P&G & Walmart Family Movie Night: Change of Plans

I love family movie night and we take it a step further and call it family fun night as we have a movie but we also include making dinner or something else to add to a fun filled night.  I love that P&G and Walmart are promoting family movie night and are getting ready to introduce their fourth installment of their Family Movie Night with Change of Plans on January 8th (8/7c on Fox).

It's a touching story of how lives can change with a simple phone call.  The lead character, Sally Danville played by Brooke White from American Idol, learns her best friend was tragically killed and now her and her husband find out they are the new caretakers for the four children left behind.  It follows the trials and tribulations of a childless married couple adjusting to a full house.  I enjoyed seeing Phylicia Rashad play the social worker helping to make the transition.

It's a good family movie in spite of the death of parents that some children might not like but the overall theme overshadows the mission of the movie.  I like that they incorporated prayers and the mentioning of God within the movie.  Kids love watching other kids and each character provides a great inclusion into the entire dynamics of the family.

Check out the trailer here:

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Blogmania Beautify Your Blog Contest 1/1 - 1/31

Who cares about shedding 5 pounds what about just looking better in general! Want to Beautify your Blog, but don't have the time or money to spend?! Well I have the PERFECT challenge for YOU! Yes, YOU!

More Info: http://infusiondesignstudios.com

What's up for grabs you might ask?

3 Ultimate Custom Blog Makeovers (WP or Blogger)

(Disclaimer: This does not include istock images/design kits.)

Who can Win?

1 Dream Team Winner

2 Winners from ANYWHERE

and there may be more, but you will just have to wait and see!

IMPORTANT DATES:

From January 1st thru January 14th:

Fill out a form (provided January 1st) to nominate YOUR blog or someone else's blog for a complete Makeover! You are allowed to vote once per day!

On January 17th thru January 28th :

Cast Your Votes for the Top 10 Finalist. You are allowed to vote once per day!

On January 31st:

The Winner's will be announced!

There are also many promotions going on throughout the month. (see calendar below)

Promotion is ONLY for the date listed on the Calendar!

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Wall Art and Decor at AllModern.com (Part of CSN Stores)

I managed to take down most of the Christmas decorations but left the trees up as I was always told that it's bad luck to take them down before the new year.  After taking down everything, I noticed how bare my walls are and with getting ready to put the house on the dreary market, I realized how bad they need a make over.  I have had months of experience with CSN Stores given that they have over 200 online stores where you can find anything you need whether it be wall art and decor, fitness equipment, or even cute cookware!  It's really a great place to shop for hundreds of items.

I think the hardest part is figuring out what to purchase.  I have only one mirror and those really dress up a room's atmosphere with the right shape and size.  I also have quite a few pictures but I'm lacking a few in the dining room.  There are over 600 different types of mirrors to choose from but here are some of my favorites:

  

The nice thing is there are so many great ways to search for the perfect mirror whether it's by price, size, style, frame and more.


There are even wall stencils that would really dress up my grandchild's room.  The variety is endless and knowing that I can decorate an entire room from one store is a bonus for me.  I love to shop but I don't want to have to order items from many stores and prefer a one stop shop like All Modern.

 

*Disclaimer:  This post was written as a teaser to a gift card giveaway from CSN Stores.

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Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP)

Parents of epileptics must fear Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) as much as I do.  Although it's not a common occurrence, just once is enough if it's your child or loved one.  I never knew of SUDEP nor much about epilepsy until it hit my Jamie at the age of five.  I've been a fortunate parent as hers are controlled and were diagnosed as a type of epilepsy that has no known identifiable reason for appearing.  Her epilepsy is Benign Rolandic Epilepsy or BRE.  It's a fairly common type of epilepsy that many children outgrow once they hit puberty.  BRE is just like other forms of epilepsy in that the person experiences seizures too.  Jamie's seizures have been controlled over over a year now.  The other good news is that she is on a fairly low dose of Keppra.  The downside is she has migraines and insomnia whether it's due to the condition or the medication or both, I don't know.  My biggest fear is SUDEP followed by her not outgrowing her epilepsy.

