Up in the Air.

Gevalia Kaffe is much more than your average ‘cup of joe'

2012-02-08T16:00:00.002-06:00

Whew! I don't know about you, but I am glad that the hustle and bustle of the holidays is over and now I can get back into my normal schedule! Don't get me wrong, I love all of the activities that make up the holiday season, but it seems that I can't sit down and just relax with a nice cup of coffee. I was very excited to get to try Gevalia Kaffe courtesy of My Blog Spark and Gevalia Kaffe.
I received a sample of the House Blend from Gevalia Kaffe, sample of the French Roast Blend from Gevalia Kaffe and a Gevalia Kaffe branded coffee mug to aid in my review. I found each of the two blends that I sampled to be rich and quite delicious...just what I need to jump start my morning! I am especially excited that Gevalia Kaffe is now available at my local Safeway Grocery store! Here in Texas, it is Randall's and I shop there several times a week. I made a special point to notice whether or not Gevalia Kaffe was available at my Randall's store and it is!

Gevalia, now available at Safeway, brings unexpected Swedish-style luxury and rich, never bitter taste to the Safeway grocery aisle.

Gevalia has been refining the art of luxurious coffee since 1853 and has a deep history of finding and blending the finest Arabica coffee beans from locations around the world.
Gevalia is expertly made with carefully selected beans, ground extra fine, to produce a rich coffee experience.
Previously available online only, Gevalia is now offering its top-ten varieties in U.S. coffee supermarket aisles nationwide in 10 varieties, including roast and ground, whole bean, flavored and decaffeinated varieties:

Gevalia Traditional Roast (ground and whole bean):
Gevalia Traditional Roast provides a perfectly balanced taste every time. Our most beloved blend – made of choice, mountain-grown Arabica beans – this coffee has a distinctive body and flavor with a lighter intensity. (Medium Roast).
Gevalia House Blend:
A Gevalia favorite, House Blend is a robust yet never bitter coffee. This roast has a captivating aroma that is only matched by its exceptional flavor. (Medium/Dark Roast).
Gevalia House Blend Decaf :
Delivering the same rich, never bitter flavor, House Blend Decaf has the same robust taste without all the caffeine. (Medium/Dark Roast).
Gevalia French Roast (ground and whole bean):
Gevalia French Roast is a coffee of impressive richness and dimension, expertly crafted from prized Arabica beans grown in Colombia and Brazil. Hints of aromatic smoke give this dark-roasted French Roast blend an intense, yet uniquely satisfying flavor. (Dark Roast).
Gevalia Colombia:
Grown high in the Colombian Andes, these beans produce a rich, bright and well-bodied Colombian coffee. This single origin classic is world-renowned, which is why we have sourced these beans for decades. (Medium Roast).
Gevalia Espresso Roast:
Gevalia Espresso Roast is made of premium, mountain-grown Arabica beans from East Africa and Central and South America. This roast is bold and full-bodied with a hint of caramel undertones. (Dark Roast).
Gevalia Vanilla:
This rich blend with vanilla flavor notes is crafted from choice mountain-grown Arabica beans, then roasted for exceptional body and flavor. Gevalia Vanilla is a flavorful and balanced experience with a heavenly aroma.
Gevalia Chocolate Mocha:
Gevalia Chocolate Mocha allows you to indulge your passion for decadent flavor. Rich, velvety chocolate flavor is blended with mountain-grown Arabica beans for a sweetly satisfying experience.

With its Swedish heritage and rich, never bitter taste, Gevalia is a premium coffee unlike any other.

Having Gevalia in your kitchen means you care about the quality of the coffee you consume and enjoy rich, authentic flavors.
Gevalia offers a variety of authentic rich flavors that are perfect for everything from a relaxing morning cup of coffee to an indulgent after dinner compliment.

I am excited to offer one of you a chance to win the very same products I reviewed. Open to US residents 18 years of age or older.

(1) sample of the House Blend from Gevalia Kaffe
(1) sample of the French Roast Blend from Gevalia Kaffe
A Gevalia Kaffe branded coffee mug

Thank you to MyBlogSpark and Gevalia for providing a Prize Pack for to aid in my review.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

All I can say is WOW!!!!! Mission Impossible, Ghost Protocol in IMAX

2012-01-08T14:29:00.000-06:00

I recently had the opportunity to see "Mission Impossible, Ghost Protocol" in IMAX courtesy of IMAX and My Blog Spark and all I can say is WOW! I live in Texas and we are used to LARGER than life but seeing Tom Cruise as Ethan Hunt on the REALLY BIG screen was fabulous. I have two sons, ages 18 and 23 and they love action-adventure movies and this was no exception! This installment of the Mission Impossible franchise did not disappoint. It was nonstop action that kept us on the edge of our seats! I really enjoyed the IMAX experience and I would highly recommend seeing Ghost Protocol in IMAX. Mission Impossible, Ghost Protocol is currently playing in over 300 IMAX theaters in North America. The IMAX locations can be found on the IMAX website. This was the perfect distraction during the somewhat stressful Holiday season and my whole family loved it! Thank you IMAX and MyBlogSpark!

Disclosure: Tickets and information have been provided by IMAX through MyBlogSpark.

2011-12-29T08:44:00.001-06:00

This is my entry for the Zanussi Cookers make every meal a masterpiece competition

My son and I created this "Starry Night" cupcake masterpiece to celebrate him graduating from college in May!

I Caught Santa!

2011-12-21T10:16:00.000-06:00

Imagine the look of wonder and surprise when a child receives a photo of Santa caught in the act in his or her very own home. iCaughtSanta.com is a unique website that helps visitors create those memorable keepsake photos.

In three simple steps anyone can upload a holiday photo, add Santa Claus and print it as proof… or share it via Facebook and Twitter. Last-minute shoppers can purchase Gift Cards and eGift Certificates for loved ones with children, making iCaughtSanta.com a great gift idea even if you don't have kids yourself.

I sure wish that this had been available when my kids were young! What a great idea!

Merry Christmas!

Green Giant to the Rescue!

2011-12-02T14:13:00.000-06:00

Mealtime has always been hectic at my house! I have two picky eaters and many times it seems as if I am cooking two entire meals. Both of my sons love Mac and Cheese, so I decided to give the New Valley Fresh Steamers Vegetables, Macaroni and Cheese Sauce with Broccoli a try. Much to my delight, it was a huge hit and everyone loved it!

I loved that it is quick and easy to prepare! It is perfect for busy families with limited time to cook. The fact that the Mac and Cheese also has broccoli added makes it a win-win situation. The kids get the yummy mac and cheese that they want and they eat a vegetable as well.

Making meal time easier than ever, Green Giant has introduced vegetables with pasta and savory sauces to their already convenient and tasty line-up of Valley Fresh Steamers frozen mixes.

The new Valley Fresh Steamers Vegetables with Pasta varieties include:

Macaroni and Cheese Sauce with Broccoli - classic elbow pasta and broccoli in a mouth watering cheese sauce
Pasta and Vegetables with Alfredo Sauce – delicious corkscrew pasta with carrots and broccoli in a savory Alfredo sauce

Giveaway!
I have a prize pack from Green Giant for one of my lucky readers so that you can also try one of the new Valley Fresh Steamers with Pasta. The prize pack will include the following:

2 Green Giant placemats
Broccoli stress reliever
32 oz. serving bowl
Surprise face serving spoon
A VIP coupon for the new Valley Fresh Steamers with Pasta

To enter tell me which one of the varieties of Valley Fresh Steamers with Pasta you would like to try.

Additional entries:

Follow me via Google Friend Connect
Follow me on twitter
Tweet about this giveaway

This contest will end on 12/09/2011 at 10:00 pm CST and is open to US citizens.

Disclosure: Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers with Pasta, information, and giveaway have been provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

Carmex Healing Lotion and Cream...Just what my dry hands need!

2011-11-30T18:45:00.000-06:00

For over 70 years people have come to love the healing power of Carmex® lip balms. Finally, Carmex® Skin Care is here with a new solution to heal, soothe and moisturize your dry skin.

As the weather has gotten a little cooler, I have noticed that my hands have gotten a little dryer or maybe it is all the dishes I washed after Thanksgiving! As a member of the Carmex Blog Squad, I was lucky enough to be given Carmex Healing Lotion and Carmex Healing Cream to review and just in time. The Carmex Healing Lotion and Cream were just what the doctor ordered. I noticed a difference in the dryness of my hands with the first application and they have just continued to improve. I really like the fact that the lotion and cream absorbs fast for a non-greasy feel and has a light, pleasant scent. My son also has a problem with dry skin, especially his hands. He tried both the cream and lotion and was very impressed with the improvement of his dry skin.

Carmex Healing Lotion

Use anywhere skin feels dry;
available in tube or NEW pump
Daily use will help protect skin and keep dryness away
Rich healing ingredients, including Aloe and Vitamin E, nourish and moisturize skin
Absorbs fast for a non-greasy feel; has a light, pleasant scent

Carmex Healing Cream

Use on your driest skin— especially hands, feet, elbows and knees; available in tube or NEW handy little tin
9 healing ingredients penetrate and help repair your very dry, rough or cracked skin
Concentrated—use a small amount
Absorbs fast for a non-greasy feel; has a light, pleasant scent

Carmex Healing Lotion and Carmex Healing Creams are available at Walgreens, CVS and Walmart. They are very reasonably at $5.99 for a full sized tube and $.99 for the smaller tube.

