Harvest for Tomorrow

It's Official - Harvest For Tomorrow is Back From Break!

2011-08-10T14:31:00.002-04:00

So I posted awhile back that I was back from a break and that was the end...I didn't post anymore, but I am officially back and I have some great giveaways coming up as well. Why the break? Well for starters, I was getting a little upset (actually A LOT upset) about some people claiming they never received their prizes for giveaways when, in fact, I had proof from sponsors that they were mailed out. And then there were just one or two sponsors that DID fall through with shipping the prizes - NOT good. So I guess I was feeling a little jaded as they say but I have missed my blog - A LOT! So I decided that I am not going to let a handful of people ruin it for me.

With that being said, I will be VERY particular with sponsors that I have grown to trust and hopefully I can pick out some good ones too (new ones).

And I am going to be throwing in a lot more things too - posts about health issues, new recipes that I have found AND tried, and so forth...so it is going to be much more than just a giveaway blog, although there will still be tons more giveaways....and here are just a few that I have coming up VERY, VERY soon....$25 gift card to Sam's club, multipack of Frito Lay, etc...so be on the lookout for upcoming posts!!!!

I have missed you guys!!!!

I Am Back!!!

2011-04-28T21:50:00.003-04:00

Okay, so after a few months of getting things organized, I am back. I really enjoyed my blog so I think I can fit it in now that I am in the swing of things with changes that have taken place over the past few months.

Hopefully I can bring some great giveaways and reviews but I am going to just have one or two at a time going on to make things easier and to make sure things get taken care of correctly.

I have had a few issues with a few sponsors about not shipping products out to winners - I have never had this problem before so keep in mind that I try to work with companies that are sincere in their efforts to ship the products to you and I cannot control the ones that don't....but...the ones that don't, I surely try to contact them several times (more like 10) before giving up.

With all of this being said, I am excited to get back in the swing of things and hope to bring you some great things very, very soon!

Redbox Lucky To Have Friends Like You

2011-03-10T13:20:00.005-05:00

The only thing better than $1 a night movies – free movies! Lucky for you, redbox, America’s destination for movie rentals, is giving everyone the chance to score free movie credits now through St. Patrick’s Day, during the Lucky to Have Friends Like You promotion. Rental credits are valid for ten (10) days after they’ve been deposited into your account.

Follow these steps to score free redbox movies from now until Thursday, March 17.

■Sign-up for a redbox online account at http://www.redbox.com/luckymoms. ◦Why? By signing up for an online account, you can see what movies are currently in redbox kiosks near you and reserve your picks to guarantee they’ll still be waiting for you when you get there (until 9 p.m. the next day).
■Redbox will email you a personal web address link
■Share the link with your friends
■Every time someone reserves a movie online through your personal web address, you’ll receive a credit in your online account for a free one-night DVD rental
■If it is your friend’s first time reserving online, they’ll also receive a credit for a free one night rental
■Spread the luck! Email it, post it to Facebook, Tweet about it

**Disclosure: I am entering a giveaway for free redbox movies and movie snack packs as a member of the Mom Bloggers Club.**

redbox "Lucky To Have Friends Like You" campaign = FREE movies for you!

2011-03-09T13:25:00.005-05:00

I am a HUGE fan of redbox and right now they are having an awesome campaign going on! Lucky you, your friends and family can help you to score free movies from redbox. Redbox is giving every fan a unique web address. Every time someone rents from your address through March 17, you get a free movie credit. Rental credits are valid for ten (10) days after they’ve been deposited into your account. Spread the word, lucky you could be rolling in free movies this March.

Here is how the redbox “Lucky to Have Friends Like You” campaign works:

o Sign-up at here at www.redbox.com/luckyus

o Redbox will email you a unique web address

o Every time someone reserves a movie online through your unique web address, you’ll receive a credit for a free one-night DVD rental

o If it is their first time reserving online, they’ll also receive a credit for a free one night rental

o Spread the luck! Email it, post it to Facebook, Tweet about it!

Here is some more information that might help answer any questions. Just click on the picture to view in bigger size.

**Disclosure: This is a paid sponsored post that I wrote in conjunction with the Global Influence redbox campaign. The opinions expressed in the blog post about the product/service are my own, as yours may differ. Thanks goes out to Global Influence and redbox.**

Winner Announcements

2011-03-07T11:32:00.003-05:00

I am in a rush, so I am not going to post the actual Random.org picture, but I have them saved if anyone would like to see them. =)

The winner of the Yoplait Kids Prize Pack was....lucky No. 194!!!!

Beckeesdeals!!!!!

Getting ready to send out a winner email to you!

And...

The winner of the 3-month subscription to JumpStart was lucky No...51
tracyschultz@.....

I will be sending you a winner email as well, Tracy!!!

Thanks to all who entered and will be posting more giveaways on my blog in the next day or so...but be sure to check out all of my easy-entry Facebook giveaways going on until April 4, 2011 event!!! Adding giveaways daily!!! You can do that by clicking HERE.

If You Have Won A Prize in the Past 30 Days

2011-03-07T11:29:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone! If you have a won a prize in the last 30 days on Harvest For Tomorrow and haven't received it, please let me know. I sent in two emails several weeks ago with the winner's information and it came back to me today. I just want to make sure that they actually went through. My internet provider was down several days ago and it had been acting a little weird prior to that, so I just want to make sure everyone gets their prizes, as I have never had a problem with prize fulfillment before. And everyone may have gotten their prizes, I just want to double check!

If you had a problem, just email me at: aesnyder@suddenlink.net

Thanks!!!

Enter Lots of Giveaways on Facebook For My 550 Fan Celebration/Giveaway Event

2011-03-07T11:03:00.004-05:00

Hey folks! It has only been 3 days since my 550 Facebook Fan Celebration Giveaway has started and I have already reached my 550 fan mark! Now my goal is to get it up to 650 or 700 by the end date, April 4, 2011.

I have been adding sponsors and giveaways daily as they keep rolling in! Very easy giveaway event, just "like" the sponsor on Facebook, then fill out a short Google document with your FB name and email address so you can be notified in case you win! It is that simple!

There are a few $5.00 Amazon gift cards up for grabs, Mary Kay Nourishine lip gloss, $10.00 gift card to Soylicious candles, tarts, etc. Plus many more.

Also, if you would like to gain more Facebook fans, let me know if you are interested in sponsoring a giveaway! I will be happy to add your page and your product to the event! Just email me!

You can click HERE and see what is up for grabs right now! And, if you don't mind, please share the news with others...I am anxious to see what my end numbers are going to be! Thanks everyone and have a great day!

Here are a few items that are up for grabs PLUS there are more!!!

Week 4 Weigh-In With Nutrisystem - #NSNation

2011-03-07T10:46:00.002-05:00

Okay....so I am a few days late posting. I was supposed to post on Friday and I apologize guys; this will not happen again.

Soooo.....***sigh**** I fell off the wagon a bit. Here is what happened. For the past several weeks my household has been plagued with "it". Coughing, sneezing, sore throat, stomachache, etc. You name it, we had it. It started off with my oldest son and my husband. Then several days later my youngest son got it. I thought I was going to skate by without getting it...but...I got it. It lasted for two weeks. Last week, I wasn't getting any better so I "thought" it would be a good idea to go off the plan for a few days to get my strength up. Let me just say this as nice as I can....IT WAS A VERY BAD DECISION! I went off of the plan for a few days and I found it VERY hard to get started again.

What is wrong with me? Well, I should ask "what WAS wrong with me?" I have started back but what was I thinking? Was I looking for an excuse to stop? At the time I didn't think so. BUT...let me just tell you folks if you get sick, DO NOT STOP THE PROGRAM. It is MUCH harder to get started again. Why? I have no clue because I feel in control when I am on the plan. I feel good about myself. I feel like I am taking steps to a better me. So...why so hard to get back going? I have no clue. Really. No clue.

I have been depressed lately and I surely do not know why. Things have been changing a lot at our household but these are GOOD changes! So not sure why I have been depressed. And I have lost a great amount of weight in my four weeks that I have been on Nutrisystem. I just don't understand...it is definitely depression and let me just tell you all - depression IS real. That is why I have put on so much weight. Food has been my comfort for years. But this is a lifestyle change and a lifelong adjustment.