One couple who lost their four year son to SUDEP is using his memory to raise awareness, educate others and find research dollars to help other epileptics.  It's an inspiring story that needs to be shared as many do not know what SUDEP and the plight that epileptics must endure.

Here are some excerpts from the story and you can click here to read the entire story.

Epilepsy claims as many as 50,000 lives each year — grim statistics Mike and Mariann Stanton were unaware of until their 4-year-old son, Danny, became one of them.


To get across the message that they’d never been told — epileptic seizures can be deadly — the Stantons have put up billboards, created more than 8,000 brochures for doctors’ offices, hospitals and families; held fund-raisers to boost awareness and research dollars; and created a foundation that’s gotten more than 10,000 Facebook followers.

More than 3 million Americans have epilepsy, recurrent seizures caused by electrical disturbances in the brain. About 40 percent have seizures hard to control with medicine. They face the highest SUDEP risk, though anyone with epilepsy is at risk.

SUDEP is thought to claim 3,000 lives each year nationwide, but the actual toll is likely higher, said Dr. Elson So, a Mayo Clinic neurologist and leading SUDEP expert who learned about the upcoming research from Chicago colleagues and has offered to take part.

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Want More Followers OR Want to Win $1000?

Join the party and enter to win $1,000 cash starting on the 14th! All you have to do is follow others (see information at link).  Also, want more followers to your blog, FB page and/or Twitter?  How Sweet it Is will be an event from 1/14 until 2/14 that will secure more followers to your blog, FB or Twitter account or just two or all three.  You decide how you want to participate.

Followers will be drawn to your blog, your FB page and Twitter page in an effort to win $1000 and you win by increasing your followers.

Sign up today by clicking here to add your name to the linky list. 

Please include Health, Beauty, Children & Family in the Notes section in PayPal when you sign up.

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PishPosh Mommy Stuff Carryall Review

Just because you are a mommy or mommy-to-be doesn't mean you can't be stylish.  When I was pregnant with my first child 22 year's ago, there wasn't much choice in being fashionable or stylish.  Times have changed and now moms can look haute and organized.  Nothing is worse than having to lug around all that baby and child gear and not being able to find what you need.  Now, PishPosh Mommy Stuff has the solution with this cute, fashionable PishPosh Carryall.

The PishPosh Carryall was designed by two women who were longed for the days when they could grab their purse and go.  The PishPosh Carryall allows you to keep all the items you need in one handy carryall and it's mobile.  This means you can put it in one bag and replace in another bag with ease.  What a great idea!

I received a complimentary sample and love it!  Both my younger children have chronic medical conditions that require carrying medication anywhere we go.  I still have to worry about diapers, wipes, etc so not having a purse over all these years has not been fun.  The pull-string functionality of the Carryall makes it even more convenient to grab and go.  The choices of patterns are also fun and vibrant.  There should be a choice for any personality.

 

The Carryall consists of seven pockets of varying sizes around the perimeter of the bag with a pull-string to close the inner pockets.  Within the inner pocket is a large pocket for diapers and wipes, two smaller pockets, one secure zippered pocket and two elastic pockets to hold bottles and cups.  This is great for my children and my new grandchild as she lives with me so having the functionality to carry all ages of items within my purse is wonderful.

The Carryall is made of soft, quality material and it looks very durable.  Since it's made of 100% cotton, I can wash it.  It's 10" wide x 10" tall x 5" deep thus fitting into a variety of purse sizes.  There are also matching diaper clutches available when you just need to take a quick trip to the store without having to tote everything.

 

You can purchase the Carryall here along with diaper clutches, PishPosh pads and bundle sets here.  Overall, I would recommend the PishPosh Carryall for any mom or mom-to-be as a gift.

Follow PishPosh Mommy Stuff on Facebook and on Twitter.

