My Charmed Life

Giveaway Template

2011-12-31T15:32:00.000-08:00

To enter, tell me who will be receiving this cuddly little guy if you are the winner.

Optional Extra Entries
• 1 Extra Entry if you subscribe via e-mail (see left sidebar)
• 1 Extra Entry if you follow this blog
• 1 Extra Entry if you add my button to your sidebar or add me to your blog roll
• 1 Extra Entry (Per Day) if you follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway. Leave a link to your tweet(s) in the comments. Feel free to copy and paste the following:

Win a Talkin' Sid the Science Kid Plush Toy @justaddcharm http://bit.ly/7hgwAc #giveaway

• 5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway with a link back here

Please leave an additional comment for each extra entry you complete.

RULES:

You do not need to be a blogger to enter this giveaway, however you must leave an e-mail address (or have it available in your profile) so that I can contact you if you are the winner.

This giveaway is open to residents of the United States only and will end at 8pm PST on December 23, 2009. The winner will be selected at random and the entry verified. Winner will be e-mailed and will have 48 hours to claim their prize.

Good Luck!

Babyproofing Refined - Rhoost Review and Giveaway

2010-09-01T17:55:00.000-07:00

Are there any parents out there who actually enjoy babyproofing? If so, I've yet to meet one. We want and need to keep our little ones safe, so we spend hours adding countless pieces of white plastic to our decor. Outlet covers, cabinet locks, edge protectors and so on. Safety is a good thing, but honestly I cringe at the thought of drilling holes in the cabinets I just spent a small fortune refacing.

I was recently introduced to a new line of babyproofing products from Rhoost. No drilling, no adhesive tape, baby safety products designed to complement your decor? Sign me up!

Here's a bit more info about Rhoost Products from the manufacturer:

• Were designed from scratch to be more functional, more stylish and easier to use and install than existing products (necessity really is the mother of invention)

• Are are portable and can go with you to grandma’s house or on vacation

• Are easy to install and use, and don’t require adhesives or screws (your furniture will thank us)

• Are simple to replace, if removed

• Come in colors that complement your home décor, and blend well with any furniture

• Are BPA, lead, phthalate-free and 100% recyclable

We tried out the Edge in our home, this is Rhoost's answer to sharp edges. We don't have a square edged dining or coffee table, but these kitchen countertops will reach out and bite you.

I had the Edge installed in less than a minute and the corner is no longer a threat.

Aesthetically, the Edge is much more appealing than the alternatives we've explored. It's secures tight enough to stay in place, but should you need to take it off you can do so in seconds and there will be no holes or tape left behind. The Edge is available in several colors to suit your decor and retails for $14.99 per pack of 4. For more information or to purchase, visit Rhoost.com.

GIVEAWAY

One lucky reader will receive a pack of Rhoost Sling Cabinet Locks.

To enter to win, comment on this post and tell me about your biggest babyproofing challenge.

Optional Extra Entries
• 1 Extra Entry if you subscribe via e-mail (see left sidebar)
• 1 Extra Entry if you follow this blog via Google Friend Connect

• 1 Extra Entry (Per Day) if you follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway. Leave a link to your tweet(s) in the comments. Feel free to copy and paste the following:

Babyproofing refined! Rhoost Sling Cabinet Locks Giveaway @justaddcharm http://bit.ly/cAgDxl #giveaway

Please leave an additional comment for each extra entry you complete.

RULES:

This giveaway is open to residents of the United States only and will end at 8pm PST on September 15, 2010. The winner will be selected at random and the entry verified. Winner will be e-mailed and will have 48 hours to claim their prize. Please make sure to leave your e-mail address (or have it available in your Blogger profile) so that I can contact you if you are the winner.

Good Luck!

Product samples were provided for review by Mom Select on behalf of Rhoost. Opinions expressed are my own.

Less Sunscreen Mess: Shady Day Daily Sun Protection Wipes

2010-08-26T21:44:00.000-07:00

From trips to the zoo to afternoons in the backyard, applying sunscreen is something we do almost daily, especially in the summer. I hate it. The kids get squirmy, my hands get greasy, it makes a mess. Of course it's worth it to protect their skin (and mine) from the sun. We recently had the chance to try out a new product, Shady Day Daily Sun Protection Wipes. These wipes contain a broad spectrum UVA/UVB SPF 30 sunscreen, with no artificial ingredients, perfect for all ages. I was intrigued by the idea, but skeptical.

What we found was that these wipes make putting on sunscreen a breeze. Just wipe down the exposed skin and you're good to go. No messy creams or drippy lotions. They smell pleasant and didn't leave my hands feeling terribly greasy. We put them to the test at an outdoor party that lasted all afternoon. The only tan my fair skinned kids could ever hope to get is a fake one, it's pale or burned for them and I was thrilled to see that there wasn't a hint of sunburn at the end of the day. My husband used a sunscreen wipe before an all day beach field trip and again, no red skin in sight.

This sunscreen is water resistant, not waterproof so it may not be the best option for days at the pool. At around $14 for a package of 15 wipes they are a bit pricey for everyday use in my opinion, but so convenient to have when you are on the go. Shady Day Daily Sun Protection Wipes can be purchased at Beautybrands, Ulta, Diapers.com and Rickys NYC.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Shady Day and received a sample package of Shady Day Daily Sun Protection Wipes and a gift certificate to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Wish You Could Go Back to School Too?

2010-08-25T16:58:00.000-07:00

Thinking back to high school, I have a hard time feeling nostalgic. I hated it and I was bored - enough so that I tested out after my sophomore year, got a job and enrolled in community college. I figured I'd get an associates degree, transfer to a four year school and have a degree by the time I hit 20. I took classes in various subjects, trying to answer the age old question: "What do I want to be when I grow up?" I'm still unsure of the answer to that question. Life took me in another direction, I got a decent job in the insurance industry and put college on the back burner for a while.

Ten years later, as a married, stay at home mom of three, finishing my degree isn't an idea I've often entertained. How could I possibly even think about it until the kids are in school? Where would I find the time?

I know there are a lot of moms out there who would love to go back to school but figure it's just not feasible. Obstacles such as cost and scheduling might keep you from even looking into your options. The last time I looked into online education, the offerings seemed so limited and most required that at least some time be spent on campus. Mom Central recently provided me with some information about American Public University and it's clear to me that this is no longer the case.

American Public University (APU) is different than traditional universities, in that they offer classes on a monthly basis instead of semesters. Courses are 100% online, so you can earn your degree from anywhere in the world. You can complete your course work during naptime, after bedtime, whatever works for your schedule. With more than 100 degrees and certificate programs to choose from, there are no shortage of options in that department either. Tuition is among the lowest in the country for accredited online universities, undergraduate classes cost $750 per 3 credit course.

If you'd like to hear from a mom who has been there and done that, you'll want to check out the live chat tomorrow morning (8/26) at 12pm EST. Jenn Deater, Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Management, will be talking about her experience returning to school at APU.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of American Public University. Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Paper Mate Plant-A-Pen

2010-08-18T21:28:00.000-07:00

In the quest to become more eco-friendly, you may be sending the kids back to school with reusable lunch bags and food containers, stainless steel water bottles and notebooks made with recycled paper. Paper Mate wants to add a new touch of green to backpacks this year with their new line of biodegradable pens and mechanical pencils.

I bet you never imagined planting a pen in your backyard, but that's precisely what to do with these innovative writing instruments. Write until your ink or lead runs out, but instead of tossing it in the trash, disassemble as per the instructions on the package. The majority of the pen and pencil components as well as the entire lead refill container are made of a corn-based material that will biodegrade in soil/home compost in about a year's time.

We received a sample of both the pens and pencils so that we could take the Plant-A-Pen challenge ourselves. As intrigued as I am by the concept, and interested to get one of these in the ground and check up on it periodically, it may be a while. I've been using my pen for a couple of weeks, and with all my writing and doodling I'm still not out of ink. The garden will have to wait for this one, it's very comfortable in my hand and writes so smoothly that I'm not willing to give it up just yet.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Paper Mate and received the products necessary to facilitate my review. In addition, I received a gift certificate to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Fast Forward

2010-08-10T17:21:00.000-07:00

Ever look at a photo of your kid and feel you've caught a glimpse of what they'll look like years from now? Yep, this was one of those moments.

Back to School with Sam's Club and Box Tops for Education - Giveaway (CLOSED)

2010-08-10T16:43:00.000-07:00

With the start of school right around the corner, many of us are in stock up mode. School supplies, lunch box snacks, clothes, shoes, the list goes on. We have another year to go before kindergarten and while I'm not ready to ship Jake off to school just yet, I find myself browsing the school supplies section while shopping. Even when I dreaded the end of summer as a kid, I always loved having new pens, paper and binders.

Sam's Club is having a Back to School event that can help you get ready for school and get a head start on collecting Box Tops for Education. From August 11-31, you'll find 6 Box Tops on participating General Mills products. You can earn even more Box Tops by upgrading to a "Plus" Membership by August 13th. Visit the Member Services Desk of your local store and upon payment for your Plus Membership, you will receive a certificate for 150 Bonus Box Tops! Offer valid while supplies last.

GIVEAWAY

Thanks to My Blog Spark and Sam's Club, I have a $25 Sam's Club gift card for one lucky winner!

This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to the winner, #367 - Donna!

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by My Blog Spark on behalf of Sam's Club and General Mills. I received a membership upgrade and gift card for sharing this information. Giveaway also provided by My Blog Spark on behalf of Sam's Club and General Mills.

Breyers Smooth & Dreamy Ice Cream - Giveaway

2010-08-01T21:15:00.000-07:00

It just wouldn't be summer without ice cream, at least in my house. How does one reconcile the craving for a cool creamy dessert with the desire to look passable in a swimsuit? It's all about choices - and I just chose to polish off the last Vanilla Fudge Brownie Ice Cream Sandwich from my freezer. 160 yummy calories and 4 grams of fat later I'm thinking maybe swimsuits and ice cream aren't mutually exclusive concepts after all.

Breyers Smooth & Dreamy Ice Cream Bars and Sandwiches come in six varieties, with no artificial flavors or colors. All contain 160 calories or less and 4-6 grams of fat per serving.

Would you like to try them for yourself? Four lucky winners will each receive a coupon for a FREE multipack.

This giveaway is now closed. Receiving a coupon for their choice of the six flavors of rich and creamy ice cream sandwiches and bars are: #26 - Louis, #10 - Kathy Rambousek, #74 - dlhaley, #28 - Stephanie. Congratulations!

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Breyers and received products necessary to facilitate my review. In addition, I received a gift certificate to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Pizza For Breakfast! Really.

2010-07-30T14:44:00.000-07:00

Why does morning have to come so early? I've always been a girl who appreciated a little extra sleep on the weekends, and hitting the snooze button one more time on the alarm clock during the week. These days, I don't even need an alarm clock. I'm greeted at the crack of dawn by a chorus of "Mommy! Mommy! Moooommmy!" I'm lucky if my feet hit the floor before the chant changes to "Eat! Eat! Breakfast!" Such is life with two not-quite two year olds and a four year old. I walk bleary-eyed to the kitchen and scramble to get some fruit and cereal, yogurt or waffles on the table. Only then can I enjoy the relative quiet of mealtime and really wake up.

They think they have me trained pretty well, but I still have a few tricks in my bag. This morning I threw them for a loop by offering pizza for breakfast. Eggo has been my go-to brand for frozen waffles for, well, always. Their latest product is Eggo Real Fruit Pizza. These pizzas are topped with berry flavored cream cheese, granola and real fruit pieces, for an all in one breakfast treat. The pizzas are simple to prepare, simply microwave for one minute, let cool for two, and serve. For a crispier crust, pop them in the oven for 4-7 minutes. The pizzas come in two flavors: Strawberry Granola and Mixed Berry Granola.

The pizzas went over big with my boys, who happily gobbled up every bit on their plates. My daughter pushed the plate away and would have nothing to do with it. That's a toddler for you. Her leftovers were polished off no problem.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Eggo Real Fruit Pizza and received a sample of the product and a $20 Amazon gift certificate to facilitate my review.

WW: When Bribery Fails

2010-07-27T21:51:00.000-07:00

"If you can clean up your toys in the next ten minutes, we'll read two books before your nap instead of one!"

(Ten minutes later)

Any nap that comes without a fight is a win in my book.

The Making of a Superhero

2010-07-20T22:57:00.000-07:00

Start with clothes, or better yet, pajamas. Start with your basic mask and cape then add flair. Puppy backpack - check. The ever-important clip-on tie - check.

Now we're getting somewhere. Move over Spiderman.

It's time to take on the world.

Sarah McLachlan - Laws of Illusion (Review)

2010-07-02T18:07:00.000-07:00

Sarah McLachlan has been a mainstay in my music collection since I was a teenager. I heard the song Possession on the radio and just loved the sound of it. It wasn't long before I owned that album (Fumbling Towards Ecstasy) and I've been adding to my collection since then. Such talent as both a singer and songwriter!

It's been seven years since Sarah, a Grammy Award winner and multi-platinum artist, released her last studio album of all new material. The wait ended with the June 15 release of Laws of Illusion. This summer also marks the return of Lilith Fair, the highly successful all-female music festival Sarah created in the 90's, noted for raising over 10 million dollars for women's charities.

If you've loved Sarah McLachlan in the past, you'll enjoy Laws of Illusion. While not a big departure in style from past albums, it's like the return of an old familiar friend. Filled with emotion and themes of betrayal and lost love, this may not be an ideal party soundtrack, but for a quiet afternoon at home or background music, it's lovely.

I received a review copy of this album, compliments of One 2 One Network. All opinions are my own.

