Progresso Souper YOU Contest Details, Coupon & Gift Pack Giveaway 2/1 WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

CindyWindy2003 said...

http://twitter.com/#!/carafferty/status/27378363182092288
carawling(at)hotmail(dot)com

January 18, 2011 9:55 AM 

An e-mail has been sent and she has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen via random.org.

Thanks to all those who entered!

Nothing is really new other than it's 01/2011 but every year in January, a renewed interest in losing those extra pounds resurfaces across the board.  It hits me about every nanosecond and even though it seems so easy to do, it isn't.  As I embarked into this new year, I decided to kick it up a bit and put out a challenge to my family.  In our group, we have all of January and February to lose weight.  The winner with the greatest percentage lost, wins $100.  My incentive is to win so I don't have to give away the money and of course, you know their incentive.  My oldest is participating too and with her recent pregnancy, she is looking to shed those extra pounds she picked up and her approach is via Weight Watchers.  One of the benefits of that program is to inclusion of Progresso Soups since they have 40 flavors with a 100 calories or less (per serving) and one serving counts as one point for WW.  This diet is ideal for her since she loves soup and is an avid Progresso Soup consumer.

 

With the new year, Progresso is kicking it up to encourage everyone to enter the Souper You Debut contest from January 3rd until March 16th.  You can also enter on Progresso's Facebook page to win a complete make over in New York City.  If you have never been to NYC, you are missing out as it's such an experience to visit the city, walk, take the subway and so much more.  I want to win!


Here are the details:


Three grand prize winners will be awarded a trip for two to New York City from May 20th-22nd. The prize includes roundtrip airfare, a two-night stay in an NYC hotel, a full makeover, a guided wardrobe shopping spree with a personal consultation at a New York City department store, and $1,000 in spending money. 

To enter, you’ll need to do the following:

• Go to Progresso on Facebook to learn more and enter the contest
• Submit your essay (200 characters or less) telling Progresso why you love their soups that contain 100 calories or less, and why you deserve a chance to win a trip to NYC for a full fashion overhaul
• In addition, you need to submit a photo of yourself that visually reinforces the theme of your essay

Once the 10 finalists are announced, you can visit Progresso on Facebook from March 30th through April 13th to vote for your favorite. 

Visit the Facebook page to download a coupon for $1.00 off four (4) cans of Progresso Soup and to check out makeover videos provided by MyStyle.com and the Style Network. Be sure to also "Follow" Progresso on Twitter to keep up with the latest news from Progresso. 

As part of my participation in MyBlogSpark, I received a Progresso Soup Gift Pack that included five cans of Progresso Soup (which were all delicious minus the Clam Chowder since I don't like clam chowder), a large yoga mat that rolls up and comes with a cool carrying case, a water bottle, set of aerobic bands, a carrying case for keys/wallet and wrist bands.  This was a great prize pack to kick me off in my endeavor to get in shape and get healthier.   I had the Light Pot Roast soup last night and it tasted so good.  It wasn't salty and it was light enough to make me feel good yet didn't leave me feeling like I missed out on something.  I love Progresso Soup and it's the one we buy the most.


Now, what you are also waiting for, the giveaway!


One winner will receive a VIP coupon for a free can of Progresso soup, as well as a yoga mat, water bottle, set of aerobic bands, sport headband and two sport wristbands.


To Enter:


Follow my blog and tell me which is your favorite Progresso Soup.


Extra Entries:

• Subscribe to my blog - you must confirm you subscription
• Follow me on Twitter
• Like me on Facebook
• Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily - two entries per day)
• Tweet about the Progresso Contest with:  Enter to win a trip to NYC w/ Progresso Souper You Debut #myblogspark @Progresso http://www.facebook.com/Progresso?v=app_
• Blog about this giveaway (five entries - can be done once)
• Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries for each giveaway entered and the giveaway must be on-going at the time you entered this giveaway)

Giveaway ends 2/1 at midnight (EST) 


*Disclosure:  Progresso provided the free product, information, and giveaway through MyBlogSpark.

Avon Voices: First Ever Global Online Singing Talent Search

 

What do Fergie, Sheila E. have in common?  They will be part of an international celebrity panel for Avon Voices.

If you are woman over 18 with an amazing singing voice, thanks to Avon Voices, your woes can be over.

Avon Voices is Avon’s first-ever global online singing talent search for women and songwriting competition for men and women.  A panel of celebrity judges, including Fergie, Natasha Bedingfield, Sheila E., Diane Warren and more are on hand, providing singing tips and helping select our finalists. 

