Sheltered Not Shattered

Without Thrive

2011-07-30T02:53:00.009-04:00

Last Saturday I went to a Thrive class at my local center.( If you don't live in NW Georgia you will not have a local center but you can go to the Thrive website to learn all about the program and even join for yourself. The online community is awesome and you will find tons of support for your lifestyle journey.) So anyway, at the meeting we had a guest speaker Vince. He is a Thriver and has done an amazing job losing weight. He brought up something that hit home with me. Instead of having "before" and "after" pictures he had "without Thrive" and "with Thrive". The reason behind this is because Thrive teaches you how to change your relationship with food and make a lifestyle change. It isn't a diet, so once you get going with it you will want to stay with it forever. There are steps and once you reach your goal weight they teach you how to eat to maintain that weight but you are still eating healthy. So I am going with Vince's way and calling my "before" Without Thrive. I really meant to get these up a while ago as I've not been on my journey for a month but I just haven't had time. However, these were taken at the beginning and I wanted to share them here so you can follow my journey and help keep me on track.

I don't know what happened with the lighting but Hubby did his best. You can definitely see that I can stand to lose some weight, even in the blurry pictures. Here is my starting weight:
215 pounds! I remember when I hit 200 and I wanted to hide in a closet and never come out. I think at my very heaviest I was 220 or 225. Now the 215 is on my very unreliable home scale. At the doctor's office I was 218 so I normally say my beginning weight was 218. And now I will share the really really embarrassing stuff: measurements. I didn't think to measure my arms and calves but I'll share the measurements I took.
Waist: 46.5 in Hips: 51.5
Thigh: 27 Chest: 49.25

Why Thrive?

2011-06-28T18:31:00.008-04:00

I recently started the Thrive Weight Loss program. What I like about it is that they teach you WHY you eat certain foods in certain combinations. It isn't a diet, it is a lifestyle. It really is just a matter of looking at food differently and making wiser choices. I've only been following the plan for 3 days but so far so good. I decided that since all my other attempts at weight loss has failed miserably, I want to share this new venture with the blogosphere. Maybe by sharing my journey with everyone, I'll be more diligent in staying with it.
Today was my first "hard" day. I have wanted a Coke all day. And I have them, in my fridge. Ice cold. Laughing at me. I open the refrigerator to get the water and those glistening red cans call out to me. Really. They do. I have been strong. I have drank my weakly sweetened tea and my water. I've even found some Crystal Lite that I like but those glistening, ice cold cans of soda continue to mock me. But they won't win. I know they won't win. I know this because the 1st thing you do in the Thrive system is find your WHY. Why do I want to lose weight. Why do I want to put myself through the misery of having a can of soda mock me. Well let me tell you...this is my why.

I want to look like this again. Or as close as a 33 year old me can look to the 17 year old me. It's not just about looking like that though. I remember how it felt to be like that. I had ENERGY. I mean real energy. I could walk everywhere I wanted to go without feeling like I was going to DIE. Come on, you know the feeling. When you go outside and it feels good to exercise. I could even RUN and RIDE A BIKE. I don't even like saying those words anymore. My kids want to go on bike rides and I don't own a bike. I don't want to own a bike. It hurts to ride a bike. I mean it makes me miserable. Running, now that's a whole 'nother story. I've never been a runner. It has always given me headaches. I mean I could run around the bases in a baseball game or chase someone a short ways but no running track or anything for me. I don't want to run races or marathons though I just want to chase my kids and get them out as they round third base. Or make a touchdown in family football. I want to be similar to the 17 year old me again. But that isn't my only WHY. There is another why and it has to do with this dream I've had for many, many years. I want to be pregnant. It isn't just the desire to be a mom, I have that and I love it. I love my boys and would love to adopt more but I feel like I missed out on something special and important. I want to experience motherhood from the very beginning. I have PCOS and so that make gaining weight very easy. It also makes losing weight very hard. But the best "cure" for PCOS is losing weight. I am also at high risk for diabetes and heart disease. I already have chest pains and have even been to the hospital because of them. I've had an Eco, Ekg and stress test. So far everything seems ok but it scared me. That was 2 years ago and I have gained weight since then. I want to be around to see my children grow up and have children of their own. I want to be able to play with my grandchildren. And I want to have more children. Whether the Lord leads us to a larger family through adoption or conception, I want to be able to play with each of those family members. When Youngest was a baby I could hold him an carry him all I wanted to. Now babies get heavy faster and I have to pass them off to other people even though I don't want to. I get tired just tying my shoes or bending over a few times to pick up things on the floor. I am not happy this way.
So WHY THRIVE? Well I THRIVE to be Healthy, Happy and HOT! Do you Thrive? Why?

Why Not Me?

2011-06-24T15:45:00.004-04:00

Have you ever found yourself feeling all alone even though you supposedly have a ton of friends? I know I have. I know others who have. Sometimes you are even a member of a very good church but still you feel like no one is there for you. You hear about or read about friends who are having lunch with other friends. You witness people inviting other people to lunch. Sometimes you see church members invite new visitors to lunch and you wonder, why have they never invited me? I've thought a lot about this. I have felt this way myself many times and yes, sometimes it is true, we really are alone. Yet, the more I thought about it and the more I prayed about it the more I realized that it is really a self-inflicted position. Now, before you stop reading and click away from my site hear me out. How often do you truly show yourself friendly. Do you invite others out for lunch or over for lunch? Do you seek out people to talk to after church or on the phone. When you are having a conversation with someone do you easily get your feelings hurt if they don't agree with your point of view?
I have tried reaching out to some people who I felt could become my friends but quickly was made to feel like they didn't really want friends, they wanted carbon copies. If I didn't agree with their schooling choices, it was a debate instead of a discussion and I left the conversation feeling like I should have kept my point of view to myself. If we differed on a biblical principal, then surely it was my fault and after a while I just felt like the relationship was too hard to keep up. I didn't cut that person out I just tried to limit the conversations and contact.
I have been made to feel bad for inviting others out or over also. Nothing is directly said it is just the little hints and sideways comments that make it known you've done something wrong. I am an outgoing person. I like to make friends. I do invite people over or out, yet it isn't often that it is reciprocated. So am I doing something wrong? Do other people really like me but are so busy they can't have friends. Are they just shy? I may never know the answer to those questions but I do know one thing.... I still choose to be happy and keep trying.
There are times at church when we have activities coming up and volunteers are needed. I try to volunteer. I don't have a car but I am still more than willing to help in any way I can. So I have gotten hurt feelings before because even though I have volunteered I'm not given any tasks. We seem to have a certain group of GREAT workers that do pretty much everything. That is fine with me, it really is. I love all our workers but I do sometimes wonder why they asked for help. I'm not the only "new" member of the church to feel this way. We don't want to take over we want to join in. I think sometimes it is hard for them because they've always been the do-ers and so now it is habit. Again...do I pout and stop trying? NO. How can we sit back and complain if we aren't doing all we can to show ourselves friendly? I will still volunteer the next time they ask for helpers. I will still invite people over or out with us. Why? Because I am an outgoing person and I enjoy making new friends. I may not get a friend from every effort but new friends are made. I know you have to be willing to give more than you expect to get. If you can't give more than you expect to get then your not going to be able to be a good friend in return. People want friends to be easy to have relationships with. They want someone who will listen to their needs as much as talk about their own.
Sometimes it is hard to be a friend but if you can't be a friend, if you don't try to be a friend, then really can you complain about not having friends?
If you don't volunteer at church, if you don't contribute ideas, if you don't participate in activities, then can you really complain about not being involved or included?
What's your thoughts?
I will re-invite those that I enjoy keeping company with, even if they don't reciprocate. I will keep volunteering when the Lord leads. Eventually they will see that I am faithful and that I am friendly and they will come around. I can only do my best and choose to be happy no matter what.

House Swap

2011-04-26T13:53:00.002-04:00

I don't know what it is about being at someone else's house but it makes me actually desire to clean. I mean I want my house to be clean and I love it when it is, but the actually doing it part I struggle with. We are staying at my sister-in-laws for a few days to keep her children while she and her husband are on an anniversary trip and I have done a GREAT job keeping her kitchen clean. I even mopped, and I don't mop. Hubby usually does the mopping around our house because it hurts my back and shoulder but he does it on the weekends and I really wanted to mop SIL's kitchen last night as the finishing touch of the work I did so I did. I love the smell of Pinesol too. I mean I could do one of their commercials I like it so much. Maybe it was easy to want to do the dishes here b/c she has a beautiful, large kitchen. Or maybe it was b/c I had access to her dishwasher (which I don't have at home). I don't know what it is but it was actually enjoyable and I'm excited for them to come home to a fresh clean kitchen.
I've always been weird about cleaning at other peoples houses though. It is just a habit that as soon as I get done with something I want to clean up whatever it is but at my own house, I have the "I'll do it in a minute" mentality. It makes no sense to me. I mean I cooked last night, my family plus her two boys ate, and then I had to do the dishes. That is the exact same as at my house but for some reason, here I got up immediately from the table and cleaned up. Then after Hubby got home and ate I immediately got up and cleaned the final dishes. WHY NOT AT MY HOUSE? It really makes me mad at myself. I should be just as excited to have the house clean for Hubby to come home to as I am to have the house clean for SIL and her husband to come home to. So I think we should do a show called House Swap where a few ladies get together and swap house cleaning for a day. I mean think about it, you leave your house messy and smelly and come home to a clean aromatic home. Each lady would use her own cleaning supplies and that way you would come home to "new" smells and it may entice us to use different cleaners ourselves, when we discover theirs work or smell better than our own all time favorites. Plus it would help us to know how to clean our "hard to clean" areas because one of the other women is bound to know a trick or two. I know I'm weird and it would never actually happen for me but still, I can dream right. And that would probably only happen once a week so we would still be responsible for the day to day humdrum that I always "can do in a minute". Oh well, for now I am going to sit back and enjoy the smell of PineSol and listen to the wonderful music of a dishwasher running. Yes I meant to say music, when you don't have a dishwasher that sound is music.

Howdy

2011-04-13T22:47:00.001-04:00

Hi blogosphere. It has been a while. Not sure I remember how this thing works but I am going to try to get back into it. I have been busy busy busy trying to change my life around. I'm not wasting as much time on Facebook and have cut out several of their sites games. Man you can really get sucked into those things. I'm only doing 1 now but may give that up before long. Need to be spending more time in the Bible and with my family. The house remodeling is coming along slowly but some think we are crazy to still be working on it since our mortgage company has us in foreclosure and doesn't seem very willing to work with us. We've been in review for modification since November... but I say we already had the supplies we might as well use them. I mean we are living here and I want to be as comfortable as possible plus due to a water leak one of our bathroom floors is about to fall through and since the other one was torn apart b/c of mildew and mold when we first bought the house, we have to get one of them working properly.
Anyway, that's my crazy life.. more coming soon.

Hickory Farms for Christmas

2010-12-13T23:08:00.004-05:00

Everyone loves receiving gifts and when a gift involves gourmet treats, even better! Choosing gifts that present beautifully and are as equally delicious proves valuable to many Moms when stressed for time and ideas. Hickory Farms is one retailer who combines these components and then some.

Hickory Farms' gifts, a holiday tradition for nearly 60 years, provide a wide selection of signature sausages and savory cheeses in beautifully packaged boxes and baskets. Most of us can remember receiving Hickory Farms at some point in our lives, and the fun of carefully opening it and incorporating the delicious items into our holiday traditions. Whether that means serving the high quality foods to guests or enjoying them with your family, Hickory Farms believes that traditions matter, making these products a long-standing classic gift.

Hickory Farms makes gift-giving even easier this year, by featuring five signature gift boxes, using eco-conscious packaging, ranging from $16 to $100. Once again this holiday season, Hickory Farms will donate $5 from each Party Planner Gift Box sold* to Share Our Strength's No Kid Hungry Campaign, a national nonprofit that is ending childhood hunger in America.

Additionally, Hickory Farms provides free military shipping to military APO/FPO addresses on select products, allowing our troops across the globe to share in holiday traditions. Visit hickoryfarms.com to learn more about these two opportunities as well as the variety of gift boxes available!

We love Hickory Farms and it is a gift I have often given. It is especially nice to give to the men in your family that you just don't know what to buy. With the large selection and specialty items available I am sure you will find the perfect gift for everyone on your list.

I was provided with a gift basket from Hickory Farms through Mom Central for my participation in this review capaign.

Lawry's Complete Meals Seasonings

2010-11-15T13:59:00.012-05:00

As a busy mom, I am always looking for quick and easy ideas to serve great tasting meals. With Lawry's four new seasoning mixes I have found a quick and easy answer to the question "What's for dinner?". Each package is an exciting meal idea that quickly turns ordinary chicken, beef or pasta into a delicious meal the entire family will love.

The new varieties include:

Asian Style Beef & Broccoli – This easy to prepare stir fry meal will remind your family of their favorite Asian restaurant. The dish combines beef, broccoli and seasonings with a hint of garlic. Serve it over rice for a complete, satisfying meal.

Chimichurri Burrito Casserole – Lawry’s gives the Burrito casserole a new twist with this traditional Latin American sauce. With a few simple fresh ingredients, mealtime just got a lot more exciting.

Mediterranean Sundried Tomato & Garlic Chicken – Add a taste of the Mediterranean to your family’s casserole. This easy to bake casserole combines chicken, pasta, tomatoes and Feta cheese for a flavorful meal any night of the week.

Tuscan Style Chicken Marsala with Garlic & Basil –This effortless version of a restaurant favorite comes together on your stovetop with just a few fresh ingredients. Flavorful garlic and basil gives this meal its own Tuscan flair, perfect for serving over pasta or rice.

So far our family has tried the Chimichurri Burrito Casserole and the Mediterranean Sundried Tomato & Garlic Chicken. We LOVED the Burrito Casserole. The recipe on the back of the package called for black beans which we didn't have so I substituted the refried beans but other than that I followed the directions exactly. The tasted to us like Enchilada's. They were delicious served on a bed of lettuce with some sour cream. They even tasted good warmed up the next afternoon for lunch! We've had this meal twice already. The Tomato's and Chicken was good also but not as good to us as the Burrito bake. We will make it again but we have decided to substitute the tomato's it calls for with a mild speghetti sauce just to see if it helps some. It seemed a little bland. The Feta cheese was delicious on it though. I am eager to try the other two flavors also but just haven't gotten around to getting the ingredients I didn't already have on hand. I would highly recommend these as a quick meal and will even be serving them to guests.

If you would like to try them out for yourself or give them as a gift for Christmas then blessing abound! One of my lucky winners will receive a gift pack including a marinating dish and all 4 of the new seasoning packs.

To enter just leave me a comment telling me your favorite quick and easy meal. Beware I may email looking for the recipe though. :) Contest will end on Nov. 26 at 9 pm EST.

The Lawry's product, information and additional gift pack to give away were given to me by Lawry's through MyBlogSpark.

Scribblish

2010-11-11T22:25:00.004-05:00

Cranium Scribblish is a hilarious new game that’s like a cool mashup of the old schoolyard favorite, “The Telephone Game” and Pictionary. Simple, outrageous, and a ton of fun. Everybody grabs a card, chooses a caption, and then tries their best to draw it in 45 seconds. From there you pass on your drawing (now with the original caption concealed in a cool Cranium scroll) to another player, who has to write a caption for your sketch. This mayhem continues around the room with more sketches and captions until the end when everyone tries to figure out how “this” became “that”. Oh, and if you’re not exactly a Picasso, no problem. Stick figures work just fine.

We love having game nights and I was thrilled to get a new Cranium game to try. Cranium in various forms has been a favorite of ours for a long time. This one did not disappoint. It was lots of hillarious fun. It was a bit difficult for my boys to get the hang of but after a few times they are doing well. It was even more fun with a group. I already know of one friend who is getting this for christmas - from me. That's how much I enjoyed it.

If you'd like to add this to your family game night line up then leave me a comment telling what your all time favorite game is. One winner will be randomly chosen on Nov. 18 at 9 pm EST and the winner will be notified by email. In case your not the winner you can visit Cranium´s Facebook page for $2 off the all-new Cranium Scribblish!

The Scribblish game, online coupon, product information and additional game to give away were all given to me by Hasbro through MyBlogSpark.

Barbara's Bakery

2010-11-11T12:18:00.000-05:00

Barbara’s products make a great fit for moms and their families because every item in the entire product line is made free of harmful ingredients such as hydrogenated oils, artificial flavors, preservatives and additives and high fructose corn syrup. As more families are choosing healthy lifestyles, they can turn to Barbara’s for all-natural products that they can both trust and the whole family will love. In fact, in honor of its 40^th birthday, Barbara’s Bakery is making a stand and saying NO to the bad stuff, and YES to natural foods, and would like to encourage others to do the same!

You may have noticed at your local grocery store that Barbara’s Bakery, a leader in natural foods for 40 years, recently got a makeover with new products and a new look. With its new packaging, Barbara’s hopes to make their products more identifiable on grocery store shelves and, as a result, empower shoppers to say NO to unnatural foods.

Barbara’s says NO to:

Hydrogenated Oils
Artificial Flavors
Artificial Preservatives
Refined Sugar
Trans Fats
Artificial Additives
High Fructose Corn Syrup

We really enjoyed all of the Barbara's products we received. Our favorites were the white cheddar cheese puffs and the chocolate chip snackimals. We also enjoyed the cereals but we are a snacky family so those went over very well. Until getting this product for review I wasn't even aware they existed but I have since learned they are available in my area at a local grocery store and I can even order the products online. If you are interested in finding some Barbara's Bakery products near you then check out their store locater. If you are trying to find healthier products for your family than I would definitely recommend adding these products to your next shopping list.

This post was written for Family Review Network & Barbara's Bakery who provided the complimentary product for review in exchange for my honest review".

Listerine REACHes for the Toothfairy

2010-11-01T12:23:00.001-04:00

Halloween stands only a few weeks away, and although kids think about what type of candy they'll get and fret over their costumes, Moms worry more about cavities. A night full of sugar and it's endless days of leftover candy may seem like harmless fun, but statistics show kids miss 51 million school hours each year because of dental-related illness, and pediatric dental disease is the #1 chronic childhood illness.

To help with the candy frenzy this month, Listerine and Reach created "October Oral Care Challenge" for kids 6 and older to take with their parents—a great tip to get kids to imitate good oral hygiene routines. To complete the challenge, kids and Moms have to brush, floss and rinse every day, twice a day for three weeks—a key step in building a strong oral care foundation. We all hear about the importance of regular brushing and flossing for your oral care routine, but rinsing with a therapeutic mouthwash for 30 seconds twice daily, an additional but essential activity, helps reach those other parts of the mouth that harbor germs.

The makers of Listerine and Reach have also teamed up with America's Toothfairy to launch "Trick or Treat for America's Toothfairy," a campaign to raise awareness of pediatric dental disease and help provide life changing care to underserved children. You can visit www.AmericasToothfairy.org to learn more.

