Ultimate Blog Party 2010

Ultimate Blog Party 2010 has so many exciting and awesome prizes that you don't want to miss out!  I'm running a little late on it and after seeing it EVERYWHERE, I had to be a part of it given it's my first one.

My top three prize picks are:

US1 – Win a $150 shopping spree at Pedal Cars and Retro Collectibles.
Provided by: Pedal Cars and Retro Collectibles
Follow here: 5 Minutes for Mom or Visit Our Fan Page: Pedal Cars and Retro Collectibles

US3 – Win a $150 shopping spree at A Rocking Horse To Love.
Provided by: A Rocking Horse To Love
Follow here: 5 Minutes for Mom or Visit Our Fan Page: A Rocking Horse To Love

US5 – Baking Magic for Kids mini-cupcake kit for two winners. This kit contains 12 gourmet mini-cupcakes, unfrosted, with an assortment of frostings and decorations.
Provided by: Baking Magic for Kids
Follow here: Baking Magic Kids or Visit Our Fan Page: Baking Magic for Kids

What about yours?  Better check it out before it's too late!

There are so many and here is just a sample of the others:

US48 – New Momma Prize Package from the Pampered Chef including the Must Have Quick-Stir Pitcher and Twixit! Clips valued at over $30!
Provided by: Shelby Michalek

US49 – $25 gift card to Starbucks
Provided by: Janice Yurek

US50 – Win a $50 Gift Certificate to Froggy Girl Designs!
Provided by: Froggy Girl Designs
Follow here: froggygirletsy or Visit Our Fan Page: Froggy Girl Designs

US51 – Two winners will receive a lillebaby EveryWear carrier – the carrier you can wear every way, every where. Choose from Style, Sport or Organic.
Provided by: Scandinavian Child
Follow here: ScanChild or Visit Our Fan Page: Scandinavian Child

US52 – A $25 GC to Amazon.com.
Provided by: The Product Review Place
Follow here: ThePRPlace or Visit Our Fan Page: The Product Review Place

US53 – 20 full-size sippy cup labels, 60 mini waterproof labels and 2 bag tags will go to one lucky winner!
Provided by: Sunshine Paperie
Follow here: sunshinepaperie or Visit Our Fan Page: Sunshine Paperie

US54 – Three winners will receive a copy of Kristen Hannah’s Firefly Lane.
Provided by: Holly
Follow here: IlikeitFrantic or Visit Our Fan Page: Holly Zegalia

US55 – A $20 GC to Amazon.com.
Provided by: Mom of 2 Boys, Wife of 1
Follow here: lisasamples or Visit Our Fan Page: The Product Review Place

US56 – 12″ x 24″ Custom, hand~painted gallery style canvas for baby nursery or kid’s room {to be coordinated with winner’s bedding/decor} for one winner, see samples here!
Provided by: October Belle Designs LLC
Follow here: OctBelleDesigns or Visit Our Fan Page: October Belle Designs, LLC

US57 -A beginners yoga kit that is light blue and includes a mat, DVD, Yoga Hemp strap, and block.
Provided by: Truth Be Told Blog
Follow here: TruthBeToldBlog or Visit Our Fan Page: Truth Be Told Blog

US58 – A $50 online gift certificate redeemable at Costumes Inc.
Provided by: Costumes Inc.
Follow here: costumesinc or Visit Us on You Tube: Costumes Inc.

US59 – Proactiv Solutions, one winner will receive: *1 fl. ounce Mild Exfoliating Peel $18.00 * 1 fl. ounce Clarifying Night Cream $29.95 (ARV $47.95)
Provided by: Shop with Me Mama
Follow here: shopwithmemama

US60 – The winner will receive an autographed copy of the book Life Simplified-A weekly guide to creating a life you love! by Leslie Gail.
Provided by: Leslie Gail
Follow here: gr8lifecoach or Visit Our Fan Page: Costumes Inc.

US61 – Win a $25 e-gift certificate to Toys-R-Us
Provided by: Faith@FrugallyFabulousMom
Follow here: FrugFabMom or Visit Our Fan Page: Frugally Fabulous Mom

US62 – Ever wanted to read the entire Bible? This prize is for you! One Bible in 90 Days Thinline NIV Bible and one Bible in 90 Days Participants Guide. Get your own group together to read or join MomsToolbox.com beginning July 5 for an online community of readers.
Provided by: Amy @ MomsToolbox.com
Follow here: MomsToolbox or Visit Our Fan Page: MomsToolbox

US63 – One lucky winner will receive a Razor® Rip Rider™ 360
Provided by: Busy Mommy Media
Follow here: busymommymedia or Visit Our Fan Page: Busy Mommy – Surviving Motherhood One Mess at a Time

