Diva Taunia's Backstage Pass Official Blog

GIVEAWAYS, GUESTS & MORE: BACKSTAGE PASS RADIO IS BACK!

CHECK BELOW FOR AN UPDATE LIST OF GIVEAWAY PRIZES FOR MONDAY!  CALL-IN TO WIN DURING THE SHOW AT 347-857-2052.  THANKS FOR TUNING IN!  :)

June in "Diva Glam Slam!" Month:  
Celebrating the best in online summer glam shopping.  

Monday, June 6th Promotional Giveaways by these generous sponsors: 

SPONSOR:  
www.lipoinabox.com

   

PRIZE:  $50 GIFT CERTIFICATE!

  You may remember me RAVING about Connie Elder's line of shapewear and skincare, and now you can try it yourself!  The winner can use their gift certificate towards the Lipo-In-A-Box Shapewear OR the Underology Skin Care Line (I'm completely addicted now).  

You may have seen her shapewear on The Oprah Winfrey Show, QVC or The TODAY Show. But what makes LIPO in a BOX special when compared to the other shapewear products out there? The secret is our attention to quality and to YOUR comfort. 

LIPO in a BOX has a unique patented design. Each style is constructed with our special recipe of comfort and control, giving you confidence in how you look. The garments are lightweight, seamless and fit like a second skin. They are made of 25% spandex and 75% nylon (Original and Simply Shaping styles).

DISCOUNT!  USE "DIVAT"  @ http://www.lipoinabox.com/ for a 15% discount!

SPONSOR:  
www.pambras.com

PRIZES:  (5) INDIVIDUAL PACKAGE GIVEAWAYS FOR 5 WINNERS!

Pambra’s has invented 4 of the most original, uniquely designed liners you’ll ever come across! 

Do you perspire under and/or between the breast?
·         Does your under wire bra or elastic cause irritation?
If you  answered  yes to either of these questions, check out the Original Style Liner.

·         Are you a breast cancer survivor? Have you had a (single or double) mastectomy and desire more comfort in your bra with your prosthesis?  Pambras offers both The Original Unilateral Bra and The Original Bilateral Liner for your specific needs.

·         Does your stomach have skin on skin contact?
If you have a lower abdominal fold where there is skin on skin contact
then check out the Tummy Liner.  Perhaps you've had weight loss surgery and have not yet had plastics?  Pambra’s is the ONLY Manufacturer of the (Patent Pending) the Original Tummy Liner!

The Doctor’s #1 Recommended Bra Liner

DISCOUNT!  USE "DIVAT"  @ www.moreofmetolove.com for a 10% discount and   FREE shipping for any 2 or more Pambra's products purchased!

SPONSOR:  
www.heartlandsos.com

PRIZE:  $25 GIFT CERTIFICATE!

Heartland Soaps, Oils, and Scrubs, aka Heartland SOS is a kitchen based business that takes pride in producing quality merchandise. Each product is hand made and shipped to you with one result in mind, your happiness with my product. I will treat you like I want to be treated in hopes that you will keep coming back for more!

SPONSOR:  THE DIVA TAUNIA DOLLS!
www.divatauniadolls.com 

 

Brand New Molded Cup  Bustier & Thong Set - Size XL in HOT PINK
Originally Provided by:  Delores at From the Heart Lingerie!

www.fromtheheartlingerie.com 

SPONSOR:  DEAREST PINKY
www.dearestpinky.com

PRIZE:  CD & Dearest Pinky T-Shirt Gift Pack!

Boston Alternative/progressive/Rock/Pop band "Dearest Pinky" is kicking ass and taking  names, allt he while looking super-hot in shocking pink!   Check out their website and music for more info!

Song to be played on-air Monday night!

MORE PROMOTIONS TO FOLLOW!

THE SHAPE OF MY NEW OBSESSION

In June, the Backstage Pass Radio Program will be back on air.  (Hi!  I miss talking to myself in my basement!)  I'm doing a month-long expose on weddings, and I've got a roomful of things to review, but I couldn't wait to review this because YOU. NEED. THIS.
 