My family and I decided to take the October Oral Care challenge. Although we haven't been doing it for 3 full weeks yet I see an improvement in both the boys teeth and breath. My teeth feel cleaner and my mouth overall just feels fresher. Using each product twice a day regularly even helps with that ever dreaded morning breath. The children really enjoy using the Cool Blue Tinting Rinse that turns their mouth and teeth blue to show them where to brush and how they have to brush really well to get rid of all the blue. They both learned that what I had been telling them was true, they weren't brushing good enough. They also really like the Smart Rinse that cleans out all those particles that brushing leaves behind. I personally think it's gross but they love it and have made a contest out of trying to see who can have the least amount of yucky stuff left. We plan to not only continue our new brushing habits for the rest of the 3 weeks but forever after that also. I am truly grateful that we were given this opportunity.

“I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of LISTERINE and REACH and received products to take the Oral Care Challenge. Mom Central Consulting also sent me a Global Giving gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.”

Filtrete and Me

2010-10-26T18:30:00.000-04:00

The new Filtrete Water Pitcher from 3M provides a convenient, space-saving way to get our kids to drink more water at home and saves me from purchasing expensive cases of bottled water for my family. The sleek design allows it to hold more filtered water while taking up less valuable refrigerator space than bottled water so I have more room for juice boxes, school lunches and snacks. And, filtering five times faster than traditional pitcher filters, the Filtrete Water Pitcher offers better tasting water in a matter of seconds so I can keep up with my busy schedule. Also, the filter lasts longer, filtering two and half times more water than traditional pitcher filters and lasting about three months.

In addition, Filtrete created Clear Advantages to help busy moms like me. You can register to receive seasonal e-newsletters featuring money-saving offers, filter change reminders, better home living tips and more by signing up on the Filtrete Water Filtration Products website. You can also follow Filtrete Water Filtration Products on Twitter (@FiltreteWater) or like the brand on Facebook for healthier living tips.

Most all of us have heard of Filtrete but if you're like me you automatically think of air filters. Well Filtrete is more than just air filters they also have water filtration systems. They have under the sink water filtrations systems, a water filtration station where you can fill up 4 individual bottles and a water filtration pitcher. I was recently blessed with the opportunity to try the water filtration pitcher. It is a 12 cup pitcher that easily fills through the filter in the top of the pitcher. The center of the filter also has a guage to let you know how long the filter has left. One filter should last approximately three months. This product came to me at exactly the right time. Shortly after receiving it I got sick with a stomach bug and since I've been better I haven't been able to drink sweet tea. It just doesn't taste good to me anymore. Since I am a true southerner it is really sad that I can't enjoy tea anymore but thanks to my Filtrete pitcher I haven't missed it and I am drinking water which is healthier for me anyway. I have never liked tap water and I still don't but the pitcher works great. It doesn't taste as good as bottled water but it is nearly as good and it saves me money and saves on waste in the environment so it is a win win situation! Hubby and I even did an experiment; we filled two identical glasses with water: one was straight from the tap and one was from the new pitcher. We left both glasses in the refrigerator over night so it could get good and cold and then we tasted them and it was unanimous that the filtered water was MUCH better. I really love my new pitcher and know it will be well used in our house.

You can register to receive seasonal e-newsletters featuring money-saving offers, filter change reminders, better home living tips and more by signing up (http://www.filtrete.com/wps/portal/3M/en_US/FiltreteUS/Filtrete/Resources/Clear-advantages/) on the Filtrete Water Filtration Products website. You can also follow Filtrete Water Filtration Products on Twitter (@FiltreteWater) (http://twitter.com/FiltreteWater) or like the brand on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/FiltreteWater) for healthier living tips.

“I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Filtrete and received the water pitcher to facilitate my candid review.”

Teddy's Pride

2010-10-25T21:31:00.002-04:00

I recently had the chance to review Teddy's Pride, an all-natural probiotic powder for pet oral care. We have a basset hound and trust me her breath stinks! This powder is just sprinkled on your pet's food once a day. It is suppose to help keep the dogs breath fresher and whiten their teeth too. I wasn't sure that Dixie would even eat the food with this powder on it, she can be a picky dog. She did sniff her bowl a bit before attempting to eat but once she took a bite everything was normal. She really didn't even seem to notice the powder. After only a couple weeks, I do notice her breath smelling some better but I haven't really noticed a difference in her teeth color. I haven't been using the product long and I'll admit that there have been a few times we have forgotten to put the powder on her food so I am optimistic that we will soon see improvement in her teeth color. Although I'll admit I was more concerned with her breath than with her teeth color since her breath is what affects us all.

Teddy's Pride website lists the following information about the probiotic powder:

Oral care probiotics for cats and dogs

Freshens breath naturally

Gently and naturally cleans and whitens teeth

No taste, no odor

Easy-to-use sprinkles

60-day supply

Costs just pennies a day

100% natural

Made in the USA

Certified GMP, FDA facility

Backed by 25 years of research

Daily use of Teddy’s Pride® Oral Care is a quick, simple and effective way to naturally promote fresher breath and whiter teeth without the hassle, stress and poor results of trying to brush your pet’s teeth or investing in costly and potentially dangerous cleaning procedures requiring anesthesia at the veterinarian’s office.

Would you like to try Teddy's Pride with your pet? Oragenics, the makers of Teddy’s Pride, is offering a $5 discount AND free shipping with the coupon code: TED10. The coupon can be used on their site, www.TeddysPride.com, at check-out and can be used by U.S. residents only. The offer is good through November 30.

Teddy's Pride is offering one reader the same 60-Day Supply of Teddy's Pride ($24.95 value) that I got for this review! To enter just tell me about your pet. This giveaway will end on Nov. 1 at 9 pm EST.

"This post was written for Family Review Network & Teddy's Pride who provided the complimentary product for review and giveaway in exchange for my honest review"

Kaspersky Internet Security

2010-10-14T13:54:00.000-04:00

Kaspersky Internet Security 2011 ($79.95 for a 1 year license that can be installed on 3 PCs) has a number of features that outperform competitors, and some that you won’t find anywhere else that will keep you safe from these threats:

-Desktop Security Gadget – to instantly see your protection status, drag-and-drop file scanning, and customizable one-click access to the reports and tools you use the most

-Parental Controls – do more than block your kids from inappropriate content coming in…prevent your family’s personal information from being sent out, by designating account numbers, addresses and more as “private.” You can also limit the amount of time your child can spend on the computer or online every day.

-Identity Protection – Keeps you safe from “phishing attacks,” which are fake emails and websites designed to look legitimate, but actually are clever traps to steal your money and identity.

-Surf Safely – At Kaspersky Lab, we keep a “naughty and nice” list of websites. We always block the sites that are bad, and we alert you when visiting sites that have been recently used to infect visitors…these sites are most likely to be used again for attacks.

Want more information? Check out the Kaspersky Lab Facebook page

I have really enjoyed having this and it couldn't have come at a better time. My other security software had expired and I couldn't afford to renew it. I am glad this came along because it is so much easier and more user friendly. I love how easy it is to set parental controls for each person on the computer so that it doesn't block things my husband and I may search but still protects my children's accounts. I can set time limits for each day, I can set which days they are allowed on and I can monitor what they have done. You can even block downloads and such. It is great! I feel like it is the best product I have come across for parental controls. It is still fairly new to us and I am still playing with options but so far I would definitely recommend it to my readers.

"This post was written for Family Review Network & Kaspersky Internet Security 2011 who provided the complimentary product for review in exchange for my honest review"

Breaking out the Halls

2010-10-13T14:50:00.005-04:00

It's that time of year when everyone in my house starts having the sniffles, sneezes, coughs and aches and pains. Hubby usually gets drainage which causes him to clear his throat all during the night. As you can guess this makes for many sleepless nights for me. Youngest has asthma so I watch him closely and he usually comes up with a runny nose and a deep cough. Oldest gets stuffy and I run the gamut. Well this year we prepared early with Halls. We were offered a sample of Halls in exchange for this review and I jumped at the chance. I mean it was a win, win, win situation. I could have written the review without free product as we are long time user of Halls, but it was FREE so of course I said yes. So win #1 free product for my family, win #2 a great review for Halls, win #3 free product for 2 of my readers. See win, win, win! We all know and love Halls. They have a large variety of product that will fit any ones needs. They even have sugar free options. My favorite is the cherry while Hubby's is the honey-lemon. The boys want to try the Breezers but I suspect that's because they look like one of our favorite candies. I am also excited to try their Halls Defense which has lots of vitamin C. We have already had occasion to use our Halls supply too. Hubby came down with strep. It started as a cough and the Halls definitely made my night manageable. He kept a stash on the nightstand and popped one in when needed instead of clearing his throat all night. So, we agree we all loves Halls and since this is a product you probably already know and love I will stop there.
Want to get some freebies for yourself? Go to Halls and come back here and tell me what your favorite Halls product is or which one you would like try. For an extra entry follow my blog! Two winners will be chosen to receive 10 Halls sticks each! Yay! Giveaway will close on Oct 21 at 9 pm EST. Good luck and thanks for reading.

"This post was written for Family Review Network & HALLS who provided the complimentary product for review and giveaway in exchange for my honest review"

Decadently Duncan Hines

2010-09-28T23:09:00.003-04:00

Duncan Hines®, the well recognized brand that has been helping families create delicious memories for 60 years, introduces the latest breakthrough in deliciousness at the baking aisle – Decadent Cakes and Glazes. We were blessed to get the Apple Caramel and the Triple Chocolate Decadent Cake mixes. I made the Apple Caramel first because Hubby and Youngest aren't Chocolate lovers like Oldest and I are. We all enjoyed the cake but felt like the bites of moist caramel were a bit too sweet at times. Amazingly, though, it was unanimous that we all LOVED the Triple Chocolate cake. Hubby and I made it the other night and ate it warm with vanilla ice cream. Our first reaction was it's "ok" but we probably should have iced it. The next day the boys and I had some more cake with ice cream and it was delicious! Hubby and I agreed that it was better than warm brownies and ice cream. I really enjoyed both cakes but can't wait to have the Triple Chocolate again. With more people entertaining at home and looking for better quality desserts, these decadent cakes are perfect. Both cakes contain zero grams of trans fat and NO hydrogenated oils. They are available in cake baking section of supermarkets nationwide in 20 oz size boxes at a SRP of $2.99.

Duncan Hines also introduced Decadent Glazes, a one of a kind glaze designed to elevate the baking experience with a whole new way to top your desserts. Available in Chocolate and Vanilla, Decadent Glazes help home chefs create spectacular desserts with professional results. Only Duncan Hines offers this versatile topping to complement your baked goods or any dessert with a touch of sweetness and flavor. What separates Decadent Glazes from frosting is they are not as heavy or sweet as frosting and are convenient to use. These glazes are available in a 10 ounce squeeze bottle at an SRP of $2.49. As I have not tried these new items I can not give my opinion on them but I am sure they will live up to the Duncan Hines name we have all come to know and love. I know I can't wait to try some.

"This post was written for Family Review Network & Duncan Hines who provided the complimentary product for review in exchange for my honest review"

Rock N' Learn - Winner

2010-09-23T14:40:00.002-04:00

And the Winner is.........................................

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2010-09-23 18:40:08 UTC

Angela C said...

My oldest son has a reading disability and is still reading at third grade level( he is in 6th)and my youngest son's teacher just told me yesterday he was having trouble with phonics. So this would be great for both of them.

9/14/10 2:41 PM

Congrats and I hope that this is helpful. You have three days to email your shipping information or a new winner will be chosen.

Ziploc Fresh

2010-09-22T20:19:00.005-04:00

With school just around the corner you'll probably be packing a lot more school lunches and after school snacks. What's more perfect for the job than Ziploc bags and containers? Ziploc is the first name in food storage and they have taken snacks-on-the-go to a whole new level. So relax! With Ziploc® products, food stays fresher, life stays organized, and you can spend more time on what’s really important – like family, friends and fun.

My Thoughts:

We all know the ziploc name and most of us already have an opinion as to whether we like them or not. I try to save money every way I can and so that means buying store brand items instead of name brand, but NOT when it comes to my storage bags. I have bought store brand bags before but I always end up with freezer burn if I use them to freeze items or my veggies don't last as long as when I use ziploc. And now ziploc is coming out with great features like the easy zipper slide and smart zip seal so it is easy for anyone to close the bag and you can see that it is really shut. They also have the expandable bottoms which make storing and freezing soups and stews so much easier. With the colder weather coming I know I am looking forward to using that feature. And to make it even better they are microwavable so you can defrost your frozen goodies in the bag! Ziploc also has an assortment of storage containers available such as the smart snap seal and twist n loc containers. I love the twist n loc containers. They hold liquid products great. We use them for soups, fruit cocktail, stews and lots of other things. You can't lose with the ziploc brand. And if food storage isn't your issue they offer non-food storage solutions also. Just check out their site and see what you could learn.

Want to give ziploc a try for yourself, or add to your supply for the holiday season. Just leave me a comment telling me your favorite ziploc product and you are entered to win the following prize pack:

Ziploc Brand sandwich bags
Ziploc Brand Freezer slider bags with expandable bottom and smart-zip seal (quart)
Ziploc Brand Storage slider bags with expandable bottom and smart-zip seal (quart)
Ziploc Brand Containers with the Smart Snap™ Seal (medium square)

For more chances follow my blog and leave me a comment saying that you are a follower. The more followers I get the more giveaways I can offer! Giveaway ends Sept. 28th at 9pm. EST.

"This post was written for Family Review Network & SC Johnson who provided the complimentary product for review and giveaway in exchange for my honest opinions."

Yoplait Splitz - Winner

2010-09-20T22:24:00.003-04:00

And the winner is............

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2010-09-21 02:24:45 UTC

checkers said...

I think I'd would like to try the Strawberry Banana Split as I've not tried any of these yet.
skyskyaa11(at)gmail.com

Congrats! You have three days to email me your shipping information or another winner will be chosen.

Seventh Generation - WINNER

2010-09-20T22:18:00.002-04:00

And the winner is................................

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2010-09-21 02:18:17 UTC

Alicia said...

The wipes

Thanks for the giveaway >^..^<

bloggyig at gmail dot com

9/6/10 12:52 AM

Congrats! You have three days to email me your shipping information or a new winner will be chosen.

Picnicing with Yoplait Splitz

2010-09-09T11:34:00.005-04:00

Are you looking for the latest scoop on evening treats that will delight your kids AND satisfy your sweet tooth? Well you're in luck, because the new Yoplait Splitz is coming soon to your grocer's refrigerated dairy section! Now you can drive past your local sweet shop without looking back. Yoplait Splitz is the new yogurt that tastes like a sundae. Providing all of the goodness of 100% real yogurt, Yoplait Splitz is a good source of calcium and vitamin D. With no artificial flavors or sweeteners and no high fructose corn syrup, this 90 calorie dessert is the treat your family craves.

For an even “cooler” experience, just pop a Yoplait Splitz in the freezer and in a few hours you can enjoy a cool, creamy cup of authentic frozen yogurt. Available in three delicious flavor combinations including Strawberry Sundae, Strawberry Banana Split, and Rainbow Sherbet, Yoplait Splitz is sure to have your family screaming for more.

Don’t forget to visit Yoplait on Facebook or Yoplait on Twitter and “Like” or “Follow” the brand to keep up with the latest news on your favorite Yoplait products.

In addition, you can visit http://www.myblogspark.com/uc/main/7b3a/ to download a printable coupon for $0.75 off any flavor Yoplait Splitz today! *This coupon offer for a free pack of Yoplait Splitz is not valid in some states, including California, Idaho, Louisiana, Minnesota, New Jersey, Nevada, North Dakota and Tennessee.

My Opinion:

These were great. My boys and I really enjoyed them. We tried the rainbow sherbert and it was a unanimous vote! I love finding healthier ways to give me and my family a sweet treat. I also love things that are easy! These are quick to just grab and go. Being a homeschool family we sometimes like to just throw in a field trip at the spur of the moment and so having something like this that can quickly be grabbed and thrown into the cooler for a spontaneous picnic is great. With only 90 calories, 1 gram of fat and 17 grams of carbs these will fit in almost anyone's diet. Not convinced they're that good, well try some on us by leaving me a comment telling me which flavor you would like and you could be the lucky winner of a yoplait splitz prize pack which will include a coupon for you try yoplait splitz for free, an insulated carry tote and a roll up fleece picnic blanket! For extra entries follow my blog by clicking on follow in the right hand column. Giveaway ends Sept.15 at 9:00 pm EST.

The Yoplait splitz prize pack, information and prize pack to giveaway were provided to my by Yoplait through MyBlogSpark. The opinions are 100% mine.

Rock N' Learn

2010-09-09T10:50:00.005-04:00

“How come you can learn all the words to songs, but you can’t learn your school work?!” How many frustrated parents have asked their kids that question?

Once a child falls behind in school, it becomes extremely hard for them to catch up. As a child looks around the classroom and notices that other kids quickly understand the subject matter, confidence begins to wane. The problems at hand, which once seemed small, stack up and become overwhelming and feel paralyzing.

Believe it or not, music can actually help – with catchy tunes, a child learn math, improve vocabulary and even introduce them to science. The trick is to turn kids’ love of music into a learning tool at an early age and use that tool throughout their development.

In the mid-80s, brothers Richard and Brad Caudle (one a school psychologist and the other a musician/composer) teamed to create Rock ‘N Learn. Over 20 years later, Rock ‘N Learn has grown to be the country's #1 educational video program, used in millions of homes and schools nationwide.

Unanimously praised by educators, parents and the media, Rock ‘N Learn has earned awards from prestigious organizations such as iParenting, Learning Magazine Teachers’ Choice, Parents’ Choice, Dr. Toy and The National Parenting Center’s Seal of Approval – to name a few.

My Opinion:

As a Homeschooler I still deal with self confidence issues. Oldest is always upset because he is behind some of his other friends and because he just doesn't get math as easily as Youngest. Youngest gets discouraged because he doesn't get reading as easily as Oldest. We have dealt with more issues over Youngest's reading problems than with Oldestest's math problems beacause reading affects so many other things. He needs help reading some instructions, stories for other subjects and math word problems. He is plugging along but boy was I excited to see the Rock 'N Learn videos. Youngest LOVES music so I knew these would be a hit and they are! I catch him singing the different sounds when he gets stumped with something. As a somewhat conservative Christian the beat is a bit much for me. It is a very rocky type music, which we normally don't allow the children to listen too so we've had some issues with that but overall I think it is a very good product. Youngest is definitely learning from it. After viewing and mastering both DVD's I believe a child would be ready for 2nd grade work. You would probably want to throw in a workbook of some kind just to insure they actually know how to put what they learn on tv to use but I believe this could be used as a 1st grade phonics program along with a few books from your local library for practice.

About the Phonics Volume 1 DVD

Practicing the phonics skills that lead to reading and spelling success is more fun than ever. Rock ‘N Learn has turbocharged their best-selling Phonics program with new, enhanced animation along with sentence and story practice. Catchy rhymes make rules easy to remember. Delayed answers and “on-screen mouth” let students check

their reading and pronunciation. Read-along stories and fun songs provide practice with rules and build reading fluency. Context clues help students develop multiple strategies to read for meaning. Busy parents and teachers love the way Rock ‘N Learn Phonics captures kids’ attention and allows for differentiated instruction through independent practice.