With all of that being said, I am so glad that I have picked myself up again and have gotten back on track with the Nutrisystem plan. It is such a blessing to me. And you guys definitely keep me accountable! And the success stories that I read on their Facebook page and website - amazing! And just so you know, I AM GOING TO BE A NUTRISYSTEM SUCCESS STORY!

So...how did I do? Well....**frowns** I gained 2 pounds...But it is all my fault and I understand that. Seriously, Nutrisystem is a diet plan that WORKS if you follow the plan properly. And I didn't. I admit my failures.
So here is my first month breakdown:

Week 1: -11 pounds lost
Week 2: -0.6 pounds lost
Week 3: -3.4 pounds lost
Week 4: +2 pounds
_________________
Total Lost: 13 pounds lost for one month!!!!

Now I am not complaining by all means but I know that I could've done better. That is what upsets me the most. But we all have these moments when we are trying to do better things. So I have gotten back up, wiped the dust off of my pants, and I am already back on track!!!

Would you like to lose weight and get healthy on Nutrisystem too? Visit www.nutrisystem.com/nsblog today or call 888-853-4689.

*** As a member of the Nutrisystem Nation Blogger Program, Nutrisystem is providing their food and program to me for free in exchange for blogging about my journey. All opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way by receiving the free product. Yours may differ.***

My 550 Fan Celebration/Giveaway on Facebook Has Started!

2011-03-04T22:23:00.002-05:00

I am trying to have a 550 fan celebration giveaway on Facebook....trying in meaning that I am trying to get my Facebook fan level up to 550. I have been slacking so much on Facebook and I have let Twitter takeover! lol. Twitter is a great means of communication and social media, as well as Facebook.

I have been seeing **cough...and entering** some awesome fan celebration giveaways on Facebook lately. I think it is such a neat idea!!! I can't wait to have my 1000 fan celebration giveaway!!!!

So what is this giveaway that I am speaking of, you ask? Here is the drill:

I am currently seeking sponsors for any type of gift that they would like to offer for the giveaway....(yes, that means YOU). If you are wanting to get your Facebook fan numbers up, this is an awesome way to do it. You just send me the photo of the product, the link to your Facebook page, and that's it! I will post a picture of your product in my special Facebook photo album for the celebration and under the picture, I will include your link that they HAVE to "like" in order to be entered and I will have a short Google doc form for them to fill out (just name and email)...and it's that simple! Once the giveaway ends (April 4, 2011), I will chose the winners via Random.org and I will get the winner's information to you and you just have to mail the product to them or send a gift card via email if that is your prize.

Very simple YET very effective! And I know that people like easy entries! You will get tons of exposure throughout the entire month of the giveaway event. Here is an example of one of the pictures for the event...you can click HERE to see it!

If you are interested in joining in, you can contact me through my personal email page at Amy Shawver Snyder by clicking HERE or you can email me at aesnyder@suddenlink.net but fair warning, my email has been down ALL DAY LONG and I called the cable company and they are "working on it"....**sigh**

So come in and join the fun!!! Gain exposure!!!! And maybe win some awesome prizes!!!

March Is Kidney Month

2011-03-03T11:45:00.002-05:00

March is also Kidney Month from the National Kidney Foundation. This is another area that is important to him as my grandpa died from chronic kidney disease/kidney failure.

So be looking for more tips and important information throughout the month of March on how to have better kidney health and what you can do to help prevent this horrible disease.

March is National Nutrition Month

2011-03-03T11:42:00.003-05:00

Did you know that March is National Nutrition Month? If not, be on the lookout for several blog posts throughout the month of March to find out how to incorporate healthy eating patterns! I am excited to let you guys know some very important information.

Stay tuned! And make sure you sign up via email so you don't miss out my new posts!

More To Come Today (hopefully)

2011-03-03T11:32:00.003-05:00

As you all know, with my household sickness, I have become very behind on my blog. So today I am going to "try" and get everything caught up. What does this mean? If I actually get to spend the time that I am wanting on my blog that means:

Lots of great giveaways to post

Several great reviews for some awesome products that I would like to tell you about and that I am sure that you will want to hear about

Winner announcements from a few giveaways that have ended

And some blog posts about every day life

So.....wish me luck! I have still not had much sleep but I need to get back on track with EVERYTHING....

Have a great day everyone!

Why I Haven't Posted Lately

2011-03-02T14:26:00.005-05:00

The picture above truly represents how I am (and have been) feeling lately. For over the past two weeks, our household has been plagued with sickness. My husband and oldest son got "it" about two weeks ago. Fevers, coughing, sore throat, fatigue. It lasted about 4 days and then my youngest son got it, just as my husband and oldest son were getting over it. My youngest son, Joshua, had it for over a week. Poor guy. But his pediatrician said to let it play out. We did....and then I got it. Don't you love when sickness gets passed around like an offering plate? Seriously....I am still sick. Not nearly as bad but I have this horrible cough. And I am tired - very, very tired. But lack of sleeping is contributing to that.

Here has been my daily routine for the past several weeks:

3 a.m. - Go to bed.
7 a.m. - Get up and get my oldest son up and ready for school.
8 a.m. - Should lay back down but I usually just end up doing some things until I cannot stay awake anymore.
9:15 a.m. - Usually end up laying back down.
10:30 a.m. - Back up and getting my husbands clothes, lunch, etc ready for him to go to work.
1:10 p.m. - Say bye to my husband as he heads out the door.
2:00 p.m. - Struggling to stay awake....this is a bad time of the day...lol
3:20 p.m. - My oldest son gets home from school, so I fix him some lunch (snack).
6:00 p.m. - Cook dinner.
8:00 p.m. - Baths and get ready to put the kids in bed.
10:00 p.m. - STILL trying to get the kids in bed...
11:00 p.m. - Feeling lucky if the kids are in bed.
1:20 a.m. - My husband gets home and I talk to him until about 2:30 a.m.
3:00 a.m. - Finally go to sleep...and then this vicious cycle replays itself.

And in the midst of all of this, I am doing laundry, refereeing sibling fights, wishing that I could just take a nap but my youngest son is not fond of naps at all....blah.

My routine needs to change...no it HAS to change. I am tired and sick and sick and tired of being sick and tired. I am not accomplishing a whole lot right now. Any suggestions? I am open to ANY and ALL suggestions with this.

Plus, I am stuck being at home (which I really don't mind - just every now and then I really need to take care of business but I am so tired in the mornings that I don't feel like running out before my husband goes to work. And we only have one vehicle right now and it will probably take a few months before we get another one.

So if you have any suggestions, please tell me. I hate being tired and exhausted like this.

Four Winner Announcements - Did YOU Win?

2011-02-25T20:17:00.003-05:00

We have a lot of winner announcements so hang on to the edge of your seats to see if you were one of them! I will be emailing you guys in a bit but, if you see this before you get your email, just send me an email with your shipping address to: aesnyder@suddenlink.net and I will respond back! (I have a fussy child on my hands tonight...lol)

Winner of the Wubbzy Be Mine DVD and Candy Packs is....

No. 60 - amberpeps......

Winner of the EatSmart Digital Bathroom Scale is......

No. 229.....wbailey113@........

Winner of the Chuggington "Let's Ride the Rails" DVD is....

No. 150 Mandy at cluelessme8@.......

Winner of Laura Lee Carter's book "How To Believe in Love Again" is...

No. 2.....Lynn at dlhaynes57@.......

I will be emailing you all shortly. Thanks to all who entered. Remember you have 48 hours to respond to my email or a new winner will be chosen.

MORE GIVEAWAYS:

Don't forget, the giveaway for the Yoplait Kids prize pack ends TONIGHT at 11:59 EST. So you have time to enter, Tweet, etc. Click HERE to enter.

Plus you can enter to win a 3-month UNLIMITED subscription to JumpStart.com, Mathblaster.com and four free downloadable games by clicking HERE. This giveaway ends 2/28/2011. It has very low entries (16) so your chances are good!

Plus, I will be posting more giveaways on Monday and it will include Tellurian 2-in-1 body wash/shampoo and lotion - You will LOVE these for your little ones! Awesome stuff! Plus some other giveaways so be on the lookout!