And if you are picked as a finalist, you’ll get the chance to TRAVEL (takes care of the vacation) to Hong Kong, Rio de Janiero, Paris, Hollywood, New York or Nashville, plus PHOTO AND VIDEO SHOOTS, a PROFESSIONAL MAKEOVER and coaching (will get you feeling pretty again).  The best part is, the winners may get the opportunity record a professionally produced album (the whole world will now hear you). 

It takes 30 seconds.  Record a video of you singing 30 seconds of a hit song from the approved list that you can do right from your home.  It’s a year-long competition but you only have until February 13, 2011 to submit a 30-second video clip at www.avonvoices.com.  

Videos of celebrity judges and other information about Avon Voices can be found on their YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/avonvoices. 


This program benefits the Avon Foundation for Women’s global campaign to end violence against women and girls.

Avon Advance Techniques Frizz Control Lotus Shield Review

Say good-bye to frizz, flyaways & hair that is untamed. One application, and frizz is finished is how Avon describes it's new Advance Techniques Frizz Control Lotus Shield.  In the sultry, humid air of Georgia, which is very close to Indiana weather where I'm from, my hair is tormented and teased.  It's almost impossible to keep the frizzies away in this type of heat and humidity.  I usually opt for a pony tail to curtail the disappointment of straightening my hair only to find the frizz making an unwelcome return.  Finding a frizz control that really works without weighing down your hair is also tricky as you have to ensure it's not heavy leaving your hair limp and greasy looking.  I received a complimentary bottle of Advance Techniques Frizz Control Lotus Shield to try and review.

I tried it a few times before I wanted to write the review and what I found although the bottle is not large, it will definitely last a long time as you only want to use a small amount.  As with other anti-frizz control products, if you apply too much, your hair will be weighed down and have a greasy appearance.  When used as directed and pending your hair length, it kept my hair soft, silky and did eliminate the frizzies.  


Avon states that it provides 97% humidity protection keeping hair smooth and well behaved for three days.  I didn't try going three days but after the second day, my hair still remained smooth and silky soft.  The directions state apply to damp hair, dry and style as normal.  It's also for all hair types and if you want added care, Avon also has Frizz Control Shampoo and Conditioner coming soon.

After one week of use, Lotus Shield:

• Minimizes excess frizz, volume and poufiness
• Provides frizz control that lasts
• Prevents frizz and flyaways even in high humidity
• Retains and protects style no matter what the weather

One of the things I like about online businesses are the one's that list product reviews from their customers.   There are 22 reviews and 20 gave Advance Techniques Frizz Control Lotus Shield five stars!  That's pretty telling in my opinion!  Stay tuned for the release of Advance Techniques Frizz Control Lotus Shield from Avon this month! 


You can also stay up to date with Avon on Facebook or Twitter.


*Disclaimer: Attention contacted me on behalf of Avon Advance Techniques Lotus Shield with a sponsored content opportunity.

Terralina Eye Cream: Roseroot & Sugarbeet Review and Giveaway ($32 Value) 1/29 WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

ktgonyea said...

GFC Follower :)

I have tried several natural products before :)

ktgonyea at gmail.com

January 23, 2011 9:25 PM 

An e-mail will be sent and she has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected via random.org.

Thanks to all those who entered!

I didn't pay attention to good skin care when I was younger and unfortunately, my oldest is following in my foot steps in spite of my warnings to guard now and be happy later.  If I knew what I knew back then, I would have done things completely different.  I am thankful for the internet and the ability to learn and education ourselves and also to understand how many over the counter products contain ingredients that are not only unnatural but are not good for us.  When I started blogging, I was just getting into the learning aspect of natural and organic products and I've come along way since then.  Through my 30's and now early 40's, I've tried so many products that I probably could open a drug store.  I tried the cheap products and the highly expensive ones.  I found some that delivered results but I continued on this road to find something with more bang and less hazardous materials.  I was introduced to a company that has a motto of Defining Natural Beauty.  This company, Terralina, was created by two cousins by marriage who wanted healthier, superior products that would be safe while they were pregnant.

Terrilina uses all natural ingredients and no harsh or harmful ingredients such as parabens, PEGs, silicone, mineral oils, ethoxylates, glycols, acrylates or artifical fragrances.  The products from Terralina have undergone two years of formulation to offer effective and safe products delivering luxurious results.  All of their products are 98.65% natural.