About the Phonics Volume 2 DVD

Practice is the key to reading and spelling success—and now it’s more fun than ever. Rock ‘N Learn enhanced their best-selling Phonics video program with new animation along with sentence and story practice. Volume 2 builds on Volume 1, with catchy rhymes to make rules easy to remember. Delayed answers and their “on-screen mouth” let students check their reading and pronunciation. Read-along stories and fun songs provide practice applying the rules and building reading fluency. Context clues help students develop multiple strategies to read for meaning.

Each DVD retails for about $19.99 and can be ordered from the Rock 'N Learn site or from a retailer near you. They've also come out with their very first iPAD app! Don't have an iPad well go here to enter to win one. Want to try the DVD's for yourself or give them as a gift then leave a comment here telling me who would use these DVD's and you could win one for yourself! For an extra entry follow my blog by clicking follow on the right side of my blog, come back and let me know you follow me! Giveaway ends September 17th at 9pm EST.

"This post was written for Family Review Network & Rock 'N Learn who provided the complimentary product for review and giveaway in exchange for my honest review"

Rumpled to Runway

2010-09-08T11:33:00.003-04:00

As Moms, we pull a lot of things together, from weekday meals to our little ones' back-to-school wardrobes. However, usually what suffers is our own wardrobe, as we pull wrinkled garments over our heads to make it out the door on time! Luckily, our favorite Mom/Brand team is getting together to show women everywhere how to go from rumpled to runway.

Electrolux and brand ambassador Kelly Ripa are partnering with some fashion-savvy bloggers to host a special fashion show to help raise awareness and funds to support ovarian cancer research.

Since September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, this fashion-focused event couldn't have come at a better time! This fun and innovative fashion show will demonstrate how Perfect Steam™, and a little fashion ingenuity, can take any garments from "Rumpled to Runway".

Even if you're not in the Big Apple to watch in person, you can cheer them on LIVE at www.Kelly-Confidential.com TODAY at 1 PM EDT. You can also follow along at Facebook/KellyConfidential and on Twitter @KCbyElectrolux.

Find out how you can help support the cause at Kelly Confidential and enter for a chance to win a daily shopping spree and the grand prize: a Perfect Steam™ washer and dryer from Electrolux. When you participate, Electrolux will donate $1 to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund.

Thanks to Electrolux and MomSelect for this opportunity.

Socks4Life: WINNER!

2010-09-07T11:35:00.002-04:00

And the WINNER is...........................

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2010-09-07 15:34:53 UTC

dvice said...

I like the Pro-Trek Men's White Over the Calf Crew Socks

9/3/10 5:33 PM

You have three days to send me your shipping information and the product you wish to receive or a new winner will be chosen.

Seventh Generation

2010-09-01T04:09:00.003-04:00

Is your child picking up more than the ABC's in school? While you're packing your child's backpack with the pencils, notebooks and tools they'll need for a great school year, don't forget the supplies they'll need to stay healthy too. With nearly 22 million school days lost each year due to the common cold and flu (CDC) and as many as 2.7 million bacterial found per square inch on common school surfaces (NSF International), it’s no wonder that 82 percent of parents with kids in grades K-5 fret about the germs in their children’s classrooms (according to a survey conducted by Seventh Generation).

This school year, Seventh Generation is sharing tips from best-selling author and pediatrician, Dr. Alan Greene, to help parents protect their child’s health during back-to-school season. Dr. Greene suggests taking the following precautions:

Optimize the immune system

Reap the benefits of probiotics like those found in yogurt. A recent study showed that children who received enough probiotics daily throughout the cold and flu season had a significant reduction in the number of illnesses they had and, when they did get sick, the symptoms were both milder and didn't last as long.

Be sure your child is getting plenty of vitamin D from the sun, from food, or from a supplement.

Build a strong foundation. Good food, good sleep, and good physical activity all help the immune system to flourish.

Be wise about reducing unnecessary exposure to harmful germs

Teach children the key times to clean their hands in the classroom. The most important times include after sneezing, coughing or using the restroom, upon leaving "high-risk" places (recess, naptime, play stations) and before meals or snacks.

Sixty percent of teachers surveyed said that they request that parents donate disinfecting wipes to the classroom. Seventh Generation’s disinfecting wipes kill 99.99% of germs* naturally using the active ingredient thyme, a component of thyme oil which is derived from the herb thyme.

Stress the importance of not touching their eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.

Demonstrate to your children how to cover their mouth and nose for every cough and sneeze. This simple maneuver has spectacular results in decreasing the spread of viruses and bacteria floating about the room, waiting to be inhaled.

My thoughts: I'm all about trying to stay healthy. I am constantly sick and do my best not to spread it. I also love having natural things to clean with. I will have to say that I was disappointed in how rough the tissues are. I mean we may as well just use a cheap paper towel. The smell of the cleaning supplies is also strong. It isn't overpowering but it is a strong herb smell. The wipes say they have a lemongrass & thyme scent and boy do they. The do clean very well. We keep a name brand cleaning wipe in the bathroom for the boys to do their chores. Youngest has to wipe the sink and counter daily and oldest has toilet cleaning duty every other day. He just has to do a quick once over of the seat and rim and the bottom where things tend to "pool". I learned quickly that trusting them with paper towels and spray cleaner was not a wise choice. Anyway they immediately noticed a difference with the Seventh Generation wipe. The Seventh Generation wipe has plenty of cleaner in it. It was somewhat sudsy so the kids could tell where they had cleaned. According to the directions you can wipe the cleaner away after use or you can let it air dry. I liked the way it cleaned and the smell didn't stay around forever. My kids love the smell. I am sensitive so it may not be as strong to others. Overall I am very happy with the products I received. Upon looking at their site I noticed they offer a wide variety of products from household cleaners, to laundry and diswashing soap, to feminine products and hand cleaners. You can follow Seventh Generation on Twitter and Facebook to keep up with all they are doing to help our environment and keep us healthy. I am looking forward to buying the hand cleaner the next time I am out. Seventh Generation products are available at several locations.
To find one near you check out their location finder here. One blessed reader will be able to try their household cleaning product for free by entering a comment right here on my blog telling me which product you would use the most. For additional entries follow my blog and come back and let me know you did, for even more entries have your friends follow me and leave a comment that they followed be because you recommended them! That's pretty much unlimited entries! Make sure you leave me your screen name so I can verify that you are a follower. This giveaway will run until 9:00pm Est on Sept. 10.

The Seventh Generation Product, gift pack and additional gift pack to my winner were given to me by Seventh Generation through MyBlogSpark.

ADD

2010-08-31T15:16:00.003-04:00

Ok, this is suppose to be a blog about our life as homeschoolers and the other crazy stuff we do so here's a post just for that. I am giving some history for my new readers and then telling about a new road we have recently started traveling. I am also seeking your help in guiding us down this road.

I started homeschooling in 2004 when Oldest was in preschool. That was my first mistake. Not that starting with preschool is wrong but it was for us. Both of our boys are adopted. Oldest was finally place with us after a long court ordeal in the summer of 2004 right around his 4th birthday. I jumped right into homeschooling because I didn't want to give DCFS any reason to doubt to us. In August of 2004 my father-in-law was diagnosed with terminal cancer. In November we moved closer to my father-in-law and spent a good deal of time in his home helping with his care. In April of 2005 we moved into my father in laws house and within two weeks he went home to be with the Lord. In June we made the adoption final and in the fall of 2005 we moved out of my father-in-laws to another rental. By this time I had started kindergarten. I knew we had gotten behind and I was stressed over everything. I felt like I had spent two years running in a hamster wheel and I was ready to settle in. I wanted everything to run smoothly and go right. Well we hit a brick wall instead. Oldest showed lots of intelligence but he just wasn't retaining information and I took it as laziness or rebellion. He was somewhat rebellious, which we knew was caused by the stress of the last 5 years of his life, but instead of helping I fear I made the situation worse. I believe I had unrealistic expectations of him because I had unrealistic expectations of myself. My in-laws all homeschool and we have several friends who homeschool and they make it look so easy. It is not always easy. For me, even after 6 years, it is still not easy!

Each year I saw us getting further behind with Oldest and I vowed that would not happen with Youngest. I didn't push Youngest and tried not to have as high of expectations but I went the opposite directions. Because I continued to have problems with Oldest retaining information and he would not stay on task when given seat work, Youngest somewhat fell to the wayside. Now starting our 6th year of homeschool we are behind. Oldest is in 4th grade with 3rd grade math and Youngest is in 2nd grade. Oldest should be in 5th grade and Youngest should be in 3rd grade. I am sad that a lot of this is due to me. I am not a scheduled person, I have dealt with a lot of health issues and I sometimes pushed the school day aside. Not all of this is my fault. I believe Oldest would still be behind if I had stuck to a strict schedule but Youngest I'm not so sure about. Each year people told me it would get better and easier and it didn't until last year. Things did go a bit better last year. Oldest was still not retaining information and seeking out all of my time and Youngest struggled with reading but we kept to a much better, although still relaxed schedule, and we completed the year on time. Oldest and I have had more tears and fights throughout this homeschooling adventure than I care to admit but I think we are finally finding some level ground.

At my urging, and sometimes, begging Hubby allowed me to have Oldest tested for a learning disability. He has been diagnosed with ADD. We have not started any medications as I am not confident that is the road to go down. I have heard such horror stories and have verbally stood against medication for a long time. My stand has always been that I feel ADD is overdiagnosed or diagnosed to early to appease the public school teachers that don't want to deal with children being children. I know that it is a real disease and that it needs to be dealt with but when a child is 6 weeks into kindergarten and has never been in a school environment I find it hard to believe that it has to be ADD/ADHD. I also know that it is a genuine thing and needs to be treated. We have waited 6 years to have Oldest diagnosed and I am somewhat surprised at the diagnosis is but I am looking into it. I have been reading Driven to Distraction by Edward M. Hallowell and it has opened my eyes to many things. Oldest is not overly hyper. He can get overstimulated when he is excited and have a hard time coming down to a normal excitement level but he's not really hyper in general terms. He daydreams, forgets everything, and goes about whatever he wants to do whenever he wants to without thought to what he is suppose to be doing. I did not realize that his impulsivity was a symptom to ADD. While reading the book, I can see how it is diagnosed too quickly on some because some of the symptoms can pertain to anyone but I am learning a lot.

We are taking a non-medicinal route for now. Trying a more regimented schedule, more routine, having pictures up around the house to help him remember how chores are to be done correctly, giving him one instruction at a time etc. It is very hard for me sometimes and I still find myself getting very frustrated at having to be the memory for everyone in the house (I guess that is every wives/mothers frustration though) and having to wait for him to get one step of something done so I can tell him the next step. We are also looking at herbal options. Oldest has also had chronic sinusitis which was recently discovered because of headaches. He had no symptoms of being sick but he complained regularly of headaches. A CT was done and we discovered his left sinus cavity was packed. After a very ambitious round of antibotics they have decided to do surgery. I am praying that this will help him sleep better and will also help with his attention. If we don't see a marked improvement in the next few months then medicine it will be. We are already seeing self-image problems due to the ADD and that is what finally got Hubby's attention. This is a new road for us so I would love feedback from those of you have been traveling this way for a while. What can you tell me about the treatments you use and what you have loved and hated about it?

Back to School with Sam's Club- WINNER

2010-08-26T14:02:00.002-04:00

And the Winner is..............

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2010-08-26 18:02:09 UTC

hale2005 said...

I would buy some groceries in bulk.

hellrzr(at)juno(dot)com

8/21/10 12:42 PM

Congrats!!! You have three days to send my your mailing address or another winner will be chosen.

Socks4Life

2010-08-18T14:56:00.004-04:00

I wear socks all the time. We do not have any carpet and I can't stand to have all that dust and junk on my feet so I always wear socks. I don't always wear shoes though so I like my socks to be cushioned and sturdy. I hate to buy a pair of socks that are suppose to fit only to find out that the heal is actually at my ankles and they slip and slide constantly. My husband is actually more picky than I am. He likes over-the-calf socks. It is really hard to find those for him. He says over-the-calf but he actually means up-to-the-knee socks. When I was contacted about review the socks4life site I jumped at the chance and I was not disappointed. They had over-the-calf socks for my husband, cozy socks and cushioned socks for me to try. They also have kids socks and they have a wide range of colors and styles. This time I stuck with things for Hubby and I. We received the socks and I immediately washed them and then we tried them on. Hubby was thrilled with his. They were truly over-the-calf (up-to-the-knee) socks. Here's a picture of him wearing a store bought name brand over-the-calf sock [on left] and also the Socks4Life over-the-calf sock [on right]:

You can clearly see the difference in the length. He wants more.
I ordered myself some Excell Women's Semi-Cushion Socks and some Excell Striped Cozy Socks.
I really like mine too. I only took a picture of the Cozy socks:
I really like my cozy socks. They are cushiony, soft and warm. I know it is summer time so warm isn't a big issue right now but it is in the winter so I am really looking forward to having these in the months to come. They are also fun. My kids love me wearing them because I normally just wear white socks so these have become mom's fun socks! So are you convinced yet that Socks4Life has a great product and it's nice and convenient to shop from home. Well if you need a little more persuading here it is. Socks4Life has agreed to give one of my blessed readers a product of their choice. To win just check out the Socks4Life site and come back here and tell me what product you would most like to try. Their site is really easy to navigate too. If you know what type of sock you are looking for scroll to the bottom of the page and they have their items broken down by type. They also accept paypal which was a plus for me!
This giveaway will be open until Sept. 3 at 9pm EST. Happy shopping.

From Socks4Life:

Welcome to Socks4Life! We carry only the best brands and models of socks on the market. If you're shopping online for quality socks, we definitely have what you're looking for. We are committed to offering you the finest socks at great prices while providing exceptional customer service.

It's important to us that our customers and potential customers know that they are dealing with a reliable company. That's why we are members of the Indianapolis Better Business Bureau. Please check out our Better Business Bureau credentials by clicking on any of the Better Business Bureau logos located throughout our site.

When you call our customer service team, you deal with real people who care about you and your shopping experience we are ready to help you in any way we can. We recognize our customers have different needs, and we want to help you find the perfect socks from our wide selection of styles and designs.

We stand behind our products and are proud to offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee and hassle free returns. Our free shipping, secure shopping system and privacy policy are testament to our commitment to offering the highest level of customer service. You may call us toll-free at 1-800-559-3314 , and e-mail us any time. We will respond to your email request right away.

Thank you for shopping with us!
Why Buy From Socks4Life

Free Shipping on All Orders Over $50
We pay for standard shipping on all orders over $50 shipped to the United States!

No Sales Tax
Sales tax will only be added to orders being sent to the state of Indiana.

Money Back Guarantee
In the unlikely event that you are not satisfied with the product(s) you purchase from us, you can have the confidence that you can return or exchange the item within 30 days of receipt for a full refund less any shipping charges that were incurred.

Enjoy 100% Secure Shopping
We guarantee that every transaction you make at Socks4Life will be 100% safe. This means you pay nothing if unauthorized charges are made to your card as a result of shopping at our online store.

Customer Service is #1 to us
We are committed to providing you with the best customer experience in the industry. We have served thousands of satisfied customers. You may call us toll-free at 1-800-559-3314, and e-mail us any time. We will respond to your email request right away.

Easy Returns
We are committed to providing you with the best customer experience in the industry, and we want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, we will make arrangements to exchange, replace, or accept your return for a full refund on the original amount of the purchase price less shipping (does not apply to custom orders).

We have an Excellent Business Rating
We are a member in excellent standing with the Better Business Bureau of Indiana. Please be sure to check the local Business rating (of the company you are considering ordering from) before you purchase socks. Please call us if you have any questions or need help with this.

We deliver our orders FAST!
We ship our socks directly from the manufacturer and most orders ship within 24 hours of being placed. Our customers have come to expect fast deliveries and that is just what we do.

Your Privacy Valued
We value and respect the privacy of our customers. We do not sell or rent the information you provide to us online to third parties. However, we do share your information with third parties under certain circumstances, primarily for order fulfillment.

Physical Store Front
We do not have a physical store front, as selling online is a more efficient business model that allows us to offer a much larger selection and better prices than most retail stores.

This review was written for Family Review Network and Socks4Life. I received 3 packs of socks in return for doing the review and was offered a giveaway opportunity. The review is all mine and was not influenced by FRN, Socks4Life or the incentives.

Back to School with Sam's Club

2010-08-18T12:29:00.004-04:00

As your family starts to think about the new school year, you may be wondering how you can collect the most Box Tops to help support participating schools in your area.

For an easy solution, head over to your local Sam’s Club from Aug. 11 through Aug. 31 and earn more cash for your school. At the Sam’s Club Back-to-School event, you can get a head start on your collection and find 6 Box Tops on participating General Mills products. With your favorite Box Tops for Education brands at a great value, Sam’s Club is your one-stop destination for all your back-to-school supplies you need to send your kids off to school with confidence!

In addition, Sam’s Club is giving you the opportunity to earn even more Box Tops when you upgrade to a “Plus Membership.” From Aug. 6 – Aug. 13, or while supplies last, visit the Member Services Desk of your local Sam’s Club and upon payment for your Plus Membership, you will receive a certificate for 150 Bonus Box Tops! For more information on how you can take advantage of the Back-to-School event at Sam’s Club, visit www.samsclub.com today!

I've been a Sam's Club member for years and we love it. They have great deals on books, pens, pencils, binders, clothes and many of your other back to school needs. As a homeschooler I really love them for craft supplies. We also use them to buy quick lunches in the frozen section. They have hot pockets, pizza rolls, enchiladas, philly steak sandwhiches, mini chicken sandwhiches and much more. Most people don't think of food when they think back to school but we do because we like variety but need fast. It is also a great place to find quick and easy lunch ideas for public schoolers. You can get fruit bowls, pudding, chips, snack crackers, small bags of cookies and drinks at really good prices and then you just pop them in the lunch box. With it all prepackaged and easy to grab you may even have time to write you child a quick note letting them know how much you love them, how proud you are of them, and to encourage them.

I know most of us have already started back to school but that's ok because now you've had time to know what your child could really use to help them have a successful year. To help you with that Sam's Club wants to give one of my blessed readers a $25 gift card to use towards your childs new school year. Leave me a comment and tell me what you would use your card towards if you are the blessed winner!
The giveaway will run until August 24th at 9pm est.

Sam's Club and General Mills for providing me with a Sam's Club Plus Membership and $25 gift card for my use and to giveaway, along with the information provided in my post through MyBlogSpark. All opinions on this blog are mine and are not influenced by the free products or the companies providing them.

