Valentine's Day Gift Ideas from Ficklets & AdorableBabyClothing

Valentine's Day isn't all about romance as kids love this holiday. What other day do they get to pass out valentines and candy?  It's a special day because it's a fun day for them.  I always tried to find something to get my girls each Valentine's Day just to show them how special they are to me.  Since I have a new grand baby and a three year old, I can still dress them up pretty in spite of my seven and 22 year old's not be willing participants in whatever it takes to make mama happy.  My three year old is a foo-foo girl and I couldn't be even happier.  When she puts on her Cinderella dress that I found at Adorable Baby Clothing and her feather boa, I'm beyond happy.  At last!  One of my children is NOT a tomboy!  I buy all my formal dresses at Adorable Baby Clothing because the selection is amazing and I can easily find two sizes in the same dress without having to spend hours disappointed at the mall.  The quality is immeasurable as every dress I have purchased is not made of poor quality material or stitching.  Every detail is beautiful and I plan on passing each dress on to my children.   The customer service is amazing too and the owner, Cynthia, is more than an owner and has turned into a dear friend.

If my children wore glasses, Ficklets would be the place to go.  I met the owner of Ficklets, Ros, online and have grown to love both women dearly as friends.  Ficklets were created out of love a mother has for her daughter.  When Ros' daughter didn't like her glasses, the idea to create something to inspire her daughter to like her glasses was born.  Ficklets are cute, inexpensive ways to let kid's personality shine through on ordinary glasses.  Whether it's hearts, butterflies, soccer balls or puppies, there are so many to choose from for boys and girls and any age.  There are even blingy ones for us moms who love a little bling for our own glasses and there are some cool Halloween skull Ficklets that appeal to some men based on comments I've seen on Twitter!

For this Valentine's Day, I wanted to share with my readers some ideas if you are like me and adorn your little one with gifts.


Black Stretch Velvet Top and Burgundy Embossed Taffeta Dress

My girls in the dresses 

Gallop and Go Stick Pony

Again, my girls with the ponies ;)

Burgundy Taffeta Vest and Pant Set

Boy's Personalized Valentine Sweatshirt

Pink Ballerina Onesie from Mud Pie with Free Personalization

Click here to see the many other gift ideas from AdorableBabyClothing.com

Here are some cute Ficklets that are perfect for Valentine's Day:

Hearts Eyewear Charms

 

Hot Lips Charms

These are non-Valentine's Day but are adorable and would make a great gift to your little one:

  

For the girls and moms like me:

  

Click here to see the great selection of all Ficklets available.

Blogging Pays Off & More with SocialMoms

Ever considered blogging?  It doesn't take much to get started other than a desire to write about something you are interested in.  You have to decide what it is you want to tell everyone about.  Whether it's about being healthy, chronic medical conditions, saving money or whatever hobby you have, it's so easy to start.  When I started blogging, it was just to share information on trying to stay younger looking which quickly evolved into product reviews and giveaways.  I still like to share information but find that I'm not doing it as much as I would like to and saw that my blog turned more into a product review and giveaway site.  I'm not complaining as I have greatly benefited from this aspect of blogging as well as my readers.  Not only have I benefited but so have the businesses that participate and partner with bloggers.  Since blogging, I have found so many new products that I have become loyal to.

These brands get free advertising from me as I post about the products I love more than once.  I become a brand ambassador, so to speak, unpaid.  When I find a brand I believe in, I like to tell others so it's a win-win situation.  With blogging, comes opportunities such as the ones that SocialMoms (formerly known as TwitterMoms) provides.  I just went to Target yesterday and racked up a $154 bill and paid only $32 for it thanks to the use of three gift cards I won from participating in various blogger programs.  Today, I just received a $50 Sears card and I'm still holding a $50 Staples card (a giveaway ongoing right now here) and a $50 Hasbro card.  I forgot that I also have a $100 Tiny Prints card to use as well.  Many times, I pass the prize on to my readers in an effort to pay it forward and hopefully it lands in the hands of someone who needs it more than I.

If you thought about blogging, give it a try, it doesn't take much and great mom places like SocialMoms is a wonderful way to engage other moms and learn a lot about different topics and products.


*Update: I just used my $50 Sears card and purchased four pairs of Levis for my seven year old and a nightgown for me and only paid 83 cents out of pocket.

In Pursuit of the Good Things for My Children

It's a constant battle finding good food and drinks for my children.  They are very picky probably just like any other child.  The problem added to my children are two medical conditions that lower immunity in both.  My seven year old's epilepsy poses many problems from epilepsy itself to migraines to insomnia to sicknesses quite frequently.  I did not know about the immune issue until I was invited on a few epilepsy Facebook groups and exchanging posts on that factor.  Apparently, it's pretty big with epileptics.  My three year old has a very serious pulmonary issue.  When she catches a cold, on average, every one and sometimes every other one, will land her in the hospital.  She crashes fast and the only cure is oxygen and liquid steroids.  She also starts coughing with just a little elevated activity and has who is deemed as the nation's national expert of childhood asthmas, puzzled.  He just prescribed Advair but after reading it has not been approved for children under four and it also has a black box warning, I am waiting for my next appointment with him to discuss.  Due to deaths, per the blackbox warning, I'm not comfortable putting her on it.