Have a great evening!

Week 3 Weigh-In With Nutrisystem - #NSNation

2011-02-25T10:04:00.008-05:00

Three weeks already? It is hard to believe. Three weeks ago today, I started my journey to a new me with Nutrisystem. I honestly did not know where it would lead me, as by week two (and definitely by week 3) of all of my other diet attempts I would have already quit by now. It has been a vicious cycle for as long as I can remember. Here would be my regular scenario:

Day 1 of a new diet: Gung-Ho and super-excited about finally making a choice to be a better, healthier me.

Day 7 of a new diet: I would have lost some weight and be excited still.

Day 10 to 14 of a new diet: I would be getting tired of the diet.

Day 15 to 21 of a new diet: I would have definitely quit by then.

But, my friends, things have changed this time. I actually reached my 3rd week and I am going strong - QUITTING IS NOT AN OPTION!!!! Not this time.

Here is one tool of motivation....look what I received in the mail:

I received my first 10-pound NutriBear!!! By the time I am finished, I am going to have the whole family! lol.. I think it is great to receive these awards for your accomplishment. When I look at mine, it reminds me that my hard work is paying off and that I am closer to reaching my goal then I was the day before.

I was excited yesterday because I received part of my order for my 2nd month! And I know that I like all of these foods and that makes me feel stronger than ever! Next month, I am going to knock it out of the park! I ordered a lot of chcolate this time! Yes, you can have chocolate on the Nutrisystem plan! And, honestly, I think their chocolates are better than most, as I was not a "chocolate lover" before starting Nutrisystem - now I am hooked on theirs! A diet that you can eat chocolate every single day? Yes, with Nutrisystem you CAN!

Okay - so how did I do this week? I was happy when I got on the scales this morning because I did not get to start any exercise at all yet. We have been sick for a whole week and I just haven't had the energy to start. I have been coughing like there is no tomorrow.

Anyhow, without further delay.....I lost 3.4 pounds this week!!! Which brings me to a total of 15 pounds in 3 weeks!!!! Here is the breakdown so far:

Week 1: 11 pounds lost

Week 2: 0.6 pounds lost

Week 3: 3.4 pounds lost

_________________

Total Lost: 15 pounds

I am beyond thrilled! By now I would have quit, like I mentioned before. But I have so much motivation, as much as I had when I started, and this is so unlike me!!!! Haha...I know that sounds bad, but that is the truth. But I am learning throughout this process that I didn't pack on this weight overnight, that I need to give it some time, and that I AM WORTH IT!!!!

Don't think you can afford the Nutrisystem program? Check out what Nutrisystem has to offer and how they compare with another popular diet program in price and in benefits. Click HERE to see.

Would you like to lose weight and get healthy on Nutrisystem too? Visit www.nutrisystem.com/nsblog today or call 888-853-4689.

*** As a member of the Nutrisystem Nation Blogger Program, Nutrisystem is providing their food and program to me for free in exchange for blogging about my journey. All opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way by receiving the free product. Yours may differ.***

I Am Still Here....Just Sick

2011-02-24T18:03:00.002-05:00

It has been almost a week since I have made a blog post - YIKES! That is so rare for me, but the kids have been sick and I thought I was scraping by and not going to get it - well, I got it! And my youngest son is still sick, coughing up a storm. As much coughing that is going on, you would think that he and I were having a coughing contest. **not fun**

So I will try to post the winner of the How To Believe in Love Again book by Laura Lee Carter soon.

Don't forget we have three giveaways ending TONIGHT...the Chuggington "Let's the Ride the Rails" DVD, the Wubbzy DVD and prize pack, and the EatSmart Digital Bathroom Scale. So you have plenty of time to get your final entries in - all end tonight at 11:59 EST. Click on any of the sidebar giveaways. I don't have time to post - the little one is getting really sick.

Week 2 Weigh-In With Nutrisystem - #NSNation

2011-02-18T12:12:00.006-05:00

Two weeks already? Time has gone by so fast. After last week's weigh-in, I was so excited. But this week, I learned a lot of things. And, trust me, my learning isn't over with yet.

Since I had lost 11 pounds my first week, I thought I had it "altogether" with the program - that I knew what to eat, when to eat it, etc., without having to track my foods and look at my meal planner. Well, while I feel that I do know what to eat and when to eat it, tracking is a MUST! After a few days of not recording what I had been eating, I felt like I was lost a bit. I mean I did eat what was listed in my meal planner and I didn't eat anymore, but I could not go back and look at that days plan a few days from now if I had any questions or wanted to change some things. Does that make sense or did I just totally confuse you? I had no record of what I ate in case I needed to change my meals later on. So I started back to recording every single meal, snack, dessert before I ate it so there would be no problems or questions down the road. (I almost confused myself on that one).

Another thing that I learned was to NOT WEIGH MYSELF DAILY! And yes I am shouting because I want all of you who are on a weight loss program to NOT do this. The scales can be very discouraging and that could ultimately effect your diet progress. I had been following the plan exactly as mapped out in the meal planner and was not seeing any movement in the scale. I did this every day and one day, it showed that I had gained 8 pounds! Oh my goodness! I was thinking to myself that I had been following the plan exactly and that if I am going to gain weight then maybe I shouldn't even try...B-U-T... I talked myself out of it as being water weight, etc., because I knew there was NO WAY I could have actually gained 8 pounds. And then the next day came and a "visitor" had came (I am chuckling as I type this because I cannot believe I am putting this on my blog for the whole world to see)...you ladies know what I am talking about - the monthly visitor (still chuckling)....It had all made sense then. No wonder the scale wasn't moving much and no wonder I had been having some crazy readings. So I will just be weighing myself once-a-week (twice at most - maybe mid-week) and at the same time every time to ensure an accurate reading.

I also learned that the Nutrisystem support is wonderful! I was freaking out about the scale not moving and I just posted on their Facebook page and they answered me quickly. Plus I sent an email to my Nutrisystem rep, Meredith (who is totally fantastic) and she gave me some advice along with encouragement. I could've called the support number on the phone or even through their website. They really offer the most outstanding support and answer center that I have ever seen! I think that is very important to a person's success.

And not to mention, one of my very good friends has been such a load of encouragement. (Thank you Angela)....

Some of my favorite foods this week have been the maple brown sugar oatmeal for breakfast, the Caesar salad dressing with chicken for lunch (this stuff is amazing), and I loved the chili with beans for dinner. The desserts/snacks are getting limited because I ordered a few that I didn't care for and I orderem in multiples - eek...But I did have a Chocolate Crunch Bar and it is delicious! I will be ordering mostly chocolate for my desserts this time...and like I said previously, I was never a chocolate person but they have some delicious chocolates!!!

Okay - enough rambling....My weight loss (and yes I did say loss) for this week was 0.6 pounds. I am satisfied because I know that I have lost more and that there is a lot of bloating and things going on...lol...so be prepared for a knockout weigh-in next week! Plus, I am going to start exercising and going to measure myself because sometimes the scale won't move but you will have still lost inches. Good luck to everyone this week and don't get discouraged by numbers. This is a journey and I am sure going to enjoy reaching my destination!

Week 1: -11 pounds
Week 2: -0.6 pounds
__________________
Two week weight loss total: 11.6 pounds

For more information about Nutrisystem Nation you can click on the link or call 1-888-853-4689.

*** As a member of the Nutrisystem Nation Blogger Program, Nutrisystem is providing their food and program to me for free in exchange for blogging about my journey. All opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way by receiving the free product. Yours may differ.***

Don't Forget - SIX Giveaways Going On Now!

2011-02-16T12:08:00.003-05:00

Don't forget about my six giveaways going on right now. Just check my left sidebar on my page. They include:

Chuggington's First Ever DVD - "Let's Ride the Rails
Wubbzy Be Mine DVD and candy pack
How To Believe in Love Again by Laura Lee Carter
EatSmart Digital Bathroom Scale
Yoplait Kids Prize Pack (FREE product coupon and a lot of neat things)
3-month UNLIMITED subscription to JumpStart, Math Blasters, and 4 downloadable games.

Today has been a crazy day with very little sleep from last night, so that is why I didn't post the individual links.

Hope you all have a great day!