US64 – This prize will include three items: a copy of our children’s devotional, Bright Gems for His Crown, a copy of Joni Eareckson Tada’s devotional, 31 Days Toward Overcoming Adversity, and a metal bookmark that is “crowned” with a poly resin charm embellished with rhinestones and intricate beaded and swirl designs.
Provided by: Speakable Gifts
Follow here: SpeakableGifts or Visit Our Fan Page: Speakable Gifts

US65 – Three winners will win a copy of “Fantastic Mr. Fox” on dvd
Provided by: Stacey Says
Follow here: Stacey_Says

US66 – Soy Delicious Moisturizing Candles Gift Set: one candles (14oz.) one sugar scrub (4oz) one travel tin (2oz) $68 retail value for one winner.
Provided by: Soy Delicious Moisturizing Candles
Follow here: SoyDelicious or Visit Our Fan Page: Soy Delicious Moisturizing Candles

US67 – DaySpring’s Blessings Unlimited Blessings Blocks – A distressed white-finish frame holds nine colorful blocks with letters and symbols. Key-hole slots allow for vertical or horizontal display. Value $39.00
Provided by: Sandra Joseph
Visit Our Fan Page: DaySprings Blessings Unlimited ~ Sandra Joseph

US68 – Scents of your choice! Choose your very own Full-Size Authentic Scentsy Warmerand 3 wax scents! All for one winner.
Provided by: Mrs. Marine
Follow here: MrsMarine or Visit Our Fan Page: Mrs. Marine’s Wickless Scents

US69 – The Itty-Bitty Bookworm is a literature-based preschool curriculum. One winner will receive a year of our Bo Curriculum for 3-5 year olds. One winner will receive a year of our Bailey Curriculum for 18-36 month olds.
Provided by: The Itty-Bitty Bookworm
Follow here: BittyBookworm

US70 – $25 Kroger Gift Certificate
Provided by: Saidah @ A Proverbs Wife
Follow here: ProverbsWife or Visit Our Fan Page: A Proverbs Wife

US71 – A $50 Bear Bucks Card to Build A Bear Workshop.
Provided by: Liza Schwab
Follow here: mamaschwab

US72 – Your Shape for Nintendo Wii A fitness video game featuring Jenny McCarthy Comes with a motion tracking camera! All for one lucky winner!
Provided by: Kristie’s List
Follow here: KristiesList

US73 – We will give away 2 (1 for each winner) – $30 Amazon gift cards to the winner so they can buy items of their choosing.
Provided by: Escalate Network
Follow here: escalatenetwork

US74 -  We will give away 2 (1 for each winner) – $30 Amazon gift cards to the winner so they can buy items of their choosing.
Provided by: Afullcup.com
Follow here: afullcup or Visit Our Fan Page: A Full Cup

US75 – $100 Gift Certificate to SummitCampingGear.com
Provided by: StomperMom
Follow here: stompermom or Visit Our Fan Page: Stompermom

US76 – One Sentimental Silver personalized “Silver Sweethearts” necklace. Necklace will be customized with two names or words to be selected by the winner.
Provided by: Sentimental Silver Jewelry
Visit Our Fan Page: Sentimental Silver

US77 – 5 winners will be gifted with Baby Banz Sunglasses and UV Sun Hat Combo set with Sunscreen.
Provided by: Baby Banz, Inc.
Follow here: babybanz or Visit Our Fan Page: Baby Banz

US78 – My giveaway will be for a 9-piece Avon Makeup Set (value $60.00) including NAILWEAR PRO Nail Enamel, GLIMMERSTICKS Waterproof Eye Liner, SUPERSHOCK Mascara, GLAZEWEAR Lip Gloss: Sparkle, GLAZEWEAR Lip Gloss: Shine, GLAZEWEAR Lip Gloss: Intense, ULTRA COLOR RICH Lipstick: Shimmer, ULTRA COLOR RICH 24K Gold Lipstick, and TRUE COLOR Eyeshadow Quad.
Provided by: Patty Coleman @ Living In Amazing Grace
Follow here: LivAmazingGrace

US79 – A surprise jar of KindNotes filled with inspirational messages enclosed in miniature decorative envelopes for the recipient to open daily or anytime they need a smile! Perfect for mom on Mother’s Day too!
Provided by: KindNotes
Follow here: KindNotes or Visit Our Fan Page: KindNotes

US80 – A collection of inspirational pewter Treasures charms for a birthday party for tweens or teens. The party kit includes: 48 shapes and words and 24 stainless steel chain all packaged in a wood jewelry box for the birthday girl to keep after the party. Party Kit value $140. Here is a link to a comic book of party ideas.
Provided by: Amy Peters’ Studio
Follow here: AmyPetersStudio or Visit Our Fan Page: Amy Peters’ Studio