Wordless Wednesday - License to Drive

2010-06-30T00:00:00.000-07:00

Pool and Play Set Safety

2010-06-29T12:36:00.000-07:00

With summer comes sunny days and plenty of time spent outdoors. To make sure that the season is full of fun, it's important to be sure that your kids will be safe. Did you know that approximately 4,200 people visit emergency rooms each year due to pool and spa related injuries? Or that 200,000 children ages 14 and under visit emergency rooms for play set related injuries? Underwriters Laboratories sent me some great tips for pool and play set safety, I found them very helpful and hope you will too!

POOL SAFETY AT HOME

If you have a pool at home, install a fence. The fence should be at least four feet high and have a self-closing, self-latching gate that has a locking mechanism beyond a child's reach.
Cut overhanging tree limbs and remove chairs or ladders from the pool area to prevent children from climbing over the fence that surrounds the pool.
Keep grates and drain covers in good repair and secured in place. Alert your family and guests to stay away from these devices, as the suction from drain outlets can be strong enough to cause entrapment of hair or body parts, which can potentially cause a person to drown.
Make sure you know infant and child CPR if you own a pool.

BE SAFETY SMART WHILE SWIMMING

Supervision is a must. Follow the 10/20 rule when you’re at the pool. The 10/20 rule states the supervising adult needs to position themselves to be able to scan the pool every 10 seconds, and reach the water within 20 seconds.
Always have rescue devices, such as UL-LISTED life preservers, nearby.
Flotation devices, toys and inflatable swimming aids are not safety devices. They are toys and can easily puncture and deflate.
Always drain wading pools after children are done playing. Infants can drown in just a few inches of water.
Have a telephone nearby and appropriate emergency numbers posted.
Remove all toys when you leave the pool. Toys may attract children to the unattended pool.

BEFORE INSTALLING A BACKYARD PLAY SET…

Make sure your backyard is large enough for playground equipment. The site must also provide good visibility and security. Before setting up equipment, look out for obstacles, such as the garage, tree branches, utility poles and wires.
Read and follow the manufacturer’s directions when setting up play set equipment. Be sure your child's weight and age fall within the manufacturer's recommended limits for the equipment.
Install protective surfacing, such as rubber tiles or mulch under the play set, at least six feed in all directions, to prevent serious injuries should a child fall.

BEFORE HEADING OUT TO PLAY…

Carefully inspect backyard playground equipment. Make sure equipment is anchored safely in the ground, all equipment pieces are in good working order, S-hooks are entirely closed and bolts are not protruding.

Check for spaces that could trap children, such as openings in guardrails or between ladder rungs. These spaces should measure less than 3.5 inches or more than 9 inches.
Always supervise children on play set equipment to make sure they are playing safely.
Never attach ropes, jump ropes, clotheslines, pet leashes or cords of any kind to play set equipment. If used improperly, they can be potential strangulation hazards.
Watch for potential trip hazards, such as rocks, tree stumps and concrete footings. Make sure you’re children are aware of them as well.
Do a sandbox check. Before letting your child dig in, rake through the sand to check for debris or sharp objects. Also, inspect for any animal contamination or insect problems.

Before you head to the pool, you can get your kids thinking about water safety by watching Wild About Safety: In the Water, a video from Underwriters Laboratories and Disney featuring Timon and Pumbaa.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Underwriters Laboratories. Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Uncle Ben's Whole Grain Brown Rice

2010-06-28T17:05:00.000-07:00

When trying to get my family to eat healthier, I find that I often get the most mileage by making subtle changes in our diet. Rice appears frequently in the meals I prepare at home. I love it because it's filling and so versatile, not to mention inexpensive. We recently had the opportunity to try several varieties of Uncle Ben's Whole Grain Brown Rice. Switching from white to whole grain brown rice has been easy. It tastes great, is just as convenient, and it's a healthy choice. In one serving you'll find 100% of the daily recommendation for whole grains!

Uncle Ben's Whole Grain Brown Rice comes in several varieties. You can have the Boil-In-Bag or Fast & Natural Instant Brown Rice ready in just 10 minutes. The Natural variety has a tradition cook time of about 40 minutes. I particularly liked the convenience of the Boil-In-Bag variety - great tasting rice in 10 minutes with very little cleanup.

One of my favorite ways to use the rice in in wraps. Last night we had southwestern style wraps made with grilled chicken, rice, lettuce, onion, cheese and salsa. Yum!

There are so many possibilities for these - just mix and match ingredients to suit your taste.

For more information about the rice, recipes and coupons, visit Uncle Ben's website at http://unclebens.com.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Uncle Ben’s and received samples to facilitate my candid review. Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Wordless Wednesday - Busted

2010-06-15T18:21:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when you have too much fun at Knott's Berry Farm...

Ronzoni Smart Taste Photo Contest - Vote!

2010-06-14T17:15:00.000-07:00

Ronzoni is hosting a photo contest for bloggers who reviewed their Smart Taste Pasta. This is our submission, " A Tale of Two Pastas". The winning entry, determined by votes and weighted criteria to include originality, creativity and overall appeal, will receive $500 and a years' supply of pasta. Voting starts today and runs through June 25th. We could use your vote!

To vote for Jake (or any of the other cute kiddos), head over to RonzoniSmartTaste.com/Blogger. You can vote once per day and you'll be entered to win a $25 gift card, one will be given away each of the 12 days in the voting period.

Kid Tested: Ronzoni Smart Taste Pasta

2010-06-13T17:00:00.000-07:00

Most days, dinner is a challenge. It starts with deciding what to make. I want the meal to be healthy, but I also want the kids to eat it. Ideally it won't take too much prep time, as I've got to keep at least one eye on the screaming banshees. Pasta fits our lifestyle perfectly. I know the kids will happily eat it, it's quick to cook, and paired with a nice sauce and some veggies it's pretty darn nutritious. I tried making the meal a little healthier by switching to whole wheat pasta, only to have it picked at and left on the plate.

Ronzoni and Mom Central recently asked us to give Ronzoni Smart Taste Pasta a try.    Smart Taste is white pasta, enriched with Calcium, Vitamin D and Fiber. Here's a look at how the Smart Taste spaghetti compared with our regular brand from a nutrition standpoint, per serving:

Regular White Pasta
   210 calories
   Total Fat - 1 gram
   Dietary Fiber - 2 grams - 8% DV
   Vitamin D - 0% DV
   Calcium - 0% DV

Ronzoni Smart Taste
   180 calories
   Total Fat - 0.5 grams
   Dietary Fiber - 7 grams - 27% DV
   Vitamin D - 25% DV
   Calcium - 30% DV

Comparing the two pastas side by side out of the box, you couldn't see the difference. I was pleased to see this, knowing that I'd raise red flags with the kids if it looked different. The real test, of course, is in the taste and there were no complaints at our table. It tasted every bit as good as the pasta we always eat. I just made dinner healthier without them even knowing it. That's a victory in my book!

I wrote this review while participating in a campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Ronzoni and received products necessary to facilitate my candid review and photo contest entry. In addition, I received a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Don't Miss the Summer of Swag!

2010-06-09T19:10:00.000-07:00

You've joined Swagbucks, right? Judging by the questions my friends and family have been asking me, there are a lot of people out there who have been missing out. When you register for Swagbucks (it's free!) you can start earning rewards for searching the web. With every search, you have a chance to win Swagbucks. You can also earn Swagbucks in a number of other ways, by finding Swag Codes, using the Swagbucks Toolbar, online shopping, daily polls, etc.

As those Swagbucks start adding them up, you can start cashing them in for rewards. The Swag Store has something for everyone, from electronics to music downloads, makeup to a wide assortment gift cards! My personal favorite is the $5 gift card to Amazon.com, which you can snag for 450 Swagbucks.

If you haven't joined yet, this is a great time to do it. You'll get 30 swagbucks just for signing up, and another 20 bonus swagbucks with the code SUMMEROFSWAG. The bonus code is good for new accounts only and expires at midnight on 6/11, so join and take advantage of it now!

Mother's Cookies - A Taste of Childhood

2010-06-09T16:41:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things about being a mom is introducing my kids to the things I loved when I was little and the occasional sweet treat is no exception. Mother's Cookies have been a favorite of my family for generations - the company has been around since 1914! I loved the Circus Animal cookies from the first time I laid eyes on them. Seriously, what kid wouldn't love frosted cookies with brightly colored sprinkles? Over the years I found more varieties to love - my personal favorite is the Iced Lemonade. My husband is partial to the Taffy cookies. How sad we both were when Mother's closed its doors in 2008 - before we ever had the chance to share them with our little ~~monsters~~ angels.

Lucky for us and the rest of the cookie loving population, the cookies returned in 2009 by popular demand. It was love at first taste with our kids, who greedily devoured nearly a whole bag of Circus Animal cookies before I realized what was going on. I'll be keeping a bag or two around now that it's too hot to bake, but I'm going to have to hide them!

Mother's Cookies recently expanded their distribution to the Midwest. Keep an eye out in the cookie aisle next time you're shopping. If they aren't yet available in your area, you can always find them online at Amazon.com.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Mother’s Cookies and received two bags of cookies and a $20 Amazon gift certificate to facilitate my review.

Bing Teacher Appreciation - Say Thanks and Give Back

2010-06-07T15:13:00.000-07:00

Have you thanked a teacher today? As another school year winds down, the best gift you can give is a sincere thank you, be it on the phone, in person or a nice note. Trust me, I'm married to one!

At the Bing Teacher Appreciation website, it's easy to recognize the teachers who have made a difference in your (or your child's) life. Simply visit the site and post a comment or share a story about a teacher. These posts will be aggregated and shared with the teachers in a congratulations letter. Better still, you'll have the opportunity to support kids' education. For each comment/story, Bing will make a $5 donation to DonorsChoose.org, which you can choose to apply to any classroom project of your choice. Each visitor can leave up to 5 comments for a $25 total donation. Bing has committed to a gift of up to $500,000.

If you are unfamiliar with DonorsChoose.org, it's definitely a site to check out. The site allows public school teachers nationwide to post requests for much needed funding for various classroom projects. I was thrilled to be given the opportunity to make a donation, the hardest part was deciding which project to fund. I chose a kindergarten class in rural South Carolina, where all funds have been frozen and most parents can't afford to supply their kids with the basic supplies they need for class. My donation will help ensure that their education gets off to the best possible start.

I hope you'll take a few minutes to recognize the teachers that have made an impact on you, and support a great cause at the same time. I'd love to hear about the project(s) you funded!

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Bing and a $100 DonorsChoose.org giving code to facilitate my review. Mom Central also sent me a thank-you gift certificate.

Creative Inspiration from the FedEx Out of Office Blog

2010-06-02T17:31:00.000-07:00

It happens just about every weekday. I put the twins down for their nap, head back downstairs and Jake pounces on me. "Let's do a project!" he shouts. About 90% of the time I'm totally unprepared for the possibility. I've been scouring the internet for simple projects that don't take a lot of time or fancy materials and I've found a number of fun ideas at Out of Office, a blog from FedEx Office.

They sent us a craft pack with everything we needed to make these bookmarks. What I love about these is that you can probably find everything you'd need to make them around your house and the decorating possibilities are endless.

If you want to make sure the bookmarks stand up to the test of time, swing by FedEx Office and have them laminated.

Wouldn't this be a great project to do at this time each year to encourage kids to dive into some summer reading?

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of FedEx Office and received the items necessary to facilitate my review. In addition, Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate. All opinions expressed are my own.

Healthy Housekeeping Tips from Filtrete

2010-05-31T17:02:00.000-07:00

Spring has come and gone and I'm still trying to get through a deep cleaning of my house. This time of year can be brutal when it comes to allergies and the buildup of dust and allergens throughout the house is something we're constantly fighting. According to a survey commissioned by 3M, maker of Filtrete air cleaning filters, when it comes to the routine of cleaning, homeowners tend to be most concerned with stacks of dirty dishes (66 percent), piles of laundry (58 percent) and dust balls on their carpet (57 percent.) They often forget about other areas of the home – such as bedding, shower doors and even stuffed animals – that can be breeding grounds for bacteria, mildew, dust mites and foul odors.

Healthy Housekeeper Laura Dellutri offers these tips for cleaning your home from top to bottom and making it healthier in the process:

Start at the Top: Ceiling fans, tall mantles and bookshelves, and the tops of door frames tend to subscribe to the “out of sight, out of mind” motto. These areas often harbor dust, so it’s important to wipe them down regularly to help remove dust buildup. Start at the top and work your way down, collecting all of the dust and dirt that falls to the floor while you’re cleaning.

Wipe Down Windows and Walls: Don't clean windows the old fashioned way – newspaper can cause ink residue and paper towels leave lint behind. Your best bet is to use microfiber cleaning cloths and a professional window squeegee to get a streak-free, spotless shine. To prevent streaks on shower doors and walls, apply lemon oil to the door twice a month. This will help repel soap scum and shampoo, while also adding a nice shine.

Think Horizontally: Dust mites are nearly everywhere. In fact, the American Lung Association estimates that roughly four out of five homes in the United States have detectable levels of dust mite allergen in at least one bed. Reduce dust mites by encasing your mattress and pillows, and wash your bedding in hot water about once a week. Also, since dust mites are microscopic, place strips of duct tape on the mattress case to prevent the dust mites from sneaking through.

Clean the In-between: While cleaning what you can see, don’t forget to clean what you can’t see – the air you breathe. Use a high performance air filter in the home, such as the Filtrete 1” Ultimate Allergen Reduction filter from 3M, to help capture particles such as pollen, smoke, dust mite debris and pet dander from the air that passes through the filter. Be sure to change your filter at the start of every season, or every three months.