Shox Scooter

2010-08-13T14:55:00.000-04:00

All I can say is WOW! The new Shox Scooter by Shred Sled. The Shred Sled company speacilizes in extreme sports products for kids. This definitely takes scootering to the extreme. We have had several scooters in the past from the three-wheel first scooter version to the regular two wheel aluminum version but this is bar far the best made. The shox absord the hits well. It is easy to fold and store and the handlebars adjust in height for various riders. Youngest's scooter was stolen several months ago so both boys have been sharing one. They are decent on their scooter and ramp but I believe this will take them to a whole new level. Hubby and I were like kids when it arrived. We took it out of the box and the first thing Hubby said was "they know how to make them". He was impressed with how much more sturdy it seemed compared to the other one we have. We both scooted it across the floor to see how smooth it was and raised and let down the handle bars which also seemed a bit easier. I can't say how well the boys did on it as we haven't given it to them yet. With times being as they are, and Hubby's work being touch and go as it was we decided to put this up as a Christmas gift. I know Youngest will love it. We are planning on trying to get oldest the Shred Sled for Christmas also. I am sure we will have lots of videos to share after Christmas morning.
Shred Sled and Shox Scooter retail for around $60.00 and can be purchased in stores and online.

Thanks to Shred Sled and Team Mom for this awesome opportunity!

CoverGirl: Winner's

2010-08-02T13:21:00.003-04:00

And the Winners are.............

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

4
73

Timestamp: 2010-08-02 17:22:38 UTC

Shel said... 4: I'd like to try the Glamorous look

shel704 at aol dot com

Steph said... 73: They both looks great but I would go with the Glamorous Look.; 7/30/10 1:04 PM

CONGRATS! You each have 3 days to email me your mailing information or new winners will be chosen.

Pillsbury WINNER!

2010-07-28T23:58:00.002-04:00

And the Winner is.....................................

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2010-07-29 03:58:05 UTC

Angie said... 94: I love cheesecake!; 7/26/10 3:07 AM

Congrats Angie! Please remember that you have 3 days to send me your mailing information or a new winner will be chosen.

Be a CoverGirl Makeup Master

2010-07-21T11:32:00.003-04:00

Are you a makeup maven? Do you love trying out new cosmetics and experimenting with different looks? Then now is your chance to become a Makeup Master with new CoverGirl Smoky Eye Look Solutions available at Walmart!

With tools to create stunning lids, liner and lashes, CoverGirl has everything you need to create a celebrity Smoky Eye Look in 1-2-3 Steps. Whether you’re running errands, spending a fun night out with the girls, or enjoying date night with someone special, the CoverGirl SmokyShadowBlast, LineExact Liquid Liner and LashBlast Volume-Blasting Mascara make it simple to create the perfect Smoky Eye in a flash.

To help make it even easier to achieve the eye-catching effect every woman wants, CoverGirl Celebrity Makeup Master Molly Stern is here to offer her expertise. The biggest names in Hollywood rely on Molly for their red carpet looks and now she’s ready to pass on her expert advice to you.

As a stay at home mom I don't have much cause to wear makeup but as a woman I still enjoy putting it on at times. My problem is that it has been years since I have really worn make up and I am not up on the latest fashions. Enter Covergirls Smoky Eye Look and suddenly anyone can become a Makeup Master. I was recently given the chance to try Cover girl's new smoky eye look line and I really enjoyed it. I used the natural look. The mascara was very nice and made my lashes long and luscious. Even my boys were amazed. Of course they were amazed I was putting on makeup at all and silently sat in the bathroom to watch me "paint" my face. I also like the eyeshadow. It was a new experience for me to use lipstick for eyeshadow but that is basically what it felt like. The coverage was good though and the overall look was nice. The only product I wasn't thrilled with was the eye liner. I have tried the liquid liner once before and it just isn't for me. I don't have the steadiest hands and that stuff really flows. I had to clean up some of my mess before I was presentable. Overall it was a great experience and with the covergirl 1-2-3 step process it really is easy to become a makeup maven!

I have 2 Smoky Eye Look kits to give away. One is the bold look and the other is the glamorous look. If you would like to see if one of those is the look for you then leave me a comment below and be sure to tell me which of the two you would like to try. There will be two randomly chosen winners announced next Friday July 30 at 9 pm EST.

The CoverGirl Smoky Eye kit, information and walmart gift card I received were all provided by CoverGirl through MyBlogSpark.

Pillsbury: MMMMMM mmmmm GOOD!

2010-07-21T11:05:00.004-04:00

I LOVE chocolate and I love the Pillsbury Doughboy. No joke. A few years ago you could get doh boy points on pillsbury products and turn them in for various Doughboy stuff. I got it most of everything they had. We still have the Doughboy 18 wheeler. We also love the convenience of shopping at Sam's. When I discovered that all of these things could go together I was thrilled. I have bought the mini brownies from Sam's for years but the Pillsbury Chocolate Chunk Fudge Brownies are so much better. I was shocked when I bit into my first one. They were so moist! And I love the chocolate chunks in them. I also liked that the box was large enough to accomodate more than just my family. These would be great to take to a potluck as they feed many people. We used ours for Oldest's birthday "cake". Hubby wanted to try them with cream cheese frosting so he frosted one end and we lit the candles and dug in. I didn't like the cream cheese on them but the brownies themselves were great. It is definitely a purchase we will make again.

Pillsbury Chocolate Chunk Fudge Brownies are available exclusively at Sam´s Club.

With a taste as delicious and authentic as if you baked them at home, Pillsbury Chocolate Chunk Fudge Brownies are a blend of 3 types of cocoas with real chocolate syrup and milk chocolate chunks to make a delicious fudgy brownie-they´re the perfect solution when you´re pressed for time. Add personal flair to these already-baked brownies with your own decorations, frosting, caramel or powdered sugar! With a straight-out-of-the-oven flavor without the time or clean-up, Pillsbury Chocolate Chunk Fudge Brownies are a great treat for any occasion!

In addition, when purchasing Pillsbury Chocolate Chunk Fudge Brownies at Sam´s Club, you have the chance to support your local school with Box Tops for Education. Each package of Pillsbury Chocolate Chunk Fudge Brownies has 6 Bonus Box Tops that can be redeemed to earn cash for the K-8 school of your choice.

Now that I have your mouth watering, would you like to win some? The prize includes a large container for storing your brownies, an iciing kit and a $25 Sam's gift card for purchasing the brownies.

To enter leave me a comment telling me what your favorite dessert is. The contest will end on Monday, July 26 at 9:00pm EST.

Product, information, and gift packs were given to me from Pillsbury and MyBlogSpark to facilitate my review.

Chaos

2010-07-17T14:28:00.003-04:00

Chaos that is my life. Why, is my life chaos? Because I make it that way. No, I don't chose to get up every morning and waste the day away and then make myself feel terrible for getting nothing done.... it just happens that way. It started with a bout of depression but it continued and eventually it throws me back into depression. So I've decided to do something about it. For months I have ranted and raved about how everyone else in my house is lazy and self centered and doesn't get anything done and how I am the only one who does ANYTHING! Well sometimes it really does feel like I'm the only one doing anything and since I'm not really doing much then nothing is getting done, BUT I'm not. The boys do get up and after some reminding they do get their chores done and, if I'm honest, those are sometimes the only chores that get done. I make sure we have food on the table and I do the laundry and dishes - when I feel like it- I mean, after all, I am really busy. Well here's my confession: I'm really not busy, I'm lazy, I'm self-centered and I'm tired of being that way. So this summer I have stepped up my game. I am working on getting on a better schedule and spending less time wasting my time and more time using my time wisely. God has blessed me with a great family and a nice house and I don't show Him how much I appreciate that. He also allows me to have time to waste so I figure I better start showing him how much I appreciate the blessings he's given me. I am in several really good review groups and I have even dropped the ball on those. To all my review hosts and all the sponsors they hook us up with I am truly SORRY for my slack. Please allow me to make it up to you all. I love doing reviews and my family loves helping me with them. So here's how my day use to go:
Get up around lunchtime (maybe) you know just whenever I felt like it. I mean I'm not really sleeping in here anyway, I am talking to the kids and monitoring what they are doing in between dozing and there is really nothing important to do anyway and I am tired.
Turn on the computer, take care of hygeine, get food and sit in front of computer. I'll only be here for a few minutes...............3 hours later, yep still there. I mean I have started some laundry and dumped some more on the couch and I've made sure the boys did their chores and are playing nicely. NO I can't play with them I'm busy. I mean Farmville, Country Life, Frontierville they are so important. If I don't harvest it will wilt, if I don't finish my task I won't get a new one. My friends are going to get past me in the games whatever will I do.
Oh it's time for dinner, ok I guess I 'll make something. Cook, eat, get back on game. I mean now my friends on here for me to chat with and I haven't talked to her in at least an hour. She hasn't been on the computer all day so I need to get on there with her. Yes, I'm coming to put you to bed. Boys bedtime routine but sorry we didn't have time to read tonight I was just to busy.
Now goodnight to everyone it is FINALLY MY time, so guess where I go. Yep, back to the computer and back to the games and occassionally I watch a show online while I fold the clothes or file the paperwork but that is only if I really just can't stand it anymore.

Now, as all of you read that in shock and think how can anyone waste their days like that....don't be so surprised it happens more than you know all over this country. It may not be the computer, but it is something. The television, that new novel, the hobby of scrapbooking, hiking, biking, bug collecting, bird watching, ________________. We all do it. You may say yes but I'm hiking and that is exercise. True but is it keeping you from doing the important things. From appreciating the important people. If you are one of those rare people who balance their time right then congratulations, tell us how to do it. But most of us don't. And those with children can be worse because they justify running in 50 directions just because their kids are in this or that club. If you don't have any family time other than the 5 minutes in the car to or from somewhere there is something wrong. So many of us ask "Why don't my kids mind me? Why don't they respect me?" Well it's because we don't give them the time to. We don't consistently expect them to. How many of you know that your child LOVES the activity(s) you have them in. Are they allowed to say they don't like something and they want to stop doing it. How often do you make them go to ball practice or dance class but allow them to skip church, or bible camp, or the youth activity on Saturday because you're just to busy and need the break. Our priorities are not right and I for one am working on that. I can only change my habbits and hopefully change the direction of my family some, but what about you? Does your family need change? How long have you been hiding the truth about how busy you really are? Can you change? Do you want to? I do, but it's hard. I have years of laziness and indifference to change and that is not easy. I get discouraged because I'm trying so hard but don't immediately see the fruits of that labor.
The thing is I know that God is not a God of chaos. I've brought this to myself and only I can decide to change it. God will help me. He is faithful. And with Him my life will no longer be chaos. Please pray with me as I continue to make these changes and share your story too. We can encourage each other.
Also look for more great product reviews and giveaways to appear really soon.

Kroger Pound for Pound WINNER!

2010-06-27T17:47:00.001-04:00

And the Winner is..........

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2010-06-27 21:46:48 UTC

Tracie said... 7: My favorite Biggest Loser contestant was Daris form this season.

RaindropT@netscape.net

Congrats! You have three days to send me your address or a new winner will be chosen. Thank you for entering.

Bake Life Sweeter WINNER

2010-06-18T19:30:00.001-04:00

And the Winner IS...........

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2010-06-18 23:29:51 UTC

Becky said...

I can comments now! Wooohooo! You did a good job on the cupcakes! Looks yummy. I made a race track cake one year for my son. Use oreo crumbs for the track, super easy!

6/8/10 1:31 PM

Email me your address and I will get this headed your way. Congrats! You have three days to claim your prize or a new winner will be chosen.

Motor Oil Matters

2010-06-18T17:03:00.003-04:00

Did you know that in the United States the average age of cars and light trucks on the roads today has reached a record high of 9.4 years? That means it’s more important than ever to take proper care of your vehicle.

With the informative Web site www.MotorOilMatters.org (created by the maker of industry-leading brands Pennzoil and Quaker State) you can easily locate key information about how quality motor oils can help prolong your engine’s life and improve overall efficiency, as well as help answer other questions you may have about motor oil. In addition, the site offers a fun, educational game for you to play called “M.O.M. Knows Best” where you can put your motor mind to the test with an interactive quiz.

Did you know?

According to a recent survey from the Automotive Service Association, more than 54 percent of customers who take their vehicles for service and repair are women

Using a high-quality motor oil in the right grade can help maximize fuel economy

Low-quality oils that do not meet industry standards or the vehicle manufacturer’s requirements could cost consumers in the long run by potentially damaging the vehicle’s engine or possibly voiding the manufacturer’s warranty

Another reason to look to a high-quality motor oil – like Pennzoil and Quaker State - is that it is designed to meet the demands of today’s engines

In order to help you get started on taking better care of your car I am giving one of my readers a $35 gift card to Jiffy Lube. All you have to do is visit www.MotorOilMatters.org and then come back here and tell me what you found the most interesting. The contest will be open until 9pm on June 28th.

The information and Jiffy Lube card to give away were all given to me from Shell Lubricants and MotorOilMatters.org through MyBlogSpark.

Get In Touch With Your Inner Goddess

2010-06-11T21:52:00.004-04:00

Yoplait has always been a favorite snack of mine and now they've made it even better.
With 12 grams of protein -- twice that found in leading yogurts-- new Yoplait Greek nourishes from the inside out. Available in four delicious flavors, Strawberry, Blueberry, Honey Vanilla and Plain, the brand’s newest offering has a unique thick and creamy texture with the unmatched taste expected of Yoplait.
To celebrate its new Greek yogurt and to encourage women to nourish their inner goddess, Yoplait has teamed up with actress Izabella Miko, who plays Greek Goddess Athena in the epic adventure new Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Legendary Pictures’ film “Clash of the Titans,” in theatres April 2 in 3D.

I bet some of you have seen this featured on The Biggest Loser and thought about trying it but just haven't done it yet. Well now you can on me. I am giving away a Get In Touch With Your Inner Goddess prize pack that you're sure to love. And just in case you can't wait to see if you win you can go here to get a coupon to get your own right now.

Now if this prize pack peeks your interest then read the entry directions below:
To enter just leave me a comment telling me what flavor of Yoplait Greek Yogurt you most want to try or how you get in touch with your inner goddess. This giveaway will end on June 17 at 9pm Est.

The VIP coupons, gift pack, information and additional gift pack to give away were all given to me from Yoplait and MyBlogSpark.

Betty Crocker Bake Life Sweeter

2010-06-06T15:08:00.005-04:00

This year Betty Crocker can help you with the party planning by providing everything you need to throw an awesome birthday party for your child, Betty Crocker style!

BettyCrocker.com has all your party-planning needs, including instructional videos, shopping lists, party activities and games, and even invitations that can be printed from your home computer! There’s a wide variety of great party themes to choose from, including:

Out of this World Space Party

Firehouse Party

Under the Sea Mermaid Party

Pony Pals Party

Train Party

Magical Princess Party

Pandas Forever Party

Robots Rule Party

Around here we LOVE chocolate and Betty Crocker's SuperMoist Chocolate Fudge cake is always a winner. For our guests that don't love chocoate as much as us I also make the Betty Crocker SuperMoist Golden Vanilla cake. With youngest he celebrated with a friend who has a birthday within a few days of his so I made cupcakes for that and some more for his party. I didn't use one of Betty Crocker's cool cake designs due to lack of time and patience but we are planning to make one as a family fun project this summer.

The very generous people at Betty Crocker are offering one of my readers a gift pack that will include VIP coupons and everything you will need to make your very own birthday cake. To win visit the Betty Crocker site and tell me what cake you would like to recreate. This giveaway will end on June 14th at 9pm EST.

The information in this post, VIP coupons, gift card, Flip video camera and gift pack were all given to me from Betty Crocker and MyBlogSpark.

Kroger's Pound for Pound Challenge

2010-06-06T14:45:00.005-04:00

You’ve seen the Biggest Loser on TV, watched contestant’s struggles and achievements, and may have even thought, “Hey, I can do that!” Instead of waiting for the BBQs to be over and your schedule to open up, put all excuses aside and make a pledge to live healthier with the Pound For Pound Challenge.

The Kroger Co. Family of Stores, General Mills, NBC's hit TV Show “The Biggest Loser” and other key sponsors are partnering to donate up to $1,080,000 to Feeding America this year.

Here’s how you can help:

Visit Kroger to make your pledge to lose weight and to get more information and to find tools to change your life for the better. It is free, easy and only takes a minute to make a change that can help you and help the hungry in your local community.
Through June 30, 2010, for every pound you pledge to lose, the Pound For Pound Challenge will donate 14¢ to Feeding America® — enough to deliver one pound of groceries to a local food bank.

As the official supplier of the Biggest Loser Ranch and partner of the Pound for Pound Challenge, the Kroger Family of Stores wants to help you achieve your goals. If you’re a fan of the Biggest Loser, you may have seen several great General Mills products featured on the show. These products, including Yoplait Greek yogurt, Total, and Multigrain Cheerios, are available at your local Kroger Family of Stores and can help you stick to your weight management plan.

I joined Kroger's Pound for Pound challenge and I hope you will too. To help you get started the Kroger's Family of Stores and General Mills is offering one of my readers a $30 Kroger giftcard good at any of the Kroger's Family of Stores. To participate in this giveaway please go to the Kroger Pound for Pound site and leave your pledge then come back here and tell me how much you pledge. For an extra entry leave me a comment telling me who your favorite Biggest Loser contestant is (from any season) and how they inspired you. This contest will end on June 21st at 9 pm EST.

This post was written for My Blog Spark as part of the Pound for Pound Challenge sponsored by Kroger's Family of Stores and General Mills who provided the gift card for me and one for my winner.

Cardstore.Com

2010-05-15T11:44:00.000-04:00

Cardstore.com offers 7,000 designs from 70 artists for greeting cards, invitations, photo cards, holiday cards, thank you cards, holiday cards and other stationary products. Every item can be personalized to meet your unique needs – choose from 18 different fonts in 10 colors. Cards and other products can be purchased in any amount – even singly if you only need one card at a time (there are no minimum orders). You can choose to ship your order to your own address, or you can upload your address book and they will address your cards for you – and even stamp and send them out if you want. Other than paying for postage if you want them to send your cards, there is no extra cost.

For the past 10 years, Cardstore.com has offered the best online selection of photo greeting cards at fantastic prices. As the site’s signature product, the versatile photo greeting cards can be customized for any occasion, from birthdays and holidays to special occasions. Simply upload photos into a designer template, or add them to a blank, bordered or collage layout. Customize it further with inside photos (a free “upgrade”) and a personal message.

Whether you want to celebrate your mom or dad, send spooky Halloween greetings, or spread holiday cheer amongst family & friends, Cardstore.com is the online destination for creating seasonal holiday cards. Personalize greetings for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Halloween, Christmas, Hanukkah, and Valentine’s Day with your own message and up to 14 photos. From modern, to classic, to whimsical, Cardstore has hundreds of festive cards to choose from — or for more creative freedom, design your own photo card from blank templates.

Designer Quality at a Bargain Price:

No hidden fees – “upgrades” like return addresses or shipping the cards to an address list are included at no extra cost
Prices start at $0.79 per card and are never more than $3.00
Enjoy high quality cards designed by well-known stationery artists, but printed on professional digital presses to make it budget-friendly
Uses sustainable printing and recycled paper; facilities are Forestry Stewardship Council certified
The Address Book stores your recipients’ contact information, making it easy to send invitations, announcements or holiday cards directly to friends and family
The Permanent Shopping Cart allows you to store your creations until you’re ready to order them and use your Shopping Profile to save your shipping and billing information for your next purchase
Envelopes and digital proofs are included at no extra charge

My opinion:

This is a great resource for those of us with limited time available. They have a huge selection of cards available and you can personalize each of them! If you're really in a bind for time you can even upload your address book and they will mail your cards directly to the recipient of your choice for no extra charge!