I probably rambled a bit but it set the background as to why I need to really find better alternatives to my children's love for sodas and McDonalds.  I found the pursuit of eating more natural or organic had to occur in baby steps.  It wasn't anything that I could just turn a switch without a revolt.  I started going to Earth Fare and loved the set up. It reminded me of a European market full of good, wholesome and fresh foods of every variety.  It was that one day, they had samples of Pirates Booty available and my girls loved them.  Success!  I found I could exchange one bad snack for something natural, no preservatives and prepared better for them.  I kept going to the store hoping for more samples and more new choices for the girls.  Unfortunately, the snack aisle is the only one that I have been able to convert so far.  I'm going to keep trying.

My next step was sneaking foods into their meals which did not work.  I followed the directions exactly but they did not like them.  As an alternative, I'm purchasing organic meat and milk without the hormones as well as whole wheat bread products.  They enjoy their Juicy Juice which is excellent since it is 100% natural juice and given the increased increase of natural products, there are now great selections of natural cheese from Sargento to Kraft.  It's nice to see the corporations are listening and understanding as parents or just people, we want healthy foods and not foods laden with antibiotics, pesticides, processed and refined foods, hormones and so forth.  The next step is removing and replacing GMO foods.  There are a lot of controversy going on about GMO foods.  If you think GMO foods are new, it's a misconception only because it's becoming more well known.  GMO (genetically modified) have been around for years.  I just have a problem consuming something where man has altered the genetic code either for increased production, more robust crops, disease and pest resistance qualities.  It seems when man tinkers with things for us, it makes it bad for us.  I'm finding that organic foods are putting "non GMO" on their labels so I have to watch for those.

Next is water.  Dr. Mercola, a leading authority of healthier alternatives, just sent an e-mail with the latest updates and this one included the continued controversy over bottled water.  Not only due to it possibly containing the same harmful chemicals as regular tap water but the connection to the various and sometimes fatal health issues from BPA plastics.  The harmful BPAs leach from the plastic into water and this also applies to the home filtration systems.  From what I read, the best approach is using glass.  I don't know why we just don't return to everything being in glass as it's healthier and there are no leaching concerns or at least until they learn otherwise or alter the manufacturing process.  They do drink water so I will have to switch them over to using a glass container to store and it's time to throw away all the plastic drinking cups unless they are BPA free.



Vitamins are a tough crowd to be in around my picky ones.  After many, many attempts of finding the right ones, they have settled on the Disney Fairies Gummy Vitamins.  I've tried other gummy vitamins but for some reason they won't eat them.  They taste just as good but they have just started on the second bottle so at least they are getting something good.  They also get their Vitamin D from being outside and milk.  The allergist prescribed 15 minutes of sunlight a day which is hard in the winter but I make sure they get that on the warm days.

As a parent, it's so hard to give your child what they need to thrive, ward of serious diseases and to learn healthy habits to take into adult hood.  When they are picky, it's even harder and I'm still in pursuit of getting them to eat more vegetables and fruit.  So far, they just like carrots, corn, potatoes and bananas.  I have a long way to go!

Popchips: Healthy, Tasty Snack Food

Have you heard of Popchips?  I never had until I was introduced to them via Happy and Healthy Moms.  They are the smart way to indulge in those foods that normally are oh so bad for you.  They are not fried and they aren't baked.  I bet you are wondering how they are made then!  They are heated a little, a little pressure is added and pop, it's a chip.  They have over half the fat of fried potato chips, trans fats and cholesterol all gone.  The seasoning is all natural so no artificial flavorings, seasonings or preservatives.  There is also a flavor to appeal to most chip fans:

• Original
• Barbeque
• Sour Cream & Onion
• Cheddar Potato
• Sea Salt & Vinegar
• Salt & Pepper
• Parmesan Garlic Potato

Popchips have won numerous kudos for their chips as being a healthier alternative to snacking.  I have tried each flavor and much to my surprise, I really like them.  By far, my favorite are the Salt & Pepper because I like spicy foods and this provides a great taste of spice.  The chips are light and not greasy and they don't have any after taste that lingers as some other foods have.  Each flavor was rich and not dull.  I was very surprised at how the flavors were plentiful and I didn't feel like I was sacrificing taste and quality for health.  They are a great way to satisfy that snack indulgence without putting chemicals and more inside.  

I'll be a repeat customer as I strive to find healthier choices for my children and myself.  Popchips provides a quick and easy way to help me achieve my goals this year of getting healthy.

   

Popchip on Facebook

Popchip on Twitter

Popchip on YouTube

Popchip on Delicious

Click here to find a retailer who sells Popchips

*Disclaimer:  I did receive a complimentary package of product in exchange for my review.  My opinions were not influenced.

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.