Holloway House Quick Shine Glide Sweeper Review

2011-02-16T11:24:00.005-05:00

Spring is in the air and that means a lot of cleaning, doesn't it? I have started "unofficially" and it is going great. I was thrilled when I learned that I was going to be able to review the Holloway House Quick Shine Glide Sweeper.

As taken from their website: Our new, patented Quick Shine Glide Sweeper is light as a feather and perfect for removing debris from hardwood, tile, marble, laminates, area rugs and carpet. You will be surprised at how effective this sweeper is at picking up dust bunnies, pet hair, grit, food particles and general debris. Glides over surfaces, spins and turns full circle and moves side-to-side because there are no wheels restricting movement. Sweeping brushes on all four sides allow cleaning right up along the baseboards and edges of your floors. Slides under and around tight areas effortlessly. You will find yourself grabbing for this mess eliminator almost daily. New touchless dirt tray. Simply pinch the tabs and the dirt tray empties. The rechargeable battery will provide long life. No restriction on movement as it is cordless!! Use it for years. Satisfaction Guaranteed.

I included everything above because I thought it was very important. When I received the product, it took maybe a minute or two to put it together. It was very simple to assemble as they had everything labeled. I was a little apprehensive about its effectiveness because of its lightweight but let me tell you, the Holloway House Quick Shine Glide Sweeper is my new favorite cleaning product. This thing is amazing! I have two sons and "things" get dropped on the floor at all times. I have to get my big vacuum cleaner out daily, and sometimes twice-a-day, just to keep things looking good. But this sweeper is going to be doing a lot of the touch-ups for now on.

I tested it out everywhere - my living room (carpeted), my kitchen (tile-like flooring), and the playroom (Berber carpet) and it did exceptional in all places! And you know those hard-to-reach places along your baseboards - it gets the tiny pieces that are stuck in there with ease! Before I would have to take the attachments off of my big vacuum cleaner to suck the dirt and particles out of those places. No more.

Being a busy mom, this sweeper is going to save me LOTS of time. And it does such a good job that I cannot stress how well it does. The convenience is outstanding. I honestly cannot say enough good things about it.

If sweeping has become an ugly routine for you daily, you really need to purchase this product. It will save you a lot of time that you could be doing something else.

I love the fact that it is cordless and has a rechargeable battery. I was wondering how this would hold up as well but it is wonderful and so powerful. I call this my Mighty Machine...lol. Just make sure you follow the time limit on charging your battery and for your first use.

You can buy this by clicking HERE for the price of $39.99 plus shipping. But if you "like" Holloway House on Facebook, by clicking HERE, you can get FREE SHIPPING! **I love FREE shipping on products!**

And be sure to check out their other great cleaning products on their website. They have a lot to offer in floor care, glass care, tub care, etc. Plus their website offers a lot of tips as well. I have my eye on a few items I would like to try, especially since I have seen the quality of their products by reviewing this item.

**Many thanks goes out to the above-mentioned sponsor for allowing me to participate in this review. I received the above-mentioned product for review purposes. In no way was my opinion influenced in any way by receiving the product. These are my opinions as yours may differ.**

It's That Time of the Year Again - Tax Time!!!

2011-02-15T23:21:00.004-05:00

Thank you to TurboTax for sponsoring my writing about household finances.Learn more about how TurboTax can help you find every tax deduction you deserve. I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective, which endorses Blog With Integrity, as I do.

So we all knew it was coming, didn't we? Tax time. Tax time can be a good thing (if you get money back) or a not so good thing (if you have to pay more money out) - either way, it is unavoidable.

For the most part, if you have children you can get a hefty return or the child tax credits can significantly reduce what you owe. Ah, I knew my kids would come in handy some time! **just kidding - sort of** =)

Actually taxes help paves our roadways and supply our children with a good education. And we all know how very important both of those are.

Do you go long form, short form, 1040, 1040EZ, 10-4 over and out? Okay, maybe the last one isn't a real tax form, but you get the picture. I have done my taxes online every year for the past four years and I love the ease of it. I certainly do not know what to look for on the forms but online it asks me questions and I give the answer. Simple as that. Now that's a big 10-4 on my 1040 good Buddy! **Okay, sorry.** =)

We actually got money back this year and it was so needed and it couldn't have came at a perfect time. Many changes are taking place in our household and this just helped those changes move forward.

So are you expecting anything back this year? If so, what are your plans with the extra cash in your pocket?

I think with all of this CB talk, I may have to go and watch Smoky and the Bandit again soon. Well, until next time, over and out and that's a big 10-4!!!

**The opinions in this blog post are purely my own, as yours may differ. Any product claim or other representation about a product or service should be verified by the above-mentioned agency. I was under no obligation to write a positive review. **

Six Great Giveaways Going On Now!

2011-02-15T11:45:00.002-05:00

I have heard back from the two winners that were announced yesterday. But if you didn't win, I have six more giveaways going on right now. Click on the links to enter.

Book: How To Believe in Love Again by Laura Lee Carter.
Chuggington's First Ever Full Length DVD - "Let's Ride the Rails".
Wubbzy Be Mine DVD and candy pack.
EatSmart Digital Bathroom Scale.
Yoplait Kids Prize Pack - Free coupon and all kinds of goodies.
3-month UNLIMITED subscription to Jumpstart.com, MathBlaster, and 4 downloadable games. This is open to everyone!

And remember these important rules:

You can tweet about the contest one time daily and remember you get TWO bonus entries for this one tweet.
Make sure you follow the mandatory entry first or all other entries will not be counted.
If you blog about a giveaway, you have to have at least 50 GFC followers to be counted. If you do blog about it, it can be a short and simple blog post that includes the link to that giveaway on my page. It doesn't have to be anything extravagant. =)
Most importantly, have fun. I have won several giveaways in the past and I really enjoy it. I haven't had time lately to enter any because I have been so busy, but hopefully soon.

And thanks to everyone who participates. Have a great day everyone!

JumpStart.com Review and Giveaway

2011-02-14T19:58:00.004-05:00

About Jumpstart:

Taken from their website: JumpStart®, an award-winning brand from Knowledge Adventure®, has set the standard in kids’ educational software for over 15 years. Today, the JumpStart experience is more engaging, interactive, and fun than ever! In 2009, we introduced JumpStart.com, an online adventure where 3 to 10-year-old kids master the skills needed to succeed in school and in life, through exploration, discovery, and learning. By blending interactive adventures and award-winning learning games into a safe, customizable online world, JumpStart inspires minds and JumpStarts self-confidence… the fun way.

Here is a screenshot from one of the levels my son was working on awhile back.

My oldest son, who is 8-1/2-years-old really has enjoyed playing this. I love the fact that the colors are so bright and colorful. The design on the website was very thought out. He really enjoyed making his own "Jumpee" character. This is a virtual 3D world that kids have fun playing and they enjoy that, but I love the fact that they have to use their brain power too in thinking, math, and language skills to get them to the next level and/or next mission. It's a win-win situation if you ask me. =)

Here is a little bit more about how the game works:

You create your character or characters (up to six) called Jumpees. The players then move through a virtual world. They have a Storyland for ages 3 to 5 years old where no reading is required. Then they have Adventureland for 5 to 8 year olds where it is more of a role playing type scenario.

And they also have MathBlaster.com, a new virtual world for ages 6 to 12 years of age to help with addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, decimals, etc. All with its colorful graphics and fun included.

You can find out more information about JumpStart.com by clicking on the link. They also have a wide variety of Wii, PC and MAC, and DS games available, as well as a blog that you can follow by clicking HERE. If you do get a subscription, or if you are just interested, you can check out their gaming guide by clicking HERE.

The kind folks at JumpStart.com is allowing me to offer a great giveaway for one lucky reader and this giveaway is open to anyone, anywhere. Just keep in mind that the game is in English so if that is not a problem for you, then be sure to enter to win because you are eligible! You will win a 3-month unlimited membership to JumpStart.com, MathBlaster.com, and 4 downloadable games.

CONTEST RULES:

MANDATORY ENTRY: 1. Follow me via GFC.

2. Contest ends at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, February 28, 2011.

3. Open to EVERYONE (keep in mind this is an English game version - if you speak and read English, no matter where you are, you CAN win).