Freeze the Fur: Stuffed animals can harbor dust mites so it’s important to pay special attention to them. Place stuffed animals in a large plastic bag and freeze them for four to five hours. Remove them from the freezer and plastic bag, and use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove any leftover dust particles.

Finish With Floors: To keep floors in tip-top shape, vacuum and clean them weekly. You can easily make your own floor cleaner by adding a few drops of mild liquid dish detergent to a gallon of water. Hot water can break down floor finishes after time so use water that is barely warm. Finally, don’t forget to clean the floor under large pieces of furniture, which may require you to temporarily move them elsewhere. Corners of rooms and the back of closets often are overlooked, so be sure to clean these areas as well.

Kitchen Clean-Up
Certain areas of the home, especially the kitchen, can breed and harbor germs that not only cause odors but can spread to family members. These low-cost cleaning tasks, when done regularly and properly, can be effective in making the home healthier for your family:

Trashcans: Trashcans should be cleaned monthly using a chlorine bleach and water solution. Simply combine one cup of non-chlorine bleach for every three gallons of water and pour the solution into the trashcan. Swish the solution around in the trashcan, and wait about five minutes for the chlorine to kick in and kill the germs.

Refrigerators: Cleaning the refrigerator monthly will improve the safety and quality of your food. If you are tired of cleaning spills and food particles from your refrigerator, then cover shelves with washable shelf liners. They will catch most of the food spillage, and will make cleanup quicker and easier. Once a month, throw them in the dishwasher for a good cleaning, and then place them back in the refrigerator once they are dry.

Sinks: Since bacteria can accumulate in cracks and crevices, pay extra attention to these areas when disinfecting. Also, stainless steel sinks can be tough to clean and can look spotty due to water spots and lime build up. To keep the sink shiny, use a soft buffing wheel to restore the luster. Then, use a cloth to generously apply mineral oil to the sink. Water will bead up and roll off the sink, keeping it shiny and helping prevent spots.

After reading these tips, I have some work to do. We've been changing our air filters regularly, and I believe it makes a huge difference. If you could use some help remembering to change them (because really, how often do you think about air filters?), sign up for Clear Advantages for free e-mail reminders. Have you ever thought of freezing stuffed animals? I hadn't. I'm hopeful that implementing some of these cleaning tips into my routine will have us breathing easier at home. Now if I could just find a way to clean the house faster than my kids are able to mess it up!

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Filtrete and received a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate. All opinions expressed are my own.

Memorial Day Weekend Deals & Discounts

2010-05-28T12:28:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day Weekend is a great time to do some shopping!

Friday and Saturday, you'll get an extra 50% off clearance prices at Old Navy. Also, all graphic T's are buy one get one free. Be sure to this coupon for $5 off a $25 purchase to save even more!

I'll admit it, I've become addicted to flash sale sites. If you haven't taken the time to check them out, you're missing some great deals. These sites often offer huge discounts on well known and designer brands but you've got to act fast to grab them.

Do you shop on the daily deal sites? Which ones are your favorites? Here are the weekend highlights from some of mine.

This weekend at bTrendie:

• 40% off Camping and Hiking Gear from Kelty - think Father's Day!
• 40% off Nursery Art from Stupell Industries
• Up to 50% off shoes from One Ruby Lane

• 40% off Soothing Sleep Aid Sets from Sound Science and Cloud B

If you haven't joined bTrendie yet - now is the time, you'll get a free $10 credit to use towards your first purchase. Then invite your friends and you'll receive a $10 credit when they make their first purchase. This is a limited time offer.

This weekend on Totsy:

• Children's Furniture from Levels of Discovery - up to 40% off
• Fragrance Gift Sets from Jacadi Paris - up to 40% off
• Baby and Girls Clothing from baby Sara - up to 50% off

• European Handmade Dolls and Toys from Kathe Kruse - up to 50% off
• Ed Hardy Clothing for Babies and Boys - up to 50% off

You'll receive a $15 credit when you refer a friend who makes a purchase at Totsy.

This weekend at Zulily:

• Girls Sandals from Ragg Kids - over 50% off
• Girls Dresses from Little Mass - up to 70% off
• Girls Clothing from GiGi & Elebini - up to 55% off
• Nursing Bras and Camis from Bella Materna - up to 50% off
• Swimwear for Boys and Girls from Banana Cabana - up to 50% off

• Infants Clothing from Absorba - up to 50% off
• Toys from Jack Rabbit Creations - up to 50% off
• Boys Clothing from CR Sport - up to 40% off
• Soft Clothing for Toddlers and Kids - up to 40% off
• Plush Changing Pads from Ah Goo Baby - up to 40% off
• Girls Clothing from MIS-TEE-V-US - up to 45% off
• Organic Baby & Toddler Clothing from Tiny Ducky - up to 50% off

Zulily also offers a $10 credit for referring friends.

Where will you be shopping this weekend?

The Power of Positive Thinking

2010-05-19T11:07:00.000-07:00

I have to admit I've been a bit of a downer lately. Grey skies, messy house, demanding kids, I'm never going to have time to get a haircut...

Long story short, this week has left me feeling overwhelmed. I found this little video this morning (via iVillage) and it gave me a much needed smile.

I will get this house clean, I will enjoy today's blue skies, it will be a good day. How about you - are you thinking positive?

Growing Local Learning Sweepstakes + Giveaway

2010-05-17T17:20:00.000-07:00

Whether you're the parent of a school age child or just know one, chances are you are familiar with the Box Tops for Education program. By simply clipping Box Tops from a variety of products, including General Mills cereals, Progresso soups and Betty Crocker baking mixes, you can help support the school of your choice. Each Box Top is worth 10 cents, and while that might not seem like much, they really add up!

In fact, every year 24 million parents and children join in clipping Box Tops to support their local schools. As a result, SuperValu shoppers helped participating schools earn more than $10 million in the 2008-09 school year alone!

The SuperValu family of stores (ACME, Albertsons, Cub, Farm Fresh and Jewel-Osco) has joined Box Tops for Education to create a website makes participating in the program even easier. At Growing Local Learning, you can track your Box Tops contribution and your school's redemption as well as find recipes, coupons and in store promotions to help you save more while you collect.

How awesome would it be to win 50,000 bonus Box Tops for your school? That's a $5,000 value that could be a big boost for their resources. From now through May 31, SuperValu stores and Box Tops for Education are giving you a chance to win - just register at www.GrowingLocalLearning.com, and click the link to the 50,000 bonus box tops sweepstakes*. They'll even give you 5 Bonus Box Tops just for signing up!

*Please note that the sweepstakes is void in some states, see the site for complete rules and details.

As I sit here planning my grocery shopping for the week, I see that Albertsons has a great promotion this week - Buy $20 in participating General Mills products and receive 50 Bonus Box Tops AND $5 off your next purchase. Sounds like a great reason to stock up the pantry. They have cereal 2 for $4, Green Giant canned vegetables 2 for $3...I'm betting that when I spend my $20 I'm going to end up with another 10-15 Box Tops!

GIVEAWAY

If you had $25 to spend at the grocery store, how many Box Tops do you think you could come home with? One lucky reader will receive a $25 American Express gift card to find out!

This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to the winner, #90 - Sue Sweeps.

This post was written as part of a blog tour campaign by My Blog Spark on behalf of Box Tops for Education and SuperValu stores. I was provided with an American Express Gift Card for my time in sharing this program with my readers, the gift card for the giveaway is also provided by the sponsor. All opinions are my own.

Wordless Wednesday - Airplane

2010-05-11T20:07:00.000-07:00

It's way up there...

And it sounds like this...

Wordless Wednesday - Sweetness

2010-05-04T18:49:00.000-07:00

Jake's Gems

2010-04-30T16:31:00.000-07:00

"My favorite kind of spider is Spiderman."

"Being patient takes too long!"

"Look Mom, this car has no gas hole. He needs gas. My other car has a gas hole right in back." (He gave me such an odd look when I started giggling.)

"If I use up all the soap, do I win the parrot?"

Betty Crocker Sweet Spring Treats Giveaway

2010-04-21T14:35:00.000-07:00

Spring has sprung and I'm just as obsessed with baking as ever. I don't think I've made the last of the molasses cookies, but my thoughts are turning to the flavors of spring and summer - light and fruity. I'm always looking for new additions to my "must bake" list and I found some at Betty Crocker's Bake Sweet Memories website. Along with the recipes, they offer fun ideas and coupons you can load directly onto your Safeway Club card for savings on Betty Crocker products.

I think these Mini Key Lime Cupcakes look like the perfect treat for a spring afternoon:

Want to freshen up your Sunday brunch menu? How about these Scrambled Egg Biscuit Cups?

I was delighted to receive this fun Sweet Spring Treats prize pack, and even more so that I get to give one away to one of you!

The prize pack includes a silicone baking pan, stainless steel mixing bowl, oven mitt, Betty Crocker mixing spoon and a $25 Safeway gift card so that you can stock up on everything you'll need to make some Sweet Spring Treats of your own.

This giveaway has ended. Congratulations to the winner, #15 - The Bookworm!

This post was written as part of a blog tour campaign by My Blog Spark on behalf of Betty Crocker and Safeway. I was provided with a Sweet Spring Treats prize pack, giveaway prize pack also provided by the sponsor. All opinions are my own.

Tax Day Freebies and Deals

2010-04-14T20:34:00.000-07:00

Feeling the sting on Tax Day? Here are a few freebies and deals that might ease the pain.

Cinnabon is offering 2 free cupcake bites make the day a bit sweeter. Available April 15th from 6-8pm, while supplies last.

Bring a reusable mug to Starbucks and receive free brewed coffee all day long!

Maggie Moos is serving up free slices of ice cream pizza from 3pm to 7pm.

Other deals of note:

McCormick and Schmick's has $10.40 dinner and drink specials.

P.F. Changs is giving 15% off both dine-in and take-out food purchases, alcohol and happy hour specials excluded. I can almost taste the lettuce wraps now. Yum!

A Not-So-Boring Sandwich

2010-04-12T11:17:00.000-07:00

It was all his idea.

"Mommy, why don't we decorate our sandwiches? We can use sprinkles to make them more exciting."

He had a point, the same old turkey and cheese was a bit ordinary.

But sprinkles? On a sandwich?

Why not?

You have to admit that looks a little more fun.

How about that - a clean plate. And he didn't even pick the lettuce off of the sandwich. Thumbs up indeed.

Making it Sweeter with Splenda - Review

2010-04-09T19:17:00.000-07:00

When I'm at a restaurant and the lemonade I've ordered is a bit too tart, you'll always find me reaching for the little yellow packets. Splenda has long been my choice when it comes to no calorie sweeteners. I like being able to sweeten things up without added calories or carbs.

Recently Splenda teamed up with celebrity chef and mom Katie Brown to offer a collection of new recipes and tips on using the sweetener in all kinds of ways. I knew that Splenda was available in granular form and had been curious about trying it for baking. I settled on a classic for my first experiment: chocolate chip cookies.

Choco-Chip Cookies

Ingredients

* ⅔ cup butter or margarine, softened

* ⅔ cup brown sugar, firmly packed

* ⅔ cup SPLENDA® No Calorie Sweetener, Granulated

* 2 teaspoons vanilla

* 2 eggs

* 1½ cups all-purpose flour

* 1 teaspoon baking soda

* ¼ teaspoon salt

* 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Cream butter, brown sugar, SPLENDA® Granulated Sweetener and vanilla together in a medium mixing bowl. Mix until well blended and creamy. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Scrape sides of bowl. Add flour, baking soda and salt. Mix until well blended. Stir in chocolate chips.

3. Place level tablespoons of cookie dough on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and cool on a wire cooling rack.

I thought the cookies tasted good and they met my husband's approval. The texture was a bit different than my normal chocolate chip cookies, a bit airier. Judging by the way my four year old snuck into the kitchen and greedily devoured four or five cookies, he couldn't tell that they had less sugar in them. I'm looking forward to trying more recipes. I think the EZ Baked Apples are next on my list.

Have you tried Splenda for cooking or baking? I'd love to hear how your recipe turned out.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Splenda and received products necessary to facilitate my candid review. In addition, a donation was made in my name to the Meals on Wheels organization to thank me for taking the time to participate.

5 Minutes For Mom's Ultimate Blog Party 2010!

2010-04-08T21:24:00.000-07:00

It's that time again!

Never participated in the Ultimate Blog Party hosted by 5 Minutes for Mom? Here's what it's all about:

If you are partying with us for the first time… The Ultimate Blog Party has become an exciting tradition in the “Momosphere”. It is a bloggy carnival where participating bloggers publish a “party post” introducing themselves and then party hop through the linky lists meeting other bloggers. - 5 Minutes for Mom

This is my second UBP, I had too much fun last year not to do it again! This is your chance to make some new blogging friends and win some fabulous prizes. If you're a blogger - join up! If not, you can still blog hop and discover new blogs.

If this is your first visit to My Charmed Life - Welcome! I'm Sarah, proud mom of three. Jake is 4, twins Ryan and Natalie are 18 months old. We live in Southern California and we're huge L.A. Kings fans!

You'll find a little bit of everything that I love here at My Charmed Life, humorous tales from our daily life, recipes, amateur cake decorating, crafts, reviews, and more. I hope you'll have a look around, thanks for visiting!

You can also find me on Twitter @justaddcharm

Sweet Betty Crocker Savings at Safeway!

2010-04-06T17:44:00.000-07:00

This sale is too good not to share! At the Safeway family of stores, you can stock up on Betty Crocker SuperMoist Cake Mixes and Traditional Brownie Mixes for just 69 cents! The only catch - you'll need to hurry, this sale ends tonight!