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DYI Make Your Own Wine Labels

Every year, I like to give a bottle of wine to my parents and sister.  I used to purchase my labels until I found how easy they are to make.  It's an easy and somewhat inexpensive way to give a gift designed by you.  I used regular print sticker sheets and I downloaded an image from the net but any image can be used or you can use your digital cutter if you prefer.

After you select your wine, removing the label is easy.  Soak in hot water for about 10 minutes being careful to not let the label on the back get wet.  Some people like to read that part of the label.  I found after I scraped the label off with my finger nail, a SOS pad works perfect for removing the last sticky residue that remained.  Make sure you dry the bottle since the ink will bleed.

I use rhinestone/diamond stickers to add a final touch and it's all ready to give.

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Save $150 on Alex Ready, Set, Go! Red Trike ($49.99)

Amazon has this great adjustable trike on sale for $49.99!  That's $150 off!  The Alex Ready, Set, Go! Red Trike is a three in one trike that grows with your child.  Tempting to buy for my new grand baby ...

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Gossip Girl Complete Third Season DVD Giveaway (US/Canada) 1/5 $45.49 Value WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

jsc123 said...

I am following via Twitter as jlsc123.

jweezie43[at]gmail[dot]com

January 4, 2011 9:30 PM 

An e-mail has been sent.  This winner won because the first two randomly selected did not comply with the mandatory entry requirement of following my blog.

Thanks to all those who entered!

Here is an easy giveaway for those that like Gossip Girl.  The entire third season on DVD and perfect for Valentine's Day or any birthday coming up. 


To Enter:

Follow my blog and leave a comment

Extra Entries:

• Subscribe to my blog
• Follow me on Twitter
• Like me on Facebook
• Blog about this giveaway (worth five entries)
• Tweet this giveaway (worth two entries - can be done daily)
• Enter any of my other giveaways (worth five entries)

Giveaway ends 1/5 at midnight (EST) - Open to US & Canada

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The Vampire Diaries Complete First Season DVD (US/Canada) Giveaway 1/5 $34.99 Value WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

Elly said...

Entered Gossip Girl giveaway. #2

January 4, 2011 11:46 AM 

An e-mail has been sent and she has 48 hours to respond.

The first winner was disqualified because she did not follow my blog as part of the mandatory ONLY requirement for entering the giveaway.  

Thanks to all those who entered!

Product Details

• Actors: Nina Dobrev, Ian Somerhalder
• Format: AC-3, Box set, Color, Dolby, Dubbed, DVD, Subtitled, Widescreen, NTSC
• Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
• Region: Region 1 (U.S. and Canada only. Read more about DVD formats.)
• Aspect Ratio: 1.77:1
• Number of discs: 5
• Rated: Unrated
• Studio: Warner Home Video
• DVD Release Date: August 31, 2010
• Run Time: 935 minutes
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (119 customer reviews)
• 
  

Special Features

Into Mystic Falls: Bringing Vampire Lore and the High School Experience from Page to Screen
When Vampires Don’t Suck!: The Popularity of Vampires and the Fans Who Love Them
The Vampire Diaries: A New Breed of Vampires -- Casting the Series
The Vampire Diaries: Vampires 101 – The Rules of the Vampire
Creators/Director pilot commentary
Unaired scenes
The Vampire Diaries: A Darker Truth Webisodes
Second Bite: gag reel
Downloadable Audiobook of the Bestselling Novel The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening by L.J. Smith

The Giveaway:

The Vampire Diaries Complete First Season DVD ($34.99 Value)

To Enter:

Follow my blog and leave a comment

Extra Entries:

• Subscribe to my blog
• Follow me on Twitter
• Like me on Facebook
• Blog about this giveaway (worth five entries)
• Tweet this giveaway (worth two entries - can be done daily)
• Enter any of my other giveaways (worth five entries)

Giveaway ends 1/5 at midnight (EST) - Open to US & Canada

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Personalized Oreo Dipped Cookies

Yesterday, I finally made Christmas gifts for my daughter's teachers.  She has two amazing teachers and even though one is deemed a paraprofessional in Georgia, she is an amazing woman.  Both teachers go above and beyond in helping Jamie with her school work. Whether it's the epilepsy, the medication or something else, she requires a little more attention in understanding the directions and completing tasks.  Our Christmas gift to both included a $25 Applebee's gift card as I know one of them loves eating there and it included a customized photo card and personalized dipped Oreo cookies.