BONUS ENTRIES:

1. Follow me on Facebook by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

2. Follow me on Twitter by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

3. Tweet about this contest. **2 bonus entries - can be tweeted daily for 2 extra bonus entries each day. **

4. Follow JumpStart on Facebook by clicking HERE. **2 entries**

5. Follow JumpStart on Twitter by clicking HERE. **2 entries**

6. Subscribe by email (right sidebar). If you already are following me, just let me know. **3 entries**

7. Write a blog post about this giveaway. **5 bonus entries** (must have at least 50 GFC followers).

**Thanks goes out to the company mentioned above or the PR agency for the company for supplying the above-mentioned products and allowing me to do this review and giveaway. Receiving the above-mentioned products did not influence my opinion in any way. These opinions are my own as yours may differ.**

Winner Announcement - Scentsy and Glee Kit - Did YOU Win?

2011-02-14T17:56:00.005-05:00

For the Scentsy winner - you will get your choice of Scentsy Plug-In Warmer and your choice of Scentsy bar. I absolutely love mine!

Congratulations goes out to:

SCMOMOF2BOYS said... Following you on twitter

Many thanks goes out to Cassie Stevens for sponsoring this giveaway! Check out her site HERE.

And the winner for their choice of Glee kit is.......

Alise at BigMama247. I follow you on Twitter.

Thanks to all who entered and, as usual, I have tons of giveaways going on now and even tons more to post! One day I will get caught up! =)

Have a great Valentine's Day everyone!

Give It To Me Monday - A Blog Hop and Giveaway Link Up!

2011-02-13T19:59:00.004-05:00

I have found tons of great sites and giveaways from this linky. So feel free to join in the fun! I am Number 4 by the way. =) Be sure to list or look on both links below - two separate ones! =)

And here it the giveaway linky:

Yoplait Kids Pack Review and Giveaway

2011-02-11T11:16:00.004-05:00

It is no secret in our home - my kids LOVE yogurt! I buy a container of yogurt, whether it be a 4-pack, 6-pack, or larger and it is gone within a few hours. They devour it! I am glad though that they love Yoplait Kids yogurt as one of their favorites. Yoplait Kids yogurt has a smooth texture and yummy fruit flavors your child will love, plus the calcium, vitamins and protein they need. And not to mention, Yoplait Kids yogurt has 25% less sugar than the leading kids yogurt.

Not only is Yoplait Kids good for our kids, but they are geared towards our kids, as they come in great packaging - like Lightening McQueen from "Cars", Dora, and Disney Princesses. They come in three great flavors:

Royal Strawberry Banana

Strawberry

Vroom Vroom Vanilla

I am sure you can guess which pictures go with each flavor! =)

And being around $2.00 or less for a pack of 4 at my local stores (Kroger and Wal-Mart), it is very affordable!

I always tell everyone that we should really buy stock in the Yoplait company - just to get some of our money back. Seriously, we buy THAT much yogurt! lol

Buy it: Go HERE to print off a 0.50 coupon off one container!

Win it: Thanks to Yoplait and My Blog Spark, they are allowing me to giveaway one of the prize packs that they sent to me. It is awesome! My kids loved everything in it - and so did I! The prize pack includes:

One coupon for Yoplait Kids yogurt
A foldable travel cooler (to take your yogurt on-the-go)
A nice colorful four-piece spoon set
A power magnet picture frame
Alphabet-shaped “Kiddie Bands” - these are so popular
A bounce ball
“My First Scavenger Hunt” card game

CONTEST RULES:

MANDATORY ENTRY: 1. Follow me via GFC and tell me which flavor you would like.

2. Contest ends at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, February 25, 2011.

3. Open to U.S. residents only.

BONUS ENTRIES:

1. Follow me on Facebook by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

2. Follow me on Twitter by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

3. Tweet about this contest. **2 bonus entries - can be tweeted daily for 2 extra bonus entries each day. **

4. Follow Yoplait Yogurt on Twitter (@YoplaitYogurt) by clicking HERE. **2 entries**

5. Follow Yoplait Yogurt on Facebook by clicking HERE. **2 entries**

6. Subscribe by email (right sidebar). If you already are following me, just let me know. **3 entries**

7. Write a blog post about this giveaway. **5 bonus entries** (must have at least 50 GFC followers).

**Thanks goes out to Yoplait through My Blog Spark for supplying the above-mentioned products and allowing me to do this review and giveaway. Receiving the above-mentioned products did not influence my opinion in any way. These opinions are my own as yours may differ.**

UNBELIEVABLE Week One Results of Nutrisystem Program #NSNation

2011-02-11T08:20:00.008-05:00

As you all know, this time last Friday, I began my Nutrisystem program. I was extremely excited to be a part of Nutrisystem Nation Blogger program. Finally - something "good" happened to me. It has been a rough several years and I had really let myself get out of control weight-wise. Food was my comfort! I think food is comfort for a lot of people - that is why the obesity rate is so high in the United States I am sure.

I am not going to lie, the first 2 to 3 days were hard! Why? The portion sizes were smaller than what I was used to but I guess I didn't get so overweight by eating proper proportions now did I? Nope. I overate a lot. And I didn't realize how much I had overeaten all of those years until I really started this plan.

It was hard because the first three days I was on the plan, the rest of my family were eating out every day those three days. Let me just say those moments could have broken me if I let them...but I didn't. I was strong! Hey, I even went in with my husband and kids to Burger King (day 1 mind you) and sat down and ordered NOTHING. I watched them eat and smelled the food and became a little grumpy....hahaha..I did. I was grumpy and I don't even like Burger King! But I knew that I had to either be serious about this program or continue on being unhealthy and missing out on things in life - I chose to be serious about the program.

After the third day, I woke up NOT hungry and, honestly, I cannot remember the last time I had woken up NOT hungry. Even when I haven't been dieting, I always woke up hungry. But not that day and, you know what, not the next day either! Progress!!!

The foods have been really good. Now there have been a few things that I haven't liked but that is to be expected. Everyone's taste is different but that is why I am so thrilled that Nutrisystem has such a great wide selection of foods - basically something for everyone!

My favorites so far have been the breakfast foods. I love the ham and cheese omlette (so yummy) and the blueberry muffins are good and moist like they were freshly baked a few minutes before you ate it! For lunch I really like the pastas and the chicken noodle soup. And dinner, OH MY GOODNESS!!!! The ravioli formaggio!!!! To die for! Seriously, I haven't tasted anything that good (even in a restaurant) and I am so picky about my sauces...I think I could eat it at least four times a week - no joke! My favorite snacks/desserts were the Nutrichocolates and the ice cream sandwiches!!! I was a little disappointed with the chips (I am a huge chip person) but that is okay - there were other things to make up for it!

Sooooo with all of this being said, are you wondering what my weight loss was for week one on Nutrisystem? Well, wait no more because I am about to tell you....

DRUM ROLL PLEASE .....FORGET DRUM ROLL - INSERT MARCHING BAND!!!!!!!

I lost 11 pounds on Week 1 of the Nutrisystem plan!!!! I was so excited that I have already emailed Meredith, my Nutrisystem rep, my scale picture!!!! Unbelievable and CRAZY GOOD results!!!! Woo-hoo!!!

Now I know that I will not lose like that from here on out but what a great way to start the program. I stuck to the plan like glue! The only thing I didn't do is for the last few days, I am sure that I didn't get my water intake in by about 2 to 3 cups. But the rest, I followed through EXACTLY as written. Just proof that YOU CAN DO THIS TOO!!!! This program WORKS and maybe one day I will get to be on a commercial. Yeah - stop laughing - but that is my goal right now!!! lolol. Hey - you never know! I never thought I would have this wonderful company giving me this awesome opportunity, but they did, and I am so happy!

In case you missed my last post, Nutrisystem has locked in their rates for a limited time to 2003 prices!!! Seriously - they have! So go HERE and check it out for yourself. This program works!!!! And seriously, for the price of ONE fast food meal, you can basically have your whole day of food from Nutrisystem for one day.

For more information about Nutrisystem Nation you can click on the link or call 1-888-853-4689.