Here’s your chance to try Carmex’s two newest skincare products. One lucky reader will win:

(1) Carmex Healing Lotion
(1) Carmex Healing Cream
(1) Travel size Carmex Healing Lotion
(1) Travel size Carmex Healing Cream

To Enter: Leave a Comment telling me which product you would like to try and why.

Extra entries:

Follow via Google Friend Connect
Follow on twitter
Tweet

The winner must be a U.S. resident and this contest will end on December 5, 2011 at 10:00pm CST.

Thanks to the kind folks at Carmex for providing the products to aid in my review. All opinions are my own.

NEW! Bertolli® Premium Meal Soups for Two!

2011-10-07T14:08:00.000-05:00

The weather here in the Houston area is FINALLY started to cool off a bit and I am just thrilled! Autumn has always been my favorite season. I love crisp Fall mornings, blue skies, brightly colored leaves, mums and pumpkins! Another thing that I really enjoy about cooler weather is adding more "comfort" foods to our mealtimes. During the hot Houston Summers, I rarely think of having soup for dinner, but as the weather cools, I often serve soup for dinner for my family.

I was recently given the opportunity to try the new Bertolli Premium Meal Soups for two and must say I love these soups! Bertolli offers authentic Italian meals and was founded over 150 years ago. The soups are packed with fresh vegetables, perfectly cooked chicken or beef or hearty pasta.

· These restaurant-quality meals can be conveniently prepared at home and are ready in minutes. There are four delicious varieties: Chicken and Rotini Pasta, Tomato Florentine & Tortellini with Chicken, Chicken Minestrone and Tuscan Beef & Vegetables. The Bertolli Premium Meal Soups can be found in your local grocery store in the freezer section. My personal favorite is the Tomato Florentine & Tortellini with Chicken! I added a salad and bread for a fast and delicious family dinner.

Giveaway
Bertolli has been kind enough to offer one of my readers the opportunity to try out these delicious soups for themselves! One lucky reader will win a SOUPerb kit that includes four tasting certificates and a stainless steel ladle. For a chance to win, leave a comment below telling me which one of the delicious Bertolli soups you would like to try!

Optional entries:

1. Follow me via Google Friend Connect
2. Follow me on twitter
3. Follow Bertolli on twitter

The winner will be selected randomly. No purchase necessary to enter. Giveaway ends at 10:00 p.m. CT Friday, October 14. This giveaway is available to U.S. residents only.

I would like to thank Bertolli for sending me a SOUPerb kit, that included four tasting certificates and a stainless steel soup ladle, to aid in my review.

Introducing Carmex Lime Twist and Vanilla click sticks!

2011-09-04T16:20:00.000-05:00

I was so excited to get the chance to review two of the newest Carmex flavors, Lime Twist and Vanilla! I am a long time Carmex fan and these most recent additions to the Carmex family do not disappoint! Both have delicious flavor, SPF 15 and all of the moisturizing ingredients of the Carmex lip balm line, but these new premium flavors have three additional moisturizers not found in the original lines. They are available at Walgreens, Walmart and CVS.

Now for my unbiased review! I love them both! I have been accused of being "addicted" to Carmex and the new flavors are just wonderful! I love both flavors and the way that they moisturize my lips. We have had an extremely hot and dry summer here in Texas and these new lip balms are just what my lips were craving!

I would like to thank Carmex for providing the Carmex Lime Twist click stick, Carmex Vanilla click stick, picnic blanket and Carmes Moisture Plus satin gloss finish to aid in my review.

I really want to win an iPad 2!!!!

2011-06-18T09:54:00.000-05:00

Both of my sons have iPads and I am soooo jealous! How cool would it be if I won an iPad 2 (they have iPads!). I’m posting this to enter a contest offered by Brad’s Deals at I Am Bossy! I want to win the iPad 2! Enter to win here!

Progresso Souper You Debut!

2011-04-26T16:10:00.000-05:00

I have always been a huge fan of Progresso Soups! I, like many others, have had to watch my weight and Progresso soups are a delicious way to accomplish my goal of maintaining a healthy weight. My personal favorite is the Progresso Light Zesty! Santa Fe Style Chicken soup which contains black beans, corn, red bell peppers, green sweet peppers and of course chicken. It makes a quick and tasty lunch or light dinner with only 80 calories per serving!

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

Thank you to Progresso and My Blog Spark for sending me a Progresso "Souper You Debut" gift pack that included 5 cans of a variety of Progresso Soup, as well as a yoga mat, water bottle, set of aerobic bands, sport headband and two sport wristbands for my review.

I have an additional gift pack that contains a VIP coupon for a free can of Progresso soup, as well as a yoga mat, water bottle, set of aerobic bands, sport headband and two sport wristbands, to give away to one of my readers.

Leave a comment below for your chance to win this healthy gift pack!

What is your favorite variety of Progresso soup?

Follow me via Google Friend Connect for an additional chance to win.

You can also follow me on twitter and tweet about the giveaway. This can be done daily.

This giveaway will end on Wednesday, May 4, 2011 at 10:00 pm central.

Win an iPad!!!!

2011-03-18T21:20:00.000-05:00

I’m posting this to enter a contest on offered by Brad’s Deals at Sweetney! I want to win the white iPad 2! Who wouldn't want to win an iPad! Go here to enter to win http://snipurl.com/27nsjm

2010-12-13T12:57:00.000-06:00

Now is the perfect time to give your child the gift of possibilities for the holidays with Rosetta Stone Homeschool — and you can WIN a Level 1 Homeschool program, language of your choice (valued at $249)!

Right now Rosetta Stone is having a special Holiday promotion on our Homeschool Edition program and we’d like you to help spread the word! Everyone can save up to $150 on Rosetta Stone Homeschool by visiting our website at http://www.RosettaStone.com/hsw1110.

By helping us spread the word you can win a Rosetta Stone Homeschool Edition Level 1 program, language of your choice, valued at $249.

This is a computer based curriculum and Rosetta Stone will also include a headset with microphone, and a supplementary “Audio Companion” CD so you can practice lessons in the car, on the go, or where-ever!

Students participate in life-like conversations and actually produce language to advance through the program. Rosetta Stone incorporates listening, reading, grammar, vocabulary and writing along with speaking and pronunciation lessons. For parents, the new Parent Administrative Tools are integrated into the program to allow parents to easily enroll up to ten students in any of 12 predetermined lesson plans, monitor student progress, grade completed work (the program grades the work automatically as the students progress), and you can view and print reports for transcripts. Homeschooling a lot of kids at your house? This program is designed to enroll and track up to ten students (five users on two computers) and will work for nearly all ages — from beginning readers up to college students.

To win this program, copy these paragraphs and post them in (or as) your next blog post, and/OR post about this contest on your facebook page. Then go to the original page at

http://www.othersuchhappenings.com/2010/12/rosetta-stone-giveaway-yay.html and leave a comment saying that you’ve posted about, or have linked to, the contest. Please make sure the link works to get back to the original contest page when you post, and good luck!

Carmex Moisture Plus Sheer Pink and Sheer Peach Tint Lip Balms Review and Giveaway

2010-12-07T21:45:00.001-06:00

I am a long time user of Carmex products. In fact, my kids once accused me of being addicted to Carmex because I never go anywhere without a tube of Carmex in my purse. I was delighted to be given the opportunity to review Carmex Moisture Plus Sheer Pink and Sheer Peach Tint Lip Balms as a member of the Carmex Blog Squad.

I received both the Carmex Moisture Plus Sheer Pink and Sheer Peach Tint Lip Balms to try and I love them! The Carmex Moisture Plus bathes your lips in moisture and leaves them kissably soft. Carmex Moisture Plus contains SPF 15 so it protects your lip from the sun as well making them look and feel great. The sheer pink and sheer peach add just a hint of color and are perfect for daytime use or a night on the town! I found the Moisture Plus to live up to the high standards of the Carmex line of products and was very pleased with the length of wear. This is one product that I will continue to use and recommend to my friends.

WIN IT! I have a set of Carmex Moisture Plus Sheer Pink and Sheer Peach tint lip balms to give to one lucky reader!

Mandatory : Follow me publicly via Google Friend Connect and leave a comment.

Extra entries:
1. Follow Carmex on twitter
2. Follow me on twitter
(5 entries, leave 5 comments)
3. Tweet this giveaway, can be done daily

Open to US residents age 18 at the time of giveaway. This giveaway will end on December 15th at 10:00 pm CST and will be chosen by Random.org. I received free products so that I could conduct the review, however the opinions are my own.

Why I need a new mattress (or should I say, why Pepper needs a new mattress!)

