!  You are being emailed right now and have 48 hours to claim your prize!!

Be sure to enter our BEAUTY SWAG BAG GIVEAWAY totaling OVER $600 in prizes by clicking HERE!  This contest ends 08/31 and includes products from Mark, PureOlogy, Lush, Philosophy, and MANY, many more! Not to mention, they come in a designer bag.  We have one contest ending tonight, you can view it by clicking HERE.  All of our Giveaways are listed on the GIVEAWAY page.  You can get there by clicking the tab at the top of the screen.

Until next time
-mae

Down To Earth Skincare (The Eye Cream)

I only received two very small samples of their eye cream and I wish I had received the actual product that is packaged and out on the market to write a better review and test it if for a longer period of time.

The eye cream was great and I used it each night before bed. At first the color was very surprising, I figured it would be white like most moisturizers but it was a yellowish color almost like mustard. It smelled good but not over powering with perfume type scents and ingredients like most brands.

I have very sensitive skin and I have to be careful what I put on it, especially my face and Down To Earth's Eye Cream didn't irritate my skin at all.  Right away, as I applied it I could feel the moisturizing and firming of the cream. I was very pleased with the product and could actually tell a difference after using it.

Down To Earth Skincare products are always made from organic or natural ingredients when possible and are widely used by spas, estheticians, as well as home use. The company was originally developed in the 1970s and they've come a long way. They are know for their, "Exclusive complex 'essentials' with a powerful blend of antioxidants known to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, even skin tone and increase skin moisture."

Down To Earth Antioxidants Contains A Blend of:

• acai berry
• goji berry
• blueberry
• blackberry
• turmeric

The Eye Cream:
A gentle cream that firms the delicate area around the eyes to help deminish the appearance and formation of fine lines and wrinkles. It leaves your eye area soft and radiant.
Lightly tap under and around each eye. Avoid contact with eye, It may also can also be applied around the lip area. Follow with Down To Earth, The moisturizer.

Other Down To Earth Products:

• The Cleanser
• The Clay Mask: The Clay and the Clay Activator
• The Face Mask: Compressed Facial Mask
• The Align Mask: The Align and Align booster.
• The Eye Cream (product tested)
• The Moisturizer

I was very pleased with they eye cream. I just wish I could have had a bigger bottle to get the whole effect of the product as well as a few samples of some of the other products to help the review. From what I can tell so far, I believe Down To Earth has great variety of good quality items!

Down To Earth Skincare

xoxo

Elizaberh

Drank - "Slow Your Roll" And Read This Review!

I am one of the most anxious people in the world, so, as the energy drink craze has gained speed over the past couple of years I have not been on the bandwagon.  I admit to trying out a Red Bull once. Yes, just once, never again.  One of my favorite drinks on the market was Vitamin Waters "Be Relaxed", that is until it became seemingly non-existent this year.  While on the quest for a relaxing beverage to fill in my once beloved drinks void I came across the "extreme relaxation" beverage called Drank. The beverage that encourages you to "slow your roll".  I recently had the opportunity to try Drank and being the curious girl that I am I was stoked.

Drank, created by the Innovative Beverage Group, contains natural ingredients that have been used historically for sleep disorders and pain.  Ingredients include melatonin (a naturally occurring chemical in our bodies), valerian root, and rose hip.  Drank is very sweet and tastes a lot like grape soda or grape kool-aid with carbonation.  Now, the recommendation on the can says 8oz a day (half a can) which provides you with two Dranks to drink if you think about it. I tested this out before bed which was a perfectly great idea because I have trouble falling a sleep.  I drank half of the drink Drank (I really love alliteration) about 30min. before bed and I seemed to relax enough to go to sleep peacefully and wake up refreshed the next morning.  The true test was drinking this in the day time and seeing if I would be relaxed, go to sleep, or if it had no effect at all.  I take anxiety medication, but, I did not take it the day of the Drank experiment in order to properly gauge how it would fare. I wasn't groggy and I definitely could feel a relaxing effect.  I did try Drank while on my anti-anxiety medication and it did not seem to interfere or cause exaggerated effects with the medication (yay!).