*** As a member of the Nutrisystem Nation Blogger Program, Nutrisystem is providing their food and program to me for free in exchange for blogging about my journey. All opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way by receiving the free product. Yours may differ.***

Six Giveaways Happening Now (And More To Come)

2011-02-10T12:32:00.004-05:00

Wow! I have been busy trying to get caught up on my backlog. Here are my current six giveaways that I have going on now but be sure to keep an eye out because there are MORE to come!!!

Click HERE to enter to win this wonderful book by Laura Lee Carter! Zero entries so far!

Click HERE to enter to win your choice of Scentsy plug-in warmer and your choice of Scentsy bar. Ends 2/13.

This is an awesome and ACCURATE scale. Click HERE to enter to win this EatSmart Digital Bathroom Scale. Ends 2/24. Zero entries so far!

Honk your horns - choo choo! Win your very own first-ever DVD from Chuggington. Ends 2/24. Click HERE to enter. Zero entries so far!

Wubbzy Be Mine DVD and candy prize pack. Ends 2/24. Click HERE to enter. Zero entries so far!

Win your choice of Glee Kits - gummies, chocolate, or gum. Click HERE to enter. Ends 2/13. Low entries!

Giveaway Scout - A Great Place To Post Your Giveaways (and find out about giveaways too)

2011-02-10T12:24:00.002-05:00

Have you heard of Giveaway Scout? If not, you have to read this!

GiveawayScout brings you the latest giveaway promotions and coupon deals with products ranging from samples to high value jewelry and electronics. Blog giveaways and coupons have become extremely popular in recent years and thousands of blogs offer them on a regular basis. Giveaway Scout scans a large number of coupons, deals, and giveaway blogs and updates every hour with the latest offers.

Since giveaway contests usually expire quite quickly, we offer an automated update service that informs you by email when a new giveaway in your chosen category is discovered.

I love the fact that you get email notification when you sign up, as this will send you an automated email with the very newest giveaway listings!

For me, as a blogger, it is important to get the word out about my giveaways. And, for people who love to enter giveaways, get coupons, free samples, etc., this is a great way to find the most up-to-date listings.

EatSmart Digital Bathroom Scale - Review & Giveaway

2011-02-10T11:13:00.008-05:00

As you all know, I am a part of the Nutrisystem Nation blogger program and I really was excited to learn that I was going to be able to review the EatSmart Digital Bathroom Scale to help me track my weight loss efforts. I have a digital scale but it is less than precision. I would hop on, weigh myself, hop off. Then immediately follow the same routine three or four times. Why three or four times you ask? Well, it would give me different readings one after another! I hate that. So I just basically kept weighing myself until I had two readings that matched up. **sigh**

But I must say, with the EatSmart Digital Bathroom Scale I hop on ONE time and that is it! (Well actually, I get on twice just to double check that the readings are the same - and THEY ARE - I guess I have some issues from the torture that my old scale gave me).

Here is a little bit more about the scale:
The EatSmart Bathroom Scale is versatile, easy to use digital bathroom great for any home. Simply step on the scale and in seconds you'll have an accurate readout on the EatSmart's oversized 3.5" LCD display.

Features:
1. Large 3.5" LCD display - Easy to read from any distance
2. 4 high precision sensors - Consistent and accurate measurement
3. Max weight 400 lbs / 180 kgs
4. Sturdy tempered glass top and large 12" x 13" platform
5. Auto Calibrated; Auto Power-Off; 4 AAA batteries (included)
6. Video demonstration here.

My Thoughts: I absolutely love this scale! It has a very sleek, nice design. The numbers are large (aahhh, we are working on getting them down though - oh wait, I am talking about the actually height of the numbers, not what my scale reads!!!) and can be easily read. It has a great backlight that lights up. The quality is excellent in the scale - not flimsy at all. And, as mentioned before, the readings are EXACTLY THE SAME EVERY SINGLE TIME...I have tested and tested and not one time were the numbers different immediately following a weigh-in....NEVER!

EatSmart has some other great products that you can check out by clicking HERE.

You can purchase your own scale on Amazon right for $28.95 by clicking HERE. But wait......

Here is some exciting news! You have a chance to win your very own scale like the one above! Trust me, if you are following your weight, YOU WILL WANT THIS SCALE!!!!

CONTEST RULES:

MANDATORY ENTRY: 1. Tell me who you would like to win this scale for.

2. Contest ends at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, February 24, 2011.

3. Open to U.S. residents only.

BONUS ENTRIES:

1. Follow EatSmart Products on Facebook by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

2. Follow me on Facebook by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

3. Follow EatSmart Products (@eatsmartscales) on Twitter by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

4. Follow me on Twitter by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

5. Tweet about this contest. **2 bonus entries - can be tweeted daily for 2 extra bonus entries each day. **

Tweet This: #Win EatSmart Digital Scale from @harvest42morrow http://goo.gl/fb/1TtFI - #giveaway #contest #health #weightloss

6. Subscribe by email (right sidebar). If you already are following me, just let me know. **3 entries**

7. Write a blog post about this giveaway. **5 bonus entries** (must have at least 50 GFC followers).

**Thanks goes out to Karen for allowing me to do this review and giveaway. Receiving the above-mentioned product did not influence my opinion in any way. These opinions are my own as yours may differ.**

Wubbzy Be Mine DVD Review and Giveaway

2011-02-10T10:43:00.008-05:00

Valentine's Day is fast approaching! What a perfect time for the new release of Wubbzy Be Mine!

“Wubbzy Be Mine” (SRP $12.98) is an irresistible compilation of three episodes featuring the series’ well-loved characters, Wubbzy, Widget, Walden and Daizy.

In “Mr. Valentine,” Wuzzleburg’s trusty mailman falls ill on Valentine’s Day and Wubbzy steps in to deliver all the valentines, but he soon discovers there are none for him…. To Wubbzy’s surprise, his pals personally deliver his valentines, saving the best for last!

In “Cupid’s Helper,” Cupid pays a visit to Wuzzleburg, but loses his prized bubble-blower. When Wubbzy finds it, he starts blowing bubbles bringing together some of Wuzzleburg’s oddest couples.

And, in “My Speedy Valentine,” the third love-filled episode on the new release, Wubbzy and his pals try to find the fastest way ever to make their own valentines, but something keeps bugging Walden….

My Thoughts: We are huge Wubbzy fans as well! I really like the fact, as being a parent, that I know these episodes will not only bring laughs to my children but also some great lessons to be learned. And Wubbzy is just so darn cute! This Valentine's DVD is wonderful and our family really enjoyed it - each time - ahhh, we have watched it many, many times since we have received it. lol

Due to the horrendous snowy weather that most of the region has had lately, there was a delay in receiving my copy, which caused a delay in the posting of this giveaway. But let me assure you that even though Valentine's Day may pass, your kids will still LOVE this DVD and candy...Oh wait - I forgot to mention the candy! Well, here is more about the giveaway:

One lucky reader will win their very own Wubbzy Be Mine DVD, as well as some packets of Wubbzy candy. Check out how cute:

CONTEST RULES:

MANDATORY ENTRY: 1. Follow me via GFC.

2. Contest ends at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, February 24, 2011.

3. Open to U.S. residents only.

BONUS ENTRIES:

1. Follow me on Facebook by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

2. Follow me on Twitter by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

3. Tweet about this contest. **2 bonus entries - can be tweeted daily for 2 extra bonus entries each day. **

Tweet this: #Win Wubbzy Be Mine DVD and candy pack from @harvest42morrow - http://nblo.gs/e7pxC

4. Subscribe by email (right sidebar). If you already are following me, just let me know. **3 entries**

5. Write a blog post about this giveaway. **5 bonus entries** (must have at least 50 GFC followers).

6. Tell me who your favorite Wubbzy character is.

**Thanks goes out to Rachel allowing me to do this review and giveaway. Receiving the above-mentioned product did not influence my opinion in any way. These opinions are my own as yours may differ.**

Chuggington First Ever DVD - Review and Giveaway - Honk Your Horns!!!!

2011-02-10T09:55:00.005-05:00

Honk your horns - choo choo!!!! If you have little ones, you know this quote oh so well!