Connie Elder, a QVC powerhouse, created a line of shapers called Lipo-In-A-Box.  I just happened upon her Facebook ad one day, and admittedly laughed at the name a little bit.  BUT, the name also made me want to try the products out, pronto-like.  And unknown to me, Connie was interview by my pals over at BariatricTV.com as well:

The first thing to know about Connie:  she personally took the time to speak with me, figure out what my shaping needs were, my sizes, and really wanted to make sure that I tried out the products that were best for my body type (read:  lumpy), size (read:  boobies), and preference (read: sausage). I appreciated that she took the time to work with me, and I have to tell you - the gal is a pro.  She saw my pictures, spoke with me, and then selected the best possible items for me to review.  I literally have a BOX full of LIPO, and although I've only had the chance to try two things out so far, I coudn't wait to tell you about them:

 

Bodysuit With Underwire Support, #46001

I am VERY difficult to please with bodysuits.  They never seem to fit me exactly the way they should:  either the bottom is too high cut and my poochy belly hangs out of the bottom, or the top doesn't support my boobies, and I have to wear a bra underneath it (let's play how many layers of shapers can you wear at once!).  Even though I like the convenience of a one-piece bodyshaper, I hardly ever buy or wear them because they just NEVER fit correctly.  

Until now.

I have to be honest:  when I opened this up, I didn't have much hope.  The fabric seemed very light, and I didnt think it would give me the firm shaping support that my midsection needs.  Uh, WRONG.  I put this on, and it FIT LIKE A GLOVE.  A big, comfy, belly wrapping glove.  

This is the underwire bodyshaper, and it supported me enough that I did NOT need to put on an extra bra layer - score!  Adjustable straps made it even more perfect to fit my long-torso frame. The bottom?  A full cut panty that provided complete coverage.  I couldn't believe how great the shaper supported everything - especially considering how lightweight and comfortable the fabric was.  

This is my new go-to shaper.  Unbelievable.  100% love.

Next up, a strapless bra:

"MARILYN" "The Ultimate Strapless" Go2 Bra by Lipo in a Box

Now I'll be the first to admit that this isn't the prettiest bra out there on the market, but quite honestly, I don't care about pretty - I want it to work.  When I opened this package up, I had the opposite reaction from the body shaper - this material seemed really heavy to me, and I wasn't sure this was going to be comfortable...or work.  Still, I've got a strapless wedding gown that I have to get into early summer, and the one thing I'm going to definitely need is a good strapless bra.

I have to go through this little routine when I try out a strapless:  I turn it around and put it on upside-down and backwards, then twist it around so it's facing the right way, then pull it down OVER my boobies, and then tuck everything into place.  You're welcome for that visual. I went through the routine, and then I turned around and looked into the mirror and actually wanted to walk around topless.  Yeah, my bust looked THAT GOOD.  (Then after scrolling down to my bare belly, I decided against that.)  It's underwire, it's comfortable, it's perfect.  ♥ Strapless bra love! ♥

I've got a box full of other shapers to try, and I'll review all of them for you.  But, if these two products are any indication of what's to follow, I highly suggest you get yourself on over to Connie Elder's Lipo-In-A-Box website and get yourself some surgery-free LIPO!

OBESITY ONLINE FORUM CONFERENCE REVIEW (Or, how to not make any powerful friends)

This past weekend, I was an invited guest at the New York City for the Obesity Online event sponsored by Ethicon Endo-Surgery and the Obesity Action Coalition.  Much has already been written about this from some of the other WLS peeps who were in attendance.  I've personally held off on speaking publicly for a few days because I wanted to formulate my thoughts after sleeping on it, and reading the other comments and blog postings about it.

The problem is, I had an almost entirely opposite reaction to the conference than most of the attendees, and I'm still trying to sort out why.  All of the conference attendees very generously(?) had their travel expenses paid for and were put up in the swanky Mondrian Soho hotel.  Unfortunately, I slept through the first night of meeting and greeting, which I was told was lavish and had an open bar (open bar?!?  damn my post-plane sleeping!). There was a lot of mingling and setting the tone for the "let's all get along and work together."  I can't comment on that since I was snoozing away in my bed as everyone else shmoozed.  (Note:  I'm an insomniac and barely sleep - unless, of course, I *should* be awake at something important like, meeting your peers for the first time.  Doh!)

I'm not going to lie:  free trip?  Count me in.  If you're paying, I'm going.  BUT.  Does that mean that I'm obligated to write a entirely positive review?  I hope not, because that's not what I'm about to do...