2010-11-14T14:38:00.001-06:00

My Airedale, Pepper thinks that she is a person! She likes to sleep in the bed with my husband and I and she would really, really like a more comfortable mattress! Maybe she can win one here! www.workoutmommy.com

What is your idea of fun USA

2010-11-07T09:04:00.000-06:00

What is your idea of fun USA

Date Night...stay in and go all out!® with Wanchai Ferry and Macaroni Grill!

2010-10-24T22:08:00.000-05:00

Date night...What is that?!! Seriously, once we had our two wonderful children, it seemed like date night was a thing of the past. When my husband and I first started dating, we enjoyed trying out new and exciting restaurants. We especially loved Italian food and Chinese food. Thanks to My Blog Spark, Macaroni Grill, and Wanchai Ferry, my husband and I were able to have a "date" at home. They sent me a package of Creamy Basil and Parmesan Chicken Mix from Macaroni Grill and a package of Wanchai Ferry Orange Chicken Mix along with a $25 gift certificate to buy any other supplies we might need for our "date"! We decided to try them both and they were super easy to prepare and delicious! We had a lovely "date" with great food and conversation!

You can find Wanchai Ferry^® and Macaroni Grill^® Dry Dinner Kits at most grocery stores. Here is a coupon for $1.50 off two packages!

For more information and dinner tips, visit WanchaiFerryAtHome.com and MacaroniGrillAtHome.com.

I have a Date Night Package to offer one of you! It will include a Wanchai Ferry dry dinner kit, one Macaroni Grill dry dinner kit, and a $25 Visa gift card that you can use to create a magical date night at home.

To enter this giveaway, tell me about your first date in a comment. Do you remember what kind of food you ate?

For extra chances to win you can do the following:

1. Follow me via Google Friend Connect

2. Follow Macaroni Grill on twitter

3. Follow me on twitter

4. Tweet this giveaway, this can be done daily

This giveaway will end on November 5, 2010 at 10:00 pm CST and is open to US residents only.

Thank you to Wanchai Ferry, Macaroni Grill and MyBlogSpark, who provided the products, prize pack, information and additional prize pack to give away.

5 ways to create personalized holiday cards

2010-10-14T19:17:00.000-05:00

It is not even Halloween yet, but have you noticed all the Christmas decorations up in the stores? I am not complaining because, it gets me in the mood for the holidays early and gives me the the opportunity to create personalized holiday cards. I discovered a wonderful online site to create and purchase creative custom holiday cards, PurpleTrail.com!

My tips for creating a memorable personalized holiday card.

1. Find the perfect family photo that shows something fun or unique about your family. My husband is a pilot and we have posed in front of his airplane for our photo for our holiday cards. Friends and family members love getting a card that includes a photo, especially people you might not see often. It is a great way to stay in touch!

2. Use a non-posed photo. Some of the best photo cards I have received are those that caught the kids doing what ever it is that they do, like playing a sport or on a Boy Scout or Girl Scout outing. This gives the card recipients a chance to get a glimpse of your everyday life and looks more natural and fun.

3. Have you child draw a picture and use that as your holiday card. Upload the drawing just as you would a photo for a personalized and unique holiday card. Allow them to use their imagination! The more colorful and bright the better. They can draw a picture of what the holidays mean to them or even something abstract.
The grandparents will love it!

3. Instead of the usual "Happy Holidays" write a personalized message. I always sit down and and write a personal note in each card. You do not have to write a book! Just a few lines makes the card so much more personal than just signing your name.

3.Sit down and type out a family newsletter that you can print and include in your holiday cards. Everyone enjoys "catching up" with important family events.

I love sending and receiving holiday cards, especially the ones that include a photo. It is always so good to see a picture of our friends and family members each year during the holiday season. Purple Trail allows you to add your family photo to many different card templates or if you are feeling extra creative, you can use their Design Center to start with blank card and easily create your own design. They also have several different types of cards available including the traditional folded card, flat card and even post cards.

Happy Holidays!

I wrote this post to participate in a giveaway for PurpleTrail.com and it makes you eligible for a PurpleTrail gift code. http://www.purpletrail.com/blogcontests

Halloween fun with Hershey's Candy!

2010-10-14T17:52:00.000-05:00

My family loves Halloween! When my kids were younger, they had such a good time dressing up and trick-or-treating in our neighborhood. As they have gotten older, they now love to hand out the candy to the little "goblins" that come to our door. We always have an assortment of Hershey's Candy for all the trick-or-treaters. My sons especially love Kit Kats and the Reese's Pumpkins. We also have continued a yearly tradition of "Booing" one of our good friends. My youngest son likes to be the one to sneak up to their house, ring the door bell and run! Our "Boo" basket would not be complete without Hershey's candy.

I have already purchased my Hershey's candy and we are ready for the Trick-or-Treaters! I just hope that my guys don't eat all the candy before Halloween!

I wrote this post as a part of a contest to win a Hershey's Halloween prize pack as a member of the Moms Bloggers Club.

Cheerios "Do What You Love" Sweepstakes!

2010-10-11T13:58:00.008-05:00

Giveaway!! Pillsbury® Grands!® Mini Biscuits Prize Package

2010-09-29T21:48:00.001-05:00

I am from the south and if there is one type of food that southerners love, that is biscuits! Growing up, we had biscuits several times a day. For breakfast, we would have sausage biscuits , country ham biscuits or my son's favorite sausage gravy biscuits! Dinner would just not be complete without biscuits!

While I do not prepare biscuits as often as my mother did, I do enjoy serving Pillsbury Grands Mini Biscuits to my family.

Each 70-calorie biscuit is a delight when served hot from the oven, with a warm fluffy center and golden, flaky crust. Pillsbury® Grands!® Mini Biscuits are the perfect size for kids, or for mini sandwiches and appetizers. There are countless recipe options, from miniature ham sandwiches come lunchtime, to delicious sliders for nighttime entertaining. There are so many ways to make these biscuits and your family will love trying each one.

Be sure to click here so you can save $1.00 on the purchase of any Frozen Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits.

I was fortunate enough to receive a Pillsbury® Grands!® Mini Biscuits prize pack which includes a VIP coupon good for a free package of biscuits, a $15 gift card to purchase your recipe creation/experimentation needs, a biscuit basket, a butter dish and spreader!

I have the same Pillsbury® Grands!® Mini Biscuits prize pack to offer one of my lucky readers, which was generously provided by Pillsbury and MyBlogSpark!

Here is how you can win this great prize package!

1. Check out the recipes at Pillsbury.com and let me know which one you would like to try!

2. Follow me via Google Friend Connect. If you already follow, just let me know in a comment.

3. Follow me on twitter

4. Tweet about this giveaway and include #myblogspark in your tweet, this can be done daily.

5. Follow Pillsbury Treats on twitter

This giveaway will end on October 15th at 10:00 pm central time. This Giveaway is open to U.S. entries only. The winner will be contacted by email and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. Many thanks go to Pillsbury and MyBlogSpark for providing the prize packages, information and opportunity for this review.

The opinions expressed are my own and Prize Packages and information were provided from Pillsbury through MyBlogSpark for Giveaway and Review.

Elmer's Bag it Forward! You can help!

2010-09-07T22:14:00.001-05:00

Elmer's Bag it Forward is helping to raise up to $10,000 for Adopt-A-Classroom. for school supplies! You can help by giving a virtual bag of school supplies to other bloggers or by writing about your Back to school Shopping trip to Walmart!

Elmer's is donating $10 for each blog participating!

I am a loyal Walmart customer! I have been shopping for school supplies at Walmart for many years. My youngest son is a senior in high school this year, so shopping for school supplies was a little bittersweet. We have performed this back to school ritual for the last 13 years and I am sure that I will miss it next year. We purchased all the essentials, including pencils, pens, composition books, and notebook paper. Walmart has the best prices! My son came along with me and I hope that he took notes and will continue to shop at Walmart for his college school supplies next year.

ELMER’S VIRTUAL BAG IT FORWARD RULES

Copy and paste these rules into your blog post or Facebook note.
Create a post giving a “virtual bag of school supplies” to other bloggers or write about your Back to School shopping trip at Walmart.
Link back to the person who gave you a bag of school supplies.
Let each person you are giving a virtual bag of school supplies know you have given them a bag.
Leave your link in the Elmer’s Virtual Bag It Forward comment section. You can also find the official rules of this virtual #bagitforward program there.
Elmer’s is donating $10 for each blog participating in the Virtual Bag It Forward Donation to Adopt-A-Classroom (up to total of $10,000 for blog posts written by September 10,2010).
Please note that only one blog post per blog url will count towards the donation.

We have a winner!

2010-09-01T10:24:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Hoa, the winner of the UPrinting.com poster giveaway!

Flavorful Low-Sodium Family Meals with Mrs. Dash Seasoning Blends!

2010-08-26T16:41:00.000-05:00

Over the last few years, I have been trying to limit the amount of sodium in my diet for health related reasons. Reducing salt in your diet can help prevent high blood pressure, stroke and heart disease. When I began using less salt in my cooking, my family grumbled a little until I discovered Mrs. Dash Seasoning Blends! There are 15 flavors of Mrs. Dash Salt-Free Seasoning Blends. Each Mrs. Dash Seasoning Blend is an all-natural blend of 14 natural herbs and spices. The Mrs. Dash web site is packed with useful tip and fabulous recipes that every member of my family (even the picky eaters) enjoy! I have tried many of the recipes and I would like to share some of my favorites with you!