The conclusion?  I believe Drank works.  The sedating/relaxation that is produced is the equivalent to a glass of wine.  I really would encourage you to check it out for yourself if you haven't already. You can get your drink on with Drank for $3.00 a pop at a some stores near you (7-11) or "grip your sip©"
online at http://www.drankbeverage.com/ or check them out online on Twitter by clicking Here or Facebook by clicking Here. They are having some really awesome giveaways!  Have a great weekend everyone!

-Mae

Precision Time - $31 Days of Summer!

I really like watches.  They are functional, you can make a fashion forward statement, and you don't have to awkwardly watch the time on your cell phone when you realllllly need to get going somewhere.  You know what I love more?  A good price.  In this economy a lot of things that were once everyday purchases are now limited treats and who doesn't like to be treated?  Well, treat yourself to some amazing prices and products over at Precision Time!  This month is their $31 Days of Summer Watch Sale!!  From now until August 31st Precision Time will be offering one watch daily for $31 dollars on their website.  Get this, eighteen, yes 1-8 of their sale watches retail over $100 bucks!

How can this deal possibly get better you ask?  Well, the good folks at Precision Time are offering a "2 For Tuesday" deal.  That's TWO watches, every Tuesday until the end of August, for $31 DOLLARS... INSANITY!!  Most of these watches are digital, kids watches, etc. which make great going back to school gifts and teaching tools for the little guys, good going away presents for college bound young adults, and early Christmas gifts! 

Head on over to Precision Time by clicking their name in this article.  Great sale, awesome people, and high quality watches, jewelry, and more. Be sure to join them on Facebook, Their Blog, and Twitter too (click on the bold words for a direct link). You'll be happy you did!

Cheers!

Mae

Three Cheers To the JetBlue Flight Attendant - That Walked Off

As some of you may or may not know, on 08/09/2010, after a JetBlue flight landed at Kennedy airport a flight attendant with twenty years on the job was assaulted by a female passenger.  The attendant responded by getting on the intercom, spewing profanity at the woman, grabbing a couple of beers, deploying the emergency slide, leaving said plane and driving his car home as humored passengers looked on.

Beautiful, almost poetic. Who HASN'T dreamt about ending their career like that?  Well, maybe not the whole slide on tarmac thing.. But a huge "screw you" to management. Unfortunately for the flight attendant (38 year old, Steven Slater) JetBlue called the police twenty-five minutes after Slater's "escape".  Port Authorities
arrived to arrest him at his beachfront home in the Rockaways.

Steven boasted to skeptical cops that he really did escape by chute with his carry-on luggage.  "Oh, yes, I did! I threw them (carry on luggage) down first and I went down after," he told cops, sources said.  He was grinning as police walked him in handcuffs to a squad car. "He left with a big smile on his face," said neighbor Curt Karkowski.  Slater was wearing a sheepish smile when Port Authority detectives walked him to a waiting van a few hours later.  He was charged with reckless endangerment and criminal mischief.

JetBlue did not state how long Slater had been on the job, but, his Myspace stated he was happy to be back on the job after a five-year break.  Neighbors have described Slater as a nice guy, but said he was under some stress. "Steven's mother is dying," said Judy Rochelle, whose son Kenny lives with Slater.  They were on their way out to California this weekend to settle her affairs."

If you're reading this Steven, thank you.  Thank you for doing what a ton of us wish we could do.  You are a modern day working-class hero.  Everyone else, be kind to your fellow man, you never know what they're going through.  Happy flying!

-Mae

A Couple of Reviews and A Giveaway..

 Nescafe Review

Nothing can really stick in my craw like a bad cup of Joe.  I was sent a sampler pack of Nescafe Tasters Choice Instant Coffee.  The logo states, "Real Beans, Real Flavor, Real Value" my opinion? Real flop.  There is this really familiar taste to all instant coffees.  Kind of like how all hospitals smell the same.. I've always assumed it was the freeze dry process.. Why would you do that to your brand?  If it ain't broke, don't fix it.  Nescafe, this is a really poor product. The taste is unremarkable, you can tell it was coffee.. once, the flavor selections are boring, and there isn't much of a taste difference in the selections they do have. Per Nescafe's recommendation, I will be taking the Starbucks vs. Nescafe challenge. Stay tuned... -Mae