I didn't have anything coming up to need a personalized card for someone else but my Nana loves to get handwritten notes from me so I ordered some blank cards with just my name on the front. Since I have an unusual name it is hard to find something with my name spelled correctly so I always enjoy being able to do that without paying an arm and a leg. I received a $35 gift credit to use towards my purchase and was able to get several cards with my name on the front. I picked two different styles but I could have picked several as there is no minimal order, so if you only need one card that is fine with them. Here's what I got:

They are of excellent quality and very sturdy cardstock paper. The colors are vibrant and I was very impressed. They have a ton of Christmas cards to choose from and I am seriously considering cheating and using them this year for that task. Christmas is usually my biggest shipping time for cards as I try to send one to all the family with a picture. This year I can just upload my picture to the card and have Cardstore.com ship my cards out for me!

This review was written for Family Review Network and Cardstore.com who provided me with a $35 gift card to use towards their site.

The Lunar Antics Presents:

2010-05-07T20:10:00.007-04:00

The Lunar Antics Presents is a collection of newspaper-style cartoons about moon inhabitants who are the ultimate outsiders. But it’s not about them, it’s about us. And these cartoons are not available online or in newspapers—just in book form.

Parents are concerned about what is in the media and are working hard to shield their children from inappropriate material. The Lunar Antics is a great solution to this problem.

First I have to admit that I agreed to this review without fully understanding what I was getting into. Due to the picture on the cover, the title, and the short video I watched I thought that this was a comic book about what we are made of such as DNA and other science stuff. As a homeschooler I jumped at the chance to review such a book so I was unpleasantly shocked to find out that is not what the book was about. I will admit that had I read the whole description I may have been somewhat prepared for it to not be about that but I still wouldn't have fully understood what it is about. To me it comes across as people complaining about life. I don't feel that it is appropriate for children at all. Highschool aged children maybe but not younger as most of them wouldn't understand what it was about at all and it could skew their opinions of things. It is full of sarcasm which I did not enjoy. It did have some minor humor such as this skit:This is not a book I would let my children read and I myself did not really enjoy it although I know some adults who I will be passing it onto who will most likely really enjoy it and find it much more humorous than I did. If this seems like something you would enjoy or if you know others that might then check out the Lunar Antics website to order one. They offer free shipping and they'll even autograph your book free!

I would like to thank Lunar Antics for providing me with a free copy of their book and also Family Review Network for this opportunity.

Heat Wave

2010-05-01T23:31:00.002-04:00

We have had mostly mild weather here in GA but today has been MUGGY! It has made it really hot to me. To make it worse the air conditioner isn't keeping up with it. It is only 75 degrees in here but it seems so much hotter. Last summer we knew we had issues with the air because it wasn't keeping the front of the house cool but the front doesn't stay warm in the winter either. Some of it is issues with the duct work. So today I bought a small room air conditioner. Without it Hubby would be spending the summer sleeping on the couch.
On top of the heat wave I am STILL working on my organizing project in the house. It has about done me in and I have been ready to quit several times but I am sticking to it. Oldest's room is done, the living room is nearly done and the bathroom is getting very close. Our bedroom is organized but not clean. I feel like in all of the organizing I have lost the ability to clean. So tonight I am working on that. I have Julia & Julie going on the tv and am working my way along.
Well, I was working until I got the urge to blog. I haven't done a regular post in a while and the urge just overcame me. So there you have it. Now back to work.

Car Care and Informed Women

2010-04-22T15:01:00.000-04:00

April is both National Car Care and National Informed Women Month and a perfect opportunity to get empowered to care for your car! Did you know that in the United States the average age of cars and light trucks on the roads today has reached a record high of 9.4 years? That means it´s more important than ever to take proper care of your vehicle.

With the informative Web site www.MotorOilMatters.org (created by the maker of industry-leading brands Pennzoil and Quaker State) you can easily locate key information about how quality motor oils can help prolong your engine´s life and improve overall efficiency, as well as help answer other questions you may have about motor oil. In addition, the site offers a fun, educational game for you to play called "M.O.M. Knows Best" where you can put your motor mind to the test with an interactive quiz.

Did you know?

According to a recent survey from the Automotive Service Association, more than 54 percent of customers who take their vehicles for service and repair are women

Using a high-quality motor oil in the right grade can help maximize fuel economy

Low-quality oils that do not meet industry standards or the vehicle manufacturer´s requirements could cost consumers in the long run by potentially damaging the vehicle´s engine or possibly voiding the manufacturer´s warranty

Another reason to look to a high-quality motor oil - like Pennzoil and Quaker State - is that it is designed to meet the demands of today´s engines

The information contained in this post along with the gift card I received were provided by Shell Lubricants and www.MotorOilMatters.org through MyBlogSpark.

Growing Up

2010-04-10T19:41:00.003-04:00

I hate that my boys are growing up. I feel like it wasn't long ago I was crying over moving Youngest from his crib and finding toddler beds for both boys, and then trepidatious about watching them learn to ride two wheel bikes. Now they want to learn how to use bows and arrows and bee bee guns. Of course there are times like tonight when Youngest is in the tub playing with his batman submarine and characters while Oldest is outside playing on the slide. Still I know that time is moving faster than I care to think about.
It is hard for me to realize that it has been 15 years since I graduated and 13 and a half years since I said I do. It just doesn't seem that long ago. This has been a hard year and a half for me. I have been dealing with depression and am trying to keep looking on the bright side but days like today seem to get me down. Hubby and I are struggling through some things and motherhood isn't the rosey, dreamy state I thought it would be. My kids DO get mad at me and I DO mess up and am not always the attentive, caring and calm mom I always said I would be. And I'm definitely not cool. I hope my boys know how much I love them and how much I struggle to not let the stress of life interfere with how I treat them but I know I fail in so many ways.
So for now I'm going to stop thinking about those toddler bed s days and focus on the boys in the tub and on the slide and cherish what time I still have with them. Tomorrow is for tomorrow and I shall just look on today. So now I'm going to get of this computer and curl up on Oldest's bed with both my boys and read a book. How do you cherish your family and what do you enjoy with your kids?

Dove Men + Care: Win A BackYard Makeover

2010-03-22T22:30:00.007-04:00

My husband is always talking about how I get these great, cool or fun products to review but that I never get anything for him. I have tried to get fishing, hunting and golfing equipment to review but it just hasn't come through. So, when I got an email about the Dove Men + Care products I called him to the computer to see if he was interested. He is a bar soap kinda guy so I wasn't sure he would do it but he did. He LOVES the Active Clean Shower Tool and enjoys the bodywash also. I love the how he feels and smells after a shower. It is not an overpowering smell but is just right. He says he also sees a difference in his body odor level throughout the day. Since he sweats a lot that is a huge plus to him.

To help introduce their new line Dove is hosting the Unsung Moment Backyard Makeover giveaway. You can help your man win a Manly Backyard Makeover Prize Package and Dove Men + Care Products in the Dove Unsung Moments Sweepstakes. From that time he gave up the remote so that you could watch your favorite show to when you saw him cheering louder at your son's baseball game than at a professional game. Share that Unsung Moment when you noticed your man was truly comfortable in his own skin.

You can also win a Dove Men + Care body wash and bar soap by leaving me a comment here. I will give a bonus entry to those who become my fan on Facebook and an additional entry to those who post about this giveaway on their FB page after following me. And still another entry if you blog about this giveaway linking back to me. So you have 4 chances to win this great product for the man in your life. The giveaway ends on April 2 at 9pm Est.

This post was written for Family Review Network as part of a program for Dove Men + Care , who supplied the Body Wash and Soap for review and giveaway.

Kroger's Winner!

2010-03-17T21:40:00.002-04:00

And the winner is.......

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2010-03-18 01:39:48 UTC

AF_wife said... 14: I can always find good deals on cereal and toaster struedel at Kroger. Especially during cart busters!!

stephanie_dunbar07 at hotmail dot com

Kroger's Cart Buster Savings

2010-03-10T21:28:00.004-05:00

Saving money on groceries is top of mind these days, and with the Cart Buster Savings Event EXCLUSIVELY at Kroger and the Kroger Family of Stores, the prices are so low you can stock up on all your favorite brands without breaking the bank (though you might bust your cart!)

From now through March 14th, shop the Cart Buster Savings Event and find the hottest prices around on your favorite name-brand products in over 60 categories at the Kroger Family of Stores, which includes Kroger, Ralph’s, King Soopers, City Market, Dillons, Smith’s, Fry’s, QFC, Baker’s, Owen’s, Jay C Food Stores, Hilander, Food4Less, Pay Less Super Markets and Scott’s Food & Pharmacy.

Here are just a few of the great brands participating in the event: Honey Nut Cheerios, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Pillsbury, Betty Crocker, Hamburger Helper, Yoplait, Progresso, Totino’s, Green Giant, Cascadian Farm, Tide, Charmin, Bounty, Pampers, Pantene, Crest, Iams, Febreze, Old Spice and many more!

In celebration of the cart buster savings I am giving one of my readers a $25 Kroger gift card. I know that it won't arrive to the winner in time for the cart buster event but Kroger always has great prices and wonderful savings for you take advantage of. To enter just leave me a comment sharing the best deal you ever found at Kroger. Giveaway ends at 9pm EST on March 12.

The gift card, information, and giveaway have all been provided by the Kroger Family of Stores and General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

Suffering With God

2010-03-07T21:16:00.003-05:00

I've had in mind to write the post several times and have never gotten around to it. I thought I better get it down before I forget the details.

A couple months ago Youngest was very upset with me. He didn't think it was fair that he had to do chores and school and what not and that I wouldn't let him have a friend over right then. He said he was going to run away. I told him that I guess if he wanted to he could but that it would be really hard. He went to his room with Oldest and I went to my room to clean it up and to pray. It had been a very trying day. A little bit later I was walking through the house and I asked Oldest where his brother was. "He ran away." was his reply. So I went to the front door and opened it and what I saw was not at all what I was expecting. There stood Youngest at the end of the driveway, crying and having a full-out conversation with himself. About this time Hubby called to check in during his lunch break and I filled him in on what was going on. Then I asked Youngest what he was doing. His reply took me off guard.

Me: "What are you doing?"

Youngest: "Suffering with God."

Me: "Suffering with God?"

Youngest: "Yes, I just don't know what to do so I'm suffering with God. I don't know if I need to runaway or if I need to stay."

Me: "Why don't you come back in and we can talk about it"

So he came back in and Daddy had a talk with him. I didn't get the whole conversation but the most significant part was when Youngest told Hubby that he was saved and that he knew he was saved and that is why he had to suffer with God because he wanted to run away but he didn't think God wanted him to.

I'm really not sure where he got the phrase "suffering with God" but if it means to go to God and have Him help you suffer through your troubles then maybe we should all "suffer with God" a bit more often.

2010-02-20T21:50:00.002-05:00

And the winner is.........

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2010-02-21 02:50:02 UTC

Kia89 said... 12: My favorite is Warm Vanilla Sugar from Bath and Body Works.
austma7@aol.com
You have three days to email me your address or a new winner will be chosen. Congrats!

A Letter To Rude People:

2010-02-19T18:52:00.003-05:00

Dear Rude Person #1: Thank you for taking your very precious time away from gossiping with your co-worker to help me. I am truly sorry I bothered you. Thank you, also, for letting me know how stupid I apparently looked by trying to convince me that your regular sticker price was a CLEARANCE price and a really really good one. Thank you also for lying and saying that you aren't allowed to give discounts on floor models due to store policy (I called another store and was told that if it is a discontinued item they DO give discounts on floor models.) Also thank you, thank you, thank you for showing how dumb you really are by not knowing that a freezer has a control knob. And by again trying to convince me that I was getting a good deal on that discontinued, non-marked down freezer by comparing it to an upright freezer which cost way more. Truly, I thank you for not taking my money and convincing me not to ever shop your store again.

Dear Rude Person #2: Thank you for rudely interrupting my teaching moment with my son. When a mother is at the register trying to help her son figure out the right amount of money to give the cashier please don't interrupt her and GIVE him the answer. I was polite enough to make sure there was nobody else in line that we were holding up and I also noticed there were 3 other employees in your area and very few customers. If I had wanted to give my son the answer I would have.

Dear Rude Person #3: Thank you for huffing at me when I was too slow at doing YOUR job for you by bagging my own groceries. Thank you also for slamming my next product down on top of the baggy holder. I appreciated that. I would also like to thank you for being so rude to my son who was working hard at figuring at the correct money to give you. At least you didn't just give him the answer. The man behind us was very patient and from the look on his face he couldn't believe I kept my mouth shut when you were being so blatantly rude. Also thank you so very much for not giving my son back his change. That did actually teach him a lesson but you still owe us a penny.

I am truly glad I was able to meet all of these rude people today as it made me so much more appreciative of the people I came home too.

Caress Your Skin

2010-02-06T19:53:00.002-05:00

I love winter time but I hate the dry skin that comes along with it. Several years ago I tried a few different kinds of body wash but wasn't happy with them. One of them was very dry, almost as if it just sat on top of my skin and then rinsed away and the other one left me feeling oily even after drying off. I hated them! When I was approached with the opportunity to review Caress' Evenly Gorgeous Exfoliating Body Wash and bars, I was skeptical but because of my out of control dry skin I decided to give it a try. I LOVE IT! I'm not just saying that either. It has really helped my dry skin, and I love the smell of it. Hubby and both boys have commented on how nice it smells. Now, they liked my old soap too but this got new comments and what girl doesn't like being told "you smell good". Oldest was snuggling with me and said "wow, mommy you smell really good." I was floating.

I am also happy to say that one of my readers will be able to enjoy trying this product also. I am giving away one set of Caress' Evenly Gorgeous Exfoliating bars to the person who is randomly chosen. To win please leave me a comment telling me your favorite soap/body wash. It doesn't have to be Caress to win this just tell me your favorite soap.

The contest is open to US residents only and will end at 9pm EST on Feb. 19.

"This review was done as part of a campaign for Caress through Family Review Network. All opinions are 100% mine."

Aprons Winner

2010-02-04T16:17:00.003-05:00

I would like to thank Rose and Erika for bringing to my attention their trouble in entering the contest. I did add 2 extra numbers to the drawing to represent you each. Sorry you didn't win this time but please keep coming back. And thanks for the compliments on my boys!

And the winner is............

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

19

Timestamp: 2010-02-04 16:35:18 UTC

calvad said... 19: I would love to win the Women's original Sassy Black apron but they are all so cute.; 2/3/10 5:46 AM

You have until Monday, Feb. 8 to send me your final apron choice and address or a new winner will be chosen.

Flirty Aprons GIVEAWAY

2010-01-30T23:45:00.002-05:00

I recently did a review on Flirty Aprons. Now I am able to offer one to one of my readers. If you would like to win an apron please leave me a comment by Thursday February 4th.

Good Luck!!

Snow Day

2010-01-20T03:37:00.008-05:00

Recently we had snow. Now since we live in GA we don't often get snow that sticks so the boys were super excited. We got less than an inch but they still made the best of it. It started in the afternoon on the 7th and they even had me outside at 9pm (past bedtime) making snow angels and having snow ball fights. Now picture a snowball fight with balls barely the size of golf balls. They didn't care though it was a blast. The next day Daddy got out and played with them and then we went sledding. Oldest didn't last long. He quickly began to complain about the cold and wanted to come home. He also learned a very hard lesson. His hands were really cold and even though I had told him the night before not to do it, he did it anyway.... as soon as he walked inside he went to the bathroom, turned on the hot water and stuck his hands right in it. We didn't know what had happened when he started squalling. I had told him to stand near the heater and rub his hands together to warm them slowly but NOOOO momma doesn't know anything. Maybe he'll listen next time. After some outdoor fun we came in for some hot chocolate (the real kind with milk warmed on the stove and just the right amount of Nesquik added, topped with little marshmallows). Then we played board games such as Sorry Sliders, UNO Spin, Sorry, and Twister. Even the cat and dog got in on twister. It was a really great time. The snow quickly melted but the memories will last a lifetime. Here are a couple videos I took that day.

Youngest getting a helping shove from Daddy.

Sledding on Thin-snow.

Sassy playing Twister with us.

Sassy Twister

Flirty Aprons

2010-01-17T16:17:00.005-05:00

I haven't always worn an apron when cooking but I have done so more and more often lately. I hate having grease spots on my shirts that just don't seem to come out. Until recently the only apron I owned was a denim one that is not very pretty. When I was given the opportunity to review a new pretty apron from Flirty Aprons I was excited. I called Hubby to the computer and asked him to pick out which one he would like me to try. He really wanted me to try the pink one because that is his favorite color on me. Although I thought it was pretty I wasn't sure I would like the way the pockets were on it so he chose the red one instead. I liked it because of where the pockets were situated and I felt that they complimented the overall design better. Here were our top two picks:

When I received the apron I was very pleased. It is sturdily made and is also soft and femine. The tie is long enough to wrap around and tie in the front so it will fit nearly everyone. I prefer to tie mine in the back but the ties are a bit to long, they hang down by my knees. My absolute favorite feature is that the neck ties also so you can adjust it to fit you personally. I have to tie a knot in my other apron because the neck is too long and my apron doesn't fit high enough if I don't shorten it some.

Hubby and I have been reading some marriage books by Kevin Leman and one that we haven't gotten to is called Sex Starts In the Kitchen. Well I'm sure these aprons could help that to happen. The Flirty Aprons Site says "Women's aprons have been an essential part of daily life for ages but now with our new sleek designs women are rediscovering what it means to look and feel cute, fun and sexy in the home." They also say "We commit to having the highest quality women's aprons out there, with that perfect soft-cotton feel. Our fabric is strong, our stitching is precise, our colors don't fade and we know you won't be disappointed."

I know I wasn't disappointed and I don't think you will be either. They have aprons for Women, Men, and girls. My only disappointment was that they didn't have any for boys as Youngest is my kitchen helper and he has really been wanting an apron but it is very difficult to find them for boys.

So if you know someone who loves to cook or if you are in the need of a new apron be sure to check them out. There is sure to be a style you'll like too.

"I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Family Review Network on behalf of Flirty Aprons and received a sample to facilitate my candid review. All opinions expressed are my own."

2010-01-06T01:09:00.004-05:00

General Mills recently announced
a commitment to further reduce sugar in cereals advertised to kids under 12 to single digit grams of sugar per serving. The company
has already been reducing sugar
in cereals while increasing key nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D, and providing whole grain.

Did you know that ready-to-eat cereal eaters consume less fat, less
cholesterol and more fiber than non-cereal eaters? Cereals also deliver
important vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients, making
cereal a top source of key nutrients in children’s diets.

Other cereal benefits:

Ready-to-eat cereals, including presweetened cereals, account for only 5% of sugar in children’s diets.

Ready-to-eat cereal is the No. 1 source of whole grains in a child’s diet today.

More frequent cereal eaters tend to have healthier body weights and lower Body Mass Index measures.