US81 – Instant, Non-Surgical Facelift Masque! Julie Leischner, mom of 4 and Independent Consultant with L’BRI PURE n’ NATURAL Skincare and Cosmetics, is awarding 2 winners afacelift masque. Incredible masque that tones, lifts, and smooths your face! See other posts for more L’BRI products I will be donating!
Provided by: Julie Leischner
Follow here: juliealoe or Visit Our Fan Page: Julie Munsell Leischner:|Skincare Consultant, Natural, Aloe, Paraben-Free

US82 – Natural Rejuvenating Enzyme Peel. Julie Leischner, mother of 4 and independent L’BRI Consultant, is donating one of our top-selling products. Enzyme peel dissolves dead skin gently…using aloe, unripened papaya and other wonderful botanicals. Gentle enough for people with rosacea, psoriasis and eczema as well! Value of $35.50
Provided by: Julie Leischner
Follow here: juliealoe or Visit Our Fan Page: Julie Munsell Leischner:|Skincare Consultant, Natural, Aloe, Paraben-Free

US83 – Disney Mickey 5-in-1 Tasty Baker by Pop Art. An all in one table top appliance that bakes pancakes, cakes, quickbreads, biscuits and donuts and more into 6 bite sized shapes (Mickey mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Daisy Duck, Goofy and Pluto) in about one-third the time. It can even cook eggs.
Provided by: Pop Art Toaster
Follow here: poparttoaster or Visit Our Fan Page: Pop Art Toaster

US84 – One $25 Gift Certificate to Shutterfly.com.
Provided by: Scraps of My Geek Life
Follow here: scrappinmichele or Visit Our Fan Page: Scraps of My Geek Life

US85 – A $40 gift certificate from BeautifulBlooms.etsy.com
Provided by: Beautiful Blooms
Follow here: MOM2ETCK or Visit Our Fan Page: Beautiful Blooms

US86 – Weeds DVD – the complete fifth season.
Provided by: Mommy Season
Follow here: dmcarey or Visit Our Fan Page: Mommy Season

US87 – 2 winners will receive a $30.00 Amazon Gift Certificate.
Provided by: Christine/LiveLaughLoveCj
Follow here: LiveLaughLoveCj

US88 – $25 E-Gift card to Amazon.com!
Provided by: Faith’s Firm Foundation

US89 – 10 hand-pressed pocket mirrors from Little Pink Plum, value $25.00.
Provided by: Little Pink Plum
Follow here: littlepinkplum

US90 – Three winners will choose any Country Chic 5×5 Fine Art Print from my collection!
Provided by: Life n Reflection Photography
Follow here: lifenreflection

US91 – One $20 gift certificate to Green Mountain Coffee
Provided by: Melissa @ Coffee with Me
Follow here: RoyandMelissa or Visit Our Fan Page: Coffee with Me

US92 – Stylish and functional – Baby Elephant Ears are a multi – use head rest for infants and toddlers providing spinal/neck alignment while in carriers and car seats. Offered in various prints & organics. One winner will choose a Baby Elephant Ears of their choice.
Provided by: Jamaise @ Wishing Penny
Follow here: Jamaise or Visit Our Fan Page: Jamaise Wilson

US93 – 2 winners will receive $50.00 gift certificates for any product at RUVAcards.com, good for 60 days after the winners are notified.
Provided by: RUVAcards.com
Follow here: Ruvacards or Visit Our Fan Page: RUVAcards personalized greetings

US94 – Win one of these beautiful original bracelets- White After Labor Day, Cheery Oval and Oval the top. Three winners will get to choose!
Provided by: Sydney Andrews Jewelry
Follow here: Sydney_Andrews or Visit Our Fan Page: Sydney Andrews Jewelry

US95 – $100 Gift Certificate to Restaurant.com – Choose from over 13,000 restaurants nationwide – redeem online and print your gift certificate(s).
Provided by: Thrifty Jinxy
Follow here: ThriftyJinxy or Visit Our Fan Page: Thrifty Jinxy

US96 – A laundry prize pack from Mrs. Meyer’s! 64-oz laundry detergent (HE compatible), 80-ct dryer sheets and 8-oz.room freshener. One winner will pick their choice of scent!
Provided by: Mama’s Laundry Talk
Follow here: MamaLaundry or Visit Our Fan Page: Mama’s Laundry Talk

US97 – One winner will receive a beautiful handmade wire and colorful bead necklace from the mission-driven company, Ana Patricia!
Provided by: Erin @ Home with the Boys
Follow here: homewiththeboys

US98 – Going green is simple with Conserving Now’s Bring Your Own Bag Starter Eco-Kit for one lucky winner.
Provided by: Conserving Now
Follow here: frugallythrifty or Visit Our Fan Page: Frugally Thrifty

US99 – A signed copy of Carpe Demon: Adventures of a Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom by Julie Kenner.
Provided by: Musing Mommies
Follow here: MusingMommies or Visit Our Fan Page: Musing Mommies