When I arrived at the official forum on Friday, I was alone and full of anxiety.  Even though 90% of my life is made available for public consumption, one of the things I don't often speak about is my daily struggle with anxiety and panic.  It's overwhelming.  I can get up on a stage half-naked in a corset and sing my heart out, but to walk into a room and meet my peers is almost debilitating for me.  It's something I struggle with on a daily basis, and I literally have to FORCE myself out of the house at times.  It's frustrating because I logically and rationally know that I'm safe, but my body, brain, and heart still go straight to panic mode.  So for me, walking into that room was incredibly difficult.  But do you know what helped?  Lynnda, Toni, and Mike from bariatrictv.com walked right over to me, gave me a giant hug, and welcomed me sitting with them in their row.  Then Jill and Teresa did the same.  (My huge thanks to everyone for being so friendly and welcoming!) My nervous were calmed, especially once I had a mouth full of bacon.  (Yes, bacon.)  Flying in on the same plane as Melting Mama helped as well. Especially as she laughed at me while I was searched by TSA.

Once I calmed down, I was able to start taking in what was going on around me.  Clearly, everyone there was there for the same purpose:  to discuss obesity, treatments, education, and resources.  We all have a common purpose, a common desire to bring to light the challenges of morbid obesity.  But I was confused:  who was running this event?  The Obesity Action Coalition was front and center, with Endo-Ethicon and Porter-Novelli also there:

• Endo-Ethicon is a subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson, and creators of the Realize Solution
• The WLSFA was not invited to this event. I'm not sure that anyone on the organizational side actually knew of my affiliation.  (The invitation was sent to me through my radio program).
• One thing was clear:  a LOT of money was spent on this event.  More than I probably make in three year's time.  I understand the concept of spend money to make money, but it felt almost obscene to me.  Maybe it's an unfair assessment, but as someone who works pretty tirelessly as an unpaid advocate for weight loss surgery, obesity awareness, and positive self-image, I felt guilty.  I felt guilty that my soon-to-be-husband is working 10 hours a day plus going to school and that we struggle on a daily basis to put food on the table and keep our bills paid. And yet?  He supports me, my volunteer work,  and my passions 100%.  

But how could I enjoy this lavish treatment?  I knew I was being courted, we all were.  But here's the thing:  my voice - our voice - is valuable.  I realized this immediately when I looked around at the swanky hotel room, the lovely and delicious meals, and heard about the free open bar.  It just seemed: obscene.  I couldn't help but think, "if you're going to spend this much money on me to get me to support your cause (our cause), why not skip the royal treatment and buy some ad space on my blog?  Or my radio program?  Or my website? Why not help me help you?  If we're working towards the same goal, and you clearly know the value of my websites, radio program, and social network, why not skip the fancy trip and work with me in a way that helps us all move forward?  And most importantly, why is the WLSFA not invited?  Of course, *I* accepted the trip, so I'm probably partially to blame for my own discomfort with the situation.  (Truth be told, I almost didn't go, but that was because I was scared to go, and I'm trying with all my might to not let fear rule my life.)

But beyond that, I found some of the content upsetting.  Let me be clear:  I am going off of my memory here.  I have asked to see or hear a transcript of the day to confirm my memory (which admittedly can be faulty at times), but no one has been able to provide that for me.  I will mention that Joe Nadglowski (President/CEO of the Obesity Action Coalition) has been incredibly helpful and communicative in answering my questions.

The first thing that triggered a red flag for me is when patients were referred to as "consumers."  I took serious issue with that as I looked around at all the expenses around me.  Patients are not the same thing as consumers, and to refer to them as such is upsetting.  It made me feel as though the conference was a bit disingenuous.  It was clear there was a huge advertising campaign going on here, but the mission behind it was now starting to get a bit murky.  

The next thing that troubled me:  a response to the lovely Teresa Dunn when she asked about Food Addiction.  If my memory serves me correctly, I believe that Dr. Blackstone's answer was that there IS no such thing as food addition.    Part of me agrees with that, but only because I don't think addiction needs to be qualified.  I think addiction is addiction. It is compulsive, reactive behavior - something I've also struggled with my entire life.  Her response upset me, because I think it's a common thought process in the weight loss surgery medical community.  I had no idea how much I would struggle with this post-surgery, and how the compulsive behavior was transferred from food to pills to wine and then back to food.  I almost felt a bit ashamed when she spoke.  What is wrong with me?  Then I was enraged, because this is too often swept under the rug and NOT talked about.  And I know, I'm absolutely sure, that I am NOT the only person who struggles with this.  Dealing with addictive behavior HAS to be discussed more often, it HAS to be brought to the forefront in order for any post-op to be successful.  I'm not a medical professional, true, but I am someone who lives this daily. (Important to note:  Dr. Blackstone's statements were her own, and not necessarily the view of the OAC.)