Fruity Spinach Salad

Ingredients:

Salad
1/3 lb. (165g) spinach leaves, washed
1/2 pt. (240mL) fresh strawberries, sliced
1 kiwi, sliced
1 Tbsp. (15mL) slivered almonds
Dressing
1 tsp. (5mL) Mrs. Dash® Lemon Pepper
1 Tbsp. (15mL) SugarTwin® Granulated White
2 Tbsp. (30mL) vegetable oil
2 Tbsp. (30mL) rice vinegar

Directions:

Place salad ingredients in attractive bowl.
Make dressing by mixing remaining ingredients together.
Toss spinach with dressing and serve immediately.

Baja Chicken Breasts with Oranges and Jalapeno

Ingredients:

2 Tbsp. Mrs. Dash® Fiesta Lime Seasoning Blend
3/4 cup fresh orange juice
1/3 cup chopped red onion
1 jalapeno, seeded and chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 Tbsp. Mrs. Dash® Fiesta Lime Seasoning Blend
1/2 teaspoon grated lime zest
Cooking spray
4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves, about 5 ounces each
2 oranges, cut into wedges
1 lime, cut into wedges

Directions:

In a blender, combine the orange juice, red onion, jalapeno, garlic, Mrs. Dash® Fiesta Lime Seasoning Blend, and lime zest. Puree until blended.
Coat a shallow baking dish with cooking spray. Place chicken in prepared pan and pour orange juice mixture over top. Cover with plastic and marinate for at least 15 minutes and up to 24 hours (refrigerate chicken if marinating longer than 1 hour).
Preheat oven to 375ºF. Bake chicken 30 to 35 minutes, until cooked through. Serve chicken with extra marinade spooned over top and orange and lime wedges on the side.

Twice Baked Potatoes

Ingredients:

1 Tbsp. (15mL) Mrs. Dash® Original Blend
4 medium baking potatoes
1/4 cup (60mL) reduced fat sour cream
1/4 cup (60mL) 2% milk
2 Tbsp. (30mL) unsalted butter

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Scrub potatoes and pat dry.
Pierce skins with fork.
Place potatoes directly on oven rack.
Bake 50 to 60 minutes.
Cut lengthwise slice from top of each potato.
Scoop out potato, leaving 1/4 inch (6cm) thick shells.
Mash potato flesh in bowl.
Add sour cream, milk, butter and Mrs. Dash® Original Blend; mix well.
Spoon mixture into potato shells.
Place filled potatoes in baking dish.
Bake 20 minutes or until lightly browned.

My family loves all of these dishes! The Twice Baked Potatoes are my sons absolute favorite. They would be thrilled if I served them everyday. My favorite is the Fruity Spinach Salad. I have served this salad for parties and always get so many compliments. You do not have to give up flavor to reduce sodium in your diet, just add Mrs. Dash! Give it a try and let your picky eaters be the judge!

I wrote this blog post while participating in the Mrs. Dash and TwitterMoms blogging program for a chance to get a $50 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here

Giveaway! 18x24 Poster Print from UPrinting.com

2010-08-24T21:10:00.002-05:00

I am very excited to be hosting a giveaway sponsored by UPrinting.com., a leader in online printing. The wonderful folks at Uprinting.com have graciously offered one lucky Up in the Air's reader a 18x24 Poster Print either Semi Gloss or High Gloss!
I can think of so many possible uses for a custom poster! It would be great to use to decorate my son's room! UPrinting offers cheap poster printing, so I could decorate a whole wall!

UPrinting is a leading online printing company that provides high quality printing at the most affordable prices. For over 25 years, UPrinting has been a trusted leader in online printing, featuring its signature easy-to-use website and the famous Free File Review, a complimentary proofing service which requires no upfront payment. UPrinting offers convenient marketing support services such as design, lists, and direct mailing to help grow small and medium-size businesses nationwide.

Powered by brand new fully automated in-house Komori presses and CREO direct-to-plate, we offer faster turnaround with minimal human error and lower overhead cost. This allows us to provide customers with consistently high-quality printing at the lowest possible prices.

Win it!

One lucky reader will win a custom 18x24 Poster Print!

How to Enter:

Visit UPrinting.com and look around. What other of their products do you like? Let me know in a comment

Bonus entries:

Follow me via Google Friend Connect

Follow me on Twitter

Tweet about this giveaway (this can be done once daily, leave link in comment)

This giveaway will end on Monday, August 30th at 10:00 pm CST.

This giveaway is open to U.S. residents 18 years old or older. The winner will be chosen via Random.org and will be notified by email.

Disclaimer: This giveaway is sponsored by GiveawayBlogs.com and UPrinting.com.
I received no compensation, monetary or otherwise, for posting this giveaway. All opinions expressed in this giveaway post are my own.

Fractures! A new way to print and frame your photos!

2010-08-24T16:44:00.001-05:00

I love to take photos! Sometimes it can get really expensive, printing and framing your photographs. There is a new process called Fractures which allows you to print your digital photos directly on glass. They have combined printing, framing and mounting into one simple process. You upload your photo to FractureMe.com and they print it on glass and send it to you with everything you need to mount and display your work of art! If I am one of the first 100 participants, I will be receiving a Fracture picture frame to review and I will be writing a follow-up to let you know what I think!

I wrote this blog post in response to a TwitterMoms RAMBO alert, making me eligible to get a Fracture picture frame for review. You can learn more about Fracture at http://www.fractureme.com.”

2010-08-24T11:12:00.000-05:00

One Project Closer is giving away a DuoFast FloorMaster 250 BN Nailer! We are rebuilding an old house and will be installing a wood floor very soon. This nailer would be great! We have rented nailers in the past but you are always in a rush to finish because you have to get them back! This giveaway ends on August 27th so hurry and enter at One Project Closer!

ten tips for saving money during the back-to-school season

2010-08-12T16:01:00.000-05:00

I have been doing this back to school thing for it seems like forever! I have one son in college and the youngest will be a senior in high school this year!
I have learned a thing or two over the years and my top ten tips for saving money are:

1. Stock up during the back to school sales!
2. Take advantage of tax free days.
3. Use coupons, especially on the items on sale!
4. Check with friends and neighbors who have older children who might can pass down books, etc.
5. Resale shops! You can find awesome buys at resale shops!
6. Now is the time to stock up on basics, like socks and underwear while it is on sale.
7. Lots of stores have sales on snack foods. Great for school lunches!
8. Watch the newspaper for great deals on calculators, computers, etc.
9. College students can save lots of money by buying used books.
10. Many college book stores now offer the option to rent books for a fraction of the cost of buying.

I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Staples
blogging program, making me eligible to get a $50 gift card. For more
information on how you can participate, click here

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

I have always been plagued with skin problems! As a teenager, I had the occasional break-outs but as I got older the problems did not lessen... they got much worse! I tried all the over-the-counter acne remedies, but nothing really worked for me. I went to the dermatologist and have tried Accutane, topical medications and antibiotics but still little relief. I would love to try microdermabrasion at home! I am sure that I would seem a real improvement in my skin!

2010-07-22T12:41:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Min K.! Winner of the Cheerios "Do What You Love" Giveaway!

2010-07-22T11:53:00.002-05:00

My family and I love to camp! We have two son who are both Eagle Scouts and my husband and I are Scout Leaders. I remember going on camp-outs when my sons were Cub Scouts and somehow, I always was the one who brought the S'mores fixings! I remember those little boys, with huge smiles on their faces, lining up to get their marshmallows, Hershey Bars and Graham Crackers! We had the best time!

You can make some S'mores and some smiles too! www.SmoresSmiles.com

I am trying to win an Ultimate S'mores Prize Pack as a member of as a member of the Mom Bloggers Club.

Cheerios "Do What You Love" Giveaway!

2010-07-13T10:57:00.005-05:00

I have been a huge fan of Cheerios for as long as I can remember! I grew up eating Cheerios as a kid and have continued to enjoy Cheerios as an adult. (I had Cheerios for breakfast this morning!)

Cheerios is now giving YOU a chance of a lifetime!

Now through July 23, 2010, you can submit an original 150-250 story showcasing what you love to do for a chance to win the prize of a lifetime!

Cheerios is partnering with country music superstar Martina McBride and professional athlete Cal Ripken, Jr. for the “Do What You Love” Contest. McBride and Ripken will recognize two lucky people with prizes that will make their hearts race.

One music lover (and a guest) will tour the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum with McBride, hang out with her in her recording studio – the world famous Blackbird Studio in Nashville, Tenn. – and even get VIP tickets to one of her upcoming concerts.

Another lucky baseball enthusiast (and a guest) will have the chance to hang out and play catch with Ripken and to tour the Ripken Youth Baseball Academy in Aberdeen, Md., with the “Iron Man” of baseball himself. In addition, the winner will throw out the first pitch at the Cal Ripken World Series and sit in Ripken’s reserved seats at a Baltimore baseball game.