US100 – One $25 Wachovia gift card to be used anywhere Visa is accepted.
Provided by: Tamona’s Tips
Follow here: wahsleuth or Visit Our Fan Page: Tamona’s Tips

US101 – One lucky winner will get this $450 Human Touch Foot and Calf Massager that is being given away by Still Blonde after All These Years!, a blog for women over 45.
Provided by: Still Blonde After All These Years!
Visit Our Fan Page: Still Blonde After All These Years

US102 -$20 gift certificate for The Stamping Lady. Can be used for any scrapbooking or stamping classes/kits or for Stampin’ Up! supplies purchased through The Stamping Lady.
Provided by: The Stamping Lady, Tasha Hickert
Follow here: Stamping_Lady or Visit Our Fan Page: The Stamping Lady

US103 – A $25 gift certificate to www.StopDropandRelax.com
Provided by: Stop Drop and Relax
Follow here: StopDropRelax or Visit Our Fan Page: Stop Drop and Relax

US104 – Shoot Me Now is giving away one $50 Visa Vanilla Gift Card.
Provided by: Shoot Me Now!
Follow here: shootmenowblog

US105 – Get Fit Pack: One “lucky” winner will get a triple threat of Jillian Michaels. Pack contains 30 Day Shred, Yoga Meltdown, The Biggest Loser Last Chance Workout. Pack also includes an aluminum water bottle to help stay on track and stay hydrated!
Provided by: Green Mom Wannabe
Follow here: madareamama

US106 – Two winners will receive a free copy of the Letter of the Week preschool curriculum. Winner may choose curriculum via download or CD.
Provided by: Confessions of a Homeschooler
Follow here: ericahomeschool

US107 – $25 Gift Card to Target – See how much you can get using coupons and watching for sales.
Provided by: Money4ThisNot4That
Follow here: Money4This or Visit Our Fan Page: Money 4 This Not 4 That

US108 – One 1 lb. box of See’s milk or dark chocolates (winners choice)
Provided by: Lamp Unto My Feet

US109 – Beauticontrol Microderm Abrasion Facial Buffing Creme and Buffer Retail Value: $60.50
Provided by: ilovemy5kids
Follow here: loving5kids or Visit Our Fan Page: ilovemy5kids

US110 – A body butter sampler set with three of our most intoxicating scents to pamper your body from head to toe with skin indulgent mango, cocoa, and shea butter for two winners.
Provided by: mainelement: love
Follow here: mainelementlove or Visit Our Fan Page: mainelement: love

US111 – Creative Memories PicFolio Mini Albums Gift Boxed Set! Album colors are Red and Blue and come in a gift box that you could display on your desk or countertop. (No longer available by Creative Memories to purchase) But I still have an unopened one to give away to one lucky winner!
Provided by: Ivy Morrison
Follow here: ivy_morrison7

US112 – $50 Amazon Gift card
Provided by: Robyn ~ Our Homeschool Home
Follow here: RobynOHSH or Visit Our Fan Page: Robyn Our Homeschool Home

US113 – $25 Walmart Gift Certificate
Provided by: Susan Stahley
Follow here: rsmstahley

US114 – $25 Walmart Gift Certificate
Provided by: Mary’s Country Life
Follow here: missunny

US115 – A hand knit beanie for you or a loved one. You get to pick the color as long as its not outlandish.
Provided by: Vickie Barton
Follow here: morgaine24

Time to Get Frugal

With an upcoming job loss and hubby deploying to Kuwait on April 29th for a year, I'm putting us on a budget!  It will be the first time since 2003 that I was on a budget so this will be interesting.  I plan on utilizing all the saver blogger sites to find the best deals and coupons and while trying to stick to the game plan for Mamavation, find a healthier way to eat.

I just read an article on Yahoo about a few chefs were challenged to create a menu of items if a family of four were receiving welfare.  It was interesting as the first two chefs, that's where I stopped reading, prefers organic and natural foods and steers clear of processed foods.  My daughter who works as a cashier always tells me how people with food stamps buy premade cakes, premade food, the best chocolate and other non-necessities which is really sad as I'm sure there are kids needing better food at home.  Granted I'm not stating all people on food stamps do this but the one's that do, really should relook at what's best for the kids.  Anyway, I was disappointed to see the ideas for the menus looked good but there was no recipes.

I would love to have some good wholesome recipes for a budget.  Anyone have any?

Wella's Pastel Color Trending: Trendy New Hair Fashion

Looking for something new and trendy to do with your hair?  Check out what's going on with Wella:


The trend started at New York Fashion Week in Spring ’10 shows such as Proenza Schouler and Zac Posen. Cynthia Rowley caught onto this trend with her Fall ’10 show. Wella master colorist Eva Scrivo created the colored extensions for Cynthia and the designer loved it so much that she went back to Eva’s salon and got her own hair colored with navy streaks!

CELEBS LOVE THE LOOK, TOO!