I also knew that at some point, the Realize Solution was going to be discussed and it was...but in a very subtle way.  We were told about Tracy, a mom of four with a mission to lose weight.  They didn't mention that she was partnered with the Realize Solution (thank you for the correction, Andrea!), only that was should support her in her journey. I'm happy to support anyone in their mission for a healthy life, but not happy to be an unpaid part of Endo-Ethicon's/Realize promotional campaign.  

All of this being said, I did walk away with a lot of positive as well.  First, it was wonderful meeting many of my online friends and peers for the first time.  Despite my panic and anxiety, it was incredible putting online names and faces to real people.  The Obesity Online event provided an avenue for us to all meet where we may not have otherwise had the opportunity.  That alone is worth mentioning because it only serves to help us become stronger in our united goals.

A highlight for me during the conference was meeting Colleen Cook.  When I was first researching weight loss surgery, hers were some of the first books that I read and the information I found in them helped me make a more educated decision.  Her "Success Habits of WLS Patients" should be required reading for anyone going through the weight loss surgery journey.

I was also reminded of the many, many wonderful things that the Obesity Action Coalition is doing. They are constantly advocating for the obese, bringing to light many issues in the news and working on the behalf of the patients.  Their website provides a plethora of information, resources, educational tools and support.  I am a member, and do highly encourage others to be as well:
 

www.obesityaction.org

I met many wonderful people as well, and I will steal Beth's list of bloggers and WLS peeps:

• Diva Taunia http://www.divatauniablog.com/
• Melting  http://www.meltingmama.net
• Andrea Ullberg http://www.wlsvitagarten.com
• Kaitlin Nelson http://www.thebypassedlife.com
• Michelle Vicari http://www.theworldaccordingtoeggface.com
• Dave Fouts http://www.chefdave.org
• Teresa Dunn http://teresajourneyshome.wordpress.com/
• Jill Harris http://jellosjourney.blogspot.com/
• Michelle Schiener http://vsgmom.com/
• Toni Towe  http://www.bariatrictv.com
• Michael Towe  http://www.bariatrictv.com
• Lynnda Shepherd http://www.bariatrictv.com
• Susan Maria Leach http://bariatriceating.com/SMblog/
• Barbara Thompson  http://www.wlscenter.com/
• Rachel Lebowitz http://bariatricrevisionary.blogspot.com/
• Colleen Cook http://colleencook.com/
• Cari DeLaCruz  http://www.bariatricafterlife.com/
• Yvonne McCarthy  http://www.bariatricgirl.com/
• Emily Gomez  http://weightlosthopegained.wordpress.com/
• Laura Preston  http://mydailydetour.typepad.com/
• Maria Fitzpatrick  http://www.formerlyfluffy.com/

(Please let me know if I am missing anyone!)
 

I'm well aware of what a delicate balancing act it is to promote vs. advocate.   For me as a one-Diva operation, I struggle with that at times.  My issues stem from the feeling of being taken advantage of by a large and powerful company with lots of financial backing, and unfortunately, that was the bad taste that was left in my mouth. I don't want to take anything away from the powerful advocacy that can happen when a group like this comes together, but I also don't want to feel duped.  I will work tirelessly for a cause I believe in, but for the cause, not the company.  My voice is valuable, and so is that of my peers.  This, I know.

12/20: HOLIDAY SPARKLE! GLITZ, GLAM, GOODIES & GIFTS!

 

What do you get when you take two of my very favorite things (the holidays & giving away stuff) and put them together??  You get a MONTH-LONG HOLIDAY PROMOTION, that's what!

Tune in every Monday to find out about all the different glitz, glamour, goodies and gifts out there to make your holiday season as "Diva!" as possible!  Listener giveaways, secret Twitter and Facebook Giveaways, special guests, and special co-hosts!  Lots of fun stuff for the holidays. 

