Celebrating Autumn with New Items in the Etsy Shop!

Hello Hello Hello EVERYONE! 

I know it's been a long time since I last blogged and I do apologize. Summer kept us busy! I hope summer treated you all well, and that you're as excited about Autumn as I am. 

Autumn is my favorite season, with summer coming in a close second.  I love the crisp air, the changing leaves, hoodies and comfy jeans, apple cider, and all the wonderful things that come along with the season. 

Being that  summer isn't really a big season for my Etsy shop.  I decided not to keep it stocked. However, I now have some new things listed, and more on the way. 

Here we have a cute winter headband/earwarmer in Day Glow! Who doesn't love all these fabulous neon shades! I imagine this on the ski slopes! They will definitely see you coming!
Click on photo to see more pics and the Etsy listing! 

I'd also like to share a sneak peek of some hats that I will be listing very soon! I love how fun this is in the variegated yarn! Solids are awesome as well, and I will be listing some of those too! Clicking this photo will take you to my Powers Of Love Facebook Page where you can find more info, coupon codes, new items, etc. 

What's your favorite season and why?
Let me know with a comment below! 

LM Mesmer Photography {#Giveaway ends 5/20}

How would you like to win a beautiful 8x10 print of one of my original photo's, or a $10 gift card to Starbucks?

Well... you can.... 

My friend over at 2justByoublog is hosting a giveaway and you can enter to win! Two winners will be drawn , and you have until 5/20/2015 to enter. 

 

Click the pics above to be taken to her blog where you can read about the giveaway and enter to win!

Good luck my friends! 

Mezzy's T Shop Storefront NOW OPEN

Tee Spring storefront now open! 

I'm trying to raise money for two small trips. One this summer up the North Shore of Nothern Minnesota to photography places I haven't been in many years. From Split Rock Lighthouse to Lake Superior Shores and everything in between. I plan to share my art on my facebook page and this blog as well as hold a few giveaway for some of my favorite prints. 

I'm also trying to save money to take a trip with my closest cousin J. She and I share a great love of photography, and want to take a trip to the UP. Neither of us have been, and we thought it would be a great opportunity to take some beautiful photos. Again, we hope to share those pics on our facebook sites and hold a couple giveaways for prints. 

We chose the North Shore and the UP because they are both beautiful places that aren't too far from home. Both have things we love...water, nature, and serenity which we could both use a bit of. 

My storefront is a way for me to design tees that are fun, while helping to put away funds to take these trips. 

Please check out my storefront here....  Mezzy's T Shop 

Each campaign runs for a certain amount of time, but no worries, there will be new ones popping up. 

Grab yourself a great tee and help a couple Midwestern Gals click their way through nature. Thanks so much, and please feel free to share this blog post, and like the designs on teespring. ♥

NEW Facebook Page & A Giveaway

Hello, hello, hello.... I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend. 

I wanted to share with you two awesome little tidbits of information. 

First... I have started a facebook page for my photography. I would LOVE it, and be ever so grateful if you hopped on over and gave it a "like". Remember... on Facebook , "likes" from personal pages are what counts, but if you leave me a comment with your fan page I will make sure to "like" back. 

You can find my new page here .... L.M. Mesmer Photography 

Here is just a sample of my work..... 

Clicking on the pic will take you to my RedBubble shop where you can see my photography as well as digital art work.


Second..... Penny Pinching Polly is back, and she's holding a Grand Reopening Giveaway
There are over 30 great prizes you can enter to win, and L.M. Mesmer Photography has sponsored one. The giveaway closes at 11:59 EST on 4/15/15. All prizes have free shipping to the U.S.! Head on over, check out Penny's awesome page, give it a like and get in on this fabulous giveaway! 

Make sure you enter to win our prize! I know you will love it! 

Happy Easter

A Peek Into One Of My Passions

Today I want to share with you a peek into one of my passions.

Photography. 

I've always loved taking photo's. I remember as a child,  loading the film and sticking the flash stick in the camera. I remember in sixth grade I got my own Minty gGreen LeClic Disc Camera. Le Clic was "the thing" back then. Yes, I am a product of the 80's and wish I still had that trippy green camera! You can read more about by clicking the pic or the link below the pic. 