Pro's:

• 98.65% natural
• Contains a list of ingredients used here
• Is eco-friendly (click here to see commitment)
• 30 day satisfaction guarantee here
• Variety of products
• Reasonably priced
• Not tested on animals

Con's:

Have not identified any

I have tried a few products by Terralina both in the past and recently when I received a complimentary tube of their new Roseroot and Sugarbeet Eye Cream.  This product is 99% natural and helps reduce fine lines, dark circles and puffiness.  The two key ingredients are described by the Terralina website as:

• ROSEROOT, also known as Rhodiola, is an herb that was used in alpine countries as a secret beauty weapon. It helps to combat dark circles and increase the skin's endorphin level to improve its appearance.

• SUGARBEET, from which Terralina extracts the natural antioxidant betaine, is an organic source of energy. It invigorates and hydrates fatigued skin to create the appearance of smoother, firmer, more youthful eyes.

It's available in a .5 fl. oz. tube with a special price of $24 right now and normally priced at $32.  When you order at least $30 or more, you get free shipping.

I tried it for three weeks and love it.  When I first started using it, I felt an instant sensation that it was working.  I think my skin looks smoother and the dark circles I sometimes get have gone away.  I liked the product so much, I just ordered more.  I also have tried Gentle Facial Moisturizer, Gentle Facial Cleanser, Body Lotion and Gentle Facial Exfoliator.  All of the products I continue to use and I ordered some exfoliator as well.  The consistency of each product is lightweight and not oily.  The fragrance is light and not overpowering.  My two favorite products from Terralina are the Roseroot and Sugarbeet Eye Cream and the Gentle Facial Exfoliator.  I recommend all the products that I have tried and will remain a Terralina customer.

Check out the up to 50% off sale right now at www.terralina.com

___________________________________________________________

The Giveaway:

One winner will receive their own Terralina Eye Cream: Roseroot & Sugarbeet

To Enter:

Follow my blog and tell me if you have ever tried a natural skin care product before.

Extra Entries (optional):

• Like Terralina on Facebook
• Tell me one ingredient Terralina uses (not noted on this post)
• Follow me on Twitter
• Like me on Facebook
• Subscribe to my blog
• Tweet about this giveaway (worth two entries - can be done daily)
• Blog about this giveaway (worth five entries)
• Enter any of my other giveaways (worth five entries)

Giveaway ends 1/29 at midnight (EST) - US only please

Winner selected via random.org after confirmation the winner met mandatory entry requirement.

*Disclosure:  I was provided a complimentary product for purposes of this review.  I have purchased more product after the initial complimentary product.

Want More Followers OR Want to Win $1000?

IS IT TO 

GAIN MORE FOLLOWERS?! 

ATTRACT MORE TRAFFIC?!?

HAVE FUN WHILE NETWORKING and GROWING YOUR SPACE(s) ?!??

BE APART OF SOMETHING LARGER THAN JUST YOU and YOUR SPACE?!????

and I bet winning $1,000 wouldn't be something you'd turn your nose up at either.

Well, YOU'RE IN LUCK!!

A Pocket Full of Buttons   and   the Mrs.

are teaming up to coordinate the LARGEST networking GIVEAWAY in the history of blogland...

 H♥W SWEET  IT I$!

to be loved  followed and LIKEd by you...

How it's going to work...

From January 14, 2011 - February 13, 2011,

people will will be encouraged to blog (twitter and facebook) hop from a main link list -

FOLLOWing and LIKEing the accounts as they go! For EACH follow/like they will

have earned a chance to win $1,000 cash sent to their PayPal on February 14, 2011!

The question is...

Do YOU want thousands of people visiting YOUR blog, twitter and/or  facebook fan page  from January 14, 2011 - February 13, 2010?  With those people choosing to become followers and LIKE you? Well, it's simple to be a part of the fun (and being a participant DOES NOT disqualify you from being an entrant!!!) 

ADD YOUR BLOG to the LINK LIST for just $10

ADD YOUR TWITTER ACCT. to the LINK LIST for just $10

ADD YOUR facebook page to the LINK LIST for just $10

ADD BOTH YOUR BLOG AND YOUR TWITTER ACCT. for just $14

ADD ALL THREE OF YOUR ACCT.s to the LINK LIST for just $20

SIMPLY SEND YOUR PARTICIPANT FEE TO ginaparker4pr@gmail.com VIA PAYPAL and write the name and URL of whatever site(s) you would like added to the list in notes to seller*.  SITES will be added to the link list on a first come, first listed basis - so if you'd like a top spot - don't delay!!  