For a chance to win the experience of a lifetime with McBride and Ripken, visit www.cheerios.com/love.

I love to volunteer! I have enjoyed working at my kid's schools, I have been a Cub Scout leader and a Boy Scout leader, a PTA board member and I am currently volunteering in the College Room at my son's high school. I have also taken on the position of one of three directors for the Class of 2011 Project Graduation. This is my most challenging project yet! We will be planning and hosting a drug-free, alcohol-free graduation celebration for 400 high school seniors!

What do you Love?

Giveaway
Now for the fun part! I have a "Do What You Love " Prize Pack that includes one box of Cheerios and a $25 American Express Gift Card to give to one lucky reader!

All you have to do is let me know what you LOVE to do!
For an extra entry follow me via Google Friend Connect.
You can also tweet this giveaway daily!

This giveaway will end on Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at 10:00 pm CST. Entrants must be at least 18 years old and reside within the United States. Winner must respond to the winning e-mail within 48 hours or a new winner will be selected.

Disclosure: Cheerios provided me with the free product, information, and prize pack through MyBlogSpark. Any opinions expressed are my own.

2010-07-02T16:24:00.002-05:00

Our Ordinary Life has a Flip SlideHD giveaway going on until July 20th. There are many ways to enter, including leaving a comment sharing your ideas about family movies!

You can enter HERE!

2010-06-28T21:00:00.002-05:00

Pretty Little (Gaijin) is hosting her first giveaway! The prize is a cool keychain camera! It is a Vistaquest VQ1015 ENTRY keychain camera!

You can enter here!

2010-06-28T19:11:00.002-05:00

Simply Being Mommy and Volkswagen have a great giveaway going on just in time for the summer road trip! I drive a Volkswagen Touareg and it is my favorite vehicle ever!
The giveaway ends on July 2nd.

You can enter at Simply Being Mommy

Duo-Fast FloorMaster 250BN Giveaway at Home Construction & Improvement

2010-06-26T20:55:00.003-05:00

Home Construction & Improvement and Duo-Fast are giving away a FloorMaster 250BN finish floor nailer. My husband and I are in the middle of a remodeling project on a very old house. We are planning on installing wood floors in the house and this nailer would be such a help! We have installed wood floors several times and have had to rent nailers in the past.
Enter here!

Black and Decker Cordless Trimmer Giveaway!

2010-06-26T11:20:00.003-05:00

You can win a Black and Decker Cordless Trimmer over at One Project Closer! I could really use a new weed eater. The one we have is too heavy and I just cannot manage it!
Enter Here!

Congratulations! Breanne!

2010-06-15T15:46:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Breanne, the lucky winner of the $30 Kroger Gift Card!

2010-06-14T09:10:00.003-05:00

One Project Closer has a great giveaway going on! They have a SKIL Orbit Sander up for grabs! This is something that I could really use! I have a wooden front door that needs to be sanded and refinished. This sander would be perfect for the job. Giveaway ends June 14, so hurry!

Enter here!

2010-06-11T19:56:00.002-05:00

Blessings Abound Mommy and Volkswagen Routan has a great Summer Road Trip giveaway going on until June 23rd. I drive a Volkswagen Touareg and I just love it! It is my favorite car ever! This is a great prize package and I would love to win!

Enter here!

Summer Giveaway Mommy Mandy and VW!

2010-06-08T21:41:00.002-05:00

Just in time for the Summer Road Trip, Mommy Mandy and VW have a great Road Trip prize package up for grabs! My sons would love to have the VW guitar. They actually played one in our local VW dealer's show room a couple of years ago and had a blast. They are very accomplished guitar players and put on quite a show!

Enter here!

Dads Rock Giveaway Bash: Kindle DX at Moms Need to Know!

2010-06-08T16:56:00.002-05:00

There is a fantastic giveaway going on at Moms Need to Know! You could win a Kindle DX in time for Father's Day! My husband would love one!

You can enter here!

Black and Decker 24 Volt Cordless String Trimmer Giveaway at HCI!

2010-06-08T11:16:00.002-05:00

Home Construction and Improvement is giving away a Black and Decker Cordless String Trimmer! This is something that I could really use! I have a constant battle weed-eating my yard and this would be perfect! It is light weight and has a 13″ Cut Swath cuts more area per pass!

You can enter here!

Kroger Family of Stores’ Pound for Pound Challenge and Giveaway!

2010-06-06T15:01:00.007-05:00

The Kroger Co. Family of Stores, General Mills, NBC's hit TV Show “The Biggest Loser” and other key sponsors are partnering to donate up to $1,080,000 to Feeding America this year.

I am a huge fan of "The Biggest Loser" and Kroger! The timing could not be any more perfect with swimsuit season upon us. I have made a pledge to lose 10 pounds!

Here is how you can help!

* Visit http://www.pfpchallenge.com/Kroger to make your pledge to lose weight and to get more information and to find tools to change your life for the better. It is free, easy and only takes a minute to make a change that can help you and help the hungry in your local community.

* Through June 30, 2010, for every pound you pledge to lose, the Pound For Pound Challenge will donate 14¢ to Feeding America® — enough to deliver one pound of groceries to a local food bank.

As the official supplier of the Biggest Loser Ranch and partner of the Pound for Pound Challenge, the Kroger Family of Stores wants to help you achieve your goals. If you’re a fan of the Biggest Loser, you may have seen several great General Mills products featured on the show. These products, including Yoplait Greek yogurt, Total, and Multigrain Cheerios, are available at your local Kroger Family of Stores and can help you stick to your weight management plan.

Giveaway
One reader will receive a $30 Gift Certificate that can be used at any Kroger Family store!

How to enter!

Just go to the Pound for Pound Challenge and make a pledge and let me know in a comment. If you do not need to lose any weight, just check out the Challenge and let me know something you learned.

Extra Entries!
Follow me via Google Friend Connect and leave a comment
Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily) and leave a comment

This giveaway will end on June 14th at 10:00 p.m. Central time and will be chosen via a Random Number Generator. The winner will have 48 hours to respond.

Kroger Family of Stores gift card, information, and giveaway were all provided by the Kroger Family of Stores and General Mills through MyBlogSpark. All opinions expressed are my own.

2010-06-06T12:15:00.001-05:00

It is summer and time for a ROAD TRIP! Baby Loving Mamma along with VW Routan has a fantastic giveaway going on! So many great prizes! My sons would love the VW Guitar!

Sex & the City HP Touchsmart TM2-1070US Laptop GIVEAWAY

2010-05-19T10:40:00.002-05:00

The Fashionable Housewife has a exciting contest going on! You can enter to win a HP Touchsmart Laptop! This is one sleek, sexy computer! Enter by June 6th 2010 at 11:59pm ET.

http://www.thefashionablehousewife.com/05/2010/sex-the-city-hp-touchsmart-tm2-1070us-laptop-giveaway/

2010-05-16T21:05:00.002-05:00

Reviews from the Dad Side has a great giveaway going on until May 20, 2010. Up for grabs is a Flip Camera! This would be wonderful to take on vacation this summer. I have a family reunion this summer and I would love to have a Flip Camera to take along and video the whole event!
http://reviewsfromthedadside.blogspot.com/2010/05/flip-mino-hd.html

2010-05-04T22:50:00.002-05:00

Heather at Giggling Kids has a great contest going on! She reviewed a lovely notepad from Mommy Pads and More and she is giving away a notepad or address stamp to one lucky reader!
I would love to win this to give to my sister, who just moved.

Gov't Mule, Levon Helm, Michael Franti, Les Claypool, Avett Bros, Grace Potter! Win 2 VIP tix to @MountainJam 2010!

2010-04-27T15:13:00.001-05:00

Gov't Mule, Levon Helm, Michael Franti, Les Claypool, Avett Bros, Grace Potter! Win 2 VIP tix to @MountainJam 2010!

Posted using ShareThis

iPhone apps for kids

2010-04-21T21:11:00.002-05:00

What would be my ideal Mother's Day? I'm so glad that you asked! I would love to be able to sleep late, maybe someone else could get up and let the dog out for a change. I would also like to have my choice for breakfast, probably waffles. I would like to get a "Happy Mother's Day" wish from my sons and a kiss would be nice. What would be a really great gift? Why an iPad of course!

www.bestkidsapps.com
I’m participating in a contest at Best Kids Apps, a blog about iPhone apps for kids, for a chance to win an iPad.

Prom 1976!

2010-04-21T09:22:00.000-05:00

2010-04-09T10:47:00.003-05:00

I am so excited to be participating in this years Ultimate Blog Party! I am relatively new to blogging. I just discovered Blogs last year about this time and decided to start my own. I am a stay at home Mom of two sons, ages 21 and 17. I have kept myself very busy with my kids by volunteering in their schools and various activities that they have been involved with, such as Boy Scouts. The most recent thing that I have volunteered for, is to be Co-Director for my son's Project Graduation event next June. Talk about a party! We will be hosting an drug free and alcohol free evening of food, fun, games and prizes for 400 kids! Whew! I'm tired already and the event is over a year away! Wish me luck!