Watch for an upcoming review and giveaway featuring Betty Crocker and Safeway.

Banish Summer Boredom - KinderCare Summer Camp

2010-04-05T18:38:00.000-07:00

With summer right around the corner, school-aged kids everywhere are undoubtedly counting down the days until school's out. I know I always did! Then within a few weeks, boredom set in. I never went to summer camp myself, but had friends who did. It sounded like fun, but the thought of being away from home for so long wasn't so appealing.

We haven't hit the school years yet, and I thought it would be a few years before I heard the words "Mommy, I'm bored!" from my kids, but apparently I was wrong. It's not always easy to keep my four year old entertained while taking care of his younger brother and sister.

If you've been looking for a fun way to keep your kids active and entertained this summer, be sure to check out KinderCare's Summer Camp program. Created with the input of nearly 3,000 children, the 12 week program for preschool through age 12 offers unique weekly themes. You can pick and choose the themes that interest your child and match your schedule. Enroll for just one week or all summer long.

Themes Include:

• Wild, Wild West

• Wilderness 101

• Dig Ancient Egypt

• You've Got Talent!

• Puppeteer Road Show

• Gross & Gooey Science

• Spectacular Sports

• Animal Antics

• Science Adventures

• Art Expo

• Kids' Kitchen

• Splish Splash

• Surfs Up!

• Everyday Heroes

Don't they sound like fun? Looking over the different programs almost makes me wish I was a kid again. I think Jake's first pick would be the Science Adventures themes.

KinderCare is an accredited early childhood care provider with approximately 1,700 locations in 39 states. For more information and to find a location near you, visit their website at http://www.kindercare.com/summercamp.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of KinderCare and received a gift certificate to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Wanchai Ferry Giveaway Winner

2010-04-01T16:03:00.000-07:00

The winner of the Wanchai Ferry "Perfect Night In" Prize Pack and $25 Target Gift Card is #458 - Ardy22! As always, the winner was selected at random, has been contacted via e-mail and has 48 hours to claim their prize. More fun giveaways are in the works!

Food Fun for April Fools' Day

2010-03-31T21:20:00.000-07:00

Anyone planning any pranks for April Fools' Day? I'm thinking of playing with food...what kid wouldn't get a kick out of dinner that looks like dessert and vice versa?

Start with cupcakes perhaps?

Won't they be surprised to discover that is meatloaf with potato frosting!

Finish with pizza? Sweet!

Family Fun has a whole page of April Fools' inspired food ideas. A couple of my favorites:

Fish sticks and peas? Think again! They are creatively disguised cookies and candy. Though Jake may never eat real peas again after eating those...

Can you guess what this "Fool's Dinner" actually is?

Have fun foolin'!

Jumping Back in the Pool...

2010-03-31T14:27:00.000-07:00

Perhaps I'll just dip my toes in. A couple of weeks ago I reluctantly handed my computer over to my husband in hopes that he could fix a problem with the power jack. My reluctance was unrelated to his computer expertise, but being offline? Possibly for a few days? How would I survive? Amazing how attached you become to the internet, isn't it?

After taking the computer apart, he found that the problem wasn't the power jack but the frame that holds it in place. Alas that isn't easily fixed. So I remain chained to the table until I find a screaming deal on a new laptop. I'd much rather blog from the couch. Or outside. Or anywhere else.

I was back online but the spring weather and promise of fresh air was too much to ignore. So I spent a few days doing not much more than playing outside with the kids. Then there was a party to plan, a quick Vegas getaway and suddenly 10 days have gone by since my last post. Eek. When I don't blog for a while, it's really hard for me to start up again. There is no flow. Do I even remember how to write? (Did I ever know how?) At any rate, here I am.

Rev Up for Handy Manny Big Race!

2010-03-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

Looking for a fun way to spend Saturday night with the family? We'll be gearing up with some popcorn and heading to the races. The best part? We don't even have to leave the house. Handy Manny Big Race premieres tonight at 7pm/6c on The Disney Channel!

About the special:

Guest stars Dale Earnhardt, Jr. and Lance Bass join Wilmer Valderrama (the voice of Manny) and the rest of the "Handy Manny" gang as they prepare for the famed Wood Valley 500 race. Manny and the tools team up with Eliot to revamp his used race car, as race time approaches, Elliot's nerves get the best of him. Famous racecar driver, Chase Davis (Earnhardt, Jr.) and Manny both jump in to help.

Handy Manny has long been one of our Playhouse Disney favorites, combine the guy who can fix just about anything with Jake's favorite subject (cars) and I know it's going to be a hit in our house.

Want a sneak peek? Check it out here on YouTube. While you countdown till the show, you can play Manny's Pit Stop Shop Game, where your kids can design their own racecar. If you want to make one too, I won't tell anybody!

I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Playhouse Disney. Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Wordless Wednesday - In Pieces

2010-03-16T22:27:00.000-07:00

This may explain why I there have been no new posts since Friday...

Healthy Choice All Natural Entrees - Review

2010-03-12T11:10:00.000-08:00

Like many moms, I spend a good portion of my day in the kitchen. Preparing toddler friendly food, cutting it into bite sized pieces, hoping that some of it makes it into little mouths instead of all over the floor. By the time breakfast is cleaned up, it's time to think about lunch. For all the thought and effort I put into what the kids are eating, I often forget to worry about what I am eating. Please tell me I'm not the only one who has looked back on the day and realized that they have eaten nothing but a handful of crackers here and a couple of apple slices there.

I'll be honest, I've never been a big fan of frozen entrées. My limited experience with them in the past led me to soggy vegetables, obscene amounts of sodium and unappetizing dishes that I abandoned after a couple of bites. When offered the chance to try out the new Healthy Choice All Natural Entrees I figured it couldn't hurt to give them a try. The Tortellini Primavera Parmesan and Creamy Basil Pesto I sampled were pleasant surprises. The veggies were tender but not mushy, the pasta just right and the sauces were quite flavorful. In just a couple of minutes I was able to enjoy a lunch that felt like "grown-up" food instead of a hodgepodge of toddler standbys. I'd certainly recommend these for days when you want a healthy meal but just don't have the time or energy to prepare it yourself.

Healthy Choice has added 11 new entrées to their Café Steamers, All Natural Entrées, and Select Entrées product lines. Included are many vegetarian options. Each meal is nutrient rich and free of preservatives. Healthy Choice is currently the only major brand in its category to receive FDA approval to call their products "healthy". This approval requires that each meal have low fat, low saturated fat, controlled sodium and 10% of the daily value of three beneficial nutrients. For more information and money saving coupons, visit www.healthychoice.com.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Healthy Choice and received a sample to facilitate my candid review. Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Perfect Night In With Wanchai Ferry - Review & Giveaway (CLOSED)

2010-03-09T15:47:00.000-08:00

When I start craving Chinese food, nothing else will do. Usually that means takeout, which means deciding who has to go out and pick it up and who stays home to wrangle the kids. I was intrigued by the idea of Wanchai Ferry frozen entrees. Chinese food ready to serve in under 15 minutes? With no added MSG? Without leaving the house? This I had to try.

Wanchai Ferry frozen entrees come in five varieties: Orange Chicken, Shrimp Lo Mein, Spicy Garlic Chicken, Sweet & Sour Shrimp and Sweet & Sour Chicken. I'm a sucker for Orange Chicken, so that was first on my list. Everything you need for two servings is included in the bag, from the chicken to a nice variety of veggies (baby corn, broccoli florets and julienne carrots), the sauce and jasmine rice. As promised, it was ready to eat in 15 minutes. The sauce was tangy and flavorful, the chicken lightly crispy and the veggies weren't overcooked. I was particularly impressed by the rice, it was nice and fluffy, not the sticky mess I expected from a frozen meal.

I think we've found a convenient alternative to takeout, though we're hoping the line expands to include more of our favorite Chinese dishes. I'd also love to see a larger "family-size" bag with enough to feed our family of five.

Wanchai Ferry frozen entrees are now available in the freezer case at Target. You can save $1.50 on your purchase by printing a coupon at www.wanchaiferry.com.

GIVEAWAY:

One lucky reader will receive a Wanchai Ferry prize pack including one VIP coupon valid for a free package of any of the Wanchai Ferry frozen entrees, in addition to a set of great Asian-inspired rice bowls, chopsticks, bamboo placemats, flavored fortune cookies, and a $25 Target gift card.

This giveaway is now closed - congratulations to the winner, #458 - Ardy22!

This review was written as part of a blog tour campaign by My Blog Spark on behalf of General Mills and Target. I was provided with a Wanchai Ferry "Perfect Night In" prize pack, giveaway prize pack also provided by the sponsor.

Winner - Cinnabon Gift Card

2010-03-08T09:24:00.000-08:00

Monday just got sweeter for Wendi P, the winner of the Cinnabon Gift Card Giveaway.

Lucky number #165 was selected by the random number generator at Random.org.

More giveaways coming soon!

Wordless Wednesday - Learning to Share

2010-03-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

Jake's Gems

2010-02-25T14:40:00.000-08:00

More quotables from the little man himself...

"Let's play Hide and Seek! I'll count to 9 and you go hide in the bathroom!"

"I'm as fuzzy as a tangerine."

Me: "Jake, after we finish this puzzle, will you help me clean up the toys in the living room?"
Jake: "No, I can't. I'm not a clean up kind of guy." (Is there a such thing?)

(Building with Legos)
"This is an instruction site. It's where men work."

Wordless Wednesday - Future's So Bright

2010-02-24T00:00:00.000-08:00

Four

2010-02-22T14:36:00.000-08:00

It was just before daylight when I heard the little footsteps. Without a word he climbed up into my bed, snuggled close and fell asleep. I thought about getting up, sneaking in a shower while the house was quiet. But no, how many chances do we have to enjoy mornings like this before they pass us by?

As I stared at the angelic little face an hour later, his eyes opened. "Happy Birthday", I said quietly.

"Am I really 4 years old today?"
"Yes you are!"
"Are you sure?"
"Yes I am."
"Hip hip hooray!"

Looking at him this afternoon, he looks bigger than yesterday. Older. Where does the time go? Tears are stinging my eyes and a feel a lump in my throat. Didn't I just bring you home?

This growing up business is tough on a mommy's heart.

Happy Birthday my little man, I'm so proud of the little boy you have become.

Winners!

2010-02-22T11:53:00.000-08:00

I'm about to make three people very happy - I love it when I get to do that!

The winner of the $50 Walmart Gift Card from the Game Time Giveaway is...#553 henniferus.

Winning the $25 Macy's Gift Card from the Go Red for Women Giveaway is...#105 sohamolina.

The $50 Safeway Gift Card from the Fiber One Yogurt Giveaway goes to...#163 Nancy.

Congratulations to all of you! Winners have been contacted and must respond within 48 hours to claim their prizes. All winners are selected at random from the eligible entries via the random number generator at Random.org.

Don't miss your chance to win a $20 Cinnabon Gift Card - perfect to try out their new cupcakes! Also, watch for more fun giveaways this week, including a lovely bouquet of baby items from Baby Bunch, a Wanchai Ferry prize pack including a $25 Target Gift Card, and a carseat from Evenflo!

Prilosec OTC's Everything You Do Without Heartburn Program

2010-02-20T09:34:00.000-08:00

Do you have a bucket list? A list of things you've always wanted to try but never seem to find the time? Around here, just getting the kids to bed at a decent hour seems like a major accomplishment to me. Swimming with dolphins, seeing a hockey game in every NHL arena, becoming a master cake decorator, traveling through Europe - I sure hope there will be time (and money!) for all of that later.

Prilosec OTC has launched a program designed to celebrate the passions that take you away from the stress of everyday life. As the "Official Sponsor of Everything You Do Without Heartburn", they will be helping 100 people realize their passions by providing scholarships with an average value of $1,000 and a maximum value of $4,000. Are you ready to take your hobby or passion to the next level? Here's all have to do to apply:

"Tell us who you are, what you love to do, and what you need to do it better. We also want to know, if sponsored, who you would tell about it."

To apply and vote for your favorite candidates, visit http://www.officialsponsor.com.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Prilosec OTC. Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Wordless Wednesday - Story Time

2010-02-16T19:34:00.000-08:00

Cinnabon Celebrates 25 Years with Cupcakes - Giveaway (CLOSED)

2010-02-14T10:52:00.000-08:00

Walking through the mall it suddenly hits you - that intoxicating sweet cinnamon smell that can only mean one thing - Cinnabon is near. Do you have the power to resist? For me the odds are fifty-fifty at best and now that I've heard the news I don't think there's much hope for me. After 25 years of ooey-gooey cinnamon roll goodness, Cinnabon is now serving cupcakes. CUPCAKES! My skinny jeans may say "No!" but I can't hear them because my sweet tooth is screaming "YES!"

The cupcakes come in four flavors:

• Cinnacake Classic
• Chocolate Passion
• Vanilla Bliss
• 24-Carrot Cake

I can't wait to give them a try...if I brave the mall with three kids I'd deserve it, right?

The cupcakes will be rolled out at Cinnabon locations nationwide during the month of February. You can keep up with the latest Cinnabon news on Twitter @CinnabonInc and on Facebook.

GIVEAWAY

One lucky reader will receive a $20 Cinnabon Gift Card - imagine the sugar buzz!

This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to the winner, #165 - Wendi P.

Winter Olympics Fun for Kids

2010-02-12T14:45:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic Games begin tonight with the Opening Ceremonies, though I'm sure you already knew that. I have fond memories of watching the Olympics throughout my childhood, always fascinated by the figure skaters. In my adult life, I've become a devoted hockey fan and can't wait to see some of my favorite NHL players representing their countries. Bobsledding and luge are exciting, Skeleton makes me nervous. The next couple of weeks will be fun.