Studies also demonstrate the benefits of eating breakfast. A 1998 study showed that children who eat breakfast tend to perform better at school. Compared to children who skip breakfast, children who eat breakfast score higher on tests, are less likely to miss class or be tardy, have fewer reported discipline problems, and make fewer trips to the office.

For more information about kids and cereals, please visit Cereal Health and Wellness.

Right now if you visit here you will find a $1 off coupon for one of four General Mills cereals.

I received coupons for free cereal and this information for doing this post from General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

Christmas Letter

2010-01-04T13:02:00.003-05:00

I meant to have this up on Christmas day but AT & T decided that the 24th looked close enough to the 29th to them and cut off my internet. Hubby didn't get paid before the holiday so that bill had to wait until the 28th to be paid, which I thought - according to the letter I have - would be fine.... but apparently not. Anyway, we are up and running again so here is my 2009 Christmas letter. I decided to just keep it real and not just highlight the happy points. Let me know what you think.

Dear Friends,

What a year 2009 has turned out to be. We've been through a lot this year and I have come to a place where it is all about keeping it real. So many times when someone asks how we are we answer with a simple "fine", "doing good" or some other non-committal answer. Well I have decided to start answering that question honestly and this letter will reflect some of that . I always send real letters but normally only focus on the happy things that have happened in our lives so this year I'm going to give you a real glimpse into how our year has gone so you can rejoice with us in the lessons learned and the obstacles overcome.

I decided this was the year to kick the weight in the bucket. I joined a gym and hardly ever went. I enjoyed it the few times I did go and would love to get back into it but it is hard to work it into a busy schedule and a small budget. I did manage to loose 20 pounds but that is no where near my goal. I would love to be able to say I lost 50 but it just didn't happen. I've also been working on being a better christian, wife and mother. Man did I fall short of those goals too. My prayer life has greatly improved though, so that is a plus. I did rearrange our school schedule and have done a lot better at sticking with it than I ever did in the past. I'm doing some studying on my own also which is helping me to achieve some of the goals I set and my prayer is that when I write this letter next year I can say all my goals are reached. I'm asking each of you to pray with me that I can stay strong and stay on that path.

Hubby lost his job twice this year. He went through a rough time of being down on himself but has turned that around. He is now working at a good job and is enjoying learning a new trade. We are also trying to work on a budget that will help us out of the slump we got in due to his time of unemployment. It has taught us what we can really do without and in several ways has brought us closer together. Hubby also enjoyed assistant coaching the boys baseball team this spring. The boys loved having dad be a real part of it. In the past he has been hit and miss because of work schedules and so it was nice to see them bond in that way.

Oldest has had a really good year. He did well in baseball but continued to be a bit slower than the other children. We noticed that his ankles turned in some and so we got him looked at. Thankfully it was a minor problem and was fixed with a custom arch support. He is saying that his legs don't hurt when he plays and so he can play harder and stronger. He is doing good in school also. We are having a lot less fights this year and seem to have found our groove. He seems to be growing up way to fast and we still have some attitude issues but I believe with prayer and love we will overcome.

Youngest also played baseball. This was the last year that he and Oldest will be able to be on the same team so it was pretty special that Daddy got to help out with the team. He is doing well in school too. His reading has really improved. He is starting to ask if he can read to us just for fun. It is so good to see his confidence grow in that area. We've had a much bigger problem with him back talking this year than ever before and so that is our main focus with him. He is our giver and is always thinking of others. We also saw him accept Jesus as his Saviour recently. That is truly the highlight for us this year.

I know this hasn't been the typical happy letter but I wrote it so you could share in our experiences. No matter how hard it got we kept our eyes on God and have pushed through. There were times when things looked really bad and I honestly thought of just quitting but knew that was not the answer. With God by our side we can get through any thing. That is truly the meaning of this season. Jesus was born to be our Savior. He is our Savior every day. Not just so that we can know that we'll go to heaven but so that we can know there is Someone always on our side and always interceding with us. When I think about what He gave up to come here for us it makes me realize that I really haven't gone without anything this year. Tough times will come but if you trust in Him, He will see you through.

May each of you have Merry Christmas and blessed 2010.

Curious George WINNER

2009-12-17T21:56:00.001-05:00

And the winner is........

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2009-12-18 02:55:59 UTC

kathy pease said... 8: http://twitter.com/klp1965/status/6738551556
Congrats Kathy! Send me your mailing address and we'll get this out to you. If I don't receive your address within 3 days a new winner will be chosen.

Getting There

2009-12-14T14:01:00.002-05:00

I've almost got this place all cleaned up. I think it's looking good so far. I am still working on my buttons for the navigation bar but hopefully those will be up soon. After I get that done I will weed out my blog roll and get rid of the dead spaces where people have removed their buttons. I also have to redo my Blog Roll page to match. It is so good to not have baseball up anymore.
I really have to give credit to Amy, she stuck with me through most of the changes. She approved/disapproved of many choices and then just when she thought I was done I went and completely changed everything. I mean completely. I had a bright orange and green theme going, it looked good but I was having difficulty finding exactly what I wanted for some of the elements and I wasn't thrilled with the color scheme. It wasn't really "me". I happened upon this kit in one of the hidden folders on my computer and wha-la it was love at first site. This color scheme screams me. I can even easily change out the background occassionally if I want to mix things up a bit. I like the brown though, how bout you?
Be sure to check out the left sidebar for my new button too. I'm trying to figure out how to change my picture without having to have ya'll change yours too but it may take a while.
Thanks for baring with me, and if you happened by during some of the many changes thanks for not deleting me off your list because of all of the confusion. Some of the things we tried we truly awful.

Please Excuse the Mess

2009-12-12T00:13:00.004-05:00

Please excuse the mess. Blogger decided it didn't like something on my blog (even though I hadn't changed a thing) and so I had to revert to a template. GASP! I know, I know. Please bare with me. I am working on a new design as quickly as possible but with homeschooling, wife-ing, mommy-ing, christmasing and all the other ings going on right now it may take a while.

Also in case anyone gets confused by the sig I will change it soon. My good friend Amy was nice enough to let me hijack her template info so I didn't have to start completely over. So I got all her info too. Bare with me please and I will have this place cleaned up soon.

Yes, I am aware that none of those are really words but hey, it's my blog I can say what I wanna.

Please check out my Curious George giveaway while your hear and if you can handle my torture of the English language come back and see me again soon.

A Very Monkey Christmas *Giveaway

2009-12-10T20:31:00.003-05:00

Around here we LOVE Christmas. I actually had the Christmas music out before Thanksgiving. Don't worry we waited until Thanksgiving to actually decorate but the music had to come out early because we just couldn't wait. We listen to a wide range of Christmas music from Martina McBride to Veggie Tales so I was thrilled when I got the chance to review Curious George: A Very Monkey Christmas. This is the soundtrack that goes with a new Curious George movie that came out for Christmas this year. We don't watch regular tv so we haven't had the pleasure of viewing the movie yet but I plan to borrow it soon so we can watch it. The cd arrived today and we immediately popped it in. We loved it. Oldest's and my favorite song was #4 Our Christmas Song, Youngest really liked #2 Christmas With A Monkey. It is definitely on of our all time favorite cd's for the season. Curious George is one of Oldest's favorite characters and since I grew up with George also it is special that I can share this character with my children.

A little about the cd from the site:

Curious George A Very Monkey Christmas

The soundtrack follows the story line of the movie through song and music: George and The Man with The Yellow Hat are having a very merry time counting down the days until Christmas. There’s only one puzzle: neither of them can figure out what to give the other for a present. The Man is having trouble reading George’s wish list and George doesn’t have a clue about what to get for The Man who has everything. Will they be able to find the answers before Christmas morning?

Airing Throughout December Across PBS' Nationwide Network Starting This Thanksgiving!

If Curious George is one of your kids favorite characters or if you just love Christmas music you should really add this cd to your collection. To help you do that I am giving one away to a lucky reader. To enter leave me a comment about your favorite George story. For extra entries blog or facebook or twitter about this giveaway including a link to the giveaway. That is three chances to win. Giveaway ends at 9:00 pm EST on December 16. Open to US residents only.

For more chances to win check these other FRN member sites:

Rockin' Mama
All Because Two People Fell In Love
Seeryus Mama
She Scribes
Maria's Space
A Couch With A View
The Mom Reviews
A Simple Kind of Life
The Mommy Files
A Nut in a Nutshell
Happy Healthy Families
Sage and Savvy
Mamma Blogs Alot
An Island Life

And if you don't win it then be sure to check out one of these great retailers to get your own copy. Amazon, Target, Walmart, Overstock.com, Barnes & Noble, and Borders.

This post was written for Family Review Network as part of a program for Denon Records, who supplied the CD for review and giveaway.

Christmas Letters

2009-12-02T12:42:00.002-05:00

To write or not to write. I really enjoy getting letters at Christmas that catch me up on the goings on of people I only hear from once a year. I love to see and hear how the children have grown and what everyone's interests are but does everyone else enjoy receiving those kind of greetings too. Would you rather get just a quickly signed card or an informative letter? Also do you want just the good highlights of the people or do you want the true story of how they are doing? I've noticed this is a big topic in the blog world this year. I got a good laugh reading this letter http://www.lisawhelchel.com/journal/archives/2006_12_29.html . I kind of lean toward a good mixture of both. The real moments help others to feel like they aren't alone and to focus on the true meaning of christmas and the happy moments let everyone know you're really doing ok and not sitting in a big depressed lump on the couch.

So what is your opinion? Help me know what I should send out this year. I have drafts of both ways but I also have a box of cards ready and don't worry I 'll post a copy of whatever I send on here so all my bloggy friends can know how our year was too.

Connecting with K'NEX

2009-11-28T16:32:00.007-05:00

One of our favorite pastimes around here is building things with the boys building blocks. Until recently we have only used Lego's and Lincoln Logs but we are now fans of another building set.

There is a funny story to how K'NEX came into my life. I babysit for a friend regularly and a couple of weeks ago her son asked me to help him build. I thought "no problem". I had never used K'NEX before but they looked similar to the other blocks we use at home so I happily volunteered to help him build. Well 2 hours later I was so frustrated I had to quit. I said that day that I would never get my kids the K'NEX blocks. I just did not like the way they held together, well to be more accurate the way they don't hold together.
We built this

It wasn't hard to get together but it wouldn't stay together. I found that I had to make some modifications to keep it together. I have since built several other things with him and have had to make minor changes from the instructions on almost each thing. So after saying how much I didn't like K'NEX and that I wouldn't get them for my children I was offered a set to review. I about died laughing when I got the offer but I decided to give them a second chance and I am glad I did. We got this set:

Here are a few things you can build with this set.

The set comes with a book that includes directions for 10 different creations and then you also get a code to enter online to get directions for 10 additional creations. If you have friends with a different set you can share your online codes and come up with all sorts of creations.
I really enjoyed this set. It has more connectors and sticks than blocks in it and they seemed to hold together rather well, as a matter of fact some were hard to take apart. I did have to make an adjustment on the directions with the hot air balloon. In the finished picture you can see how the connectors should attach but the directions tell you to connect them a different way and it didn't work. It was an easy fix but I feel that the K'NEX company could use improvement in the directions department. They are somewhat hard to follow. I think my 7 year old will do ok with this set but will probably need my help a little more often. The K'NEX also have lots of small pieces so beware of little ones being near them. Because of the amount of small and different parts I did find that it is easier to divide these into snack bags for easier use than to just dump them back in the storage box. Another great idea would be to divide them into a tackle box or similar craft type organizer. I did notice that the box says that K'NEX is compatible with other blocks and I think that is great. The building blocks are the weakest link in this system so being able to combine them with other blocks is wonderful. It also opens up a lot of building opportunities as you can mix them with your existing collection. Overall I am glad that I gave K'NEX a second chance. I have even gone out and purchased this

for Oldest for Christmas. I am looking forward to connecting with my boys even more after Christmas with all the K'NEX they are getting. Another great way that K'NEX has come into my life is that shortly after receiving my review set I learned that the home school Co-op we are a part of is going to be offering a K'NEX class where the kids will learn about cranes and pulleys and levers. So a little less than a month ago I said NEVER but then God showed me that I should never say never or I may really be missing out.

Now for the fun part. If you think K'NEX would be great for your family you can enter for the chance to win over $1,000 worth of K’NEX Toys and be featured on the KNEX.com web site. How? Make a video and include select K’NEX products. The possibilities are endless. Construct your own story or showcase your child’s K’NEX building skills - use your imagination!

The 10 best videos will be featured on KNEX.com and the winning video will receive $1,000 worth of K’NEX Toys. Details and rules can be found at KNEX.com"

***DISCLAIMER*** This post was written while participating in a campaign for K'NEX through Team Mom. K'NEX provided me with a free product, product information and a chance to win more product. All opinions are my own and are not support or influenced by K'NEX or Team Mom.

Clorox Clean-Up & Grant

2009-11-03T11:32:00.002-05:00

We as Moms find it so valuable for our kids to participate in extracurriculars. But with scale backs and cuts due to the economy, our kids' sports, music lessons, clubs, and youth groups often fight to stay afloat, struggling to find the budget, volunteers, and space to hold activities. Clorox Clean-Up, the only all purpose cleaner powered by Clorox Bleach, can help. This winter, the Clorox Clean-Up team will award five grants of $10,000 each to applicable kids programs in the hopes of enriching kids' lives across the country.

Moms can easily nominate programs for a chance to win a Power A Bright Future grant by submitting a photo and a short essay about the project for consideration until November 29, 2009 at www.facebook.com/cloroxcleanup. A panel of influential children's advocates will select finalists based on impact of the program on kids, the quality of the entry sent in, and most promise for the grant to help the program grow. Then, the public will have the chance to vote on Facebook between December 7th and January 17th, 2010 with everyone receiving a Clorox Clean-Up coupon as a thank-you for voting.

This opportunity was provided by Mom Central. I was offered a chance to win a coupon for Clorox Clean-up for doing this post.

Mythbusters at Home

2009-10-30T11:33:00.006-04:00

Have you ever watched the show MythBusters and thought about how much fun they seem to be having. We have. Now you can be a myth buster too. The Discovery Channel and Elmers have teamed up to bring us fun science exploration kits that can be done at home.

We received the Wierd World of Water Kit and the boys were so excited when it arrived. Science and water wow! They were amazed that I was actually going to let them "play" with water in the house.

The kit came with everything you need to conduct your experiments except for the water. It also includes a book of other experiments so that your child can prove or "bust" other myths. The other great thing about the kits is that the parts are reusable so you can do the experiments again and again.

Both of my boys loved this and can't wait to do more. With the way these are reasonably priced they may just get the other two kits for Christmas. If you're interested in getting your hands on one of these great kits just go here. They have the Wierd World of Water, Forces of Flight and Power of Air Pressure.

This opportunity was made available by Team Mom. The kit was provided to me free of charge in exchange for my review.

It's the Flu

2009-10-28T00:04:00.003-04:00

Oldest has had the yuck and we finally made it to the doctor's today to find out it is the flu and other than cough syrup they couldn't do anything for him. I was told to give lots of fluids and keep him on tylenol or motrin and that was it. He did seem to be doing better today than he did over the weekend so we will see how he does. One thing about homeschooling, just because you're sick doesn't mean you miss school. He did miss yesterday but today he was up and playing and acting fine so I said he could do his math and spelling. I let him skip the rest but instead of disrupting Youngest's whole day I gave him something to do.
At co-op yesterday we had a fall festival. It was a lot of fun. Youngest and I went while Oldest lounged on the couch at Grandpa's watching movies. Youngest was a good brother though and brought home some prizes to share. We have another festival with our other group on Thursday and if Oldest continues to improve and have no fevers the doctor said he could go. We are praying he will do well because their isn't anyone to sit with him Thursday so we would all have to miss. We are also suppose to go to a nearby town with friends and do their town trick-or-treat. Lots of fun planned for the rest of the week.

We don't allow the kids to do the traditional trick-or-treating but we do enjoy going to local festivals and we let them dress up as certain things. Oldest isn't really dressing up this year and Youngest is being a cowboy again. I know there are many people who don't allow their children to dress up at all and I completely respect that. Hubby and I didn't for a few years but then we got to thinking about it more and changed our minds. We let the boys dress up as cowboys and indians and doctors for fun any time of year so what is the big deal about this time of year. We don't do jack-o-lanterns or trick or treating but we do enjoy the festivals and fun. Last year we did the town trick-or-treat but that was because it isn't actually going door to door and trick-or-treating it is the local businesses way of getting involved and advertising. We do give out candy to any treater's we get but we also always include a gospel tract so we are getting the message out with each treat we give. It's what seems to work for our family. What works for yours?

Blessings Abound

2009-10-23T13:16:00.003-04:00

Life is good. I have seen the Lord bless us in so many ways in the last week. I know that He blesses us daily but in the last week He has made my cup runneth over. Because of Hubby losing two jobs this year we have fallen behind in everything and now that he is working again we are striving to get caught up. This month we've had to use all of our in come to make the house and car payments to insure that we don't lose either one. The stress of collection calls and the humility of having friends and family know how desperate we have gotten has affected us as a family deeply. This past week we knew that we would have to humble ourselves and ask for help so we started finding information about local food banks to visit. They were great blessings to us but the way God used one particular lady in our new Co-op amazes me. I am new to the group and the people but there is one lady that teaches the high school class I help in that has become a friend. This past week she was asking how our situation was and I told her that God had allowed us to pay some bills but that 100% of the income was going out in bills leaving nothing for groceries but that through some food banks we would be able to make it. That afternoon she showed up at my house with loads of groceries. I have more food in my house right now than I've had in months. She brought breakfast stuff, meat, veggies, icecream... my kids were so excited. Oldest pulled out a bottle of bbq sauce and said "look mom, bbq sauce". He was very excited about that little bottle. I made sure that bbq chicken was on the menu the next day. Youngests favorite find was the fresh fruit from one of the churches. He told everyone about the fruit he could FINALLY have. As a mom it is heartbreaking to not be able to give you children what they want, and as you can see their wants were not extravagant. It was such a blessing to our family what those around us have done to help. We are not out of the woods yet but we are slowly climbing up the hill. I am prayful that our application for Food Stamps will be accepted quickly and that God will continue to provide. Not only did He provide food for us but he also provided the funds to pay our power, which was to be disconnected today. These are things that He did without our help in any way and from unexpected resources. It is sometimes hard for us to humble ourselves and say we need help but the bible says Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven (matt. 18:4) and Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time (1 Peter 5:6). I grew up in a family where it seemed we always had to put on a happy face and pretend everything was fine at home even when we were having hard times. I don't want my boys growing up that way and I don't want them doing without because we are hiding our needs. I don't believe in asking for handouts or receiving them if not really needed I've always been a pay it forward person. I'm a giver not a taker but sometimes you have to sit back and let God.