Photo from:  Retro Thing:Vintage Gadgets & Technology

When I graduated and moved to Cali to be a nanny I had a low end 35 mm that I used the heck out of, and took with me almost everywhere. Soon I was babysitting for my bosses friends who knew how much I loved photography, and it was for my Birthday they bought me a Kodak 35mm camera that was a HUGE step up from what I already owned. I'm not sure how many rolls of film I developed at the local Rite Aide but I'm pretty sure I was one of their regulars. Looking back at all those pics makes me smile, and brings back some wonderful memories. Some not so wonderful, but they all make me who I am today, and I'm glad I took them nonetheless.

Of course over the years my camera's and my photography has evolved. By no means do I call myself a professional, but I have had some professionals tell me I have a good eye, and a natural talent, which is always nice to hear. I long to learn more, and get better.

Awhile back with the encouragement of a friend I decided to open a shop on RedBubble  where you can get a variety of my original digital art, and digital photography. While I love taking photo's of people, it's sunsets, clouds and nature that really piques my interest. Below is just a sample of my work. If you would like to see more. Please feel free to check out my shop on RedBubble 

Most pictures and digital art pieces can be purchased in everything from posters and prints to stickers and tote bags.

Which piece do you like best? 

Let me know in the comments below! 

Carlos Playground Project

Who remembers playing on the playground when you were in elementary school? I know I do. 

The swings were my favorite, but of course I enjoyed all of the equipment. When school was out for the summer the neighborhood kids still used the equipment to play and have fun. That's also how things work at Carlos Elementary School in Carlos, MN.

 It's a small, close knit town, with great people, and a wonderful school. However... the playground equipment is in much need of replacement. Some of the equipment is almost as old as I am, and I'm no spring chicken.

Fortunately they have been able to raise some of the funds, and have a community build day set up to install the new equipment. Unfortunately, they only have approximately 11 weeks left to raise the remainder of the funds needed to move forward.

Below you will find some information about the project and a link to the GiveForward page. Please, remember, no amount is too small. Every single dollar counts! If you can't give monetarily PLEASE share this blog post, their GiveForward site. Tweet, Pin, Like, share on Facbook, Stumble, G+, everything and anything to get their cause seen will help. 

Carlos Playground | Carlos Playground Project

The much-loved Carlos Elementary playground is in need of renovation and repair.

"Our goal is to create a space that increases physical challenge, social activity, and accessibility, and addresses safety issues. We are looking for philanthropic partners to help us complete this project. Please give careful consideration to include the Carlos Playground project in your giving.

The Carlos school has been serving families in our area since 1978. With capital investments being made by our school district and our community, we know Carlos will continue to serve students for many years to come. The playground is a community amenity that is accessed year-round, seven days a week. It is an important community space that is utilized by many.

Access to a quality local elementary school adds value to our community by attracting families to live in the area. The education our students receive is among the best in the state. Our teachers provide highly individualized attention to our students, and our students work hard. Carlos’ standardized test scores are among the highest in our district and are consistently over the state averages.

Please help us complete this project by contributing. Due to some of the safety concerns, we are looking to complete the June of this year. Your donation dollars would be put to work right way."

For more information, updates, to donate and to share please CLICK HERE

Also feel free to share this blog post! 

Youth Express Eye Serum Review

Recently I've been blessed by BrandBacker and InstaNatural  to test a variety of InstaNatural products. 

Being that I'm entering my early 40's

 (shhh don't tell anyone, they all think I'm 29) 

I'm very interested in products that can help keep my eyes wrinkle free and looking good. I loved how smooth, and radiant this serum made my eyes look. Even though there is a slight citrus smell and orange tint neither lasts very long, nor is bothersome. 

InstaNatural Youth Express Eye Serum is made in the USA, not tested on animals, and come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee! It retails for $21.95 on the InstaNatural website! 

As with the other products I've tested a little bit goes a long way so the bottle should last you awhile. 

I did notice brightening under my eyes, and less puffiness. My use of it varied from twice a day, to one a day, sometimes morning, other times night. It worked well with all other products, and I did not have any adverse reactions which I sometimes do with my very sensitive skin. 