*ginaparker4pr@gmail.com is a registered account of PARKER PR ONLINE, therefore, all participation fees are tax deductible under advertising - save your receipt!!

AS A PARTICIPANT,  YOU WILL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR VERIFYING YOUR FOLLOWERS.  IF YOU SEE AN ENTRY THAT IS NOT a VALID FOLLOWER OF YOUR ACCOUNT , notify GINA at GinaParker4PR@gmail.com and that entry will be removed. 

*** entering your blog and/or twitter accounts does not disqualify you from entering to win the prize. Winner will be drawn by RANDOM.ORG***

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

WANT TO WIN  $1,000 CASH  on February 14, 2011 ?!??

On January 14, 2011 simply  begin clicking your way through the link lists:

• following the blogs publicly via GFC 
• following the twitter accts 
• LIKEing the facebook pages as you go.  

• • 
    

  For each  blog leave a separate comment with the blog's name and your GFC name for every Twitter acct,. you follow leave the twitter name and YOUR twitter name abd 

for every facebook page you like leave the page name and YOUR facebook name for verification.

You have one month to follow as many blogs and/or twitter accounts on the list as you'd like - each one giving you ANOTHER chance to win the $1,000 CASH PRIZE on February 14, 2011! 

Sign up now and when you pay, leave a comment that Health, Beauty, Children and Family sent you!

***WINNER WILL BE CHOSEN FROM ALL VALID* ENTRIES ON FEBRUARY 14, 2011 via RANDOM.ORG. during a simultaneous videotaping and twitter updating to authenticate the DRAWING PROCESS.   WINNER MUST BE 18 years of age or older and HAVE A VALID PayPal ACCOUNT TO CLAIM THEIR PRIZE WITH.IT IS THE SOLE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE WINNER TO PAY THE TAXES ON THE $1,000 CASH PRIZE. WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED ON A Pocket Full of Buttons + the MRS. on FEBRUARY 14, 2010. WINNER WILL THEN HAVE 48 HOURS TO CLAIM THEIR PRIZE VIA EMAIL** or PRIZE will BE FORFEITED and a NEW WINNER will be drawn from all remaining VALID ENTRIES***

*ALL ENTRIES will be VERIFIED by PARTICIPATING BLOGGERS and TWITTERERS and FACEBOOK PAGE owners. 

For BLOG entries: You MUST FOLLOW BLOGS PUBLICLY via GFC {or email subscription IF the blog DOES NOT HAVE A GFC widget} and YOU MUST include in your comment entry the BLOG you follow and either YOUR GFC NAME or YOUR email address you followed with. 

For TWITTER entries: You MUST include in your comment entry the TWITTER @NAME and your TWITTER @NAME. 

For FACEBOOK entries: You must LIKE the facebook page and YOU MUST include in your comment THE fb PAGE NAME and YOUR FACEBOOK NAME. 

ANY ENTRIES NOT INCLUDING THE REQUIRED INFO WILL BE DELETED and ANY ENTRIES UNABLE TO BE VERIFIED AS FOLLOWERS WILL BE DELETED. All remaining entries on February 14, 2011 will be deemed valid.

**Winner will be chosen via random.org and the videotaped process will post on http://gina-parker.blogspot.com and http://a pocketfullofbuttons.blogspot.com on February 14, 2010 and will then have 48 hours to email their full name, their DOB, and their PayPal address to provided email in order to claim their prize. $1,000 will be sent within 24 hours of receipt of this claim. If the chosen entrant does not claim their prize as stated within 48 hours of the timestamp on the posts - the prize will be forfeited and a new winner will be drawn within 24 hours.

Our Despicable Me Birthday Party Using Photofrost Edible Frosting Sheets and Silhouette Die Cutter

My niece loves Despicable Me so this year, my oldest and I created a party for her. Although I ran out of time, here is what I ended up with and will see what else I can do tonight to add on.  The NMR 24868 Despicable Me Minions Decorative Poster and malt balls were purchased via Amazon.

My oldest made Minions out of Wilton Round Brownie Pop Mold bake pan and used Sweet Tarts for the eyes.  We used edible markers for the eye portion and black licorice for the hair, glasses and mouth.

I used the Graphtec Silhouette Craft Vinyl Cutter Kit w/ ClipArt CD to make the apothecary jar labels and my printer to print the Minion stickers.  I also made cupcake picks out of the prints.  The water bottles were made from stickers I made and printed.