My first son was born during the 2006 Winter Olympics. I think that watching the games will always bring memories of his first few days at home. He's old enough to watch this time, but those restless legs can't sit still for too long. We need some Olympic fun that is a bit more interactive.

The mascots for this year's games are Sumi, Miga, Quatchi and MukMuk. Jake loved this video introduction.

At the official Olympic website they have a mascot page where you can find more videos, some fun little games and our favorite - print and fold mascots and coloring pages.

Here's a super easy but fun project - paint your own olympic ring s. All you'll need is paint, a paintbrush and paper plates.

We'll be having our own Olympic torch relay right in the backyard. Using colored tissue paper, a sheet of white construction paper and a bit of tape you can make your own torch. Get the instructions here.

Think up your own Olympic events (I wonder if I could get away with Vegetable Eating?) and award medals, made out of polymer clay, or cardboard, foil and ribbon.

Now how about some food...

Olympic Rings Fruit Pizza from Taste of Home

Will your family be watching the Olympics? Have any Olympic inspired ideas to share? I'd love to hear about them!

Aloha Friday 2/10/10

2010-02-11T21:40:00.000-08:00

It's been too long since I've made my way over to An Island Life to participate in Aloha Friday!

As Kailani says:

In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that we take it easy and look forward to the weekend. So I thought that on Fridays I would take it easy on posting, too. Therefore, I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response.

My question of the week:

Valentine's Day - love it or hate it?

I have mixed feelings. With all the hype and expectations, it's not all that romantic. Shouldn't we be showering our loved ones with affection every day of the year? It could just be that I don't have a babysitter, but I'm not in a very "Valentiney" mood. I think we'll skip the stores and make some treats here at home.

I Don't Want To Miss...A Contest from Clorox

2010-02-11T10:30:00.000-08:00

Miss a few days of school and your teen may find themselves behind, and not just on school work! Whatever your teen is into - sports, drama, music, other activities or just hanging out with friends, there is no doubt that they'd miss a lot if they had to stay home with the flu. This flu season teens are have the extra risk of H1N1 along with the seasonal flu. Clorox and former American Idol finalist Danny Gokey want to help and they are teaming up to get teens and their teachers involved in flu prevention.

This is the second year of the I Don't Want to Miss... Program and it features a fun contest for school music groups. Here is the challenge: create a video performance of a special song written by Berklee College of Music student Will Wells. Teachers of the first 100 groups to submit a video will receive a wellness package from Clorox. The school who sends in the winning submission will win a music class led by Danny Gokey!

Clorox will also be donating $100 for each submission received (up to $10,000) to Sophia's Heart Foundation. Sophia's Heart Foundation is a charity founded by Gokey in honor of his late wife, Sophia, and dedicated to helping children achieve academic success via musical training and restoring musical dreams in children.

You can find all the details about the contest here. For flu prevention tips, visit Clorox on Facebook.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Clorox and received $20 thank-you gift certificate.

Hooter Hiders Giveaway Winner

2010-02-11T09:10:00.000-08:00

Congrats to the lucky winner of the the Hooter Hiders giveaway!

#30 - Leonard Family

Don't forget to check out the other current giveaways - if you like gift cards this is the week for you!

$50 Walmart Gift Card
$25 Macy's Gift Card
$50 Safeway Gift Card

Friday Follow

2010-02-05T10:45:00.000-08:00

Looking for a fun way to meet other bloggers and bring more visitors to your own blog? Check out Friday Follow, hosted by One 2 Try, Hearts Make Families, and Midday Escapades.

If you are new here, welcome! I'm Sarah, mom to a soon to be 4 year old and 1 year old twins. I hope you'll take a few minutes and have a look around. I love to share our craft projects, recipes and give you a peek into our crazy little world.

I also have some fun giveaways running right now:
Hooter Hiders Nursing Cover
$50 Walmart Gift Card
$50 Safeway Gift Card
$25 Macy's Gift Card

I can't wait to stop by and visit you!

Guilt Free Fiber One Yogurt + $50 Safeway Gift Card Giveaway (CLOSED)

2010-02-04T18:10:00.000-08:00

Day in and day out, I'm fighting a never ending battle with my sweet tooth. Yogurt has long been in my arsenal of weapons. Fiber One Yogurt takes one of my favorite healthy treats to a new level: zero guilt! The 4oz cups have 5 grams of fiber, just 50 calories and no fat. It comes in four flavors: Strawberry, Peach, Vanilla and Key Lime Pie. So far I've tried the Strawberry and Key Lime Pie flavors and found them to be creamy and delicious. Should I feel guilty if I eat two?

Now through February 9th, you can stock up on Fiber One Yogurt at the Safeway family of stores (including Dominick’s, Tom Thumb, Randalls, Vons and Genuardi’s) with two 4-packs for just $4.00!

GIVEAWAY

Thanks to My Blog Spark, Fiber One and Safeway, one lucky reader will win a $50 Safeway Gift Card! (Gift card also valid at Dominick’s, Tom Thumb, Randalls, Vons and Genuardi’s)

This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to the winner #163 - Nancy!

I wrote this review while participating in a campaign by My Blog Spark on behalf of Safeway and Fiber One. I received a coupon for a free 4-pack of yogurt and a Safeway gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate. They also provided the Safeway gift card for giveaway.

Go Red For Women With Macy's + $25 GC Giveaway (CLOSED)

2010-02-04T14:15:00.000-08:00

Macy's is joining the American Heart Association to Go Red For Women and celebrate National Wear Red Day tomorrow, February 5th. The mission of Go Red For Women is to celebrate the energy, passion and power we have as women to band together to wipe out heart disease, the #1 killer of American men and women. Since 2004, Macy's customers and employees have contributed more than $21 million to this important cause.

Here are some ways you can get involved:

• Shop the Wear Red Sale February 3-7
• Take fashion to heart and buy the limited edition INC International Concepts Little Red Dress
• Share your story at the Go Red Casting Calls
• Attend a Go Red luncheon in your area
• Join Go Red For Women

What will you be wearing tomorrow? Whatever you choose, go red!

GIVEAWAY

Thanks to M80 and Macy's, one lucky reader will receive a $25 Macy's Gift Card!

This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to the winner, #105 sohamolina.

Information used for this post and gift card for giveaway provided by M80 on behalf of Macy's. No form of compensation was received.

Are You Ready for Game Time? Walmart Giveaway! (CLOSED)

2010-02-04T11:00:00.000-08:00

Football isn't the sport of choice in this house, and truth be told the SuperBowl is often the only football game we'll from beginning to end all year. The big day is Sunday and I'm looking forward to it! There is plenty to love about the SuperBowl, whether you are watching for the game itself, for the commercials or just using it as the perfect excuse to get together with friends or family. Who doesn't love a party?

When it comes to food for the big game, you'll want a menu that is easy to prepare and easy to eat. Some of our favorites are chips and dip, a veggie tray, hot dogs and a nice selection of drinks. Wait, can't forget dessert! How about some football shaped sugar cookies or brownies?

One way to save time and money is by picking up snacks at Walmart. For as low as $44, you can score Game Time Snacks for Eight including: One package of Oscar Mayer Hot Dogs, one package of Johnsonville Bratwursts, two packages of Great Value Hot Dog Buns, two boxes of T.G.I Friday's Frozen Appetizers, one Hormel Supreme Party Tray, a 12" Chocolate Chunk cookie and two boxes of Nabisco Wheat Thins or Triscuit Crackers.

Need to upgrade your TV in time for the game? Walmart also offers a nice selection of HDTVs as well as full home installation packages to ensure that you get all set up in time for the game.

For help in planning your SuperBowl bash, visit walmart.com/gametime. You'll find all kinds of helpful tips and ideas including recipes, decorating tips, fun games for halftime, even some crafts to keep the kids entertained.

GIVEAWAY

Thanks to MomCentral and Walmart, one lucky reader will win a $50 Walmart Gift Card!

This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to the winner, #553 - henniferus!

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Walmart. In addition, I received a Walmart gift certificate to thank me for taking the time to participate and one to offer as a giveaway.

$100 - Imagining the Possibilities

2010-02-02T18:45:00.000-08:00

What would you do if someone handed you an extra $100? Would you do something sensible - buy some groceries or use it toward bills? Something impulsive - maybe a new pair of shoes, lunch with a friend, a night out on the town? Would you donate it to charity? So many possibilities.

I asked Jake what he would do with $100. He said he'd buy "Toys. Lots of cars. A Hot Wheels race car!" Can you imagine a hundred dollars worth of Hot Wheels cars? I'm tripping over them all the time as it is.

Then I asked the twins what they would do with a sudden windfall. They just gave me a blank stare. (This reminds me of several trips to Target, when my husband offered to buy them anything they wanted. Anything! But they had to ask for it by name and the offer was only good on that one day. I half expected them to start talking on the spot.)

My husband first said he'd put the Benjamin in the Vegas Fund, that little stash we keep just in case we ever find someone crazy enough to watch the kids for a weekend. Then he changed his mind and decided he'd use it to buy oxygen sensors for his car. How's that for excitement?

As for me, I have it all figured out. Jake's 4th birthday is coming up. He's been reminding me 82.6 (on average) times a day. I think he really thinks I might forget. Where is the faith? Anyhow, we're having a hockey themed party and I think it would be a great time for a visit from an old friend.

Bailey is the mascot for the Los Angeles Kings and Jake adores him. As it turns out he's available for appearances at birthday parties and special events. Even better, the appearance fee is a donation to Kings Care Foundation. I can picture the smile on Jake's face already, supporting a good cause would just be icing on the cake.

What about you? How would you spend an extra $100?

Kodak and JuiceBoxJungle sponsored me to write this fun post, about what I'd do if someone with a surprise extra $100 if someone handed it to me next month.

Groundhog's Day Cupcakes

2010-02-02T14:02:00.001-08:00

Looking for an excuse to make cupcakes? How cute are these Groundhog's Day Cupcakes from Family Fun?!

Pepsi Refresh Program - Giving Back to the Community

2010-02-01T06:00:00.000-08:00

From the devastation in Haiti to the widespread economic issues that have affected so many here in our own country, there are no shortage of community issues both big and small that need attention. If your family is like mine, you have ideas and want to help but have limited financial resources available. This is why I'm excited to share the launch of the Pepsi Refresh Project.

When you watch the Superbowl this year, you might notice that there are no ads from Pepsi. They have opted not to advertise this year, instead directing those advertising funds toward an effort to give back to the community. The Pepsi Refresh Project will provide more than $20 million in funding for community projects large and small and they are seeking your ideas. On a monthly basis, they will be accepting submissions in six categories:

• Health
• Arts & Culture
• Food & Shelter
• The Planet
• Neighborhood
• Education

The top submissions each month will be posted on the website and the public will be able to vote for the ideas they feel worthy of receiving grants ranging from $5,000 to $250,000.

Want to get involved?

There are two easy ways. First, get together with your friends and family and brainstorm! Submit your best idea for a project that would improve your community for consideration for a grant in the March round. Second, you can visit the Refresh program website at RefreshEverything.com and cast your vote to help decide who will receive February's grants.

For more insight on the program, here are excerpts from Mom Central's interview with Lauren Hobart, Mom and CMO of Sparking Brands at Pepsi.

Why is Pepsi Refresh Unique?
The program is unique because it puts the power in the hands of the consumer. Individuals submit their ideas and then the nation votes on the idea that moves them the most. This is done in a very ground up way. Essentially, we’ve democratized the process.

What are some exciting ideas you hope to see submitted through the PRP this year?
We’re excited to see the range of ideas that are submitted through the program. There are six different categories, and we want ideas across all of them. So far we’ve seen a fantastic response to the program. Within the first week we received over 1000 ideas, which came from every state and every age group.

As a Mom what types of lessons do you hope children learn by getting involved in community projects?
Parents want to instill good values in their children and encourage them to act on their ideas and beliefs. As a Mom myself, I’ve shared this program with other moms in my community and have found that it sparks a cord with everyone. I’ve also seen my own children get very excited about it. I think it just feels right to them.

What is your advice for moms that have ideas about refreshing their communities? What level of grant is idea? How should they craft their submissions?
First figure out the size and scope of the idea. Most individuals should opt for the $5000 grant, but it really depends on the idea and who you’ll be working with to bring it to action. People should also remember that winning comes with the responsibility to bringing you idea to life. If you need inspiration, there are example ideas on the Pepsi Refresh website to help get you started as well as a toolkit that guides you through the application process.

Who are the ideal grant applicants?
There isn’t really an ideal applicant. Anyone over 13 and a US resident can submit an application for the program. That said, people who are tapped into many different networks and able to promote and share their ideas once submitted may have the best chance of success.

Who should be involved in the submission process? If my child has an idea, should she submit it, or should I, or should her teacher help?
Young children, particularly those under 13 years old, should work with parents or teacher. Pepsi Refresh offers an amazing opportunity for a teaching moment with parents since you can get your kids to think about what impact they can have how they can make a difference. The program can get them engaged, thinking and talking about their impact on the world in a whole new way.

To connect with the Refresh Project, follow Pepsi on Twitter or Pepsi Refresh on Facebook and visit the website at www.RefreshEverything.com.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Pepsi Refresh. Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

FREE $5 Babies "R" Us Gift Card!

2010-01-28T13:37:00.000-08:00

Today only, become a fan of Babies "R" Us on Facebook and you can sign up to receive a $5 eGift Card - FREE! The eGift card will be e-mailed to you and can be used in store or online.