Below is a wealth of information on this wonderful product! 

             InstaNatural’s Youth Express Eye Serum

(click above to be taken to products page) 

• Powerhouse Formula – With a combination of Vitamin C, Plant Stem Cells, Astanxanthin, Kojic Acid, Caffeine, Hyaluronic Acid and more, our Eye Serum is uniquely formulated with innovative key ingredients to help you achieve results.
• Lightweight Yet Effective – Our serum is lightweight so it absorbs easily into the skin to quickly deliver antioxidant benefits, and it can be used under makeup as well. Each bottle is made in our FDA registered facility and contains no harmful parabens, sulfates or alcohol.
• Diminishes Dark Circles & Puffiness – Some people grab a cup of coffee in the mornings to keep them alert and active. Now you can apply a dosage of caffeine around your eyes to help wake them up too! Caffeine provides a stimulating constricting effect that helps to reduce puffy, tired-looking eyes. Meanwhile, Niacinamide and Kojic Acid work to prevent pigmentation from forming to lighten and fade away those stubborn dark circles.
• Reduces Wrinkles & Fine Lines – Other ingredients in our blend – such as Vitamin C, Plant Stem Cells, and Astaxanthin – serve to strengthen skin and reverse existing damage, while Hyaluronic Acid locks in moisture to help plump up skin and diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Our Eye Serum contains a supercharged blend of antioxidants and other nourishing ingredients that help restore health & youth to the eye area:

• Vitamin C / Plant Stem Cells / Astaxanthin: Prevents premature aging of the fragile skin surrounding the eyes
• Caffeine: Absorbs excess water and provides constricting effect
• Niacinamide / Kojic Acid: Inhibits hyperpigmentation from forming
• Hyaluronic Acid: Deeply moisturizes the skin to reduce skin problems that occur due to age

Our serum absorbs in seconds to quickly deliver these nutrients that help give you dramatic results:

• Reduces appearance of dark circles, puffiness & saggy eyes
• Diminishes the appearance of wrinkles & fine lines
• Increases elasticity, firms and plumps the skin around eyes
• Provides improved tone and texture of skin
• Hydrates the delicate eye area to prevent premature aging
• Helps you achieve a more radiant, brighter complexion

With InstaNatural, rest assured you will receive the best customer care and highest-quality Eye Serum around.

• Made in USA in FDA registered facilities
• Contains NO harmful parabens, sulfates or alcohol
• Cruelty-free

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 

Even though I was provided with samples all opinions are my own. 

"Powered by BrandBacker"

Product Review: INSTANATURAL VITAMIN C MOITUTURIZER

Thanks to BRANDBACKER and INSTANATURAL I've been given the opportunity to test and review Youth Express Vitamin C Moisturizer. 

I love the idea of natural skin products, at an affordable price.

 INSTANATURAL products were developed by focusing on using premium organic and natural ingredients. They are paraben, sulfate and alcohol free, and are made in the USA!  InstaNatural offers a range of beauty products focused on using natural and organic ingredients. 

I've been using this moisturizer now for a couple of weeks in conjunction with a few other INSTANATURAL products that I will be reviewing very soon. Due to the fact that I have very sensitive skin I was anxious, yet excited to try it. One of the first things I noticed was how soft and moisturized it left my face looking rite after I put it on. It wasn't oily, or greasy, and didn't have a heavy smell to it. This time of year with the cold Minnesota air, and the dry indoor heat my skin is very dry and tends to get flaky. I've notices  that I haven't had that problem at all the past couple weeks. I've also notices since using this and other products in this line that my skin appears brighter and the frown line on my forehead seems less noticeable 

Some key info on this wonderful product .... 