Dean's Beans Organic Fair Trade Coffee Review and Giveaway

On a much more tasty and satisfying note I had the opportunity to try out four of Dean's Beans AMAZING coffee's.  As I have mentioned many times before and for those on here that know me I am a coffee snob.  I worked in the industry for 8 years and if it isn't right all I have to do is smell it.  They are doing everything right at Dean's Beans from start to finish. I sampled Ring of Fire a smokey, deep, rich, high mountain coffee from the active volcanic soils of Indonesia, Timor and Papua-New Guinea. The BEST Sumatran French Roast I have EVER had, moderate acidity, full bodied, with heavy chocolate notes. A medium roast, yet, full bodied Colombian coffee with complex nut and fruit flavors, also their Guatemalan French Roast a dark roasted, medium body, acidic, smokey, sultry cup of Joe from the Lake Atitlan region of Guatemala.

These coffees are all 100% organic, Fair Trade, and Kosher which is not a requirement for great coffee but it sure helps.  For those that aren't too familiar with these, Dean's Beans products have a complete audit trail on them from  farm to consumer.  Only organic ingredients are used, beans and ingredients are segregated from non organic machines, products, etc. and the farmer has participated in a three year training and monitoring program.  That Guarantees that these products and the soil they grow in have never been touched by pesticides and herbicides normally used with commercial coffee.

Kosher?  The crew at Dean's Beans are (well, not the individuals.. but the products!) inspected by a rabbi monthly to ensure the level of cleanliness and sanitation are superlative, and that all ingredients, equipment and procedures used enhance the purity of their products. Fair Trade?  This is a social movement and market-based approach that aims to help producers in developing countries obtain better trading conditions and promote sustainability. The movement advocates the payment of a higher price to producers as well as social and environmental standards. It focuses in particular on exports from developing countries to developed countries.  By purchasing Dean's Beans you are doing a good thing!

This company offers a wide variety of products from Dark Roast to Decaf, cocoas to sugar.  You will find it here and won't be sorry that you did.  

 -Mae

Want to win it??  Of course you do!  One lucky Cupcake Coalition Winner will  win Dean's Beans Java  Trekker Sampler (as seen on the right) These are Whole Bean Coffees from Dean's and include six 4 oz. coffee varietals from six of the countries explored in Javatrekker, Dean's award-winning book.  USA residents ONLY

Like all of our contests here, there are rules. If you do not do the MANDATORY requirements BEFORE extra credit or you WILL be disqualified!!

Remember to do a new post for each entry! The contest starts on 08/10/2010 and ends 08/17/2010 @11:59pm CST. ONE winner will be chosen via random.org. As always, big hugs and high fives to our sponsors! Remember, I check ALL entries! USA residents ONLY

****MANDATORY****

1.  Go to Deansbeans.com have a look around and tell me what you see that you would love to try out. (1 entry)

2.  Name something you learned about Dean's Beans and share it!  (must not be anything I discuss in this post.) (1 entry)

****EXTRA CREDIT****

1. Add Dean's Beans of Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/DeansBeansOrganicFairTradeCoffee) make sure to tell them the Cupcake Coalition sent you!  (2 entries)

2. Add Dean's Beans on twitter (http://twitter.com/deans_beans) (2 enteries).

3.  Tweet "Join me and @mae_day84 http://at thecupcakecoalition.blogspot.com for a great @deans_beans coffee giveaway !! (1 entry, may do 2 times daily, must be at least one hour apart).

4.  Follow The Cupcake Coalition on GFC (google friend connect) (2 entries)

5.  Add our button to your blog come back and provide us with the link (the cute button with a solitary cupcake at the bottom of the page). (5 entries)

GOOD LUCK!!!

I received these products at no cost to post a review. The opinions stated in this review are my own and I was not compensated in any way for a positive review..

How to Effectively Turn Away Potential Customers and Free Advertisers (aka Bloggers)

I'm writing this because I'm a little ticked.  Actually, I was borderline until we got this email today.  A couple of days ago we received an email from a company to test their products.  we were super excited.  We picked out what to review, etc.  I sent the email back, got emailed press packets... Something told me to ask when the merchandise was coming (we don't normally do that).  To my dismay we got a letter back stating these products weren't even out on the market yet.. But we were asked if we would go ahead and still share them with our readers.. I responded no, but, we would be happy to work with the company once the items were on the market.  If we can't TEST an item there can be no REVIEW..