I used chocolate to dip the chocolate Oreos and white chocolate to dip the vanilla Oreos.  I purchased the edible ink and frosting sheets from PhotoFrost who I have to say, has amazing customer service.  One of the ink cartridges was missing the microchip and I sent them an e-mail on Sunday night.  Bright and early Monday morning, I received an e-mail requesting more information.  I explained I needed this to make my gift by Thursday and the wonderful customer service representative explained I would have it in time.  She was right as I received it late Wednesday as our UPS man didn't drop off until 7:30 pm but at least I received it.

The only limitations I had were my frosting sheet circles were too big for the cookies and I forgot to purchase the template software.  Both my fault but I was able to adjust.  It was a good learning experience as I plan to utilize the frosting sheets to create some sort of a future fund raiser for Angels4Epilepsy (my daughter's non-profit organization that won a Pepsi Refresh Grant in October).

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Gift Idea: GetGlovd 100% Natural, Sustainable Bamboo Gloves

In an ever increasing demand for more eco friendly, green products, GetGlovd has introduced a new product that is constructed using 100% natural, sustainable bamboo.  What is even better, especially for those families with children with chronic medical conditions like mine, GetGlovd can protect you against viruses and bacteria.  Click here to learn more about versatile bamboo and how it's manufactured.

It's the new alternative to providing an effective defense against germs and bacteria, anywhere you travel.  These lightweight gloves, with a luxurious silky feel are fashionably designed in three sizes to comfortably fit men, women, and children.  GetGlovd can help guard you and your family from contact with flu viruses and harmful bacteria.  

You can’t always be near soap and water, and even frequent use of hand sanitizers can cause harmful bacteria to become immune to germ killing active ingredients in your body causing the skin to be more susceptible to spreading germs.  Click here to get more facts on hand sanitizer risks.

Conventional gloves may provide an invisible breeding ground for germs to linger. However, GetGlovd is designed using 100% mechanically processed, naturally anti-bacterial, anti-microbial bamboo yarn that checks the spread of contagion.          

They are also priced at $19.99 for men and women and $10.99 for children.  For a limited time, you can get free shipping to the continental US if you purchase two pairs.

GetGlovd can be purchased directly at www.getglovd.com.

 

Stay up to date and like GetGlovd on Facebook.

Follow GetGlovd on Twitter.

*Disclosure:  This post was written prior to receiving a complimentary sample.  I have not reviewed the product and the purpose of this post is to relay information on a new product.

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Mamas & Papas Lightweight Stroller Collection Now Available in US

Mamas & Papas has created a fleet of lightweight strollers that are perfect for situations where flexibility is paramount.  As a parent to three children, we all know how important lightweight strollers are.  I wished I had one when we went to Disney last summer.   All Mamas & Papas lightweight strollers also feature an over-the-shoulder carrying strap for when the stroller is folded and in transit.  This is an amazing feature as even though mom's are amazing creatures in themselves, it's a definite asset.  My father always marveled at how moms can juggle so much in their attempts at carrying everything and this feature allows for even more flexibility.

With a culmination of 29 years experience in baby transport, and in-house design force that is second to none and unequivocal quality and style has evolved the new lightweight umbrella stroller range from Mamas & Papas - the chic new design-led baby brand from Great Britain.