Listen live on Monday in December, 20th  at 7pm EST to win!

www.backstagepassradio.com

Don't forget to watch for special shopping discounts using the "DIVAT" coupon code, and keep an eye out for sponsors and prizes that will be continually listed here.  Happy Holidays!

SPONSORS AND PRIZES  FOR MONDAY, DECEMBER 20th:

www.corkycouture.com

Corky Kouture's luxurious, eye popping, show stopping presentation bags are designed to dazzle and delight even the most demanding Diva! Perfect for presenting a bottle of liquor, wine, champagne,  or other favorite “bubbly” (including bubble bath or sparkling grape juice for your favorite little princess). Enclose a gift card, money, love note or piece of jewelry in the adorning jewled pouch and you’ve just created a treasured keepsake.

PRIZE:  1 Corky Kouture in their color choice
DIVA DISCOUNT:  20% OFF USING "DIVAT"

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

www.badcatjewelry.com

Bad Cat Jewelry offers simple and modern pieces, using sterling and fine silver, semiprecious stones, crystals, vintage and contemporary beads.  All metal is nickel and lead free.  These are one of a kind, wearable pieces of art which will intrigue friends and inspire conversations.  Express yourself...are you a Good Cat or a Bad Cat?  Custom orders are always welcome.  10% of every purchase is donated to Specially for Children in Austin, Texas: a care center for children with cancer and their families.  Give the gift that gives back – Bad Cat Jewelry!

PRIZE:  $25 Gift Certificate to the Etsy Shop!
DIVA DISCOUNT:  10% OFF USING "DIVAT"

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

www.stauer.com

Stauer.com offers smart luxury at surpring prices!  One lucky winner will receive this gorgeous set:  The shallow water of Rome's Trevi Fountain shimmers with sunken treasure. Thousands of coins glisten in the afternoon sunlight. Each began as a wish in the heart of a hopeful visitor. Some wished for love. Others for happiness. Most wished for a little of both. Popular legend has it that one coin ensures a return to Rome. Two coins can spark a new romance. And if you're lucky, three coins just might lead to everlasting love.

The DiamondAura Trevi Necklace makes its own luck. And that luck is absolutely gorgeous. This magnificent three-stone pendant features a trio of brilliant-cut, lab-created DiamondAura rounds (¾ ctw) custom-crafted to trigger love at first sight. You'll find it hard not to swoon over the white fire of these DiamondAura stunners set in .925 sterling silver. The eye-catching pendant dangles from an 18" sterling chain that secures with a sterling lobster clasp. Visit www.stauer.com for more information!

PRIZE:  Diamond Aura Trevi Necklace  
PLUS 
Sterling Silver DiamondAura Classique 3 stone ring and 1ctw DiamondAura stud earrings!!!!

DIVA DISCOUNT:  $25 off this set  USING "DIVAT"

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

www.conairdryer.com

Are you ready to take back the power?  Say goodbye to your hair Pro and hello to ours…the new Infiniti Pro by Conair™ 1875-Watt Salon-Performance AC Motor Styling Tool puts salon-performance power in the palm of your hand!  The Infiniti Pro utilizes an AC (alternating current) motor, which is the high-performance motor typically designed for hair stylists and salon use.  However this professional performance tool is 15 percent lighter than most AC motor dryers, making it easy to harness salon power at home. 

PRIZE:  Infiniti Pro by Conair 1875-Watt Salon-Performance AC Motor Styling Tool

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FACEBOOK GIVEAWAY: 

www.accessoryremix.com

Enovia at Accessory Remix has very generously donated one of her beautiful pieces for a lucky holiday Facebook  "liker"!   One pair of Glitz Star Earrings in your choice of color.  How do  you win?  Visit the Accesssory Remix Page on Facebook, "like" them, and then leave a comment on the wall that says:  "Diva Taunia sent me!  I love Accessory Remix!"

Anyone who likes and leaves a comment on the wall gets entered into the on-air raffle!   

PRIZE:  One pair of Glitz Star Earrings in your choice of color!
DIVA DISCOUNT:  15% off using the code "DIVAT" 

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Quality is Ingredient! There is nothing else in that little bottle that can actually improve your skin tone. Not the packaging, not the latest fad, and certainly not the 14 year old models designed to sell 40- 50 year old women products.  (Note from Taunia:  I have to say, though, their packaging is BEAUTIFUL!)