The last straw was getting two emails from a company yesterday asking for a screen grab of our stats for their records, no problem!  When I had a moment, I emailed them.  Today I checked the inbox and they asked us for another one stating they couldn't see what program we use.  If this is just for your records, then, we provided you with the requested information. Now you are just getting on my nerves and have lost an advertiser.  Is this unreasonable?   Am I jumping the gun on this?

The moral of this story?

Companies, if your product is not even out on the market/you are just trying to get away with advertisement and you have no intent to send anything for a REVIEW blog to REVIEW, please, do not bother us. 
Secondly, if you are provided with the necessary information and you just want to nag.. please, go do that somewhere else.

Hope you are all having a better Tuesday than I am!

Cheers!
mae

Essem Design

Looking for an exciting, very fun, very unique, and kitschy gift? Head on over to Essem Design! All of the items are of great quality and handmade from a stay at home mom. Her designs are perfect for any age and will be sure to put a smile on anyone's face. I couldn't be more excited as when I opened up my package to see my Gothic Cupcake necklace! It was packaged in a cute small, black mesh drawstring bag and also included a couple of neat Essem Design stickers. The necklace was SUPER cute, great quality and crafted very well with quality supplies. I was very impressed! I also started to get hungry for cupcakes (who doesn't love cupcakes?!) There are so many goodies in the shop that would make it difficult to narrow it down and decide what to purchase, but grab bags are available! I though that was an excellent idea. They would also make a the perfect gift.

Head on over to Essem Design and support handmade, unique gifts...you won't regret it!

www.EssemDesign.com
www.EssemDesign.etsy.com

-E. Rose

Soapie Skyes Balancing Shampoo

At first, I was a wee bit skeptical of the Soapie Skyes shampoo sample I received in the mail. I'm all about natural beauty products (like shampoo) but I've had bad experiences in the past. They are usually not as natural as they claim to be and they hardly work as well as they should and claim to. But this is not the case with Soapie Skyes All Natural Balancing Shampoo. I've been using the Lavender Chamomile shampoo and I absolutely love it. 

Soapie Skyes shampoo is very aroma therapy-like and the scent is beyond relaxing. It also soothes the scalp and you can actually feel it doing it's job of cleansing your hair and soothing your scalp, unlike other shampoos that sometimes just add to the dirty, and oiliness, of your hair and add more sticky build-up.

While sampling this shampoo I decided not to use any type of conditioner so I could get the full effect of just this one product. I was surprised that it actually left my hair very smooth and soft as if I had "built in" conditioner. After using Soapie Skyes Shampoo my hair continued to stay very soft and non-oily and very clean. I  kept finding myself getting excited and non being able to wait for my next shower so I could use this shampoo and it's aroma-therapy effects! 

Although, it really doesn't need it since it already moisturizes I can't wait to see Soapie Skyes come out with a conditioner to go along with the shampoo.

This All Natural Balancing Shampoo is well worth the price for the 8 fl oz bottle and I highly recommend it to anyone that buys all natural and even to those who don't!

This Balancing Shampoo is 100% natural and according to the company contains:

Soy, corn, coconut, and palm kernel oils are used to create a soapy blend that leaves hair clean, soft and shiny. This shampoo doesn't strip your hair and leaves it feeling its best. It’s made with soy protein that provides important nutrients leaving your hair feeling like you just stepped out of the salon. This shampoo is naturally preserved, pH balanced and 100% biodegradable.

Soapie Skyes also offers the following all natural products: 

Moisturizing Body Wash

Baby Wash

Bubble Bath

Hand Soap

Dish soap

And coming soon:

Balancing Conditioner

Facial Scrub 

All of their products are available in Lavender Chamomile, Orange Ginger, and Spearmint Lime.

There will be a free give away for a full bottle of the Lavender Chamomile Balancing Shampoo so please keep you eyes open for details!

www.soapieskyes.com

You can find Soapie Skyes on Hyenacart, Etsy (soapieskyes.etsy.com), and Facebook.