A Bedtime Story

2010-01-27T20:00:00.000-08:00

I've seen enough episodes of SuperNanny to know that when it comes to bedtime, we are lucky parents. Our kids usually call it a night between 8 and 9pm and they don't put up much of a fight. There are however, those rare occasions...

Overheard At Bedtime

Dad: "Jake, it's bedtime."
Jake: "I don't like bedtime. I don't want to go to bed. I DON”T WANT TO GO TO BED."

(Tears, drama)

Dad stays calm.

D: "Why don't you want to go to bed?"
J: "I just don't want to do that right now."
D: "When do you think would be a good time to go to bed?"
J: "In about...5 seconds."
D: "5,4,3,2,1. Are you ready for bed now?"
J: "Yes."

Maybe letting the kid be in control isn't always a bad thing?

Hooter Hiders Nursing Cover Giveaway (CLOSED)

2010-01-27T17:01:00.000-08:00

A good nursing cover is a must-have for every breastfeeding mom. When you want one that is both functional and fabulous, you can't go wrong with Hooter Hiders.

The new Hooter Hiders collection from Bebe Au Lait features gorgeous fabrics, beautiful styling and a rigid neckline allowing for ventilation and eye contact with your little one. I'm happy to announce that my friends at Bebe Au Lait have offered to give one of my readers the Hooter Hiders nursing cover of their choice!

GIVEAWAY CLOSED
Congratulations to the winner: #30 - Leonard Family

Hooter Hiders nursing cover provided for giveaway by Bebe Au Lait. All opinions expressed are my own, based on my prior experience with the product - read my review here. No compensation was received for this post.

Wordless Wednesday - Sleepwalking?

2010-01-26T21:01:00.000-08:00

I think the appropriate caption here is "Did someone switch my tea for decaf?" I can't tell you how many mornings I have felt just like Natalie looks here. In her case, this is just the result of the camera being slow - this picture, taken just moments later, is what we were actually going for.

Waterpik Ultra Dental Jet - Review

2010-01-25T19:00:00.000-08:00

Confession time.

I'm lousy at flossing - perhaps not so much lousy as lazy. Simply put, I don't like doing it so I don't do it as often as I should. At a cleaning appointment a while back, my dental hygienist mentioned that I might want to look into getting a Waterpik. Serendipitously an e-mail landed in my inbox just days later asking if I'd like to review the Waterpik Ultra Dental Jet. I guess it was meant to be.

What's so great about a Waterpik? Well, for starters, it can replace flossing in your daily routine. It has been clinically proven to be up to 93% more efffective than dental floss in improving gum health. With a water jet, you are able to rinse below the gumline and into areas untouched by brushing and flossing.

The Waterpik Ultra Dental Jet features six attachments: 2 Standard Jet Tips, 1 Tongue Cleaner
1 Pik-Pocket Tip, 1 Orthodontic Tip and 1 Toothbrush Tip. It has a pressure control dial with ten settings, allowing the user to adjust as desired.

We found set-up to be quite easy, and the unit is compact enough to keep on our bathroom countertop. All of the attachments fit nicely into a compartment in the reservoir lid. To be honest, it took me a while to start liking the Waterpik. The first time I turned it on, I had no idea what to expect. The pressure (I believe it was set on level 3) felt so intense I gasped, dropped the water jet and sprayed water all over my bathroom walls and mirror. The next time I tried it, I went with the lowest setting, with much better results. Over time I have been able to increase the pressure, I'm currently using it on setting number 5. I've finally figured out how to properly use it, including the handy pause button and confine the water to my sink.

Even after thorough brushing, the Waterpik seems to find food particles, so I can actually see that it is doing it's job. What really impresses me is the way my teeth feel after using it. Smoother and cleaner than I've ever experienced short of a professional cleaning. I love having that feeling every day. My husband has been using the second standard tip and feels the same. Now that I've had this product, I wouldn't want to be without it.

On a daily basis, I only use the standard tip. I use the Pik-Pocket tip about every other day, when I want an extra deep cleaning. The Tongue Cleaner I use only occasionally and I haven't been able to avoid gagging when using it. The Orthodontic Tip is designed to be used around braces and dental work (I haven't needed it yet). As far as the Toothbrush Tip goes, it's handy to have, but I prefer my Sonicare as it is cordless and I feel the vibration gives me a deeper clean. The unit is too bulky to travel with, so unfortunately I haven't seen the last of the dental floss, but I can live with that.

Overall I'm very pleased with the product and would definitely recommend it. With a retail price of $59.99, I think it's a worthy investment in your dental health.

Disclosure: Waterpik Ultra Dental Jet was provided by the manufacturer for review purposes, no other compensation was provided. All opinions are my own and are based on my personal experience with the product. Your experience may vary.

Nature's Peak Giveaway Winners

2010-01-25T09:33:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to #3 cdziuba and #7 - Janae's Jewels, who will each receive a coupon for a free bag of Nature's Peak Frozen Fruit! More giveaways coming soon!

Baking Up Sunshine

2010-01-21T15:48:00.001-08:00

It's raining, it's pouring...

I think this is the fourth day now, but it feels like forever since we've seen the sun. What is that song - It Never Rains in Southern California? Not entirely true. I guess It Hardly Ever Rains in Southern California just doesn't have quite the same ring to it.

Everyone is cranky and something must be done. Something like cookies.

We started with basic sugar cookies.

Added some obnoxiously yellow frosting...

and ended up with something to smile about!

When mother nature doesn't see fit to provide some sunshine, sometimes you just have to make your own.

What is your favorite way to cure the rainy day blues?

Jake's Gems

2010-01-20T16:30:00.000-08:00

More of the often random, sometimes illogical but always humorous things we hear straight from the mouth of a three (almost 4!) year old.

"My toe looks like a string."

"While you are in the shower, talk to yourself about oatmeal. Why? Because I like it when you do that."

"I need a marshmallow." (No you don't.) "Yes I do because they are nice and smooth."

"Are you hungry? Would you like some Jelly Stew? It's like butter but it's very different than butter. It's smaller than an ice cream cone."

Jake: "I'd like two oranges please. One plain and one toasted."
Me: "Umm...I don't think we can toast an orange, how would we do that?"
Jake: "Just shove it in there!"

Wordless Wednesday

2010-01-20T11:28:00.000-08:00

Jake seems to be making a habit of falling asleep at the table during Thanksgiving dinner each year. It started here, when he was almost two. Daddy thought he'd provide some contrast to Jake's droopy eyes. No more than a minute or two later, he was out.

Wordless Wednesday - But I'm Not Tired!

2010-01-13T10:02:00.000-08:00

Of course you aren't...

Feeling Frazzled? Maybe It's Time To Say "No"

2010-01-11T10:08:00.000-08:00

It's one of the simplest words there is and yet it can be so hard to say. Getting better at saying no is one of my goals for the year, so this article was a nice thing to see in my inbox this morning and I thought I'd share. I know I'm not the only one who chokes on the word my three year old loves the most.

Learning to say no – Moms Secret Weapon

Are you suffering from mom burn out? Do you struggle just to make it through each day? Moms everywhere are breaking down because they are too chicken to say, "No".

"No" may be a tiny, two-letter word, but it can be your secret weapon. And you can say it. Here are some ways you can say "no" without feeling guilty about it:

Sorry, I’m taking a break.
The number one reason why you should say, "no" occasionally is simply that you deserve a break. You are chef, chauffeur, dish washer, and more. You job never ends on any given day of the week. You deserve a break. If you feel bad for saying "no", say, "Sorry, I’m taking a break".

My schedule is full.
We tend to jam-pack our schedule full of activities, leaving time for nothing. Cut back on your kids activities. Start a car pool and share driving responsibilities. Do whatever you can to free up some time in your schedule.

I don’t have time.
You’re headed out the door, rushing to the next appointment when the telephone rings. What do you do? Do you come to a screeching halt and answer the phone? Let’s say you do, and it’s a family member, calling to dump their latest woes on you. Do you stand, tapping your foot impatiently while you roll your eyes and listen to the sob story? This is a typical scene for many moms.

I have another commitment that day.
Say it and mean it. Regularly schedule in time with your family or time alone and if someone ask for your help during that time look in your planner and tell them you have another commitment.

Instead of rushing to be everything to everyone, stop. Ask yourself if you truly have time for whatever comes up. If not, say no by walking away, turning off the ringer on the phone, or not answering the knock at your door.

Always remember that you are a mom—not a super hero. When you have to say no, people will understand; if they don’t at first, they will get used to it eventually.

Editor's note: Still having trouble putting your foot down? Sometimes, we just need some extra guidance, a listening ear or a gentle and loving kick in the butt. You might want to give Aurelia Williams's free coaching session (affiliate) a go. She's a life coach and mom of 3 who has adult, teen and school age children so she definitely knows what she's talking about.

Rosarita Salsa: Review

2010-01-08T17:31:00.000-08:00

Rosarita has been a familiar name in our house for years, as the maker of the #1 selling refried beans in the United States and our favorite brand too. The Spicy Jalapeno Refried Beans have been featured in many a burrito. Rosarita has just introduced a new line of authentic Mexican salsas.

The new salsa comes in three varieties: Mild Salsa Mexicana, Medium Salsa Verde and Hot Salsa Taquera. We received a sample jar of each of each variety. I've been enjoying the Mild Salsa Mexicana with chips and on homemade tacos and burritos. It has more of a kick than most "mild" salsas I've tried, probably more on par with most medium salsas. If you prefer a very mild salsa with no bite whatsoever, this is probably not for you. If you like a little spice, go for it! As far as my husband is concerned, the hotter the better and he has been reaching for the Hot Salsa Taquera. I've been saving the Salsa Verde for this tempting enchilada recipe:

Enchiladas Verdes

Ingredients

PAM® Original No-Stick Cooking Spray
1 jar (16.8 oz each) Rosarita® Medium Salsa Verde, divided
3 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
12 corn tortillas (6 inch)

Directions

Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray 13x9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Spread 1/4 cup of the salsa over bottom of dish; set aside.
Combine chicken, 1/2 cup of the salsa and 1/2 cup of the cheese in medium bowl; mix well. Set aside.
Spray both sides of each tortilla with cooking spray. Heat one at a time in skillet over medium-high heat on both sides until slightly puffy and softened.
Top each tortilla evenly with about 1/4 cup chicken mixture; roll up. Place seam-side down in prepared baking dish. Cover with the remaining salsa; sprinkle with the remaining cheese. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil.
Bake 30 minutes or until cheese melts and sauce is bubbly.

These are on the menu tonight, I'll be sure to let you know how they turn out!

Rosarita Salsa is currently available in the Los Angeles, Phoenix, Dallas and Denver areas at select grocery stores and Walmart. Suggested retail price is $2.99-$3.29 per 16.75 oz. jar.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Rosarita and received a sample to facilitate my candid review as well as two coupons to giveaway. In addition, Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Nature's Peak® Premium Frozen Fruit - Review & Giveaway (Closed)

2010-01-08T12:00:00.000-08:00

In our house, getting the kids to eat fruit isn't a great challenge. They love it. What is a challenge is keeping enough of it in the house, especially during the winter months when many of their favorite varieties are out of season. Having a variety of delicious fruit recently became a whole lot easier, when we were introduced to Nature's Peak® Premium Frozen Fruit. Nature's Peak starts with premium fruit at the peak of ripeness, which is then individually flash frozen, to keep the color, shape and juicy taste intact.

Nature's Peak offers 11 varieties of frozen fruit available in resealable 16 oz packages. The products contain no added sugar and are just as nutritious as fresh fruit. The fruit thaws quickly and requires no peeling, slicing or dicing.

We received two bags to try, Sunburst Mango and Paradise Fruit Medley (a blend of Kiwi, Mango, Peaches, Pineapple and Cantaloupe). Both were happily devoured right out of the bag by my little taste testers. I was able to set aside some of the mango to make a quick and easy smoothie for myself. Yum!

Citrus Blend Smoothie
Ingredients:

* 1 cup NATURE'S PEAK® frozen Sunburst Mangoes
* 1/2 cup orange juice

Directions:

1. THAW fruit at room temperature 15 minutes. Combine fruit and juice in blender container.
2. PROCESS in blender until smooth.

For more information about Nature's Peak® as well as more recipes and ideas, visit their website at www.naturespeakfrozen.com.

Nature's Peak Frozen Fruit products retail from $3.29 to $5.69, depending on the variety and are currently available in the following areas:
Florida (All Regions)
New England (All Regions)
New Jersey (All Regions)
Maryland (All Regions)
Virginia (All Regions)
Washington (Seattle Area)
Oregon (Portland Area)
California (Los Angeles, San Jose Areas)
Arizona (Phoenix Area)
North Carolina (South West Area)
South Carolina (North West Area)
Georgia (South East and North East Areas)
Missouri (Northern Area)
Louisiana (New Orleans Area)
Arkansas (Little Rock Area)

GIVEAWAY

Thanks to Mom Central and Nature's Peak, I have two coupons each redeemable for a free package of Nature's Peak Frozen Fruit (up to $4.99) to give away.

This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to the winners: #3 - cdziuba and #7 - Janae's Jewels.

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

Wordless Wednesday - Reflections

2010-01-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

Disney on Ice Worlds of Fantasy: Review

2010-01-05T17:45:00.000-08:00

Just before the holidays, we had the pleasure attending Disney on Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy at Staples Center in Los Angeles. This being my first experience with Disney on Ice, I was curious to see how some of our favorite Disney stories would translate to an ice show. With weeknight traffic, we arrived a little late to spend much time checking out the Princess Pre-Show, which included a display of gowns and even an appearance by Cinderella. It appeared to be a big hit with the little princesses in attendance.