Back to the Ultimate Blog Party, I would love to win the Toshiba Satellite Computer!
**GRAND PRIZE at the Ultimate Blog Party 2010 is a Toshiba Satellite L505D-ES5025**
The other prizes I would love to win are:

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

39 -Be My Guest certificate ($250 value) for one lucky winner, (2 night stay for a family of four) at any Hilton Garden Inn.
Provided by: Hilton Garden Inn
Follow here: bloggin2noggin

USC 17 – With the upcoming release of their iphone app in the next few weeks, CmomGo is offering up a $200 Apple Gift certificate. For moms that do not currently have an AT&T contract and have wanted that Iphone this will cover the cost of a 16Gig 3GS iphone with the signup of a 2 year contract with AT&T. For our moms that already have an AT&T contract with a different phone this can be used towards the purchase of a new iphone or it can be used for anything else at the Apple store! Our friends from CmomGo sure hope you use it for an iphone though!
Provided by: CmomGo

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

and also 112, 31, 32, 46, 52

I'd love for you to follow my blog!

2010-04-07T19:36:00.001-05:00

I would love to win a HP Photo frame! They not only hold pictures but you can access the internet and check the weather! How cool is that! I am entering to win at Mommas Review you can too!

http://www.mommasreview.com/2010/03/mmm2-hp-8-smart-wifi-display-review-and-giveaway/comment-page-7/#comment-27227

Win a HP photo frame!

2010-03-31T20:00:00.002-05:00

You can win a HP Photo frame at No Time Mommy! I would love one of these frames for Mother's Day! It has so many cool features!
http://notimemom.wordpress.com/2010/03/30/mothers-day-gift-guide-hp-8-wi-fi-display-digital-frame/#comment-16369

Getting out of Credit Card Debt

2010-03-25T19:51:00.002-05:00

I have been extremely lucky to have never really gotten in over my head as far as credit card debt goes. Several times in my life, I have had more credit card debt than I would like and the way I was able to pay down my debt was to make it a priority and then just do it! I have also made it my rule to always pay off my credit cards each month and not to carry a balance. If I cannot afford it, I do not buy it!

2010-03-16T21:07:00.001-05:00

Win $200 of Sephora Products from Kia and MomStart! Hurry ends 3/29/2010

http://momstart.com/2010/03/the-kia-sorentos-makeover-is-a-makeover-for-mom-too-giveaway/comment-page-4/#comment-149154

Win a Nook!

2010-03-16T20:04:00.002-05:00

I would love to have a Nook! You can enter in Susan Heim's contest to win a Barnes and Noble Nook! Hurry the contest ends on March 31st!

http://susanheim.blogspot.com/2010/03/my-biggest-giveaway-ever-enter-to-win.html#comment-form
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/nook/index.asp?cm_mmc=Redirect-_-nook.com-_-Storefront-_-nook

2010-03-16T16:34:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Emmy*Coffee, the winner of the mirra products package!

2010-03-08T19:49:00.000-06:00

This should be another great week on General Hospital! This week, Sonny is already suspected of a murder he didn’t commit, but wants his son’s approval. Sonny is driven to tell the truth about Claudia’s real killer. If Dante finds out the truth, what will he do now?

I will be tuning in each day! How about you?

I am a participant in a Mom Central campaign for ABC Daytime and will receive a tote bag or other General Hospital branded items to facilitate my review.

2010-03-08T19:45:00.000-06:00

This should be another exciting week on The View! I am looking forward to tuning in each day.
The line up for this week is GREAT!

MONDAY, MARCH 8 – The day after the Oscars!! It Isn’t over till the co-hosts have spoken! Guest co-host Vanessa Williams (“ABC’s Ugly Betty”); Day of “Hot Topics”; co-host Sherri Shepherd will Skype live from Hollywood post-Academy Awards and share her Oscar experience; Chris Cuomo breaks down crimes in the headlines. First time musical guests – Lady Antebellum perform

TUESDAY, MARCH 9 – Guests -Andy Garcia and his daughter Dominik Garcia-Lorido (“City Island”); Elissa Stein and Susan Kim (author, Flow: The Cultural Story of Menstruation).

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 10 – Guests: Forest Whitaker (“Our Family Wedding”); Jesse Ventura (author, American Conspiracies).

THURSDAY, MARCH 11 – Sir Elton John will be sitting with the women at the table and partaking in “Hot Topics”; Guest - Eric McCormack (“Who Is Clark Rockefeller?”).

FRIDAY, MARCH 12 – Co- Host Kate Gosselin is back and will join the women and the return of “The View: Fashion Friday” with designer Carolina Herrera.

I am a participant in a Mom Central campaign for ABC Daytime and will receive a tote bag or other The View branded items to facilitate my review

mirra Review and Giveaway!

2010-03-07T16:11:00.003-06:00

– What do women want? According to recent survey results, women believe beauty products made with both natural ingredients and proven scientific technologies work best – and that’s what new beauty brand, mirra™ provides.

In addition to its own consumer research, mirra recently conducted an online survey of over 500 women asking a variety of questions about beauty care products and regimens. Here’s what women said:

77 percent said products that have both natural ingredients and proven technologies, work best. Only nine percent said products with all natural ingredients, alone, were best; and 14 percent said the same of science only products.
71 percent chose “Take 10” as the best description of their beauty style and routine. They said they don’t have a lot of time and don’t spend a lot of time on their beauty routine – 10 minutes at most. Other options included “soak and savor,” “60 minutes,” and “beat the clock.”
Their description of a “bad hair day” was evenly split between “flat” (37 percent) and “frizzy” (35 percent). (15 percent said fly-away; 13 percent said oily).

Launching now, mirra products include shampoos and conditioners; hair styling products; body washes and mists; facial and skin care lotions, cleansers and cleansing cloths; eye firming and age defying creams; and cosmetic brushes.

mirra products are made with natural ingredients, such as olive oil, aloe leaf juice, and cranberry, bamboo, honey and chicory root extracts. Proven technologies are used for many of the products too. For example, the revolutionary oleosome emulsion technology is used in skin care products to deliver long lasting moisture that keeps protecting and nourishing skin long after application.

mirra products can be found in the beauty care aisles exclusively at all stores that are part of the Kroger Co. family. For a limited time, mirra is offering $5 off when you purchase any two mirra products. To download the coupon visit www.kroger.com\coupons.

I was very excited to be given the opportunity to try several of the products from the mirra line thanks to Global Influence Network. I have been using the products over the last several week and I am really quite impressed with them all. I especially like the shampoo and conditioner. It leaves my hair clean , soft and manageable. I love the scent, it is very light, very pretty! I also really liked the body wash, it too, has a lovely scent and leaves my skin feeling wonderful! I will most certainly be seeking out the mirra products the next time I shop at our neighborhood Kroger.

I was given products to review by Kroger and Global Influence Network, the opinions are my own.

Now for the fun part! One lucky reader will win an assortment of mirra products similar to the ones that I was given to review. For a chance to win, visit mirra and let me know which product you would like to try. For a second chance follow this blog via Google Friend Connect. The winner will be chosen randomly. This contest will close on 3/15/2010 at 10:00 pm ct. Good luck!

2010-03-06T13:19:00.000-06:00

Win a Car MD at MommyPR! I could really use one of these! My son has a car that the check engine light is on and I would love to know why!
http://www.mommypr.com/index.php/2010/02/carmd-review-giveaway/#comment-121208
http://www.carmd.com/

Stanley Tools " Bag Of Tools" giveaway!

2010-03-05T08:48:00.000-06:00

Head on over to A Concord Carpenter's blog and you could win a Stanley Bag of Tools!
I would love this because I can never find any type of tool when I need one. I have two sons and a hubby and they "borrow" my tools and never return them.
http://aconcordcarpentercomments.blogspot.com/2010/02/stanley-tool-giveaway.html
http://www.stanleytools.com/default.asp?TYPE=STATIC&PAGE=HOME.HTM

2010-03-02T17:27:00.000-06:00

This is my second week as a General Hospital brand ambassador! This week should be really exciting! This week on General Hospital a cop is determined to put his mobster father behind bars and might have to use his brother to do it. Also this week, Dante questions his own brother— will Michael confess or will Dante realize on his own that it was Michael who was responsible for killing Claudia and not Sonny?

I am a participant in a Mom Central campaign for ABC Daytime and will receive a tote bag or other General Hospital branded items to facilitate my review.

2010-03-02T17:19:00.001-06:00

This is my second week as a View brand ambassador! There will be some very interesting guests on The View this week! I am looking forward to watching.