The cookies were a basic sugar cookie recipe from Wilton that makes the ideal cookie for taste, texture and cutting.  I used cookie shaped printable/edible images for the cookies and decorated them to help hide the seam.  PhotoFrost offers the icing sheets, ink and much more.  They also have great customer service.

The little favor bags are easy to make.  Again, I used my Silhouette Die Cutter to make the labels and used the sticker images to add to the cover.

I still have all of tonight to make more things like a banner and more.  I'll have to see what I can come up with.

60 Day SlimDown System with Lindsay Brin Review

I think nearly every woman can relate how the new year approaches, New Year's resolutions abound with the typical one of losing weight.  I have the same one year after year but this year, I changed the resolution simply to 'getting healthier for myself and family.'  To me, this is much more sensible as losing weight is about getting healthier by eating right and exercising.  I had a chance to try out Lindsay Brin's DVD in 2010 and loved her high energy.  When given the chance to try the Lindsay Brin 60 Day SlimDown System, I couldn't pass that up.  If you don't know anything about Lindsay, you will grow to love her from her workouts to her blog.  Lindsay, to me, is a real woman who has had children and understands how difficult it is to lose the weight although you can't tell by looking at her as she's fabulous.


The beauty of the 60 Day SlimDown System is variety.  Lindsay provides the tools necessary to ensure success with a downloadable SlimDown packet.  The packets is full of everything you need such as a 60 day calendar, a 60 day meal plan and more.  They are easy to follow and for those that need more direction, this is perfect.  It's also great for anyone as studies have shown that those who log their exercise and food intake, tend to have more success.

The 60 Day SlimDown System works within the first 10 days by increasing your metabolism and shedding pounds.  When you workout with Lindsay, you will understand as the workouts our chalked full of routines that get you moving and are easy to follow.  They are not full of elaborate moves that make it difficult for the uncoordinated (i.e. me).

All of Phase 1 workouts can be done in 30 minutes which is wonderful for those that don't have a lot of time or can't get hour long blocks due to work, kids and so forth.  I'm constantly interrupted by a house full of young children so having something in 30 minutes is ideal for me.  Phase 2 increases the challenge thus increasing the loss with all workouts being under 45 minutes.  It's a nice gradual evolution into adding the challenge when you are most likely ready versus throwing in a workout too hard to complete and you feel more compelled to drop out.  Phase 3 is geared towards seeing results after the initial 60 days.  Lindsay has thought of everything to offer this comprehensive, easy to follow plan to get you healthier.  The only thing you need are a set of 1-2 pound weights.

The 60 Day SlimDown System includes four DVDs:

1. Lindsay Brin CFS Method
2. Lindsay Brin Core Metabolic Jumpstart
3. Lindsay Brin Postnatal Boot Camp
4. Lindsay Brin Shed 5 Fast

The workouts include three levels ideal for each fitness level.  This is a great feature as some movements are too advanced for some of us with little activity.  As I noted, when you find something too hard, you are probably more likely to drop out whereas Lindsay's program has it covered.  When you click here, you can view trailers of the workouts to get an ideal of how the workouts are geared.

It really is a great workout program for any woman, whether a mom or not.  Lindsay is high energy and motivational.  The fact she has had children appeals to me because she was able to end up looking like this with her program so I know it works.  The workouts left me challenged, sore and with the knowledge that when I follow the program for 60 days, I will look amazing!  I look forward to seeing my end result and definitely recommend this program to anyone wanting to feel better and look great.

You can buy Lindsay's 60 Day SlimDown System for $49.99 and if you use this special coupon code '60daydvd30', you can save 30% off but hurry as the coupon code expires January 31st!

Lindsay's site is full of great information that includes:

• Weight Loss Tools - weight loss calculator, metabolism/bmr, goal setting, meal plan and tracker
• Quick Recipes - kids size, family size and Lindsay's family food journal
• Get the Skinny - food & exercise, pregnancy, post pregnancy, exercise FAQ and how to get rid of.

   

You can follow Lindsay on Facebook, Twitter or her blog.  Her blog is full of great information to help you along your journey, actual photos of Lindsay's transformation from post pregnancy and much more.

I received the 60 Day SlimDown thrugh MamaBuzz for the purpose of this review

CSN Stores $45 Gift Card Giveaway 1/25 - WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ....

dvice12 said...

I follow. I like the baby and kids store.

An e-mail will be sent after I post and he/she has 48 hours to respond before a new winner has been chosen.

Thanks to all those who entered!

I managed to take down most of the Christmas decorations and 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.