Jake was giddy when Mickey and Minnie drove onto the ice, followed by Donald and Goofy. Next up was his favorite, Cars. This was the one part of the show that didn't involve skaters, but we were entertained by it. It can't be easy to maneuver all those little cars around the ice surface at once.
Following Cars were The Little Mermaid and The Lion King. Each told a condensed version of the story through well-choreographed musical numbers with limited dialogue. The costumes were great, especially in the Lion King segment.

The one thing I didn't love about our experience is that the abundance of souvenir stands and vendors wandering throughout the seating area caused a major case of the gimmes. Jake wanted it all, from the popcorn ($7), to the light up spinning toy ($20), cotton candy ($10), drinks ($4) and so on. Who could blame him? It's easy to see how this could become an expensive night out. During the intermission we finally settled on one treat, the cotton candy, which came with a Tow Mater souvenir hat. Jake was pleased.

After an intermission, the show wrapped up with Tinker Bell in Pixie Hollow. This was the one movie we haven't seen, so Jake wasn't quite as into it as the other three.

"When is Lightning McQueen coming back?"

Then the fairies started flying through the air.

"Cool!"

All in all, we had a great time and I'd recommend the show to Disney fans of all ages. We'll definitely consider seeing Disney on Ice again the next time they come to town.

There is still time to catch Worlds of Fantasy in Southern California, with shows scheduled at the Long Beach Arena this week, January 6-10.

Ticket Discount Offer:

Use the code "MOM" when ordering your tickets at Ticketmaster.com to receive 4 tickets for the Monday through Friday matinee shows for just $44, or $4 off per ticket for all weekend shows. Minimum purchase of 4 tickets is required; additional weekday tickets available for $11 each. Offer not valid on Rinkside or VIP seating. Cannot be combined with other offers. Service charges and handling charges will apply.

Disclosure: This review was written for Mom Central. We were provided with complimentary show tickets on behalf of Feld Family Entertainment in exchange for helping spread the word about the show.

New Year, New Focus

2010-01-05T15:00:00.000-08:00

In the middle of December, I hit a wall. My first true brush with blog burnout. I couldn't think of anything to write about or find the motivation to post. With the holidays fast approaching and so much left to do, I decided to step away for a couple of days. Then someone pressed the fast forward button and suddenly I woke up and it was January. Crazy how that happens! Happy New Year!

My time away gave me an opportunity to clear my head and figure out where I go from here. I started this blog as a hobby. Writing was fun. I could share pictures, random thoughts and stories with friends and family and give updates on what was new at Just Add Charm. Somewhere along the way, I started doing reviews. How fun and exciting that companies wanted to send me things to test out and provide my opinion on. Soon I had all kinds of products to blog about, but reviews can be so time consuming, especially with cute kids to distract you constantly. It was starting to feel a lot less like a hobby and a lot more like work. I had no time to blog about the things I'm passionate about: crafts, baking, saving money to name a few.

My goal for this year is to find a better balance. I hope you'll be along for the ride.

We Have Winners...

2010-01-05T12:00:00.000-08:00

Kleenex Anti-Viral $50 Visa GC:
#603 - Kathy Rambousek

Hellmann's Holiday Helpings $25 American Express GC:
#51 - nightowl

Talkin' Sid the Science Kid:
#14 - ANGELA

Winners have been contacted and have 48 hours to claim their prizes. Watch for more fun giveaways later this month. Want to make sure you don't miss a single giveaway? Become a subscriber and receive updates via e-mail.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T09:33:00.000-08:00

Wishing you a safe and happy holiday!

(Card design by Belle Announcements)

Santa's Got Wheels - Amazon Power Wheels Deal

2009-12-16T17:55:00.001-08:00

I've been spending WAY too much time browsing Amazon lately, but between the Lightning Deals and getting free shipping on most items with the Amazon Prime trial there are a lot of bargains to be had.

Just saw this Fisher-Price Power Wheels NASCAR Racecar for just $80.99 (List Price $269.99) and I have to say I'm tempted. If only we had a bigger yard. This particular item does not qualify for free shipping - plugging in my address it looks to be about $130 shipped.

Holiday Gift Pick: Talkin' Sid The Science Kid (Giveaway)

2009-12-16T12:40:00.000-08:00

Sid the Science Kid continues to be one of the most watched shows in our house. Jake can't get enough of the ever-inquisitive Sid's scientific adventures. The show engages preschoolers natural curiousity, encouraging them to explore the world around them. I think they do a great job incorporating humor and music, not a day goes by that Jake doesn't tell us a joke a la Sid.

Now you can bring Sid into your home with the new Talkin' Sid the Science Kid Toy. This huggable plush is 12 inches tall, complete with his trademark microphone. Give him a squeeze and you'll hear one of seven popular phrases from the series. Two AA batteries are required, they come included. Also included is a bonus DVD with an episode of the show. I have a feeling this is going to be one of the most popular gifts under our tree this year.

Talkin' Sid the Science Kid is available exclusively at Toys 'R Us, with a retail price of $24.99. Get a coupon for $3.00 off the purchase of this toy by visiting www.coupons.com. Click on the Toys and Games link on the left side of the page to find the coupon. (There are lots of other great toy coupons for your holiday shopping too!)

GIVEAWAY

One lucky reader will win a Talkin' Sid the Science Kid, courtesy of the producers of the Sid the Science Kid series, The Jim Henson Company and KCET (PBS/ Los Angeles).

This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to the winner, #14 - ANGELA.

Be sure not to miss my other current giveaways. You'll find a link list on the left sidebar.

Talkin' Sid the Science Kid toys provided for review and giveaway on behalf of The Jim Henson Company and KCET (PBS/Los Angeles). No other compensation was received, all opinions expressed are my own.

25% Off at Barnes & Noble

2009-12-15T20:50:00.000-08:00

I just got this in my email. If you still need to grab a few gifts for your friends and family, here’s a coupon for 25% off one item, good in-store at Barnes & Noble. It expires Wednesday (12/17) so you’ll want to take advantage of it quickly. Click here to print the coupon.

Hellmann's Real Holiday Helpings + American Express Gift Card Giveaway (CLOSED)

2009-12-15T16:42:00.000-08:00

Ten days until Christmas and that panicky feeling is taking hold. So much to do, so little time to get it done. I'm not ashamed to admit that I need help. Lots of it. You too? Hellmann's has joined forces with Bobby Flay and their site, Hellmann's Real Holiday Helpings is ready to help us get things under control in the kitchen. You'll find recipes for everything from Appetizers to Desserts. Lots of inventive ways to use up that leftover turkey - I've been eyeing the Creamy Cheddar Turkey BLT Wraps. I think the Oven Roasted Apple Cranberry Crisp with Creamy Spiced Chantilly sounds devine.

Along with the fab recipes you'll find a coupon for Hellmann's products and the Real Food Matchup Game where you have a daily chance to win a $50 grocery gift card or Free Groceries for a Year! Who wouldn't love that?

GIVEAWAY

The folks at Hellmann's and MomSelect have offered to give one of my readers a $25 American Express gift card. I think that qualifies as a Holiday Helper!

This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to the winner, #51 - nightowl.

Be sure not to miss my other current giveaways. You'll find a link list on the left sidebar.

Gift card provided for giveaway by BSM Media on behalf of Hellmann's. I received a gift card as well as a thank you for participating in this campaign.

Disney on Ice Worlds of Fantasy is Coming to Southern California

2009-12-15T16:14:00.000-08:00

Disney on Ice is coming to town and I'll be taking Jake later this week. He's pretty excited as the show includes the lovable characters from CARS, one of his all time favorite movies. I'll be sure to tell you all about it after the show.

If you are in the area and are looking for something fun to do with your kids this holiday season, here's a bit more about the show and a special ticket offer!

Disney on Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy:

Rev up for non-stop fun with four of your favorite Disney stories at Disney On Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy. Thrill to high-speed stunts as Lightning McQueen, Mater and the crew of Disney/Pixar's CARS race across the ice. Dive into The Little Mermaid's enchanting undersea kingdom and experience the 'Circle of Life' with The Lion King. Then enter into the magical world of Pixie Hollow with Tinker Bell and all her fairy friends as they make their world premiere on ice! From wheels to waves, Pride Lands to pixie dust, your family's favorite Disney moments come to life at Disney On Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy with dazzling skating, special effects and beloved characters certain to create a lifetime of memories.

Special Bonus! Disney Princess Pre-Show: Arrive up to one hour early to tour our dazzling display of gorgeous gowns. Complimentary to all ticket holders.

Show Dates:
Los Angeles - December 17-20
Anaheim - December 22-27
Ontario - December 30 - January 3
Long Beach - January 6-10

Use the code "MOM" when ordering your tickets at Ticketmaster.com to receive 4 tickets for the Monday through Friday matinee shows for just $44, or $4 off per ticket for all weekend shows. Minimum purchase of 4 tickets is required; additional weekday tickets available for $11 each. Offer not valid on Rinkside or VIP seating. Cannot be combined with other offers. Service charges and handling charges will apply.

LA Auto Show - Fun for All Ages

2009-12-11T22:10:00.000-08:00

Being married to a "car guy", I've been to the L.A. Auto Show many times over the years. At three, it's already clear that Jake will be following in Daddy's footsteps. That said, his attention span is that of a three year old and we thought the auto show would have to wait a few years. With the debut of the Kids Fun Zone at this year's show, it has turned into an event suitable for all ages. We were invited to check it out at a blogger event last Saturday.

From Acura to Volvo and every manufacturer in between there were cars to suit anyone's taste. We had a great time checking out all the new models, climbing in and imagining them as our own.

The Kids Fun Zone is a welcome break for restless kids. Jake loved the bounce house and obstacle course.

He couldn't wait to get behind the wheel of a Viper, even if it was pink. Probably a good thing he has to wait a few more years to get his driver's license.

Getting creative while decorating a crown at the First 5 California booth.

Jake even got to meet a CHP officer and see a real patrol car close up.

We had such a fun day and can't wait to go again next year. If you're looking for something fun to do with the family this weekend, head downtown and check it out. The L.A. Auto Show runs through Sunday (12/13) at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Visit the website for a coupon good for $2 off adult admission. Children 12 and under are free.

More Winners! Zhu Zhu Pets, Macy's, Winter's Tail and Little Music Lovers

2009-12-04T14:53:00.000-08:00

It's always so much fun to draw a new round of winners. I feel like Santa today! Congratulations to the following winners...

Winter's Tail for Nintendo DS
#3 - collyn23
#184 - jsc123

Zhu Zhu Pets Hamster and Slide/Ramp
#580 - Heather

$50 Macy's Gift Card
#34 - Tj and Amy

Little Music Lovers
#25 - bloomerbear

Winners are selected via the random integer generator at Random.org. All winners have been e-mail and have 48 hours to reply and claim their prize.

Not a winner this time? Don't fret - make sure you're entered in the current giveaways (link list on the top left sidebar) - you could be next!

Holiday Gift Pick: Hooter Hiders

2009-12-02T18:00:00.000-08:00

Bebe Au Lait recently relaunched the Hooter Hiders brand with a gorgeous new collection of nursing covers. I received a Hooter Hiders nursing cover in the Siena pattern for review. All the details I loved about the Bebe Au Lait nursing cover I reviewed back in June are included in the new Hooter Hiders, from the rigid neckline to the ample coverage and quality fabric and stitching. What's new are fresh fabric prints and a couple of design elements. Hooter Hiders come in two styles: Ruffle Detail and Pocket Detail. The Ruffle style features soft ruffles at the top and bottom of the cover, a nice feminine touch. The Pocket style features an external pocket with ruffle detail. Both come in a matching, reusable fabric bag - perfect for compact storage in your diaper bag.

Wondering what to give the new or expecting mom on your holiday shopping list? Hooter Hiders will allow her to nurse in comfort, offering both privacy and style.

Hooter Hiders Nursing covers are available at Bebe Au Lait for $35. They also offer other items including bibs, burp cloths, hooded towels and jewelry. For a limited time, they are offering 25% off and free shipping for all orders of $50 or more.

Product provided for review purposes by Bebe Au Lait, no other compensation was received. All opinions expressed are my own, based on my personal experience with the product.

Holiday Gift Pick: Christmas Classics on DVD

2009-12-02T17:00:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite things to do during the holiday season is to pick and evening and sit down as a family to watch some of the animated Christmas specials I've been enjoying since I was a child. I'm so excited that Jake is old enough to enjoy this holiday tradition.

Warner Home Video has recently released A Charlie Brown Christmas and Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas! on Blu-ray for the first time and they've never looked better. What a great gift these would make for a child or perhaps as a family gift - though it might be hard to wait until Christmas to open them! Each Blu-ray Combo Pack includes a bonus DVD with the standard version of the special as well as a bonus digital copy.

First broadcast in 1965, the timeless A Charlie Brown Christmas TV special instantly became a critical and commercial success. Bonus features include A Christmas Miracle - The Making of a Charlie Brown Christmas and It's Christmastime Again, Charlie Brown - Bonus Episode.

The original animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas has been a holiday classic for years with annual airings continuing to the present day. Bonus features include: From Whoville to Hollywood, Songs in the Key of Grinch, Who's Who in Whoville, Grinch Song Selections, TNT's How the Grinch Stole Christmas Featurette, Grinch Pencil Test and Making Animation and Bringing it to Life.

Other new releases include Dr. Seuss' Horton Hears a Who! in the Blu-ray Combo Pack and a Remastered Deluxe Edition of I Want a Dog for Christmas, Charlie Brown. I'm a sucker for Charlie Brown and Dr. Seuss, what can I say - I love them both.

Review copies of the titles above provided for review purposes by Warner Home Video. Opinions expressed are my own.