School is still going well. We all really enjoy the Co-op and we are also enjoying most of our home studies. Youngest completed his math and I have not been able to buy is new math book but am finding some things online for him to do and some review papers. I decided to switch to Math U See b/c both boys rely on their fingers and I've been told that MUS will help with that. The Lord blessed us by giving us the curriculum and blocks but I have not been able to buy the student books yet. It will come. Oldest is nearly finished with his LLATL and we will be looking for a new English program. I am going to try to find one that isn't literature based. He enjoys picking out his own books to read and so I want a program that focuses on parts of speech, sentences etc. without having set reading books. If anyone know of a good program on a 3rd/4th grade level please share. Also be sure to check out my give aways in the side bar.

Blessings to each of you.

Souplantation & Sweet Tomatoes' crEATe Contest

2009-10-16T23:59:00.002-04:00

On October 1, Souplantation and Sweet Tomatoes restaurants announced the crEATe Recipe Contest . Throughout the month of October, guests can submit their recipes for mouth-watering combinations made entirely from Souplantation or Sweet Tomatoes menu items. Ten finalists will be chosen in November and all guests will be invited to vote for their favorite finalist in December. The winning recipe and chef will be announced in January and will win a year’s worth of free passes and the chance to be featured in an upcoming ad. There are 112 restaurants in 15 states, all of which offer an all-you-care-to-eat fixed-price dining experience where you can count on fresh, high-quality ingredients and foods that are made from scratch on a daily basis.

Here are the create contest rules: The contest is open to restaurant guests in Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Nevada, Oregon, New Mexico, North Carolina, Texas Utah and Washington. Guests must submit their recipe and a photo of themselves alongside the completed dish by October 31. The recipe must contain at least 2 to 5 Souplantation or Sweet Tomatoes menu items only and will be judged based on menu and visual appeal, ingredient list, and creativity. Recipes and photos can be submitted online at www.souplantation.com/create, on the Facebook page, or by email to create@gardenfreshcorp.com

Souplantation and Sweet Tomatoes restaurants are also announcing the Pajama-Rama even on Sunday, October 18th in celebration of National Pajama Month! Children are invited to roll out of bed and head straight to a restaurant near them for hte 3rd Annual Pajama-Rama and have a free breakfast from 9am - noon with the purchase of an adult meal. Breakfast items include Belgian waffles, French toast, egg scramble foccacia, cinnamon chip biscuits, make-your-own breakfast burritos and much more!

Souplantation and Sweet Tomatoes' also gave me 3 pairs of dining passes to share with you, my faithful readers! All you have to do is leave me a comment telling me your favorite salad dressing. Please remember that these restaurants are in limited areas so go here before entering to see if there is one near you. Contest will end at 9 pm EST on Oct. 30.

***Disclaimer***
This post was written while participating in a Garden Fresh Restaurants campaign through Family Review Network. I was provided with two free dining passes and information as well as dining passes to give away to my readers.

It's a Success

2009-10-05T21:42:00.003-04:00

So far the boys and I have been enjoying Co-op. A good friend of mine joined also and someone I went to high school with so I started out knowing a few people but have already made several new friends. The boys have also made several new friends. Today we had game day. They do that every so many weeks where the kids get to bring their favorite games and after Co-op classes we eat a picnic lunch and then all the kids play various games while the mom's visit. It was a lot of fun for all of us. I need to remember to take my camera to get some pictures of the boys in action.
So even though I was nervous to start and really had to talk myself into taking the leap, after 3 weeks in the Co-op I will have to declare it a success. The only thing I will change for next semester is where I volunteer. I am helping in a K5 class and I will not be doing that next semester. I love kids but it is more fun to play with little ones than to teach them. I will try to stick with middle and high schooler's next semester.
Our school year in general has also been a success so far this year. It is the best year we've had since starting. We are staying on schedule pretty well and are having less fights. I think being able to get out regularly and have classes with others has helped some but I have been able to get up earlier and work on our home schedule too. I'm also improving (slowly) in my housekeeping. We are working together better and are being able to keep thing tidier so it isn't such a chore for me to try to get everything done.
So tell me about your year so far is it a success or does it need improvement?

The Crud

2009-10-01T12:04:00.004-04:00

I've had the crud for the past few days. Monday it got worse and I started running a fever. We were really afraid it was the flu but blessedly it was just a sinus and ear infection. I am on the mend now. No fever yesterday or today so far but my ears are really hurting today. I also bent over to dump the old litter out of our kitty box and pulled something in my back so now I have that pain. I am holding onto the saying "if it doesn't kill you, it will make you stronger." The boys have been really good this week and have been super helpful. They even learned how to cook hamburgers. We have a George Foreman grill and I let them use that while I laid on the couch and instructed. They did great! Youngest can't wait to be old enough to cook on his own. He is already quite accomplished in the kitchen. He can do hamburger helper, chili, eggs, hamburgers and bake bread. Oldest has helped in the kitchen also but with his comprehension troubles he isn't able to do things on his own as well as Youngest yet. He is a great helper though and he did fine with the hamburgers. My mom picked on me when she heard that they cooked hamburgers saying I was such a slave driver. I know she was teasing, she is proud of them too. I'm hoping to be able to get the sheets and blankets washed today and Lysol the bedroom. Hubby has been sleeping in the guest room for fear of getting sick and also so we could both sleep better. Now that I am on the mend I am ready to have him back where he belongs. He the boys go to get their flu shots tonight so hopefully we can keep them healthy over the winter.

Hope all my readers are healthy and happy! Nobody responded to the giveaway so I am extending it until October 11.

I'm Leaving On a Jet Plane....

2009-09-25T20:25:00.010-04:00

Well technically it wasn't a jet and we didn't go far but we did get to fly in one of these.

The boys were so excited to be going to the airport. When we arrived there was a plane that had just landed and they went to the door to look at it. They couldn't believe they could get so close.

The trip started out with a great talk about the airport and about being a pilot. I liked that the airport manager told the children about the need for pilots and talked to them about how to become pilots. He also explained what the different areas of the airport were and then pretty much turned the kids loose to explore the terminal. They were especially intrigued with his office which he called the toy box. He had several Lego star wars creations along with numerous other toys on his shelves.

After exploring the terminal we headed outside to tour the airport. We started by watching a plane taxi down the runway and await clearance. Then the children got to sit in an airplane and use the controls. Next we headed to the gas tanks.

As we headed to the hangers to see some airplanes getting repaired this plane came to the tanks for a fill up.

The above plane was getting new engines. We learned that after so many hours of flight a plane has to have new engines installed and that once a year it gets a complete makeover of it's mechanical parts. Everyone was very friendly and answered all of the children's and adults questions.

This is an old war plane that is being made over and will become an airshow plane. We will have to remember to check in with the airport next year to see where the shows will take place.

While we waited for our turn to fly the kids got rides around the airport on the golf cart. They really enjoyed this. Especially when one of the dad's took them through a puddle. With all the rain we've had it wasn't hard to find water to play in. After our flight the kids continued to get rides while watching their friends take trips. The following pictures are all about the ride.

Oldest got to sit in the co-pilots chair while Youngest and I sat in the back. It was really neat to fly over our town and see places that we recognized. The boys both really enjoyed it. We only went 1000 feet up but it was fun to see the boys reaction to everything. They kept saying how everything looked like toys. I got a little air sick which surprised me since I have flown before with no trouble but commercial planes are much bigger with cool air. It was quite hot in the plane and you really feel the altitude changes more. I was ok and managed not to be sick but I was worried for minute or two.

This neat little two seatter came in just before we left. It was really neat looking and was a fun end to a great trip.
I send a HUGE thank you to our local airport for the great trip and the free rides!

Co-Op

2009-09-21T20:22:00.005-04:00

We all had a good first day at C0-Op. I was nervous about remembering where classes were and about getting along with the teachers I was assigned to assist. I was also nervous about teaching the kindergarten Spanish class. I am the assistant in that class but the teacher and some of her family got sick and weren't able to make it. The Lord blessed by allowing me to have an assistant that was nearly fluent in Spanish. I think she actually did more teaching than I did! My friend laughed when she saw that I was going to be teaching Spanish because I have a very southern accent and I really just don't pull Spanish off very well but all in all the class went well. A funny moment came when I was getting ready to tell the kids some things about Spain and I thought I'd ask them where they thought people who speak Spanish live. Here's how the conversation went:

Me: Can anyone tell me where Spanish speaking people live?

Girl 1: Mexico.

Me: Good job! Anyone else have an idea of where people who speak Spanish live?

Girl 2: Florida

Me: Um, yes you're right they do live in Florida but I was thinking about Countries.

From the mouths of babes! I also assist in an American History class for high schoolers. We have three girls in that class. One LOVES to talk. The teacher also LOVES to talk. They can out-talk me and that takes a lot. We have another girl who will be happy to say nothing at all all semester and the third falls somewhere in between.

Both boys had a great time also. They came home talking about the new friends they met and the things they learned. Oldest had a magnetics class and learned about things that are attracted to magnets and things that are not attracted to magnets. He also had a Draw, Write Now class that he said he enjoyed but his overall favorite was PE. Youngest said his favorite was the Draw, Write Now class and the Drama class. He is doing a play about Daniel and has been singing a song with hand motions all day.

One thing that none of us enjoyed was the rain. We have had so much rain down here that we are getting flooded. Literally. Some of the area schools had to close today and are closed tomorrow due to flooding. I have never heard of schools in this area closing due to flooding. My friend said earlier that we never got rain days. It's sad. Instead of snow days are children are going to get stuck with rain days. And you can't even play outside in it. As a matter of fact there was a story today about a toddler that was swept away in part of the flood. The water from a flooded creek broke a families mobile home in two and the child was swept away and drown. My heart goes out to that family and to all the other families suffering from this storm.

Co-Op and Contest

2009-09-20T22:10:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow is the first day of our first Co-Op. The boys are soooo excited. Youngest laid his clothes out for in the morning so we wouldn't be late. Oldest is really excited about PE and Youngest will be in a musical drama class. He keeps calling it his singing class. I promise to let everyone know how it goes when we get home. After C0-Op we have to do our normal Math and Language Arts/Literature and then we will be off to the vet. I will try to post our Airport trip with pictures tomorrow also.

I'm getting a series of catching up posts ready so everyone can see what we've been up to since my computer went ka-put last Spring. I need ideas for a name though. Anyone have any ideas? If I pick your name I will send you a goody box of surprises. Contest will be open until Sunday, October 11 at 9:00 pm EST.

Eating Right Kids

2009-09-17T00:39:00.000-04:00

We all know how important eating right is. We also know how difficult it is to get kids to eat the healthy stuff. I love the ravioli commercial where the boy is happily eating a bowl of ravioli when dad comes in and starts to read the can, which says the ravioli has vegetables. Mom quickly picks up a spoon and starts banging the pots and pans so that son doesn't hear the dreaded vegetable word.
Well Warner Bros. Consumer Products has partnered with Safeway to provide healthier food choices for our children. Each product features Looney Tunes character on the package which catches the kids attention and makes them want that brand. I was recently sent an Eat Right lunch pack which included microwavable ravioli, a granola fruit bar, a fruit cocktail cup, and an apple juice. The kids were very excited. The ravioli was a hit the oldest and even youngest, who does not like the canned spaghetti type products, said that the sauce was good. The rest of the goodies were also a big hit.
There are over 60 items across 18 categories available in the product line. The categories include breakfast foods, produce, portable meals, dairy, snacks,beverages and frozen entrees. The Eating Right Kids line has been formulated to standards based on dietary recommendations and regulations from several federal and state agencies. The Warner Bros. Consumer Products and Safeway's Eating Right Kids initiative was highlighted by the Federal Trade commission for its ability to have a positive impact on childhood obesity. In addition to partnering with Safeway, Warner Bros. Consumer Products has taken the extra step of clearing retail shelves of the majority of foods featuring Looney Tunes that do not meet a "better-for-you" standard. As you are our shopping keep your eyes open for the Looney Tunes characters and you can be sure your child is getting a more nutritious snack.

I'm FINALLY Back!

2009-09-13T17:53:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone! Or at least hi to the few people who still check on my blog. I've been gone for a while. First my computer went down and so then I borrowed my mom's laptop but I could only keep it for a short time so I've been without a computer for months. We found out it wasn't worth fixing due to the cost so we had to wait to be able to afford one. Unfortunately Hubby had an unexpected job change and just when we thought things were picking up he's had another. He is officially unemployed right now. He is picking up some temporary work here and there but hasn't found a permanent job yet. So we figured it would be a lot longer before I got back online. I was wrong. My wonderful grandparents surprised me with an early Christmas present and so here I am. I feel like I'm finally part of the world again. It was hard not being able to connect but it got even harder when we started the school year. I really didn't realize how much I counted on the internet for curriculum help and to research ideas and new curriculum. I also didn't realize how much I counted on just the computer without the internet. I needed it to make spread sheets and labels and all sorts of things. I am slowly catching up on my to do list and should be back to regular blog posts soon.
Oh, and I promise not to wait to long to update the look. I like the baseball but that ended a long time ago.
I can't wait to get back into the swing of things and back into blogging. I promise to visit you all soon and see if I can get caught up on whats been happening in your worlds. Thanks for hanging around and waiting on me to get back.

Wendy's Boneless Chicken Wings

2009-08-12T20:59:00.003-04:00

I was recently given an opportunity by Mom Central and Wendy's to try out the newest addition to Wendy's menu....Boneless Chicken wings. These are 100% whole chicken breast chunks that are lightly breaded and coated in sauce. You can choose from 3 different flavors. For this review I picked the Honey BBQ flavor. They were ok and I am glad that I tried them, but they just aren't something that I would normally pick. I think it is the breading. I would have preferred for them not to have it.

**I wrote this review while participating in a blog and giveaway campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Wendy’s and received a sample to facilitate my candid review. In addition, Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

KINeSYS WINNER

2009-06-04T21:46:00.003-04:00

I posted this once before and apparently it didn't show up. I've been having a really hard time with AT&T and my internet is questionable at best and my house phone doesn't work at all. Anyway, sorry for the delay.

The WINNER is...............

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2009-06-05 01:46:01 UTC


: going camping; 5/13/09 6:11 PM

Congrats Miranda! You have three days to contact me with your shipping information or a new winner will be chosen.

Pledge Multi-Surface Cleaner

2009-06-04T21:24:00.003-04:00

When I got the email offering another Pledge review I jumped on it. You all know I'm a sucker for cleaning supplies, especially if they are free. The wonderful people at Pledge have been making me very happy this year. When the box arrived I went right to work with it. The first thing I used the Multi-surface spray on was my coffee table. I have the lavender scent and right away I noticed the smell. It wasn't a bad smell but it wasn't a flowery scent. It really reminded me of men's cologne. It did a good job of cleaning but I didn't see the shine I normally get from the original Pledge. To test this I ran and got my lemon fresh pledge and did an end table with it. There was a definite difference in shine that even Hubby noticed. A couple days later I also noticed that the original Pledge kept the table cleaner. The dust was already appearing on the other tables but not so much on my test table.
After cleaning the tables I moved on to the tv cabinet including the tv, dvd player and other electronics. It did a fabulous job on those items. I've also cleaned my plastic 3-drawer cart that I use for scrapbooking suppplies, my scrap counter and my computer monitor and many other items. I loved it. I love that I can have one bottle to clean everything with and not have to tote around several different bottles. I will stick with my original Pledge for my wood unless I'm in a time pinch but other than that I will definately use the new Pledge Multi-Surface for items in my home.

If you want to see this item work for yourself then just leave me a comment and one lucky reader will get to try their own bottle. Prizes won't be shipped until all the Family Review Network give aways have ended. This contest will end on June 12 at 9 pm est. Open to US and Canadian residents.

Thanks to Family Review Network for this opportunity.

Dudley's Solo

2009-05-27T11:06:00.004-04:00

In today's society there are many prejuduces. Most people are prejudice because they are afraid of what they don't understand. In our house we try to teach our boys that God loves everyone and we should also. Recently the boys have gotten lessons in this with their cousin who stutters and also with their friends sister who is in a wheel chair. At first the boys thought that these differences were funny or strange. They didn't understand that it might hurt their friends feelings to be laughed at. After being around their friends sister Youngest usually has lots of questions about why Katherine can't play, talk, etc.
As a mom with two very curious boys I love when I find a teaching tool that the boys can enjoy but also learn from. As a member of Family Review Network I was able to receive a copy of Dudley's Solo by Tiffany Alexander. It is a story about a boy who can not hear or speak but wants to be like the other children. He is a member of hte school choir and they are getting ready to have a concert. Each of the children, except Dudley, are given a solo. Dudley is very sad that he can't do a special part. The other children feel bad for Dudley and they come up with a plan for him to get a special part.
My boys were full of questions about how people could understand Dudley if he couldn't talk and wanted to know all about sign language.
I loved that this book taught the boys about someone different and how other children should respond to them. It gave us many good conversation points also.

"Dudley's Solo" encourages kids to
-have self-confidence and to believe in themselves,
-embrace their differences,
-never give up on something you really want and
-find the positive lesson in every challenge they are handed.

Tiffany Alexander resides in Atlanta, Ga., and works as an editor for CNN. She is a member of the Independent Books Publishers Association, The National Association of Black Journalists, Hampton University Alumni Association and the African-American Children's Book Writers and Illustrators. She is currently working on the next book in the Children's Band series called "Ebenezer Opens a Savings Account." For more information, please visit www.ChildrensBand.com.

One Time Wood

2009-05-27T10:28:00.003-04:00

One of my favorite things about Summer is all the outside activities we get to enjoy. Of course as we get older our choice of activities tend to change. The first thing I do at just the hint of warmer weather is start my outside to-do list. Normally that includes landscaping, treating our wood products (this year it was the boys swing set), and sometimes bigger projects like painting the house or redoing the roof. None of these jobs are super fun and one of my least favorite is staining the swing or any other wood product. I don't mind painting but for some reason I hate staining. One Time Wood made that job a bit easier. Now, make sure you understand, it did not make the job more fun but it did make it easier.
One Time Wood is thicker than the other leading brands of stain and therefore goes a lot further. I was amazed at how much coverage such a little amount would give us. I also like that it has a 7 year guarantee.
I am glad that I took the One Time challenge and I think you will be too. If treating some outside wood is on you to-do list then you should definately check them out. And just for being on of my readers One Time is giving you a 10% discount, just enter One TIME during your purchase.

Thanks to Family Review Network for this opportunity.

Calling All Dog Lovers

2009-05-15T14:26:00.005-04:00

Dirty Bow Wow is a book about dogs and their beloved toys. My mom has 4 dogs and they each have their favorite toys. Our dog Dixie has her bed. Dogs, like children can get attached to their "things" very quickly and nothing can replace them. I enjoyed Dirty Bow Wow because it was a celebration of dogs and their Dirty Bow Wow's (toys, blankets, water bottles). I was raised with the saying "Pets are people too" and although pets aren't literally people they do quickly become a part of the family. Cheryl and Jeffrey Katz enjoyed watching dogs play in the park and one evening they noticed how most every dog had a favorite play thing and that is how the book Dirty Bow Wow came to be.
My boys and I enjoyed reading this book and looking at all the adorable photographs of the dog's with their favorite objects. It even opened up discussions about different breeds of dogs. Youngest is a true animal lover and he refers back to the book often.
One of my favorite pictures was of Bugsy and Bear but my favorite story was of Belle and her quilt. Belle was a homeless dog that was adopted and finally found a home with Astrid. Although Belle's story had a happy ending not all shelter dogs are adopted and often find themselves in lonesome conditions. Dirty Bow Wow is trying to make a difference in these dogs lives and you can help. The Dirty Bow Wow Dog Toy Drive starts May 2009 at bookstores across the country. It’s your chance to help shelter dogs find the toy of their dreams, and hopefully a permanent, loving home. Click here for list of retailers who are collecting dog toy donations or hosting events. Drop off a new dog toy at the location nearest you, and aid a dog in need today! These toys can help brighten a lonely dog’s day and teach them socialization skills that make them more adoptable.