Quality comes from dew fresh ingredients from organic farms. Quality comes from the head, hearts and hands of people, like me and you. Quality is developed over several decades of love, heart, and hard work. Quality is classic. Quality is purity. Quality is honest. Quality is a gift from Mother Nature.  That is why we call our products, “Dew Fresh” – Skin Care products. Just like nature creates morning dew, our products are crafted to make your skin fresh and healthy as the morning dew. No synthetic chemicals - Ever!  Visit www.lilyorganics.com for more information

PRIZE:  ONE HOME SPA GIFT PACKAGE FOR A LUCKY CALLER!
DIVA DISCOUNT:  TBA, but use "DIVAT"

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

IMetabolic is a medically-based, medically-supervised, weight loss system that integrates all the scientifically-validated elements of successful weight reduction to maximize long term health. After an initial free consultation, each client embarks upon an individualized program, tailored to your specific needs.

PRIZE:  ONE SAMPLER PACKAGE FROM IMETABOLIC
DIVA DISCOUNT:   "DIVAT"

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

www.bariatricadvantage.com

NEW PRIZE JUST IN: Bariatric Advantage 1 bag of calcium chews and 1 tub of our multi vitamin berry crystals! Nice!

(Check back soon - prizes being listed througout the weekend!)

 

DIVA TAUNIA'S GLITZ, GLAMOUR, GOODIES & GIFTS! December Radio

What do you get when you take two of my very favorite things (the holidays & giving away stuff) and put them together??  You get a MONTH-LONG HOLIDAY PROMOTION, that's what!

Tune in every Monday to find out about all the different glitz, glamour, goodies and gifts out there to make your holiday season as "Diva!" as possible!  Listener giveaways, secret Twitter and Facebook Giveaways, special guests, and special co-hosts!  Lots of fun stuff for the holidays. 

Listen live every Monday in December at 7pm EST to win!

www.backstagepassradio.com

Don't forget to watch for special shopping discounts using the "DIVAT" coupon code, and keep an eye out for sponsors and prizes that will be continually listed here.  Happy Holidays!

SPONSORS AND PRIZES  FOR MONDAY, DECEMBER 6TH:

www.handperfection.com

HAND PERFECTION:  Diva Taunia’s FAVORITE HAND CREAM EVER! 

Our Day and Night Kit  gives you full time hand protection. The Complete Day Cream shows immediate benefits of brightening skin tone and blurring imperfections – plus cumlulative, clinically proven benefits of diminishing age spots, lines and wrinkles in as little as two weeks. Night Solution is our overnight, restorative miracle serum that accelerates hand renewal while you sleep. Awaken with hands that are supple, soft and younger looking. REDBOOK calls Night Solution “The Ultimate Anti-ager.”

SPONSORED PRIZE:  One Day and Night Kit Valued at $99!
DIVA DISCOUNT:   Use "DIVAT" at checkout for a 20% discount on your order! 

     

--------------------------------------------------------------------

www.shatobu.com

ShaToBu - The Workout You Wear - is the revolutionary shaper that helps women shape, tone and burn more calories during everyday activities – even during your busy holiday shopping!

The benefits go beyond ordinary shapewear - ShaToBu instantly gives a sleeker silhouette, but women can also see and feel a difference in their bodies with regular use over time. By incorporating resistance bands right into the garment, muscles work a little harder and more calories are burned during daily activities.

ShaToBu helps women fit a workout into their normal day, while looking and feeling great.

SPONSORED PRIZE:  Your choice of (1) Shapewear from www.shatobu.com!

DIVA DISCOUNT:   Use "DIVAT" at checkout for a 20% discount on your order! 

   



--------------------------------------------------------------------

www.futureoxygen.com

Future Oxygen offers distinctive products with an eye toward improving the environment. The charming pendants, key chains, greeting cards and stationery can be planted after use to grow into beautiful flowers, grasses or trees, making a living, lasting connection to a special life moment, relationship or memory. The beauty of the world around us and within us is reflected in the use of our products and in the new life created by the subsequent planting of such a symbol.

All FO2 products are 100% biodegradable, including the packaging and are available for gifts,personal use, awareness, school/club fundraisers and as promotional items. A portion of our proceeds are donated through GreaterGood.org to support breast cancer awareness, animal rescue and support of the environment. Enjoy life’s beauty naturally!

SPONSORED PRIZE:  Two (2) pieces of FO2 Ecowear from the website!
DIVA DISCOUNT:   Use "DIVAT" at checkout for a 20% discount on your order! 