About Chuggington: An exciting new train property for preschoolers, “Chuggington” currently airs daily on Playhouse Disney, Disney Channel’s learning-focused programming block. The colorful and contemporary CGI-animated TV series follows the amusing adventures of three young trainees, Wilson, Brewster and Koko, as they learn to “ride the rails” of life and become productive chuggers. Featuring a dynamic fleet of relatable and diverse characters, each engaging episode of “Chuggington” is filled with positive life lessons that encourage and promote early social skills.

Chuggington: Let’s Ride The Rails (SRP: $16.98) welcomes preschoolers to the vibrant world of “Chuggington” with six fun-filled episodes that take young viewers on entertaining explorations, while gently reinforcing valuable lessons such as humility, trust, respect and teamwork. The episodes featured on the new DVD are “Clunky Wilson,” “Braking Brewster,” “Can’t Catch Koko,” “Old Puffer Pete’s Tour,” “Koko On Call” and “Hodge And The Magnet.” Special bonuses include “Chuggington”-themed coloring pages and activity sheets.

My Thoughts: My boys have loved Thomas as soon as they could recognize a train. Thomas this and Thomas that....until they found Chuggington! Sorry Thomas but you have been derailed!!! =) I love everything that Chuggington stands for! The episodes are very cute and the teach your youngsters some great values and, not to mention, their stories are very relatable. And, in my opinion, Chuggington is more easier to follow with their conversations than Thomas. I never thought there would come a day that Thomas would be in the No. 2 spot in our household, but Chuggington raced ahead to No. 1 in no time!

More Information: The first-ever Chuggington DVD, Chuggington: Let’s Ride The Rails, has pulled full steam ahead on February 8th hoping that your preschoolers will come on board! Chuggington: Let’s Ride The Rails welcomes preschoolers to the vibrant world of “Chuggington. ” You can purchase your very own copy of Chuggington's Let's Ride the Rails on Amazon.com for $9.99....or you can WIN your very own copy here!

CONTEST RULES:

MANDATORY ENTRY: 1. Tell me who you would like to win this for.

2. Contest ends at 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, February 24, 2011.

3. Open to U.S. residents only.

BONUS ENTRIES:

1. Follow me on Facebook by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

2. Follow Chuggington on Facebook by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries***

3. Follow me on Twitter by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

4. Follow Chuggington on Twitter by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

5. Tweet about this contest. **2 bonus entries - can be tweeted daily for 2 extra bonus entries each day. **

6. Subscribe by email (right sidebar). If you already are following me, just let me know. **2 entries**

7. Write a blog post about this giveaway. **5 bonus entries** (must have at least 50 GFC followers).

8. Follow me via GFC.

**Thanks goes out to Rachel allowing me to do this review and giveaway. Receiving the above-mentioned product did not influence my opinion in any way. These opinions are my own as yours may differ.**

"How To Believe In Love Again" by Laura Lee Carter Review and Giveaway

2011-02-09T14:00:00.009-05:00

I was thrilled when I learned that I was going to be able to review this book "How To Believe In Love Again" by Laura Lee Carter. I felt that this would be a great learning process. Even though I have been married for 10 years, I feel that I can continously learn things to improve my marriage. And this book helped tremendously! I learned several things about myself that I have held onto for all of these years with past hurts, past relationship problems, etc. This book provided a great formula about my own self-awareness that I know is going to improve my marriage even further through the upcoming years.

Here is a little bit about the book taken from her site that I think explains the book well:

Building on her professional and personal experiences, Laura Lee weaves together theory, inspiration, and practical advice to help you become a private detective in service to your own self-awareness and personal development. Only by first raising your awareness of sensitive areas around your own personal roadblocks like shame, trust, and forgiveness, and then creating new ways to work through past emotional obstacles, can you access a healthier believe in all that love might offer you now.

MY THOUGHTS:
I think so many times when relationship go wrong, we tend to blame it on the other party when, in fact, we really have to look inward if we constantly see relationships going wrong. I cannot express how much I think that everyone could benefit from reading this book - maybe even not for relationship issues but finding a lot out about ourselves.

I have had the chance to talk to Laura Lee a few times via email and she is super-nice....so nice that she is allowing me to offer a giveaway for one lucky reader. You can enter below or you can go to Barnes and Noble by clicking HERE to order a copy or Amazon.com by clicking HERE. You can also check out Laura Lee's website by clicking HERE - it has a ton of useful information and support.

But you can WIN your very own copy now. Here is your chance!

CONTEST RULES:

MANDATORY ENTRY: 1. Follow me via GFC.

2. Contest ends at 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, February 23, 2011.

3. Open to U.S. residents only.

BONUS ENTRIES:

1. Follow me on Facebook by clicking HERE. If you don't have a FB page, just tell me you don't have a FB page but you would like to enter.

2. Follow Laura Lee Carter on Facebook by clicking HERE. **3 bonus entries***

3. Follow me on Twitter by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

4. Follow Laura Lee Carter (@MidlifeQueen) on Twitter by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

5. Tweet about this contest. **2 bonus entries - can be tweeted daily for 2 extra bonus entries each day. **

6. Subscribe by email (right sidebar). If you already are following me, just let me know. **2 entries**

7. Write a blog post about this giveaway. **5 bonus entries** (must have at least 50 GFC followers).

8. Add Laura Lee Carter to your networked on LinkedIn by clicking HERE.

**Thanks goes out to Laura Lee Carter for sponsoring my review and giveaway. Receiving the above-mentioned product did not influence my opinion in any way. These opinions are my own as yours may differ.**

Three Winner Announcements - Did You Win?

2011-02-09T12:16:00.005-05:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE FOLLOWING WINNERS:

The winner for the Progresso Prize Pack is Lucky No. 96 - Claudia @ nclaudia25@........

The two Kidz Bop 19 winners are:

No. 14 - Robyn at abbyland2010@.........

and No. 121 - Andrea V at vickers@.........

Congratulations and thanks to all for entering! I will be sending out emails immediately after this so please respond within 48 hours.

Be sure to enter the Scentsy giveaway going on now where you can win your choice of Scentsy plug-in warmer and your choice of Scentsy bar! Click HERE to enter!!!

And also be sure to enter the Glee Gum Kit giveaway where you can win your choice of kit (gummies, chocolate, or gum kit). Click HERE to enter!!!!

And right now I am posting more giveaways...so they will not be announced in today's email letter, so be sure to keep checking throughout the day to enter. I know - I am WAYYYY behind on things and I apologize. It has just been out of my control lately.

Day 1: Nutrisystem Program #NSNation

2011-02-04T10:23:00.006-05:00

The day has finally arrived - day one of my Nutrisystem program. I went out last night and bought my extra fruits, veggies, proteins, and such that I needed to add to the plan. Let me just say this, Nutrisystem offers a wide variety of options to chose from with the add-ins; however, I am picky about certain things and I usually just stick to the same three or four items. With that being said, if you see a lot of the same foods that I add in, that is just due to my preference and not for the lack of choices. Make sense?

I have had my breakfast this morning and I honestly have to say that it was probably one of the better breakfasts that I have had in a long time! Not only was it delicious (and YES it was DELICIOUS!), but I felt good eating it knowing that it was a healthy meal. I actually sat down at my dining room table and ate like a normal person....hahaha. It seems like we have been on the go for the last several weeks that I haven't had a chance to do that.

Here is what my "plate" looked like:

For breakfast:

1 Nutrisystem Breakfast Entree. Mine was the ham and cheese omelet - (YUMMO people, YUMMO!!!
Dairy or a protein. I love cottage cheese, so I had 2/3-cup of low-fat cottage cheese.
Fruit - As you can see, I had a small orange.

And since I want to lose over 100 lbs, us folks need to add one carbohydrate for breakfast and dinner and add one fruit for lunch. So my carb was the slice of Sara Lee multigrain bread (which I toasted). I ate it without butter (of course, I am dieting!!) and I really liked it!!! I would have NEVER tried it plain if I weren't doing a weight loss program. Sad, huh?

I did want to point out something important. I was reading through my meal planner and it offers a list of acceptable foods and the serving size for each item. I was seriously SHOCKED about some foods that I thought would be an "unlimited portion"! I was shocked because of when I had dieted in the past, I would think certain foods I could eat unlimited amounts (hey, they are a fruit and/or vegetable so I can eat all I want and still lose weight -right?)...WRONG! By the time I was finished reading through the meal planner, I completely understood why I have failed SO MANY TIMES! But I also realized that within the same day of receiving the package from Nutrisystem, I learned something new and - to me - that is important. Because this is life-changing - this has to be the start of a new healthier lifestyle for me. I want to feel like I am 36 not 76....So I am feeling good about what I have seen so far...just excited about next week's weigh-in!!!!