Fashionistas and dye-divas are sporting the trend, including Ashley Olsen, Kelly Osbourne, Drew Barrymore, and Lady Gaga... and the list is sure to grow!  I just love Drew and her looks so I can't wait to find a picture of her hair.

GET THE LOOK

As a New York City salon-owner, fashion week colorist and beauty expert, Eva Scrivo has the recipe for the perfect match of natural color and dip-dyed tones. Also a Wella spokesperson, Eva can advise on transitioning this spiced-up hair trend from runway to reality for all hair types and textures. Eva created the bold tone palette for the Cynthia Rowley Fall '10 runway, using Koleston Perfect Special Mix colors. They were such a hit, she has now started selling colored clip-in extensions customized at her salon.  I miss being in NYC as I would love to have a make over by one of the big hair stylists there.


My daughter


If this would have come out year's ago, my oldest would have been all over it!  She was really into adding streaks to her hair but with Wella, it's more professional and right now, very fashionable.


Stay up to date with Wella on Facebook.


*Disclaimer:  I received no compensation for this post.

Post Cereals: Good, Wholesome and Yummy & a Chance to Win $25,000

Since I've been blogging, it has opened the door to a lot of learning opportunities.  These learning opportunities mostly pertain to beauty and health and the more I learn, the more I want to read.  Everything connected to us is related to how well we eat and what we eat.  Doctors are increasingly jumping on board with the importance of eating healthy foods, steering clear of processed foods, additives and what Jillian Michaels' refers to as Frankenfoods.  I've wondered for some time about the broad range of pesticides and herbicides utilized to grow bigger crops along with the hormones and vaccines used in our animals.

One culprit of not so great food can be found in your breakfast cereals but I was happy to learn that a brand we routinely purchase is recognizing the benefits of healthier eating.  Post Cereals contain naturally-occurring whole grains, fiber and antioxidants.  If you are looking for the simple ingredient of wheat, just look to Post's Shredded Wheat.

I was provided five samples of ingredients found in cereals.   I was amazed at how different natural fiber looked over synthetic fiber.  The naturally occurring fiber is exactly that in it's true form and synthetic fiber, polydextrose and maltodextrose, are white, processed, flour-like products that take no form of wheat/grain.  There is a definite difference in texture, appearance and smell.  I also received this great DVD on how the cereal is made and how good it is for you.

Post's Shredded Wheat Honey Wheat is such a basic cereal and is made of whole grain wheat and other ingredients that I can actually pronounce and tastes great!  It's such a good way to start your day or even as a snack.  My two year old loves it!

I enjoyed learning more about Post Cereals and look forward to incorporating them more into our daily lives. Based on what I read on the Post site, not only is fiber good for you but it also states some research suggests those that consume a high fiber diet have lower body weights and I'm all for that!  More information on the nutritional value can be found here.

Post Foods is going to make life simpler for one lucky community with a $25,000 grant.  The Post Grant for Good Health Essay contest will be awarded to the winning entrant with the best health and wellness initiative idea fr their community.

Post Foods is working with the National Wellness Institute, Inc (NWI) a non-profit organization that provides research, support and certification for health and wellness professionals to launch the Post Grant for Good Health.

You can enter to win $25,000 in the Post Grant for Good Health here.  You have from now until May 17th to submit a 300 word essay.

You can also enter to win a family trip and compete to unlock a top secret prize here.


Here is a bonus recipe:

Crunchy Berry Parfait

INGREDIENTS

1 cup sliced fresh strawberries 1/2 cup vanilla low-fat yogurt 1/4 cup Grape-Nuts Cereal

DIRECTIONS

LAYER half each of the strawberries, yogurt and cereal in medium glass. REPEAT layers. SERVE immediately.

TIPS & SUGGESTIONS

Substitute: Substitute blueberries or raspberries for the sliced strawberries. Fun Idea: This colorful snack is so easy to make that the kids can assemble it themselves! Prepare it in the parfait glass as directed for a grown-up look, or make it in a colorful paper or plastic cup for an on-the-go snack. Substitute: Prepare as directed, using your favorite cereal, such as Post Selects Blueberry Morning, Cranberry Almond Crunch, Great Grains or Maple Pecan Crunch. Nutrition Bonus: Start your day with a nutrition winner! This low-fat, low-calorie parfait provides an excellent source of vitamin C from the strawberries, and is a good source of iron from the fortified Grape-Nuts.

This was really a good learning experience for my six year old who was very interesting in seeing the different samples of wheat and synthetic wheat along with the DVD.  She has all the makings of a future science project!  She didn't like it at first but as she's sitting next to me as I type, she's munching away!  Yeah .. I'll take that over chocolate in her little body any day!  Thanks, Post!


*Disclaimer:  I was provided a product sample in exchange for my review.  I was not financially compensated.