Tuesday, Mar 2: Robert Pattinson makes his first-ever appearance on the show with his “Remember Me” co-star, Emilie de Ravin. Mitt Romney, the 70th Governor of Massachusetts also makes his first-ever appearance.
• Wednesday, Mar 3: This show will feature the best of “View Tube,” including backstage antics and celebrity exit interviews. Lisa Kudrow of “Who Do You Think You Are” will be joining the hosts as well.
• Thursday, Mar 4: Celebrity guest co-host Valerie Bertinelli, former Oscar nominee Abigail Breslin from Broadway’s “The Miracle Worker,” Mia Wasikowska from Disney’s “Alice in Wonderland,” and a musical performance from Broadway’s “Fela” will be featured on this jam-packed episode.
• Friday, Mar 5: The View’s “Road to the Oscars” episode welcomes former Oscar nominee Don Cheadle and Wesley Snipes and “Fashion Friday” celebrates “The History of Oscar Fashions” with a two-part look back at some of the most memorable – and perhaps forgettable – Oscar hits and misses, with host and celebrity stylist Robert Verdi. Hosts of “At the Movies” Michael Phillips and Tony Scott will also be on set to unveil their 2010 Oscar predictions.

I am a participant in a Mom Central campaign for ABC Daytime and will receive a tote bag or other The View branded items to facilitate my review.

2010-02-26T19:03:00.000-06:00

Win a Sony eReader from A Yummy Mummy on a Pink Park Bench! Tell her I sent you!
http://www.morethananarmywife.com/2010/02/stonewalls-sony-reader-giveaway.html

2010-02-22T19:45:00.000-06:00

This should be a very exciting week for daytime drama fans! This week on General Hospital Sonny’s trial for murder begins! One son is tormented when his father takes the fall for him while the other is called to stand to testify against his father.
I don't know about you, but I will be tuning in every day to find out what happens!

I am a participant in a Mom Central campaign for ABC Daytime and will receive a tote bag or other General Hospital branded items to facilitate my review

2010-02-22T19:40:00.000-06:00

I am very excited to begin week two as a brand ambassador for The View! This week should be very exciting on The View and I am looking forward to watching each day.
The line up for this week includes:
• Monday, Feb 22: Senator Evan Bayth of Indiana will be making his first and only television appearance since announcing that he is not running for re-election in 2010.
• Tuesday, Feb 23: The controversial cast of MTV’s Jersey Shore will be joining the Women live on Tuesday. This will be an interesting show to see how the cast and the women interact!
• Wednesday, Feb 24: Nadya Suleman who famously gave birth to octuplets last year will be making her first trip to NYC to chat live with the Women of the View. Author Danielle Steel will also be a guest
• Thursday, Feb 25: A one hour show Themed “trying to have a baby?”Guests include Giuliana And Bill Rancic
• Friday, Feb 26: Regis and Joy Philbin will perform a song from their new CD: Regis & Joy: Just you. Just me.

I am a participant in a Mom Central campaign for ABC Daytime and will receive a tote bag or other The View branded items to facilitate my review.”

The Children are our Future!

2010-02-19T08:53:00.000-06:00

I am a stay at home Mom of two sons, ages 16 and 21 and I have always considered myself extremely lucky to be able to be a full time mom. I have tried to use my "spare" time to give back to our community by volunteering. I have volunteered in my sons schools since they were in Elementary School. I have been a Room Mom, served on the PTA board as the Vice-President, read to students, chaperoned field trips and most recently I volunteer at my son's high school in the College Room.

In the College Room we have available for the students, college catalogs, applications, information about financial aid and scholarships and information about the armed services. Students are able to come in during their free time and browse the materials we have and research prospective colleges. We are there to help answer their questions. If we do not know the answer to their question, we find the answer!

It is my goal for 2010 to improve our College room and make it more efficient and helpful for our students. The HP Mini Notebook Computer because of it's size would be perfect to take along to the school. We would use it to set up a data base with for the students who have requested information. The printer would also be so helpful for printing out information about colleges and scholarships to have available for the students.

I am always truly amazed at the wonderful students and their lofty goals. If they accomplish just a fraction of what they hope to, the future is bright indeed. The children are the future and it is my desire to help them with the next step in their journey.

2010-02-18T19:48:00.000-06:00

Create Your Dream Kitchen with Schumacher Homes Contest!
Schumacher Homes is having a contest and you could win an iPod Touch! What would be important to you if you were designing your dream kitchen? Would you want tile or hardwood floors, granite countertops or solid surface? There are so many choices!

http://blog.schumacherhomes.com/create-dream-kitchen-schumacher-homes?TP1

2010-02-17T09:27:00.001-06:00

Win a HP Printer! Hurry today is the last day!
http://rockinmama.net/2010/02/09/valentines-day-gift-idea-hp-photosmart-premium-with-touchsmart-web-printer-giveaway/comment-page-10/#comment-84781

2010-02-16T07:32:00.000-06:00

Win a pair of Dockers from 3 ps in a Pod! Hurry ends today 2/16/2010!
http://www.3psinapod.com/prove-chivalry-is-not-dead-im-giving-away-5-pairs-of-dockers-pants-today/comment-page-2/#comment-17144

I'm a Brand Ambassador for General Hospital!

2010-02-15T18:55:00.000-06:00

I am just thrilled to have been selected as a Brand Ambassador for General Hospital! I have been watching General Hospital since I was a college student back in the late 1970s. I really got interested during the Luke and Laura romance storyline. I am looking forward to posting for the next 4 weeks about all the exciting happenings on my favorite soap, General Hospital!

There is an exciting General Hospital sweepstakes that’s currently being run on the Mom Central website. One lucky winner will be randomly selected to receive a trip to Los Angeles to visit the set of General Hospital and have a walk-on role. The sweepstakes is open until February 28th. Here is a link to our sign-up survey for this sweepstakes: http://www.zoomerang.com/Survey/WEB22A5X5XEZD9

I am a participant in a Mom Central campaign for ABC Daytime and will receive a tote bag or other General Hospital branded items to facilitate my review.

I'm a Brand Ambassador for The View!

2010-02-15T18:47:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited to have been chosen as a Brand Ambassador for The View! The View is one of my favorite TV shows and I am looking forward to reporting on the happening at The View for the next 4 weeks.
The is a exciting The View sweepstakes that’s currently being run on the Mom Central website. One lucky winner will be randomly selected to receive a trip to New York City to watch a taping of The View! The sweepstakes is open until February 28th. Here is a link to our sign-up survey for this sweepstakes: http://www.zoomerang.com/Survey/WEB22A5X7KF2CZ

I am a participant in a Mom Central campaign for ABC Daytime and will receive a tote bag or other The View branded items to facilitate my review.

2010-02-01T10:59:00.000-06:00

Surround your family with language. By taking them there!

Travel to Paris, Madrid and Barcelona with Homeschoolers from all over the United States. Join Rosetta Stone Homeschool, Heart of the Matter and Fusefly on the inaugural Homeschool Language Learning and Networking Trip August 2-11, 2010. Become immersed in new lands, explore history, culture, art and community. And truly speak to the world. For more details visit www.RosettaStone.com/Homeschool/LanguageLearningTrip.

Hurry, registration for the trip ends February 15, 2010.

For your chance to win a Rosetta Stone language product, please visit Heart of the Matter. Entries are being accepted until February 1st.

Feel free to use the images in this post in your own post if you would like.

General Mills to Reduce Sugar in Kids Cereals!

2010-01-21T09:19:00.000-06:00

We eat a lot of cereal at our house! My kids love all kinds of cereal so I am so pleased that General Mills is reducing the amount of sugar in cereals advertised to kids under 12 to single digit grams of sugar per serving. General Mills has already been reducing sugar in cereals while increasing key nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D, and providing whole grain.

Cereal Facts from General Mills:
Did you know that ready-to-eat cereal eaters consume less fat, less cholesterol and more fiber than non-cereal eaters? Cereals also deliver important vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients, making cereal a top source of key nutrients in children´s diets.

Other cereal benefits:

* Ready-to-eat cereals, including presweetened cereals, account for only 5% of sugar in children´s diets.
* Ready-to-eat cereal is the No. 1 source of whole grains in a child´s diet today.
* More frequent cereal eaters tend to have healthier body weights and lower Body Mass Index measures.

Next time you’re out refilling your supply of breakfast cereal, be sure to download and print this $1.00 off coupon good on 1 of 4 General Mill cereals that includes: Trix, Cocoa Puffs, Lucky Charms and Cinnamon Toast Crunch.

My family was provided with 4 free cereal coupons from General Mills while participating in a campaign from My Blog Spark. Opinions expressed are my own and are NOT influenced by monetary compensation

2010-01-20T19:06:00.000-06:00

What did you say, I can't hear you! How many of us bought our kids MP3 players for
Christmas or Birthdays this year, many of us I'm sure. How many of our kids are damaging their hearing by listening to the music too loud.... TOO MANY!
Below are two simple ways to protect your children's hearing
1. Keep the volume down. A good guide is half volume.
2. Limit listening time. Give your hearing 'quiet breaks'.

Find more information and statistics at ASHA's website. http://www.asha.org/public/hearing/disorders/default.htm

2010-01-20T18:23:00.000-06:00

Right now if you visit here you will find a $1 off coupon for one of four General Mills cereals. http://bricks.coupons.com/Start.asp?tqnm=qljheit24889505&bt=wi&o=60627&ci=1&c=GM&p=NY8LmWB2

2010-01-14T18:41:00.000-06:00

Which way do you roll? Leave a comment and you could win 1 of 10 Cottonelle gift baskets randomly chosen on January 29, 2010 from all entries. I personally am a team over all the way!