-E. Rose

Getting Even Skin Tone and The Products to Use, Winners, And...

Good evening everyone, I hope that your Saturday has been full of awesome! 

Let's face it, as time goes on our skin tone gets uneven, whether it be from age spots, broken capillaries, the list goes on.  We have had readers ask, "how can I even out my skin with out caking on foundation?"  Here is a little trick that will save you money, spare you aggravation, and give you a beautiful end result!

Before applying ANY foundation to your face, apply primer on clean skin.  Primer helps to blur imperfections. I really love Stila new One Step Correct it is an innovative, three-in-one serum that contains three color-correcting, moisturizing brighteners for flawless looking skin.  Place a pea-size amount of primer in your hand and apply it all over your face as you would moisturizer or with a clean foundation brush.  Note:  avoid green primers that claim to counteract redness.  They are super tricky to use and if used incorrectly can make you look washed out or ashy!!

A foundations texture is also key.  Avoid anything that shimmers this will really draw attention to what you're trying to hide.  Instead go with a Semi-matte or Satin foundation such as Stila Illuminating Liquid Foundation.  To apply, put a small amount on the back of your hand, place a dot of foundation on each cheek, your forehead and your chin, blending the makeup towards the perimeters of your face. Use a brush for application.  This gives you more control than your hand or a sponge and really helps you reach the crevices around your nose, and other features for a more even look.

If you still see a few uneven patches after applying foundation cover them with an opaque concealer that comes in either pot or stick form like  Hourglass Hidden Corrective or Benefit Cosmetics Erase Paste.
stipple the area with a small concealer brush, and then  feather out the edges and blend them into the skin.  If you have large, prominate, red spots, use concealer FIRST allow it to sit for a few minutes (in order to set) THEN apply your foundation.

To help your foundation and concealer to stay put, use a light dusting of translucent powder over concealed areas and spots that get oily.  Remember that red areas are usually dry.  To prevent having the "caked makeup" look, make sure your are very well moisturized.



Winners, Winners, Winners!!!


Two Yellow Tail Winners Are


#1 Ľubaša

#10 Bactygrl


Community Coffee Bundle Winner Is

#94  clc408

Congrats!  You've all been emailed and have 48 hours to get back to us!


We have decided to hold off new giveaways until Monday, get ready for awesome beauty giveaways and some extra surprises! 

Stay gorgeous -
Team Coalition

Super Saturday - Oh My!! Giveaways, Winners, and Mae Shows Makeup Tips!

Tune in tomorrow after 2pm for Beauty Reviews, Giveaways, winners... OH.. And Mae is going to show us some beauty tips... :)

We are in the process of adding everyone back.  Please be patient.  Have make up questions?  Want to know how someone got a certain look?  Need the Perfect Skin Regiment?  Ask and we will provide detailed demos via photo, written blog or video!

Hope everyone is having a great weekend!

xo
-Team Coalition

Reviews that Are Coming Soon...

A couple of days ago I was offered the opportunity to do a review a product from CSN stores.  I had never heard of CSN (do I live under an interwebs rock?)  Naturally curious I had to look this store up.  WOW.. I was AMAZED!!  CSN Stores have over 200 online stores where you can find everything from dinnerware to dog beds, toys to tools!!

The hard part?  What am I going to choose to review?!!  Guess you'll just have to stay tuned to find out.. :)

Stay tuned..
Team Coalition

Ten Dollar Credit -- No minimum purchase!!

If you take this survey at Borba you will get a $10 credit towards anything, no minimum required!  Happy shopping! :)  http://www.borba.com/book_survey

 Hey Guys!!

 

Be sure to head over to http://www.thesak.com/ and snag the sak Iris Large Hobo for the Special Web Price of $79!

 

Also, shop Elliott Lucca's new Feria Collection today at http://www.elliottlucca.com/! The Feria Satchel retails for the Special Web Price of $169 and the Feria Tote retails for the Special Web Price of $199!

 

 you can follow Sak on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-SAK/21134692576?cid=EM03032010G and Twitter http://www.twitter.com/sakster   and

Elliott Lucca on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Elliott-Lucca/105477590464 and Twitter http://twitter.com/ElliottLucca -please tell them the cupcake coalition sent you!!