Holiday Gift Pick: K'NEX Sesame Street Neighborhood Collection

2009-12-02T15:25:00.000-08:00

I've yet to meet a kid who didn't like building toys and Jake is certainly no exception. Until recently, I thought of K'NEX as a brand he'd enjoy when he was older. I've been wowed by the roller coaster building set I've seen on display in toy stores, wish that had been around when I was a kid! Team Mom recently introduced us to the Sesame Street Neighborhood Collection from K'NEX, designed for kids ages 2-5.

The collection includes four individual sets that can be used alone or combined to build the neighborhood:

• Ice Cream Truck Building Set
• Police Car Building Set
• 1-2-3 Brownstone Building Set
• Police Station Building Set

We received the Police Station Building Set. This 44 pc. set contains everything you need to build a police station as well as Elmo and Ernie figures. I love that the playset takes building toys to another level. The fun doesn't stop once your child has finished putting the set together in their own creative way, then it's time to play with their creation and the lovable Sesame Street crew. There is no right or wrong way to build, you may end up with a new creation every time. The pieces are big and chunky, which is great with younger children in the house. The fewer tiny parts around here the better!

The K'NEX Sesame Street Neighborhood Collection is available at Target, Wal-Mart, Toy's 'R Us and Amazon.com, priced from $9.99-$19.99.

"Make a K'NEXion" Video Contest
How cool would it be to win $1,000 worth of K'NEX Building Sets and be featured on the KNEX.com website? You can enter to win by making a video that showcases your child's K'NEX building skills and features your child building with select K'NEX products. Contest ends December 7 - for all the details, visit http://www.knex.com/.

Police Station Building Set was provided by Team Mom Media on behalf of K'NEX for review purposes. Opinions expressed are my own.

Review: HoMedics Restore Clean Water System

2009-12-02T11:45:00.000-08:00

As a nursing mom of twins, I always have a water bottle close at hand. Our tap water leaves a lot to be desired in the taste department and for years we've been relying on bottled water from Costco. It's not the greenest solution, though we do faithfully recycle every bottle. It's probably not the most cost effective solution either, and we recently started looking into our options. Pitchers, under the sink filtration systems, faucet mounted filters, where do we begin? Then an e-mail arrived from HoMedics with the offer to try out their new Restore Clean Water System. Why not?

What sets the Restore System apart from most leading water filtration pitchers is that it not only filters the water, but also purifies the water using UV Clean technology. Here's a video from HoMedics showing the Restore Clean Water System in action.

The Restore system was fairly easy to set up, requiring a quick 15 minute soak of the filter. After discarding the first two pitchers of water per the instructions (my thirsty plants were happy to help) we were ready to go. Purifying the filtered water took just under a minute and we were pleased to find that our tap water had been transformed into water with a pleasant taste, comparable to the bottled water we've become accustomed to. Up to this point, I've been using tap water for cooking. I love the idea of being able to use filtered and purified water for that as well.

The pitcher's capacity is 8 cups and markings on the side would make it easy to track your daily water consumption if a single person was using the pitcher. A couple of minor issues - I wish the pitcher would fit in the door of my refrigerator, I had to clear some space on the shelf to accommodate it. I also wish that the lid would lock in place more securely, it tends to fall off when the pitcher is tilted to get the last bit of water out.

The Restore Clean Water System retails for $99.99, replacement filters for $7.99. The pitcher has an indicator light to tell you when the filter needs replacement, average is about two months use. It may take some time to recoup the initial cost of the unit, but if you drink as much water as we do, I think this is an investment that will pay off in the long run. Clean, good tasting water - no plastic bottles. I wouldn't have thought it could be so easy. My next purchase will be some nice stainless steel bottles so we can enjoy this water on the go.

Restore Clean Water System was provided to us free of charge for review purposes by HoMedics. We always provide our honest opinions based on our personal experience with a product. Any product claims should be verified with the manufacturer.

Cyber Monday Shopping Deals

2009-11-30T07:42:00.000-08:00

How is your holiday shopping going? I got a good start on mine over the weekend and I'm hoping to find some bargains today. Cyber Monday is touted as the biggest online shopping day of the year and there is no shortage of deals out there. Here are some to get you started, I'll be adding to the list throughout the day.

Have you signed up for Ebates yet? If not, don't wait! You're missing out on cash back on your purchases from tons of online retailers, including Old Navy, Victoria's Secret, Borders, Overstock, Kohls and many more!
Amazon.com will be having Cyber Monday Lightning Deals throughout the day. Video games, jewelry, toys, electronics, something for everyone.

Get free shipping and 20% off at Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic and Piperlime when you use coupon code MONDAY at checkout.

Gymboree has free shipping with no minimum purchase and 20% off all orders today. It's Gymbucks earning time so you'll get $25 in Gymbucks for every $50 you spend.

Crazy8 is also offering free shipping with no minimum and 20% off on all orders. You'll also earn $20 in Crazy Cash for every $40 you spend.

The Children's Place is having a $5/$6/$7/$8 sale. Use webcode HHHA9 for 15% off and then webcode FSCM9 for free shipping!

Philosophy has free shipping on all orders through 12/1. If you spend $75 or more, you'll receive a free gift valued at over $100.

Are you shopping today? I'd love to hear about the deals you've found!

First Things First - Winners!

2009-11-27T17:24:00.000-08:00

Another Friday evening is upon us, how did the week get away from me? I hope that my US readers had a wonderful Thanksgiving and my international readers had a good week. I've been a bit sporadic in posting lately, to say the least. I've been busy with a project I'll announce soon, as well as getting ready for the holiday, but it's a head cold that's really kept me off the blog. I'm hoping to be back on track by the time Monday rolls around, catching up on a few reviews, some fun holiday craft projects, lots of sweet treats and more. For now, the latest giveaway winners!

FamilyFun Magazine Subscription - 1000 Follower Giveaway:
#62 - Kim
#77 - Veronica

Wilton Cookie Exchange Hostess Package
#63 - Amber

Winners have been contacted via e-mail and have 48 hours to claim their prize. All winners are selected via the random integer generator at Random.org.

Don't forget to enter my current giveaways, including a $50 Macy's Gift Card and $50 Visa Gift Card! You'll find the links on the left sidebar.

Wordless Wednesday - It's Too Quiet In Here

2009-11-24T22:08:00.000-08:00

...and for once that doesn't mean I have a big mess to clean up!

Cranberry Upside-Down Cake

2009-11-23T09:33:00.000-08:00

Here's a delicious way to use up leftover cranberries after Thanksgiving or perhaps an alternative to pie for your Turkey Day feast.

You'll Need:
• 6 tbsp butter (softened)
• 2 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
• 1/3 cup toasted pecans (chopped) - optional
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 3/4 cup buttermilk

Preheat oven to 350°. Melt 2 tbsp of butter and pour into 9 inch springform pan.

Combine the cranberries with brown sugar in a mixing bowl, then sprinkle evenly into pan. Follow with pecans if desired.

Beat the remaining butter with sugar at medium speed until well blended. Add eggs one at a time, then beat in the vanilla extract. Combine the flour, baking powder and cinnamon and mix well.

Add 1/3 of the dry mixture to the creamed mixture, alternate with buttermilk until all of the dry mixture has been added and the batter is beaten well. Spread the batter evenly into the pan over the cranberries.

Bake for about 50 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for five minutes.

Carefully invert the pan onto a serving platter or cake circle, unlatch and remove the pan.

Serve as is or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!

Recipe source: FamilyFun

Battle the Bug with Kleenex Anti-Viral and Visa Gift Card Giveaway (CLOSED)

2009-11-20T09:47:00.000-08:00

One thing I make sure never to run out of around here is Kleenex - especially at this time of year. Having a teacher as a husband, our family is exposed to all kinds of germs and you never know when the next bug will hit. Whether you’re a parent, teacher or nurse, the cold and flu bug is out there all year long so it’s good to be prepared.

Kleenex Anti-Viral Tissues are unique in that the middle layer of the tissue contains active ingredients that kill 99.9% of cold and flu viruses. They have the same soft and gentle feel I've grown to expect from Kleenex and they are fragrance free. The last thing I want when I am sick is a perfumed tissue.

Kleenex has also created some fun little videos about battling the bug - have you witnessed such a scene in your house?

Check out www.battlethebug.com for more information about the product, as well as tips on how you can battle the bug and stay healthy!

GIVEAWAY

I've partnered up with Kleenex Anti-Viral to offer one of my readers the opportunity to try the product for themselves, as well as win a $50 Visa Card!

This giveaway is now closed. Congratulations to the winner, #603 Kathy Rambousek

Be sure not to miss my other current giveaways. You'll find a link list on the left sidebar.

I received no form of compensation for this post, I feel this product may be of value to you and I'm sure that one of my readers is going to have fun with that gift card!

Gobble, Gobble - Here Come the Thanksgiving Turkey Cupcakes!

2009-11-18T17:00:00.000-08:00

When I saw this cupcake idea at FamilyFun, I was instantly smitten and had to try it out. Jake and I had such fun making these today! Here is our take, step by step.

You'll Need:

• Cupcakes
• Frosting
• Oval Shaped Cookies
• White Icing
• Black Icing
• Candy Corn
• Red Licorice or Fruit Leather

Start with a frosted cupcake. Chocolate frosting would probably work best. We went with spice cake for our cupcakes, so we used a tinted cream cheese frosting. Looking at them now it looks rather like peanut butter. Darker next time perhaps? Add three cookies for the turkey's body and wings. The 100 Calorie Pecan Sandies are perfect, though they were darn expensive!

Next, add a row or two of candy corn feathers. We used caramel apple and caramel candy corn that I found on Halloween clearance.

Then cut off the tip of a piece of candy corn for the beak and a piece of licorice or fruit leather for the wattle. Fruit leather would be more pliable, but we had Twizzlers left over from Halloween. Score!

Finally, make a circle of white frosting for the eye, with a black dot in the center. I decided I like an orange beak better. Voila, turkey cupcakes!

Wordless Wednesday - Eat It Or Wear It

2009-11-18T00:00:00.000-08:00

Either way, pasta is delicious!

Holiday Gift Pick: Little Music Lovers - Review and Giveaway (CLOSED)

2009-11-17T13:13:00.000-08:00

Just in time for the holidays, Universal Music Classical has released Little Music Lovers, a series of four CDs aimed at introducing classical music to babies and toddlers.

Little Music Lovers: Beethoven

Make the most of story time - add a soundtrack to your stories and fairy tales! Stories come alive with the colorful and vibrant melodies of classical music. Beethoven: Smart Music for Story Time will bring wonderful sounds and melodies to the imagery of your child's most beloved books & tales. Features the world famous "Fur Elise," "Moonlight Sonata," "The Last Rose of Summer," and other distinguished piano sonatas and symphonies. Your child willl learn to appreciate the wonders of story time in a brand new way - with music!

Little Music Lovers: Mozart

Mozart wrote playful & whimsical melodies that are absolutely perfect for a play date. The rhythms and the tempos of these famous concertos & serenades will be the perfect accompaniment for you and your child for for a group of children to enjoy! Mozart: Smart Music for Play Time is the perfect way to enhance the day and bring a smile to your child's face.

Little Music Lovers: Bach

Bach: Smart Music for Activity Time brings and assortment of fugues, suites, minuets, sonatas and more from some of the composer's most recognizable music. These pieces are stimulating, fun, exciting and will help bring a great atmosphere to you and your child's lively times together! Famous classical pieces include selections from "The Brandenburg Concertos," "The Little Fugue in G minor," "Well-Tempered Clavier," and much more!

Little Music Lovers: Lullabies

It can be a challenge for your child to take an afternoon nap or sleep soundly through the evening. Little Music Lovers can help with relaxing and soothing music for bed time. Lullabies: Smart Music for Bed Time features timeless melodies that every child will learn and love. Includes "Ave Maria," "The Cradle Song," "Beautiful Dreamer," "When You Wish Upon a Star," and more...Sweet Dreams!

We received a sampler CD with two tracks from each of the four Little Music Lovers CDs. My kids love music and if the smiles are any indication, they enjoy this classical collection. We've been listening during playtime and there has been a lot of swaying and head bobbing going on. It also seems to have a calming effect on my three. When I turn up the Little Music Lovers CD, they quiet down. Or perhaps it's just drowning them out...either way I find it to be enjoyable and relaxing as background music.

Buy It:

Little Music Lovers CD's are available at Barnes & Noble, Borders, Best Buy, Amazon and iTunes. List price is $6.99, find more information at LittleMusicLovers.com.

Win It:

One lucky reader will win a Little Music Lovers CD of their choice.

Mandatory Entry:

To enter the giveaway, tell me which of the four Little Music Lovers CD's you would choose and what little music lover it would be for.

Optional Extra Entries
• 1 Extra Entry if you subscribe via e-mail (see left sidebar)
• 1 Extra Entry if you follow this blog
• 1 Extra Entry if you add my button to your sidebar or add me to your blog roll
• 1 Extra Entry (Per Day) if you follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway - leave a link to your tweet.
• 1 Extra Entry for each of my other giveaways that you enter
• 5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway with a link back here

Please leave an additional comment for each extra entry you complete.

RULES:

You do not need to be a blogger to enter this giveaway, however you must leave an e-mail address (or have it available in your profile) so that I can contact you if you are the winner.

This giveaway is open to residents of the United States only and will end at 8pm PST on December 1, 2009. The winner will be selected at random and the entry verified. Winner will be e-mailed and will have 48 hours to claim their prize.

Good Luck!

Be sure not to miss my other current giveaways. You'll find a link list on the left sidebar.

Complimentary CD sampler provided by BeyondPR on behalf of Universal Music Classical. Opinions expressed are my own and based on my personal experience with the products.