I am entering a contest for a month's worth of Cottonelle toilet paper as a member of the Mom Bloggers Club.

http://www.cottonellerollpoll.com

2010-01-12T16:52:00.000-06:00

You can win a Sealy Posturepedic mattress set from the Signature 11 Series your choice of size! From Dates to Diapers and Sealy are giving away this awesome prize on February 14th, Valentine's Day!

http://www.fromdatestodiapers.com/2010/01/sealy-posturepedic-signature-11-series-mattress.html/comment-page-1#comment-52798

2010-01-11T20:46:00.000-06:00

I could really, really, really use a new mattress! The mattress that I am sleeping on is about 10 years old and because I tend to sleep in one spot, has a dip in it. My wonderful, but very strong dog recently pulled a little too hard on her leash and injured my shoulder, so a new mattress would really help me to sleep better!
Bizzie Mommy and Sealy are giving one lucky reader there very own Sealy Posturepedic® Signature 11-Series innerspring mattress.

http://www.bizziemommy.com/new-year-new-mattress-giveaway.html

Simplify My Life.....PLEASE!!!!!

2010-01-05T09:05:00.001-06:00

At this time of the year, it is only natural to reflect on the events of the old year and anticipate the opportunities the new year holds. As we plunge into 2010, I have decided to try to make some changes in my life.... to simplify my life.
I am an extremely busy stay at home Mom of two sons and like all other mothers, I find myself moving in many different directions. My boys are older now, I have a son in college and one in high school. When they are younger, you think about the time when they are older and can do things for themselves, but I have found that there are new challenges, concerns and things for Mom to do, no matter what their ages are.
My New Year's Resolution for 2010 is to simplify my life and enjoy living now! How can I accomplish this, you ask. I am planning to get myself more organized so that I waste less time looking for lost items, for misplaced papers, sorting stacks of accumulated mail, I am going to become more efficient. While technology can complicate your life, it can also save time and it can help in my quest for a more organized life.
HP and Moms Blogger Club are sponsoring a contest with the theme "Simplify my Life" and the prize, drum roll please..... a HP Mini with Windows® 7 Home Premium!
A HP mini could simplify my life in so many ways! It is small enough to take with you, where ever your busy life might take you (3.22 lbs.). I am constantly on the road, taking someone somewhere, picking up someone or just running errands. The HP mini would be perfect to take along to check email, surf the web or just have all that vital information with you at all times.

You could win at HP Tord mini! Just comment on my post and get your name in the hat!

2009-12-23T09:02:00.000-06:00

Win Sanita Clogs, the original Danish Clogs that are comfortable and good for your feet from Just for Me and You!

http://justformeandyou2.blogspot.com/2009/12/frosty-festivities-sanitas-original.html
http://www.sanitaclogs.com/

2009-12-22T19:50:00.000-06:00

Delta Kitchen Faucet (with ToucH2O) Giveaway at One Project Closer
This faucet has a MSRP of $585.00 and the features are:
* ToucH2O technology
* Pull down sprayer with 54″ long hose
* Switch between an aerated stream and a sprayer
* Powerful magnet to easily secure the spray head in place
* Ceramic disk valve

http://www.oneprojectcloser.com/delta-kitchen-faucet-with-touch2o-giveaway/#comment-48431

2009-12-22T14:47:00.000-06:00

Win a $200 Best Buy Gift Card from UL and Parent Trend! What is your favorite family Holiday tradition?

http://parenttrend.com/2009/12/ul-is-bringing-the-joy-ecards-and-a-200-best-buy-gift-card/comment-page-6/#comment-11431

2009-12-21T21:58:00.000-06:00

Win a HP Pavilion dm3 laptop from Pretty Sandy Reviews, ends December 23rd!

http://prettysandyreviews.blogspot.com/2009/12/giveaway-hp-pavilion-dm3-laptop.html

2009-12-21T14:08:00.000-06:00

What a great contest! If you have a baby born in the month of December 2009 you could win $5000! My son is a December baby, but he was born December 28, 1988. He was the cutest little tax deduction! If you qualify be sure to check out the contest at this link:

http://cutesttaxdeduction.com/

2009-12-21T14:00:00.000-06:00

Win the AC/DC Backtracks from The Mom Reviews, ends 12/28/09.

http://www.themomreviews.com/2009/12/from-sony-music-acdc-backtracks.html

2009-12-21T13:44:00.000-06:00

Daddy Forever is giving away a HP Touchsmart 600 PC. This computer is just awesome!

http://daddyforever.com/2009/12/21/multi-touch-600t-600xt/

Your top 10 ways to get fit after the holidays

2009-12-21T09:40:00.000-06:00

My top ten ways to get fit after all the indulgences of the holidays are:
1. Stop eating all of the Christmas goodies! If you can't resist give them away.
2. Make time in your busy day to take a walk, take the kids, hubby and dogs along too.
3. Try to eat healthier, eat more fruits, veggies and whole grains.
4. Play games with you kids, physical games, get outside and try out some of the new Christmas gifts.
5. Make a habit of always taking the stairs
6. Make a habit of parking in the parking space that will require you to walk more.
7. Eat foods high in fiber, these foods make you feel full faster and keep you satisfied longer.
8. If it is too cold to walk outside, go to the mall and walk indoors. Just avoid the food court!
9. Eat heart healthy snacks, such as a few almonds or walnuts.
10. Make a new years resolution to start the new decade being more healthy and stick to it!

http://www.easportsactive.com
http://www.twittermoms.com/forum/topics/share-10-ways-to-get-fit-after?utm_source=Twittermoms+Member+Newsletter&utm_campaign=b8cc7529ea-TMWN_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email

2009-12-21T08:07:00.000-06:00

Win a new Posturepedic Innerspring Signature 11 Series bed from MommyMandy and Sealy! Winner gets to choose from Twin, Full, Queen and King; except for CalKing. Winner will also be able to pick the model in firm, cushion firm, plush and ultra plush.
http://mommymandy.com/sealy-posturepedic-signature-series-giveaway/#comment-165463

http://www.Sealy.com

My Entry For the Kia Sorento Ultimate Road Trip Sweepstakes

2009-12-20T10:57:00.000-06:00

If you could take your family on a road trip anywhere, where would you go and why?
I would love to take my family of four (plus 2 dogs) on a trip to our Nation's Capitol, Washington D.C. My sons are both major history buffs and they would love visiting the historical sites and the museums. My husband loves aviation and would enjoy the Air and Space Museums. It has always been my dream to visit the White House, especially at Christmas.

2009-12-19T09:58:00.001-06:00

Win a Guitar Hero game for X Box 360 from Simply Being Mommy and Coke!
http://simplybeingmommy.com/2009/12/15/guitar-hero-5-for-xbox-360-giveaway-and-coca-cola-instant-win-game/

2009-12-19T09:42:00.000-06:00

Win a Flip video camera, a Wii game, Cook or be Cookedand a $25 Williams Sonoma GC at My Red Apron!

http://www.myredapron.com/2009/12/exclusive-feast-on-fios-giveaway

2009-12-18T15:32:00.000-06:00

Win a PowerMat from Life with 5 Monkies! I really need this because I am running out of outlets!
http://www.fivemonkies.com/2009/12/lose-cords.html

2009-12-17T11:12:00.000-06:00

Win DJ Hero Bundle from MomStart and Sprite! What is your favorite soda?
http://momstart.com/2009/12/sprites-give-the-gift-of-gaming-dj-hero-bundle-giveaway/comment-page-1/#comment-97972

2009-12-17T06:28:00.000-06:00

Visit 1-800-FLOWERS.com Secret Santa free application on your Facebook page and send a free Warm and Fuzzy to someone you love! Your identity will not be reveled until December 21st! It is fun and easy, I just sent a Warm and Fuzzy to my husband! If 10,000 Warm and Fuzzies are sent by December 21st 1-800-Flowers will donated $5,000 to Toys for Tots!
http://www.facebook.com/1800flowers

2009-12-16T14:39:00.000-06:00

Recently I finished reading SOUTH OF BROAD by Pat Conroy. The book is set mostly in Charleston, South Carolina in the late 1960s. The book's main character is gossip columnist Leopold Bloom King. Pat Conroy does a fantastic job of pulling in his reader with his wonderfully descriptive language and interesting story lines. I would highly recommend SOUTH OF BROAD and it is a testament to Pat Conroy that I did not want the book to end.

2009-12-13T17:42:00.000-06:00

Win a Viliv X70EX, small but powerful!

http://nothingbutbonfires.com/reviews/small-perfectly-formed-intel-viliv-x70ex

2009-12-13T17:40:00.000-06:00

You can win a Viliv S5!

http://www.megsradreviews.com/2009/12/viliv-s5-review-and-giveaway.html

2009-12-13T17:37:00.000-06:00

Win a UMID mbook, the worlds smallest PC from Show me the Curry!

http://showmethecurry.com/reviews/enter-to-win-a-umid-mbook-%E2%80%93-the-world%E2%80%99s-smallest-pc.html