Update on the Nintendo DS & Zhu Zhu Game Giveaway

For those of you anxiously awaiting the Nintendo DS Light and Zhu Zhu Game Giveaway, I just heard back from the PR person and it's on it's way for my review.  When I post my review, I get to give another one away .. yeah!!!

Stay tuned!

Baskin-Robbins 31 Cent Scoop Night April 28 to Support Local Fire Fighting Heroes

Did you say ice cream?   My girls love ice cream and who doesn't love a firefighter?   Those wonderful men and women who risks their lives daily for the good of others on our homeland!  As a military wife, I'm definitely supportive of spreading the word given how I know what it feels like to be married to someone with hazardous duties.

Looking for a sweet way to treat the entire family to ice cream? Baskin-Robbins is hosting its fourth annual 31 Cent Scoop Night on April 28 from 5–10 p.m. at stores nationwide. We are once again paying tribute to local fire fighting heroes and thanking our customers by lowering the price of Baskin-Robbins scoops to just 31 cents! A family of four can enjoy their favorite flavors for less than $1.50!


It’s for a good cause too – as part of the event, the Baskin-Robbins Community Foundation will make a $100,000 donation to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring fallen fire heroes and assisting their families and coworkers. Participating Baskin-Robbins stores will help raise additional funds for local firehouses by inviting fire departments to the event to collect donations.

Get more details here.

Thanks to TwitterMoms for this alert!

10 Tips for Organizing Your Family

Being an Army family, we are on the go every three months so organization is very critical to relocations.  Having five children with two of those having chronic medical conditions also entails a need for organization.  I can't imagine any family not requiring some sort of organization and pending your personality, you have very direct ones or you might have few.  TwitterMoms and Icon Apps is sponsoring this great contest where I might win a $50 gift card to Target and with a summer full of birthdays coming, this will come in handy if I win.

For me, I have found some ways that really do help in organizing:

1. From a health organization, I utilize my iPod application in monitoring my food intake and exercise calories burned.  This is a great organization in ensuring I'm eating healthier and not off track with my goals.
2. I use a bin system for the kids on a shelf in my office.  They are allowed to utilize it for items that they might use frequently.  The bins hold only a limited amount thus keeping down clutter.
3. I use an USB device to store all my children's medical records.  This allows a quick and easy way to provide access to the doctors when we move or for medical records.  The USB device allows us to store medical records, legal records or anything else we need.  It is definitely going to aid us in an enormous way when we need it.
4. My iPod is also used as an alarm reminder in administering the twice a day medications to both children.  This enables me to better organize my time without having to have the constant worry of trying to remember medication times.
5. Since writing this post, I am now going to incorporate Intuition from IconApps as it allows me to write out my grocery list as I can't read my own writing and this will save me so much time.
6. Another organization tip I have is I use automatic refill with my pharmacy.  When scripts are ready to be refilled, it's automatic and when they run out, they call the doctor's office for me.  This saves time and allows me to maintain a better organization of my children's medications.
7. To save money, I keep old party supplies and keep them in tubs labeled with each holiday.  This not only saves money but allows for a quick find for whatever my needs are.  I've used these bins on numerous occasions and since they are easy to find and labeled, it saves me time and energy.
8. For my blogging, I utilize Microsoft to organize my PR letters, my giveaways, my links and so much more.  Being able to copy and paste quickly saves me time and allows for better records.  It also helps to keep things organized as I run this blog, my daughter's blog http://angels4epilepsy.blogspot.com/ and the school's PTO website.
9. For addresses and cards, I keep another Word document with all the names and addresses for quick reference.  I'm bad with address books and this enables a quick and easy way to maintain a log.
10. Finally, the toy room!  I use a three bin piece of furniture that stores the girl's toys downstairs.  Whatever they can fit in the bin can stay.  Everything else has to stay upstairs.  This really cuts down on the clutter and makes clean up so much easier when you have those last minute guests pop in that only come over when the house isn't clean.

Do you have any good tips to share?  Want to enter this contest?  Just go here and special thanks to TwitterMoms and IconApps.

Disclosure:

This post is part of a blogging contest from the TwitterMoms community. There is a chance this post could be randomly selected to win a $50 Target GiftCard, so wish me luck!
 
For more details, you can view the contest page here (http://icomp.ly/IconApps).
 

Mamavation Monday

I'm glad the Mamavation is restarting so I can hopefully begin this week better!  I haven't faired as well as I had hoped between stress with a job layoff, hubby leaving for Kuwait on the 29th and just plain exhaustion with little kids, a large house, working full time, etc etc.  It's time I quit making excuses and move forward and I especially realized this after watching the amount of junk food my little one's consume.  I'm on a mission to seek out ways to get the six year old interested in better food as she's not a fan of any vegetable and fruit other than carrots and bananas, respectively.  I figure if I find "fun" ways to make snacks and meals out of them with her assisting, she might be more apt at helping.