  

--------------------------------------------------------------------

 www.frownies.com

Frownies has been called an ‘institution’ in the beauty industry. The small, woman owned and operated business is still run by the same family that started the company in 1889.  B&P Company, owners of the brand Frownies, stands for Beauty and Personal Wellness. Today B&P Company is committed to woman’s health as well as beauty and bring to market products free of synthetic preservative or other ingredients that are known carcinogens and estrogen mimickers.

CEO Kat Wright ND is committed to creating a simple, effective line of all natural products that preserve both beauty and skin heath. Frownies products address acne towrinkles and everything in between. Dr. Kat Wright has published a book to go along with the company philosophy of creating safe and healthy products titled, Your Health in Your Hands empowering women and exposing health.

SPONSORED PRIZE:  "Face Lift In a Bag!" Complete Skin Care Beauty Program!
DIVA DISCOUNT:   Use "DIVAT" at checkout for a 20% discount on your order! 

  

--------------------------------------------------------------------

www.flirtydivatees.com

Women need to have more fun! At FlirtyDivaTees.com, we believe there is a name for this. It's called harmless cheap fun! That's all we offer here at Flirty Diva Tees, harmless cheapf un for women! Let's face it...isn't life more enjoyable when you laugh and have some fun? Flirty Diva Tees makes our women's flirty shirts available in all sizes, plus sizes too. We offer them in a soft style fitted ladies t-shirts and the looser fitting ladies t-shirts both styles are femininely styled fashionable t-shirts. When you wear our Flirty Diva Tees, two things will happen...people will laugh, and you will have fun! People love interacting with ladies who know how to have some fun and have a sense of humor and isn't that what you want to do? If it's not...well, maybe you should. Flirty Diva Tees flirty funny ladies tee shirts quotes are all about making the best ofyour time out with friends, laugh at life and cheer up the population! It will do you good.  Visit www.flirtydivatees.com to see more designs and join in the fun!

SPONSORED PRIZE:  One Flirty Diva Tee of Your Choice, Size & Design!
DIVA DISCOUNT:   Use "DIVAT" at checkout for a 15% discount on your order! 

    

--------------------------------------------------------------------

 

www.iyoba.com

Iyoba Body Essentials is known for super creamy soap bars - always made with olive oil, essential oils, shea butter, mango butter, cocoa butter, and "love." We also offer a complete skin and hair care line of the most nourishing products available. So whether you're looking for a specific therapeutic skin or hair care product or you simply want to pamper yourself with our all-natural beauty products -- we invite you to experience the Iyoba difference.  Iyoba products make wonderful holiday gifts, and you can feel good about giving yourself or your loved ones a quality product made from all-natural ingredients.

SPONSORED PRIZE:  

 SPONSORED PRIZE:  Foot Butter, Foot Scrub, and Spicy Caramel Body Set!
DIVA DISCOUNT:   Use "DIVAT" at checkout for a 25% discount on your order!

  

--------------------------------------------------------------------

SECRET FACEBOOK & TWITTER GIVEAWAY!

www.braceletmate.com

Want to win one of these super-cute, and super-convenient Bracelet Mates?!  Become a fan on the Diva Taunia Facebook Page OR follow on Twitter @divataunia to find out how to win! 

Each Bracelet-Mate® & Bracelet Plus® is beautifully hand-beaded. Besides the numerous design options available, what makes them truly unique is that the bracelet is attached to a mini wrist wallet capable of carrying your ID, credit cards, currency, lipstick and key. When worn, the wallet sits discreetly on the inside of your wrist, and can be worn on either wrist; you always know where your belongings are!

SPONSORED PRIZE:  One Bracelet Mate of your choice!

  

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Check back daily to see the latest sponsors and holiday giveaways!

2010 WLS AWARDS RECAP! Congrats to all! :)

Did you miss the live awards last night?  No problem!  Here's all the info you could ever want to read/listen/watch about it:

RADIO SHOW - CLICK HERE : BACKSTAGE PASS RADIO LIVE SHOW WITH WINNER ANNOUNCEMENTS

BARIATRIC TV LIVE CHAT ACCEPTANCE SPEECHES - CLICK HERE:  BARIATRIC TV ON USTREAM

2010 FULL NOMINEE & WINNER LIST - CLICK HERE:   WWW.WLSAWARDS.COM

Congratulations to all the nominees and winners!  