New Nars Products For an Even More Beautiful You!

I LOVE getting new beauty tips and tricks.  Playing around with new makeup, brands, lotions, and potions can keep me content for hours on end.  What do I love even more?  Sharing what I learn with other people!

For those of you that have been reading faithfully you know how much I <3 Nars Orgasm Blush.  In fact, it's really the only blush I use.. There are certain things a girl always needs in her purse.  For me it's Kleenex (multifunctional),  hand sanitizing foam (we can't always run to wash our hands and you don't want to walk around germy!), lip gloss, lotion, gum (especially for coffee breath!), and a really great compact. Nars has created just that!  As of this month, Nars will will be launching two new palettes called Beautiful Life and Only You. 

Beautiful Life is Lip and Cheek, and features Sexual Healing (Sheer, Shimmering Pink Blossom), Honolulu Honey (Satin, Flesh tone Beige), Roman Holiday (Sheer, Delicate Pastel Pink), and Funny Face (Semi-Matte, Bright Fuchsia) lipsticks. It has Orgasm (Peachy Pink With Shimmer) and Copacabana (Glistening Pearl) for cheeks. You can play around with these colors going from light and fresh to sultry all in one easy peasy, nylon zip case.  You can pick this up at ShopStyle for $55 very well spent bucks!

The Only You palette is eye and cheek, featuring Alhambra (Not Too Frosty Neutral Shimmery), Mekong (Rich Espresso With Gold Flecks), Eurydice (Rich, Delicious Purple), and Pandora (Satin, Carbon Black With A Slight Shimmer) eyeshadow as well as the Blush Duo Featuring Hungry Heart (Iridescent Ivory With Golden Sheen) and (my favorite) Orgasm. This can also be purchased at ShopStyle for $65 dollars.

These are limited so get them while you can!!

Until next time.
xo.
-mae

I'm an idiot

The horrific events of this particular gloomy and rainy May afternoon can no longer go undocumented. This surreal experience has left me often questioning myself if whether or not I was dreaming or even possibly drugged. But no, I have proof that I was definitely not dreaming and there was no mind altering substance running through my veins. I don't even know where to begin and I don't think I can even put into words what the hell went on and what I actually saw.
I'm going to be kind enough to leave names out of this but there's really no reason why I shouldn't expose those who were involved. 

Anyway, several months ago I met a man that writes, produces, and directs independent horror films. I was looking for something new different to add and try to my life so I decided to get involved in acting in films as well as helping the guy out as a promotional model for horror conventions and different events. He also happened to be a photographer. Oh, wait...he called himself a photographer and I was dumb enough take his word for it because he seemed like a decent and honest individual. 

He started making comments on the photos and photographers in my portfolio. He never said a single positive thing. He pretty much tried to talk me into believing my portfolio was crummy, horrible and never going to get me anywhere. He also had the nerve to bring up each photographer and tell me what was wrong with their photography and the photos they had taken of me. And he even had the guts to tell me how much better he would have done with the photos. Excuse me? I have happened to had the opportunity to do a photo shoot with one of the most well known and talented pin-up photographers, Roy Varga. In my opinion he is one of the best modern day pin-up photographers out there. Who the HELL in their right mind would dare talk shit about his work? This guy did!

I basically ignored all of this insults and finally he had the guts to ask me do a photo shoot with him. I don't know what I was thinking but I agreed. I guess I wanted to find out for myself how great of a photographer he was even though the photos he had shown me from his portfolio were shit. 

I was to meet him and two other "models" at the Motel 6 on Beechmont Avenue in Eastgate on a Monday. He said it was a convenient central location that all of the models could easily get to. Since I knew him well enough by then, I didn't think anything of it and I wasn't aware of how shitty Motel 6's really are (why the hell I was ok with the location in the first place?). Real photographers that shoot in hotels usually choose very nice, high class ones. At least I was smart enough to bring along an escort. 