My two year old, will be three in June, and she loves just about all food so she's my easy one.  My pregnant oldest one, is not a good eater but has improved since becoming pregnant.  She's due 10/10.

I have to say cheering on Colleen has been my biggest motivator in taking this getting healthier serious.  Between the awareness of voting for her and getting Kia and BookieBoo's comments, I know it's long overdue and the excuses stop right now....tonight!  I am starting tomorrow renewed, committed and ready to motivate all the Mamavation moms along with my own little Mama's at home.

Maybe I need to eat more Subway too since it's fresh, great tasting and good for you!  I love the vegetable subs and although I'm a fan of Jared, I also like Shea!  I'm glad Subway provides a healthy alternative to "fast food" while ensuring you can actually live healthier!  Yeah Subway!

Goals this week:  Majority of food consumed to be fruits and vegetables, more water and exercise five times a week.

If you are new to Mamavation, don't forget to check this powerhouse of a group out to help you get healthier and meet fun, interesting other women.   There will be a Twitter party on April 12th 8-10 pm (EST).  Click here to get more information.

Our Troops in Afghanistan

My dear friend and grandmother to my girls in Australia just sent me this beautiful e-mail in which I wanted to share.  All we ever hear on the biased news are stories of abuse by our soldiers and never a good word.  I'm copying a few of the pictures and text from this e-mail to show the other side ...the side my own repeat deployed husband told me about while on his tours to Afghanistan, Iraq (twice) along with other countries.

Afghan Child Bites Soldier in Self-Defense After Obvious Torture

Soldier Attempts to Eat Afghan Child

Clear Evidence of Forced Labor by Troops

Soldier Caught At "Tickle Torture" to Extract Intelligence

Granted abuses sadly do occur but that is by a few and not the majority.  Our involvement, whether you agree or disagree with our presence, does provide some good but we just don't hear enough about it unfortunately.

Thank you, Annie for sending this and God bless the world's troops who are fighting for a better world.

Last Day for Bonus Entries on Numerous Giveaways

This is the last day for bonus entries by voting for Colleen_Mouse at http://mamavation.com (right side of the website).  It's quick and easy and allows you five bonus entry to see this fantastic mom win the next Mamavation Mom!

Don't wait, please go vote now!  

Here are some of the open giveaways right now and don't forget the mega Mother's Day giveaway that values over $200 and might be growing pending on what I might receive between now and the end date. 


Right now, you can win a YouFloral customized vase and bouquet, a trendy Flirty Aprons apron, a $10 Walmart GC, a $25 Robeez Gift Card, a hand sensory touchless soap dispenser (very elegant) and more!


April

• YouthfulTips yubo Eco-Friendly Lunch Box 4/16
• YouthfulTips Piggy Paint Review & $15 GC Giveaway 4/24
• YouthfulTips Yoplait Go-Gurt Gift Pack Giveaway 4/24
• YouthfulTips Bryan Food The Ultimate Neighborhood Grill Out Contest & Giveaway 4/30

May

• Youthfultips Mother's Day Mega Giveaway 5/5 - YouFloral, Walmart GC, Robeez Gift Card, Flirty Aprons Apron, Hand Sensory Dispenser & More

This Little Prayer of Mine Book Review & Giveaway 5/5/10 - CLOSED WINNER

CONGRATULATIONS TO....

HilLesha@gmail.com

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

Winner was chosen by random.org from eligible entrants.

Thanks to all those who entered and if you didn't win, it's a great book to get your little one!

I don't go to church and I know I should as I don't want to repeat my upbringing.  My dad, growing up as a devout Catholic, decided he didn't want to force religion on us and thought we would choose one.  As he always says, he didn't realize we would choose none.  If you aren't given the chance to explore, you tend to gravitate that way.  When I was offered the chance to review This Little Prayer Book of Mine, I wanted it for my kids.

This Little Prayer of Mine was written by Anthony DeStefano and illustrated by Mark Elliott.  It's even endorsed by the National Day of Prayer.  It's a delightful book by Random House that allows early readers a chance to read it or to have a parent read to them.  I like the real life examples used such as:

Whenever I feel really scared and want to hide my head,  please help me to be brave and strong and face my fears instead.

It teaches such good lessons while reinforcing God is present.  My girls really like this movie and is becoming a nightly ritual.

If you haven't had a chance to buy it, it's a winner and is available at Random House.

The Giveaway:

Your own copy of This Little Prayer of Mine.

To Enter:


If you would like a copy, leave a comment that you would like to win!  That is it!

Bonus Entries (worth two entries each unless otherwise specified):

• Follow my blog.
• Subscribe to my blog.
• Follow Random House on Twitter.
• Follow me on Twitter.
• Become a fan of Random House on Facebook.
• Become a fan of mine on Facebook.
• Blog about this giveaway (five entries).
• Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily).
• Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries).