TONIGHT!! 7pm EST: The 2010 WLS AWARDS!

WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

Many thanks to Patricia for sending me this. 

If you saw someone overweight being berated in the grocery store, what would you do?  If you respond to this and are comfortable indicating it, I'd also be curious if you are overweight or thin, and/or if you've ever struggled with your weight.   I'm going to reserve my comments for now, but we are DEFINITELY talking about this on the show tommorrow, so I'd LOVE your feedback.

DIVA GLAM REVIEW: DESIRE4MO.COM

My love of Kim and her website Desire4Mo is well-known, but I feel like it's worth writing about again.  Kim/D4M  has outfitted so many events in my life now, that I almost feel like she's part of my family.   Ok, well part of my wacky online family, but still.  

She's a working mom who started a business to make a better life for her family, and I think her stuff is totally rockin'. Take a look at all the cool items she's hooked me (and mine)  up with, and I'll provide links to all the items in case you want them for your own:

Sherri Cola Costume  in my new promo photos!

I have a love of all things retro/vintage/50s and I was so, so, so excited to wear this in my new promo photos.  It's totally kitchy and ridiculous, and totally me.  I wanted something fun to wear, and Kim was happy to provide it.  The costume itself is really comfortable and flattering and completely adorable for any sock-hop type of party.  

And speaking of 50's:

 

Saddle Shoes!

I had found this costume in a thrift store over the summer for $6, and  I really wanted to wear it to one of my Halloween parties.  I didn't have any saddle shoes, but I knew who would:  www.desire4mo.com.  And let me tell you, they were COMFY!  I was out with 6 other girls that evening walking around Harvard Square, and I was the ONLY one who was in comfortable footwear.  Score one for my tootsies!

I was even able to find the perfect adorable costume for my stepdaughter on Halloween:

Britt's Sailor Cutie Costume

Now granted, if you saw the model wearing this on the website, you probably wouldn't immediately think, "this is perfect for a 12 yr old!" But considering Britt's height vs. the model, and how easy it is to style something down, I had a feeling this would be adorable - and I was right.

We put little freckles all over her face, and I was just waiting for her to break out into some Shirley Temple songs.  (Although I'm pretty sure she doesn't even know who that is.  Sigh.)

For a gal like me who is celebrating a new phase and new image in my life, www.desire4mo.com has so many options to help me feel purty.  Here are a few of the other items I've gotten from Kim that I absolutely love:

Mesh Mini Jacket - A WLS Post-Op's Dream Come True!

This was a HUGE hit when I reviewed it on YouTube (review of this starts at 2:44).  What I love about this mesh jacket:  1) it totally conceals that batwings  2) it can convert any sexy dress into something a little more wearable 3) at $18, it's totally affordable and absolutely a great investment for your wardrobe.

And don't tell me you don't LOVE THIS HOTNESS:

4 INCH SLINGBACK MARABOU HEELS

I wear these to the grocery store.  Ok, no I don't, but I would if I didn't think I get looks.  I love, love, love these sexy shoes!  In fact, I just booked a Burlesque show for February, and these will DEFINITELY be included int he show.  How could they NOT be?!

I'm a big fan of supporting small business, especially when it's a working mom taking care of her family.  And even more so when that small business offers hot, hot items.   Desire4Mo is your one-stop-shop for all things girly and sexy:  dresses, clothing, swimsuits, costumes, shoes, accessories, and more.  

Kim also offers a 10% discount using the code  "DIVAT", so go and get your shop on and tell Kim I said hello!

NOMINATE SOMEONE NOW! The 1st Annual Backstage Pass Radio WLS Awards

The Annual Backstage Pass Radio WLS Awards will officially begin on the Monday preceeding Thanksgiving every year. This is a way to honor members of the Weight Loss Surgery Community for the impact they make, inspiration, volunteer work, resources, and more.

Diva Taunia, host of the Backstage Pass Radio Program, will announce the winners of the 1st Annual Backstage Pass Radio WLS Awards on Monday, 11/22 at 7pm EST.

All awards are nominated by and voted on by the WLS Community: that means YOU! :)

Nominate your favorite WLS community member or organization!

• Become a fan of the page and promote on your page
• Nominate someone via the "Discussions" tab, or suggest a nomination category