You can win a copy of this book by answering the following question. The first person with the correct answer is the winner so the contest ends when the correct answer is given. Us residents only please. You'll have to do some searching but I'm sure one of my readers will be able to get the answer. Ok so here's the question...

Our dog is named Dixie, what breed of dog is she?

Good luck to all my readers! If your not the winner, you should definately check this book out b/c it is worth the read and your children will enjoy it too.

Thanks to Family Review Network for this opportunity.

We have a winner! Congrats to Amanda Sue!

KINeSYS Review & Giveaway

2009-05-12T22:34:00.005-04:00

It is HOT and sunny around here. Being in Georgia we get very hot weather and the sun is a killer during the summer. As a mom, I know how important it is to protect my children. There are several ways that we have to protect them; we have to make sure they eat right, that they look both ways, that they do their school work and that they don't get burnt. There are several ways to protect them from getting burnt: we teach them to stay away from fires and we make sure not to leave lighters laying around were they can get them but one thing we often overlook is how much harm they can receive from the sun. It is something that I have often forgotten until it is too late. I normally think about it when we go swimming and sometimes when the boys are playing baseball but I don't normally think about it when we are at home and they are just going outside to play. Last year Youngest ended up with HUGE blisters because of my oversight. That was the only lesson I needed. Now I am aggravating to them because I am always telling them to put on sunscreen. Since we use it so much I have come to hate cream sunscreens. My hands get all slimy and even after washing them they still have residue on them. The boys don't like the lotions because when they get sweaty they feel slimy. So when we got the chance to try KINeSYS sunscreen we jumped at it and we were not disappointed.
It sprays on so there is no residue for mom and it dries quickly. The sunscreen is oil free and doesn't leave you feeling slimy even after sweating. You can even apply it to your face, although it does have to be sprayed on your hands and then applied to your face.
KINeSYS is also environmentally friendly by making products that are carbon neutral, and by using packaging made of 100% recyclable materials. They are also 100% cruelty free because they don't test their products on animals.
We have truly enjoyed using this product and I am excited to offer my readers a chance to win their own bottle of KINeSYS 4oz Kids Sunscreen & 4oz Kids Moisturizer. I'm also excited to offer my readers a 10% discount on your orders just use Code BRC10; and if you order more than $45 worth you will also receive free shipping.
To enter the giveaway just leave me a comment telling me your favorite summer activity. The contest will end on May 22, at 9:00 pm EST.

Thanks to Family Review Network for this opportunity.

Calypso Studios

2009-05-12T12:12:00.006-04:00

Going green has become more and more popular lately, but some companies started making green products before it was "the thing" to do. Calypso Studios is one of those companies. Calypso Studios debuted in January 2007 with a line of jewelry and accessories created from the earth's natural elements: clay, shell and glass. Their missions statement says that they create products from earth's natural elements. Their company is aware of and working towards using resources that help ecological reconstruction. While working closely with American Artists, they are expanding creative potential for merchandise that meet our mission. Their resulting products are fashionable, economical and promote good stewardship of our world's resources. Calypso Studios Inc. is collaborating with several environmental organizations to help with their causes of keeping Mother Earth’s landfills and waterways free of plastic and paper bags. A percentage of their sales will go towards these agencies.

I've had the pleasure of using my S.H.O.P bag for several days and I've really enjoyed it. It has proven to be very sturdy. The totes come in a set of 3 with a carrying case which fits nicely in your purse. The carry case is 8" x 6" and the tote is 17" x 19". They are made of polyester and hold up to 20 pounds. I was skeptical when I first received the bag because it is very light weight, but it has proven itself time and again. I've used it to tot library books, all of our Sunday shoes when traveling, overnight attire for both boys and groceries. I love the light weight fabric and the vibrancy of color. I've even had several comments on my bag and people wanting to know where they could get one.

I also received one of their clay key chains. It is very sturdy. I ordered the Forgive/Love/Pray key chain from their inspiration collection and have really enjoyed it. I attached it to my purse for a little bling and my nieces and nephews really enjoyed playing with it during church. I was surprised by how well it held up to all their playing.
The key chains are made of glazed elastic alternating kaolin clay and inscribed metal beads with metal cross. The key chain is 4.5" long. They also have key chains with just one clay ball on them. Each ball is dyed and glazed.

I am very pleased with both the products I received from Calypso Studios and will be adding them to my Christmas buying list. I love that they have stylish yet environmentally friendly products.

Thanks to Mom Fuse for this opportunity.

Tie Buddies & Exergen WINNERS!

2009-04-27T22:47:00.002-04:00

And the winners are.....

Tie Buddies Winner is commentor #16

Angie said... 16: We're working on this skill right now. My dd would love the fairy and magic wand!; 4/20/09 11:00 PM
Please contact me within three days with your mailing information and confirm your choice of the product.

Exergen Winner is commentor #58

carolpie said... 58: The other day hubby came home with donuts and gave baby a donut hole. We put the donuts on the counter and told her she had enough. Later in the day I glanced into the kitchen and saw the donut box being pulled across the counter and down. I ran into the kitchen and there was baby clutching the pink box on her lap with her hands around a donut biting it as fast as she could! Caught!; 4/23/09 6:14 PM

Please contact me within 3 days with your mailing information.

I'm a LemonHead

2009-04-23T18:55:00.002-04:00

Yep, I'm a LemonHead. I have a hard time wearing headbands because they tend to pinch and give me a headache. Well I was recently able to try the LemonHead bandeez and clipeez. I loved the bandeez! Now I also liked the clipeez but not having a little girl and not really using many decorative things in my own hair I know I won't get much use out of the clip so I will be passing it on to my neice. It did stay put in my hair and was very well made. The bandeez was great though. I put it on when I got ready in the morning and it stayed in place all day! That never happens with any of the other headbands I've tried before. I have even tried those cloth wrap around things but they would constantly slide away. The bandeez stayed put all day and caused me no discomfort! The bandeez can be used as a headband or headband and ponytail holder.

You can also use the clipeez alone or with the headband to make it even more versatile and pretty.
I will be ordering some more of these for myself and will definately be recommending them to my friends and family. Right now if you order $35 or more you receive free shipping from their site.

Thanks to Family Review Network for this opportunity.
The child pictured in this review is from the LemonHeadkidz website.

Pledge Fabric Sweep - WINNER!

2009-04-19T17:54:00.001-04:00

And the winner is.......

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2009-04-19 21:53:21 UTC


: We have two cats in our household (Cakes and Sprinkles). Cakes loves to play fetch and sleeping on the the top of the couch. Sprinkles is afraid of everything and she lets me know when Cakes is getting into trouble. Thanks!
4/16/09 7:25 PM

Please contact me within 3 days with your shipping information so I can pas it along to the sponsor or a new winner will be chosen.

Clorox Wipes - WINNERS!

2009-04-19T14:37:00.003-04:00

And the winners are.....................

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

56 92 35 67 39

Timestamp: 2009-04-19 18:37:33 UTC

yyeres said... 56: I would display it in my window. yyeres(at)gmail(dot)com; 4/12/09 11:21 PM

Betty C said... 92: I could use one in every room but I think the greatest use would be in the bathroom. It seems like something always needs to be wiped up.; 4/17/09 6:34 PM

Sue said... 35: I have four boys who share a bathroom. On the back of their toilet... Obviously.; 4/6/09 2:39 PM

Anonymous said... 67: These are a great improvement over the old canisters. I would keep them on my kitchen counter for speedy clean ups.
jwatkk at comcast dot net; 4/16/09 10:37 AM

JeansandTs said... 39: I would put them in the bathroom on my over the toilet space saving shelves. JeansandTs@hotmail.com; 4/7/09 5:02 PM

All winners have 3 days to email me with their shipping information or new winner/winners will be chosen.

Oh, Happy Day

2009-04-15T22:59:00.001-04:00

Today was a pretty good day. The boys got their school work done early so we could go to a friends for a little play time. They had fun running in and out, playing with lots of toys and even a few caterpillars. It was a good time for all. I even got some grown up conversation which is always good.

After our visit we had to rush home to change into baseball uniforms and then head out to another game. We had a few fumbles here and there but in the end we came out victorious with an 11-6 win. Then we headed to Zaxby's for some dinner and then to my parents shop to get a brad nailer so Hubby could get some more work done on our siding. We will be ready to paint soon and I can't wait to see some color on my house. The clay gray that we have right now is just really dull to look at.

Tomorrow my mom is coming up so we can have some girl time. I'm really looking forward to it.

Stuff Wanted

2009-04-14T23:21:00.001-04:00

Ok, my regular readers know that I review lots of products and I love it. I would really like to get into the summer spirit by being able to review some summer type items. I'm talking fishing, camping, biking, hiking, tennis type stuff. I'm not sure where to look to find places to review those types of things so if anyone has any suggestions please pass them on to me. I promise to share the products whenever I can.

Baseball the Good and the Bad

2009-04-14T12:29:00.002-04:00

Last night was our second game. I was really looking forward to this game as it was against our old team. See Oldest has been playing for four years now. He started out with a great coach. A really nice man, but I realized right away I did not fit in with the other moms. At the time I was the one taking him to practice and most games because of Hubby's work schedule. I got to where I would take a book or school work with me so I would have something to do while waiting. Most of the women knew each other from church and just put themselves in a class above me. At the end of the year I was never contacted about the team party and therefore we missed it, which meant Oldest didn't get is trophy. The next year Oldest was on the same team and that year the coach allowed Youngest to be on the team too even though he was too young. He was only 4 playing on a 6 year old team. He only misses the birthday cutoff by 2 days though and we were told that t-ball was full so I let him play. It was nice for both boys to be on the same team. During that season I asked about Oldest's trophy from the previous year and was promised he would bring it to one of the games. He never did. There weren't really any problems that year except being made to feel less than the other mom's and some of the kids shied away from my boys because they were homeschooled. Last year Oldest played on a new team but Youngest was on the same team. We had several new parents and so I was excited about meeting new people. There were 2 that I got along with well but we were made to feel like outsiders with the rest. I'm assuming it is because we didn't go to their church and since they already knew each other they didn't feel the need to get to know us. But last year their were many problems. Our children didn't get to play in certain areas and we were not consulted on certain decisions just told this is what was going on. My parents also sponsored the team and all they asked was a plague that showed they had sponsored to hang in their new offices. They were promised that. Unfortunately they did not receive one, instead their t-shirts were paid for by the team. When the coach offered to pay for the shirts and hats I told him that wasn't neccessary but he said their was enough in the fund and he wanted to. He did not say that was in place of the plague. As grandparents they would have bought their own shirts as they do every year. At the end of the year one of the mom's said her son wanted a team shirt like we had all ordered earlier so she went around and asked if anyone else wanted one. Both my boys did so we ordered them one too. Well the shirts didn't come in before the season ended. I waited a month and called coach to check on them. He said we could meet up but it never happened. I called him back about a month or two later and asked him to give the shirts to the man he works with (every day) so that his wife (a good friend of mine) could get them to me. He said ok, no problem. It took me until this season started to get them. I thought he wasn't coaching this year because we ended up on another team but at our first game I ran into him and he said he had the shirts in his truck and would send his son to get them. At that same game I heard some parents on his team complaining because their children go to District J school but they were on District M's team. For some reason we are in District M but were on District J's team. It didn't make since that there were two mixed teams but I was glad to have a new coach and a new beginning. I also love that our coach is really teaching them about baseball. Anyway that mom that was complaining started saying our coach picked his team and was gettting really ugly about it so I told her that most of our team had never met him before and he had no idea who the kids were or how they played. After last nights game I believe that our old coach requested to not have us this year, which is fine by me but a little sad because the kids had no idea of the tension and they really liked that coach. They like thier new one too but since we had been with the other one for three years they were a little sad.
Anyway, at the game last night we were all having a good time cheering on our kids in a very close game. We were actually tied at two different times. Before the game I had talked to several of the mom's and everything was fine. Well about half way through the game one of the mom's turned around and said that my yelling was really bothering her and she just couldn't take it anymore. Umm, we were all yelling and cheering our team on, I was even cheering on the other team since I knew most of the boys on it. I didn't respond to what she said but continued cheering for our team. We ended up winning 15 to 12 after one of the boys on our team made a beautiful catch to get the batter out. The entire stand jumped up and cheered because it was a really great catch. She made another comment to one of her mom friends about my cheering. I again ignored her. It is a kids game, I'm not going to get into a fight over it. After the game several mom's from our team came up and told me that they couldn't believe I hadn't told her to move if she didn't like it or something. I wasn't bothering anyone else only her and again I have to wonder why? Is it because we were winning and she was mad, because her son didn't get to play much (which was her coaches choice) or just because she had decided last year that she didn't like me and thought that since we weren't on the same team she wouldn't have to deal with me. I don't know. I really hate it when others think badly of me because I want to be a Christian example. I know I can bring things on myself because I normall talk before I think but I can not think of anything I've ever done to them other than not go to their church, not send my kids to their school, and not make as much money as them. It was sad that she put a damper on an otherwise great game. I was really proud of our team as they had made lots of improvements since their first game and both of my boys did really well as far as paying attention and being on top of the game. They didn't catch every ball that came their way and when they threw they didn't always aim so great but it was a big improvement anyway. That same mom made several comments about our coach being mean and how glad she was he wasn't their coach but our coach wasn't being mean. He huddled our kids together to tell him how proud he was of them and to tell them where changes needed to be made or tweaked. In other words he COACHED. Anyway, I'm really glad he's our coach.
We play this team again in a few weeks and I hope it goes a bit better because we could end up back with them next year and that thought scares me. I don't want to see my kids shunned or looked over for good positions just because of prejudices against me.

Anyway, Congrats Wild Devils on your first win of the year!

LunchBots

2009-04-14T00:11:00.006-04:00

I don't often pack a lunch because I just don't like the hassle and I don't like to eat soggy sandwiches. Of course, with two children, baseball season, field trips, a new diet and no money; I have had to readjust my wishes and start packing lunch whenever possible. Last week I took the boys and some friends to the zoo and I packed a lunch. Luckily I had recently received some of these new LunchBots that are perfect for packing lunches.

The LunchBots Uno is the perfect size for a sandwich or for a good portion salad or some other main meal. Since I still don't want to eat a soggy sandwich I put four slices of bread in mine. The four slices fit well but I'm not sure that you could get two sandwich's in there. I pre-mixed some peanut butter and jelly and had that ready to make the sandwiches once we got to our lunch destination.

The LunchBots Duo is great for taking things such as vegetables and dip or to pre-separate crackers or cookies for two children. I used mine to put exactly sixteen wheat thins in each side so I could have them ready for my snack without having to count as I ate. It came in very handy and the size is great.

Both of the LunchBots are the perfect size to fit int he pocket on the front of my cooler. I belive I can fit three of them in there. Compared with my usual plastic containers I very impressed. The LunchBots accept the cold in the insulated pocket without having t be in the ice. That will come in very handy for veggies and fruit when I want to carry those without worrying about the water seeping in. I also like that the metal containers are a healthier choice for the entire family. Plastics have recently come into focus as possibly being dangerous due to chemicals that my leach into your food products. You can read more about the potential danger of plastics at the LunchBots website.

The uno comes with a nice metal blue lid and the duo comes with an orange metal lid. The lids will fit on either of the containers which will be nice when I get another set so I can have one color for each child. These containers can be purchased here for just $14.99 each.

Thanks to MomFuse for this opportunity.

Easter

2009-04-12T22:57:00.008-04:00

It is amazing to me that two days ago we had horrible storms resulting in this

It was really bad and there were several tornado's in the area but we were spared those. The second picture the hail is 2 inches big. We sat on the porch and watched this stuff fall and unfortunately watched the dents appearing in our vain and the plastic rain guard getting broken. Our neighbors actually had hail go through their car window so we came out better than them. Anyway back to the amazing part. Two days ago we had those storms and then today God gave us a day like this.....

We enjoyed a great lunch with family and then the boys went outside to find the hidden eggs. Daddy and Uncle Jeremy made sure they hid them very well and we're pretty sure there are still a couple we didn't find. After everyone else went home Hubby and I worked on our new walkway and the boys played a little football. Of course, Hubby couldn't help but get in on some of the play time. Here is the beginnings of our new walkway and in step-by-step pictures.

That's all we have done so far. We will have to add on as we can afford but if we don't do it in small steps it will never get done. Right now we think it looks a little bit like a turtle. I can't wait to see the finished product and I will be sure to post pictures but it will be several months before we see those.
Anyway, that's how we spent our holiday and I as I sit in reflection of the day I thank God for such a wonderful day and such a great time with the family.

DaBib Winner

2009-04-10T22:43:00.002-04:00

And the winner is......

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2009-04-11 02:43:10 UTC

Jinxy and Me said... 19: I like DaGiggles in Signature Stripe.; 4/8/09 1:27 AM

Please contact me within 3 days with your shipping information or a new winner will be chosen.

Money, Money, Money

2009-04-07T23:44:00.002-04:00

I tell you what it is so hard not to worry about money these days. I know that stress is not good for you and that we are suppose to lay all our cares on God but sometimes it is really really hard. Last week I went to the doctor to get some blood test results and they were not good. I have a weight issue that is related to my PCOS and it has led to many more serious issues. So now I am facing having to really really try to lose weight. I can usually lose about 20 pounds when I try really hard but they tend to come right back so now I have to lose a lot more than that and I don't know how I'm going to. My biggest concern is how much healthy food costs. I just spent two hours at Walmart trying to find healthy food that Hubby and I had decided to try and I couldn't find a lot of it and what I did find was $$$$. We have to change Extra Virgin Olive Oil and to Splenda and those are both expensive. I bought it but wow. I really pray that this works.

On a happier note, my friend and I are taking the kiddo's to the zoo tomorrow and I am really looking forward to a day out. On our way home we're going to run by IKEA too. We both have a few things we need from their and it is not worth the shipping to order it online.

I can not believe how cold it has gotten down here. We actually had flurries today and that is crazy. I prayed all winter for snow and we didn't get it but now it is suppose to be Spring and so I am ready for Spring. Hubby and I started doing some yard work last week and I am so ready to get out there again but it is too cold. The boys had their baseball pictures today and those poor kids were freezing. We were having to tell them to take off their jackets to get their pictures and then bundle back up to wait for the team picture. They all have cute little pink cheeks and noses. I can't wait to see the picture. The photographer said he'd email me a picture so I could use it in my blog title so hopefully we'll all be able to see them really soon.