Finally, Monday arrived and we were on our way to the Motel 6. As soon as we pulled into the parking lot my anxiety level shot up and I became very uncomfortable. This was the most run-down, ghetto, white trash, (whatever you want to call it) hotel/motel I had ever seen. We drove past several rooms and all we could see was pure white trash, inbreds, wiggers, prostitutes, sexual predators/rapists, drug dealers, and there's no telling what other kind of scum was lurking around. I felt like we were driving into a scene of a movie. The clouds, rain, and foggy rain made everything surreal. 

We made it to the room, parked outside and knocked on the door. When I entered I expected to see the typical backdrop and various forms of lighting. Nope. There were two disgustingly skinny, frizzy-haired girls in skimpy bikinis posing in front of cheap pink fabric thumb-tacked to the wall. Yes, TUMB-TACKED to the wall. Oh, you'll never guess where the bikinis were purchased. Wal-Mart! To top it all off the guy didn't even have a real camera and by real I mean a high quality, expensive, professional camera. It was a simple, cheap, old, digital camera that was probably purchased in 1998. I just stood there in disbelief. I continued to stand there while he was finishing up their shoot and it took forever because every few minutes the girls had to pause and take a puff from their menthol cigarettes. I should have turned around and left but I was in such shock and disbelief from what I was seeing. I kept trying to hurry up and think of excuses just to get out of there. Then I started to complain that I was getting an awful migraine and starting to feel very sick and before I knew it we were finally out of there.

I really wish I could have filmed this whole experience, but I don't even know if that would have captured how surreal it was. In the end I'm still questioning myself as to why I even went to the shoot in the first place. I did end up learning a lot from the situation and definitely won't make the same mistake ever again!

My Lip Stuff Review AND Giveaway!

Hello  lovelies! It has been SUCH a crazy day!  However, I had My Lip Stuff on hand at all times for a little pick me up. Sound weird?  Keep reading!

Okay, so I recently had the privilege of trying out a few of My Lip Stuff's lip products.  The Creator of  MLS, Brea, began the mission to end the suffering of people with chapped lips all across the land in 1999. In the process, she strives to end animal testing and save the environment with chemical-free natural products!  How awesome is that?

There are 500, let me repeat that, 500 different smells, flavors, etc. to choose from.. Makeup is my version of candy.  I will be completely broke, but, my face will always look f-a-b-u-l-o-u-s.  Putting five lip choices in front of me gives me a makeup rush.. putting 500 delightfully flavored, heavenly scented, lip products in front of me.. I'm in makeup "sugar" shock!

I really love fun, funky, unconventional, things.  When I surfed My Lip Stuff it was love at first "site" (pun totally intended).  Flavors like Apricots and Cream, Cake and Ice cream, and Pancakes and Syrup are just a few of the names scraping this innovative iceberg.  You're probably thinking, "those flavors are pretty cool, but, they seem sort of tame.."  To that my response is, "Clearly you have forgotten that there are 500 of these amazing tubes!"

The weirdest of all would have to be Bacon (which I really want to use with the Pancakes and Syrup as an experiment.  Here that My Lip Stuff?!  I just created a new lip series for you called BREAKFAST!  I will gladly be a guinea pig for the collection!  There's also Jalapeno.  Here's an interesting fact from the site, Jalapeno also works as a natural LIP PLUMPER.  My guess is from the capsaicin in the peppers.  I could  go on and on about the flavors however, you really need to check it out for yourself.  They are even kind enough to provide you with a wish list.. I have one of each on mine!

I have a weird allergic reaction to mass produced lipsticks, lip glosses, chap stick, etc. I've always sort of believed it was due to all of the synthetic ingredients and poor quality.  When I don't have issues with a lip product I KNOW it is of the highest quality.  My Lip Stuff is definitely a high quality product. It's soothing, has a buttery texture, smells great, there's lots to choose from, they offer personalized labels (perfect for parties!), they even allow flavor requests!!!  This is a wonderful gift for anyone!  Tubes run for three dollars and can be purchased through the My Lips Stuff website or Amazon.  Trust me, this is an item you will never leave home without!

MLS also offers many other skin care products, as well as linen sprays, and potpourri.  If the lip products are an indication of product quality, I'm going to go with my gut and say you'll probably love the other stuff too!

Want to win this?  Well, Brea has graciously offered one Cupcake Coalition reader the opportunity to win a six pack of random flavors!  This product is so awesome I wish I could enter the contest!