• Trip – This stroller offers vented side panels and is the must-have getaway product. 
• Trek – Featuring a simple seat recline system, little ones have the option to nap while on the move.
• Tour – Increased seat padding and a deeper recline will ensure comfort during longer journeys
• Cruise – Perfect for everyday use, this stroller features a five-position recline, adjustable foot rest, easypeek canopy window and additional storage pockets. 
• Voyage – Features an integrated sun visor and sun canopy, quilted seat and removable toddler pillow and chest pads for extra comfort, this stroller is the highlight of the new Mamas & Papas lightweight stroller range.

 

Mamas & Papas is new to the U.S. baby gear with their lightweight stroller collection.  There are many other products offered in the US to include:  strollers, bouncers, high chairs and other nursery essentials. 

To see more, just click here and to purchase online, click here.

Like Mamas & Papas on Facebook and follow Mamas & Papas on Twitter.

*Disclosure:  This post was writtem for a chance to win one of five Mama & Papas strollers via Mom Bloggers Club.

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Great Gift Idea: Tassimo by Bosch T20 Single Serve Coffee Brewer Review

People spend a lot of money on great tasting coffee and will also wait in long lines to get it.  I witness this whenever I go to our local Target and see the lines outside that one coffee shop that has a line streaming around the building.  I can't understand not only wanting to pay and endure the inconvenience but also to be willing to do so when it's not necessary.  My parents always used the traditional brewing systems and given how much coffee they drink, probably ideal for them.  The Tassimo by Bosch T20 Single Serve Coffee Brewer is a great machine for those wanting some variety in drinks, a single serving, a quick cup and some amazing taste.

  

Upon receiving my complimentary Tassimo T20, I loved the sleek new white finish that matches my kitchen much better than the dark version.  I also like the variety of types of drinks and brands available to fit so many different tastes and moods.  For example:

1. Gevalia
2. Nabob
3. Maxwell House
4. Twinings
5. Carte Noire
6. Mastro Lorenzo
7. Maxwell House Cafe Collections
8. Jacobs
9. Kenco

The T20 uses what are called T-Discs and they are individual sized, coded disks containing the beverage of your choice.  The Tassimo reads the codes and knows how to automatically adjusts amount of water, brewing time and temperature.  It's a really nice set up and is beyond easy.  It delivers that same expensive tasting cup of amazement without the hassle of waiting in line or the high price.  It's an on demand luxury to have anytime you want.  

Pro's:

• Convenient and easy to use - one button 
• Variety of drinks - some drinks require two disks to achieve the drink - packages come with both disks needed so no need to purchase separate products
• It's very quiet
• Easy to clean
• The tank of water holds enough for seven to eight servings so you don't have to keep refilling
• The drinks are fresh since it's single servings and not sitting around in a large can or canister for use
• It's small and compact and doesn't take up a lot of space
• Perfect for on the go due to the quick brewing time
• Color inserts are available to add more personalization to your kitchen decor
• Most parts are dishwasher safe

Con's:

• Some might find the costs at around $129 for the unit to be expensive but I think for the quality, size, taste and convenience, it's well worth the cost.
• The price for the T-Disks can add up but again, if you are a frequent shopper to the expensive coffee shops, this will cost you less and the advantage of convenience outweighs the cost.

In summary, I love the Tassimo line of brewers and the great choice of T-Discs available.  My favorite is the Milka Hot Chocolate, 16-Count T-Discs for Tassimo Coffeemakers (Pack of 2) which costs $19.97 for a two pack and each pack has 16 discs which is a good price when you taste how good Milka Hot Chocolate is!  The Tassimo is perfect for any type of hot beverage drinker and would make an excellent Christmas gift.

Click here for a special Tassimo by Bosch special offer.  Purchase a Tassimo Brewbot and save $25 and get two free T-Disc packages.  As low as $104.99!

Like on Facebook here.

Follow on Twitter here.

Other great gift ideas:

    

http://www.tassimodirect.com/promotions/brewbot_launch.aspx?keycode=852704

*Disclaimer:  I received a complimentary product for purposes of this review.  The opinions expressed are of my own.

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