 

The Giveaway:


I'm sure you will find a ton of items you would like to buy at the huge array of stores by CSN Stores and now you get a chance to win a $45 gift certificate to use at any of the stores.


To Enter:


Follow my blog and leave a comment on which CSN Store you like the most or what you would do with the $45 GC.

Extra Entries:

• Like CSN Stores on Facebook (three entries)
• Follow CSN Stores on Twitter (two entries)
• Follow me on Twitter (two entries)
• Like me on Facebook (two entries)
• Subscribe to my blog (two entries)
• Tweet about this giveaway & leave your URL link (two entries - can be done daily)
• Blog about this giveaway (five entries)
• Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries)

Giveaway ends 1/25 at midnight (EST).  Open to US and Canada but international fees are not included.

Disclaimer:  I wrote this post as part of my participation in a product giveaway.  The opinions expressed in the post are true and accurate based on prior purchases.

NursingUniforms.net is a One Stop Shop for Nursing Uniforms

I always marvel at the nursing uniforms at the doctor offices my children go to.  I love how they are able to incorporate such great styles with those and lab coats to not only show their personalities but also to help take away some of the fear in children.  Nursing Uniforms has such a huge variety ranging from brands such as Medcouture to Stat Wear to Katherine Heigl.

 

The boring old days of no prints or style are long gone.  If I had to wear them, I would want to have a little flare and personality to show through.  I'll have to show my mom this site since her occupation requires her to wear them and they are reasonably priced.  My mom is always hesitant to buy online but they also have a 30 day money back guarantee.


Disclosure:  This is a paid post.

1001PicnicBaskets.com & Family Fun Time

Family fun time can include a variety of activities whether it's with your spouse or with your children.  Every family needs time to get together and just relax, interact and have the chance to make memories. The simplest things can invoke memories and traditions that will last for generations.

One of the fun things my children like to do is have picnics.  We had many picnics this summer and the girls never tired of the fun.  My husband is in Kuwait right now but I can imagine he would like to have a picnic and enjoy some rest and relaxation.  In spite of the cold, there is always a way to enjoy a romantic time with your significant other with an indoor picnic.  When you have the right picnic basket, the possibilities are endless for some fun time no matter where you are.

A romantic getaway is a great time to just relax and enjoy some gourmet food and take in each other.  A time to listen to one another while savoring some great food put together.   I like the modern picnic baskets because they are a one place for all container.  By providing this great feature, it requires less "equipment" to pack and ensures you have all you need for a great time.

They really have a variety of items from cutting boards to lunch bags to wine baskets and more.  This cutting board set is perfect for a picnik set.

Another fun activity we do is barbeque because it brings us together when making dinner.  We plan the menu and everyone has their own tasks.  Since my husband is gone, my oldest daughter is the chef outdoors and easily relies on our BBQ sets to make the job easier.  1001PicnicBaskets.com has this great set that I want to get since it has the apron and all the tools needed.  Isn't it nice?

Whatever your family fun event it, as long as it's bringing your family together, it's a win-win.  We love our family fun events and can't wait for many more years to come.

*Disclaimer:  This is a paid post.

GooGooGram: Baby Announcements with a Voice

Oh the delight of a new baby and all the hustle and bustle that goes along with it.  My daughter had her baby in October and I remember her fiance calling everyone to let them know.  It's such an exciting moment and it's fun sharing in the news by spreading the word but when you have a lot of people to call, it makes for a long task that could be spent with mom and baby.  This is where this great new service called GooGooGrams was brought to my attention by Cynthia at AdorableBabyClothing.

GooGooGram sends your personalized announcement by phone and e-mail to everyone on your list.  They also let them send you a special written or voice message back that will be saved on a keepsake CD.  At only $24.95 for 25 phone calls and 50 e-mails, it's a great bargain as it will save you time, it's fast and convenient and it's personalized.

$50 Staples Gift Card Giveaway 1/25: WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

Cynthia said...

* Subscribe to my blog

An e-mail will be sent after I post this.  She has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen.

Thanks to all those who entered and stay tuned for some Valentine's Day giveaways coming soon!

I received a $50 Staples gift card from a post on SocialMoms and wanted to pass it on to one of my readers. It's an easy contest with only one required entry and other optional entries if you like.

To Enter:

Follow my blog (this will be verified upon the winning entry per random.org)

Extra Entries:

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

Giveaway ends 1/25 at midnight.  Open to US/Canada - per another reader, the gift card isn't usable in Canada but you might know someone in the US that it can be given to as a gift.

Good luck!