• Strong 20% Vitamin C Protection - Our moisturizer contains a robust 20% concentration of Vitamin C to help deliver the best results to your skin. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant agent that protects your skin from the damaging effects of sun exposure, all while restoring healthier skin. Daily application will help to diminish the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and more.
• Brightens Complexion - If you're concerned about age spots, sun spots, or splotchy skin, then our Vitamin C Moisturizer might be the perfect fit for you. Our formula includes Niacinamide, Plant Stem Cells, Peptide Complex and MSM, which all work together to deliver deep nourishment to strengthen skin over time and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, thereby creating a more even skin tone.
• Can Be Used On Body and For Eye Area - This lotion is not just for the face. Feel free to apply this soothing cream to any place that needs extra nourishment, including hands, shoulders and décolleté. Can also be applied gently around the eye area to tackle dark spots and help you achieve brighter eyes.
• Suitable for All Skin Types - Both men and women will benefit from using this day and night moisturizing lotion jam packed with anti-aging ingredients. Our moisturizer has been formulated to be suitable for all skin types as well. Those with oily, dry, combination or normal skin can enjoy this lightweight cream.
• Manufacturer Guarantee - InstaNatural is proud to back their products with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee Policy, no matter where you buy our products. If you are not completely happy with your purchase, simply contact us and get a full refund.
  
  
  While I did receive a complimentary bottle to try and review the thoughts and opinions in this post are my own. 
  
  
  Overall, I am happy with the product, and like the fact that it offers a money back guarantee for anyone who is not. Retail price is $19.95 which is a GREAT deal since you need so little.I use a pea size amount which usually covers my entire face.And a bit more if I am wanting to do my neck and de'collete' area.
  
  For more products and information stop by
  http://instanatural.com
  
  You can also find them on
  
  Facebook 
  https://www.facebook.com/instanaturalcompany
  &
  Twitter
   https://twitter.com/InstaNatural

NEW ~ 75% OFF COUPON CODE

NEW..... 75% OFF COUPON CODE 

Use code 75PERCENT at checkout in the

Powers Of Love Etsy Shop 

for 75% OFF all remaining stock. 

Clicking pic will take you to the Powers Of Love shop.

Lily's Road To Recovery ~ Please Help

Let's call today Friendly Friday shall we! 

(any of the purple words in this post will take you directly  to Lily's GoFundMe page)  

Today I'm writing to you about my friend Nicole and her daughter Lily. 

Last June Lily was severely injured in a horse riding accident.  Some of the injuries included a ruptured spleen, tear in her liver, broken rip, concussion and much more! Now, seven months later Lily has found out that a break in her femur completely severed her Peroneal nerve. She's been unable to walk, uses a wheelchair for long distances, and rely's on crutches for short. She also hops and crawls as a way to get where she needs to go. 

Prior to her accident Lily was a very happy, active and energetic young lady. She played sports, was in competitive dance and was also a cheer leader. 

Lily ~ Competitive Dance

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

Lily ~ Cheer Leading♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

As you can imagine this has taken it's toll on Lily. The young girl who was so bubbly, full of self esteem and out going is now depressed. She is in constant pain, can't think past her injuries and feels her dreams of going on to College to become a Doctor are now unattainable. Her Mom is one of her biggest cheer leaders, and has fought to get her seen at the Mayo Clinic. The great news there is that Mayo has decided to take on Lily's case  and do a very complicated nerve graft surgery in hopes that Lily will be able to walk again. 

This much needed surgery brings hope to Lily and her family, but will also bring many uncovered expenses. Gas, lodging, lost wages, food while traveling, etc. 

Lets all band together and do what we can to support Nicole in her fight to get Lily the care she needs, and Lily in her fight to walk again and regain hope that her dreams can and will come true! 

No amount is too small. It all adds up, and every penny helps. If you can't help monetarily, please share Lily's story either via her GOFUNDME page, or this blog post. I know this family will appreciate every and anything you can do for them. 

****If you are one of my readers, you donate at least $5 to Lily's cause please come back and leave me a comment to let me know. 

In two weeks I will add the names to a giveaway for a pair of my fingerless gloves in your choice of black, white, or grey.

 (see pic below )****

Fingerless Gloves by Powers Of  Love 

♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

Thank you all so much! 

Don't forget to share! 

  

SIXTYFIVE PERCENT OFF for TWO DAYS

♥ ♥ ♥ 

I'm REALLY wanting to clear out the Etsy shop so.......

♥ Today ... 1/3/2014 & Tomorrow 1/4/2015 ♥

Use code SIXTY5 at checkout for 65% OFF your purchase! 

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

www.powersoflove.etsy.com