Giveaway ends 5/5/10 at midnight.  Winner will be chosen by random.org

Bryan Foods' The Ultimate Neighborhood Grill Out Contest & Giveaway 4/30 WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO...

ROMAPR!

An e-mail was just sent.  The winner was chosen via random.org.

Thanks to all those who entered!

Summer is finally coming and it's truly my favorite season!  When I think of summer, I think of grilling out and when I think of grilling out, I cannot wait!   My six year old picked up a liking to hot dogs at school so now that is a common staple I get when we shop as well as corn dogs.  My oldest likes sandwiches so when Bryan Foods contacted me about hosting a review and giveaway, I was happy to agree.

Bryan Foods' logo is The Flavor of the South which I have never heard of even though I have resided in Georgia for almost three years now.  For four generations, Bryan Foods has been delivering their products using only quality cuts of meat and their original family recipes.  Since Bryan Foods has been in the business since 1936, it must be good!

Their products include eight types of hot dogs, two types of corn dogs, breakfast sausage, three types of cocktail smokies,  four types of smoked sausages, three types of ham and ten types of lunchmeat.  There is something for everyone and when I realized how many products they have, I thought of my dad who would be in heaven with everything they have to offer!

We received this wonderful prize pack that included a Bryan Foods camo hat (husband took), a very nice apron with pockets, four coupons to try my choice of four Bryan Foods and this great little carrying case that included four tools to grill out hot dogs and marshmellows.  My six year old laid claim to that one as she loves "toasted marshmellows!"  The extra nice feature of those is they are adjustable so you can increase the length pending your fit pit for safety reasons.  It's a really nice prize pack that we will enjoy and think of Bryan Foods every time.  You can just see the smile in her face as she thinks of those marshmellows.

I also liked the Bryan Food recipes I received and are available on their site here. This is my favorite:

The Spicy Southern Dog	(Serves 2)
Ingredients	Quantity
Bryan® Juicy Jumbos® Franks (or your favorite Bryan hot dog)	2
Hot dog bun, split	2
Barbecue sauce	¼ cup
Hot salsa	¼ cup
Minced jalapeno	½ tsp.
Chili powder	dash
White onion, small dice	¼ cup
Shredded cheddar cheese	¼ cup

Method:

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine barbecue sauce, salsa, jalapeno, and chili powder. Cook until heated through and ingredients are fully combined, approximately 3-5 minutes.
2. Place grilled dog in bun, top with salsa mixture, and sprinkle with onions and cheese.

The Rick & Bubba Show have teamed up with Bryan Foods and country music star Jimmy Wayne to launch The Ultimate Neighborhood Grill Out contest.  One lucky winner will receive an ultimate neighborhood grill out.  To enter, click on the link above, and submit a video or story of a memorable experience with family and friends when Bryan Foods was a part of the gathering.  All grill out food will be provided by Bryan Foods, the grill masters will be included so what a great way to have a lazy good time!  As an extra bonus, Jimmy Wayne will perform live!  That is an ultimate neighborhood grill out and you will be the talk of yours.


Four runner ups will receive a year supply of Bryan Foods products along with Bryan branded items like t-shirts and aprons.


The contest kicked off March 29th and entries will be accepted until April 30th with winners announced May 5th.  For a complete list of rules, go here.

The Giveaway:

One lucky reader of mine will receive the same prize pack I received!  If you have kids, they will love it along with your favorite grill master (i.e. husband)!  If he's not, tell him how how sexy he looks in his apron and he'll cook for you every night!

To Enter:

Follow my blog (entries will be verified) and tell me which Bryan Food item you like the most or would like to try.

Bonus Entries (worth one entry unless noted):

• Become a fan of my Facebook page.
• Subscribe and confirm to my blog (will be verified)
• Follow me on Twitter (2 entries).
• Add my button to your sidebar (5 entries)
• Add Angels4Epilepsy's button to your sidebar (5 entries)
• Add Youthfultips to your blogroll (using my URL) and link back to me (3 entries)
• Blog about this giveaway (five entries) - leave link
• Tweet about this giveaway (2 entries - can be done daily)
• Enter any of my other ongoing giveaways (5 entries)

Limited Bonus Entry Opportunity Until April 11, midnight:

This how you can get some bonus pre-entries before it's even posted but only for a limited time!

If you go to http://www.mamavation.com and on the right hand side is a list of all the Mamavation Mom contestants, you can vote for Colleen_Mouse and secure five bonus entries (per day) until midnight (EST) on April 11, 2010.


Leave your five entries afterwards - this can be done daily until 4/11 midnight.

Sorry but this giveaway is only for US and ends 04/29/10 at midnight.  Winner will be chosen by random.org.

*Disclosure:  I was provided a complimentary product in exchange for my review.  No financial compensation was received.