As with all of the contests on here there are rules.  These rules were not made to be broken.  If you break the rules, you will not pass go, you will not collect two hundred dollars (aka you get disqualified!)  Remember to do a new post for each entry! The contest starts on 08/03/2010 and ends 08/11/2010 @11:59pm CST. ONE winner will be chosen via random.org. As always, big hugs and high fives to our sponsors! Remember, we check ALL entries!  Best of luck to all of you!!

^^^MANDATORY^^^

1. Add us  as a friend on Google friend Connect and post that you did so. (hit the follow button on the right hand side of the blog).  You must be a VISIBLE follower.  Include your email in your post.  If we can't contact you, you can't win! If you're already on our GFC leave us a post to let us know! (1 entry)
2. Visit My Lip Stuffs website by clicking HERE and name one of the flavors you would just love to have! (2 entries)

+++EXTRA CREDIT+++

3.  Show The Cupcake Coalition some love and follow us on twitter by clicking HERE or adding mae_day84 leave your twitter name. (2 entries)

    

GOOD LUCK!!!!  

We received these products at no cost to post a review. The opinions stated in this review are our own and we were not compensated in any way for a positive review..

    

Oh My Gosh -- Our Basement FLOODED!! :-(

Everything is RUINED.  : sigh : Please say a prayer, send good thoughts, etc. We had a flash flood and our basement totally flooded.

One Contest Ending Today!! Get Your Entries In!! Beauty Giveaways and Reviews!! WINNER, WINNERS, WINNERS!!

Happy Tuesday everyone!!  The Cafepress Your Choice of T-shirt giveaway ends TONIGHT @11:59pm cst.  You can go to that contest directly by clicking HERE and always by clicking on the "Giveaway" tab above.

So many of you were so helpful with  building up The Cupcake Coalition.  A number of you will be personally contacted today about a gift, as a thank you for your awesomeness!  Please keep spreading the word about The Cupcake Coalition we will be doing a monthly giveaway for the TOP FOUR people that bring in the most Cupcake Coalition GFC members. These prizes will consist of TWO MEGA prize packages for the  individuals who bring in the most members.  And TWO VERY SWEET prize packages for the runners up!!

I have three winners to announce from the Art Conductor giveaway as well as the Novica Gift Code winner!  All of the winners will be contacted via email.  If you do not reply within 48 hours I will have to randomize a different person.  (sad faces all around)

Art Conductor Winners
#69  Hoa
#78 Breanne
#23 sweetsue

Novica Gift Card
#134 FDP 4 Life

Congrats everyone!!  Keep playing, we have more amazing prizes up and on their way!!



Stay tuned...

-Team Coalition

5-hour Energy Drink? More like 5-second Energy drink!

This weekend, while riding back to Cincinnati from Nashville running on very little sleep, I could barely keep my eyes open. Most exhausted passengers just go ahead and take a nap while riding long distance but I can't stand sleeping in a moving vehicle. I have to sleep in my own bed if I want some rest and I hadn't had that option in a few days. I had my morning coffee, 20 oz of it, but I was still miserable. Eventually we made it to a truck stop and I was so desperate to stay awake and have energy I went ahead and bought a little bottle of the 5-hour Energy drink that will apparently give you hours of energy, no crash later on, no sugar, zero calories and claimes to work in minutes and last for hours. I looked over the bottle and followed the exact instructions:

RECOMMENDED USE: Drink one half (1/2) bottle (one ounce) for moderate energy. Drink one whole bottle (two ounces) for maximum energy. Do not exceed two bottles of 5-Hour Energy shots daily, consumed several hours apart. Use or discard any remainder within 72 hours (three days) after opening. Refrigeration not required.

I chugged the whole bottle of grape flavor which didn't taste that bad.

Then I waited and finally after about 3 minutes I felt a small amount of energy and about 5 seconds later I was back to being even more tired and exhausted than before. I was mad. My attempt to stay awake had failed. I wasted $4 on a lousy 2 oz bottle of what tasted like a melted. sugar free, grape popcicle. 

No matter how desperate you are to stay awake don't waste your money on this "5-second" Energy drink, just eat some No Doz (but just make sure you don't have a heart attack).

-E.