For more information about Nutrisystem Nation you can click on the link or call 1-888-853-4689.

*** As a member of the Nutrisystem Nation Blogger Program, Nutrisystem is providing their food and program to me for free in exchange for blogging about my journey. All opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way by receiving the free product. Yours may differ.***

Yippee!! Received My Nutrisystem Final Package #NSNation

2011-02-03T11:40:00.007-05:00

This morning I woke up and then about 10 minutes later, UPS had stopped by my house and delivered my shelf-stable food from Nutrisystem. I have everything now so tomorrow, February 4, 2011, will be Day One of officially starting the Nutrisystem program.

Take a look at what I recieved:

That is a lot of food PLUS I have my freezer food!!!! (See below for a reminder).

These are my breakfast choices. I have to say, we love oatmeal at our house and we eat it for breakfast and for snacks...that is why I chose so many oatmeals! =)

The pink packages are my snacks...look at that - chocolate, pound cake, cookies, popcorn, and soy chips just to name a few....

These are my lunch....looks yummy!

I just noticed that my picture didn't go through with my dinners and I already stocked my shelves - so just take a look at the first picture above, and the dinner selections are in red.

And here is a reminder of my freezer food!

I absolutely LOVE the fact that they color-code everything. It makes it very simple to follow and arrange. I read through the program guide and they give you some great tips for dining out, a food tracker, and so many other available "help" features - not to mention you get full use of their online site and forum!!! PLUS - if you have a question, you can call and speak to someone from Nutrisystem to help answer your question. FANTASTIC!!!

So make sure you tune in every Friday, as that will be my official weigh-ins and blog posts regarding my journey on Nutrisystem...not to say that there won't be any other posts during the week (as I am sure there will be)....but that will be my official day! And I know what you are thinking - "so odd to start a weight loss plan on a Friday"...well, here is my reasoning:

First, I just cannot wait to put it off any longer. I have my kit, my food, etc...so I am READY to start. Second, six weeks from tomorrow will be my 37th birthday (yeah, I am getting old)...so I think six weeks would be a great time for a goal. I would LOVE to lose 25 pounds by then (but is that too far fetched?)...so I will set my goal to 20 pounds....which will still be a lot of hard work but I am determined...Keep in mind, I am really going to shoot for 25, but will definitely NOT be disappointed if I reach 20!!!

But before you go, let me tell you about an AMAZING OFFER FROM NUTRISYTEM.....

Join their Rollback Event!!! They have rolled back their prices to 2003 prices!!!! Do you think we could get Nutrisystem to team up with oil companies so they would roll back their prices on gas as well? Nonsense? Well, that is just it - you don't see companies, especially MAJOR companies, offering prices on their products from 8 years ago - but Nutrisystem is offering this!!!!

GET RECORD SAVINGS

START NOW

Lose weight in 2011 at 2003 prices!

Gorton's Seafood Winner Announcement - Did You Win?

2011-02-02T12:20:00.003-05:00

I am going to announce the winners in this post without posting the actual picture of Random.org. It is time consuming to do this and I have some things that needs to be taken care of today. I have noticed on some blogs that people don't post the actual picture of the generator - how do you feel about this? I have always posted the winning picture...but does it really matter? I would appreciate any thoughts and insight on this.

Gorton's Winners Are:

Lucky No. 2 - Maurine08@........net
Lucky No. 141 - Eve tweeted (shopgurl)
Lucky No. 195 - Mandy at cluelessme8@.......com
Lucky No. 132 - Shelly at michelejdaly@.....com
Lucky No. 75 - The "L" in Elf at elffamilyblog@.....com

I will be sending out an email shortly, but if you happen to see this first, just shoot me an email with your mailing address! Congratulations everyone!!!!

Be sure to enter my other giveaways going on now and still more to post....seriously, will I "ever" get caught up???? Help!!!! lol

Update On Purex Winners!

2011-02-02T12:16:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone! Just a FYI for the past Purex winners: I never heard back from one of the winners and I had to do the Random.org to find another winner. Congratulations to Brooke Anna!!! She has already confirmed. So I will be sending your information to the sponsor today...just wanted to inform you about the delay!

Have a great day everyone!

Diet Tips From Dr. Oz

2011-01-31T16:16:00.003-05:00

I was watching today's episode of Dr. Oz (had to record most of it) and I was only able to watch the first 15 minutes of it, but he had some great tips for weight loss strategies, so I thought I would pass them on.

When Is The Best Time To Weigh Yourself? He stated around 6:30 a.m. (what, that is just when I am getting my good sleep in...lol). He said as soon as you get up from sleeping, go to the bathroom, and then weigh yourself. Makes sense to me.

When Is The Most Effective Time To Exercise? He stated at 6:35 a.m. Basically 5 minutes after you get out of bed and weigh yourself. He said that this would be the most efficient time for fat-burning because it is actually before you eat anything, thus, allowing your exercise to burn fat and not food that you just ate. Great point!

What Are The Proper Times To Eat? He stated 7:30 a.m. for breakfast, 12:00 noon for lunch, and 6:00 p.m. for dinner. Now you can adjust this as to when you get up. He said the main important things to remember are:

Eat immediately after you exercise.

Eat your last meal at least 3 hours before you go to bed.

Here are the direct links so you can watch for yourself. He is inspiring to me!!!

Link One....

Link Two...

Link Three...

Hope you all find these as helpful as I did! I know that I will be following them VERY SOON!!! =)

WooHoo Just Received My Frozen Foods From Nutrisystem!! #NSNation

2011-01-31T11:05:00.008-05:00

I heard it. I heard the loud roar of the Schwan's truck. I heard it sitting outside yet when I looked out the window I did not see it. Darn...must not be my shipment. I hear it all of the time - our neighbors order from them. I recently heard that Schwan's has teamed up with Nutrisystem with their frozen foods. Oh well, maybe tomorrow, right? WRONG!!! A minute went by and I heard a loud knock at the door...Could it be? YES!!! It was the Schwan's man....see I didn't see him in my driveway because it is packed with snow. We use our 4-wheel drive to get in and out and have became used to it (is that bad?)....so he parked next door. **giggles**

Take a look at what this glorious box held!!!!

Now that is a lot of food!!!

Really...ice cream, ice cream sandwiches, ice cream bars - on a weight loss plan? YES!!!!
Steak hoagies, meatball hoagies, pancakes, and french toast!! Yummo!

And this is just about 1/3 of the food that I will be getting. I am waiting on the shelf-stable food to arrive.

My youngest son, who is 2-1/2-years-old saw everything and he started making the slurping noise (you know the kind that you make when something is good) every time he saw the ice cream, the pizzas, and the ice cream bars!!! I was like "No, no, no. These are ALL MINE!"...lol

So time is drawing closer and closer. Just waiting on the other shipment and to review the material and then I will be starting! Will keep you posted. This was a GREAT way to start off a Monday!

Agoo Tushie Huggers - Buy 1 Get 2 Free!!!

2011-01-31T09:04:00.004-05:00

Agoo Tushie Huggers - Buy 1 Get 2 FREE!!!!!

**Taken From Their Website**

Tushie Huggers

Tushie Huggers is the evolution of the Leg Hugger, we at Agoo call them Skeggings. Agoo have taken the beautiful patterns and designer look of our leggings and attached a chic skirt for baby girls and striking shorts for baby boys, to make a perfect 2-in-1 ensemble. The fashionable leggings protect and cover the legs, while the complementing overgarment make a perfect outfit no one would assume was connected. We made Tushie Huggers easy and comfortable, trendy and new so wearing them would be fun. Yet, more importantly, we priced them so everyone could enjoy them. We have used Cotton yarn for durability and wearability and put them in three simple sizes from 0 to 36 months.

A little over a year ago, I did a review on the Agoo leggings (see picture below) and I absolutely loved these! Their products were of high quality and very stylish! So I had to make a blog post about this great deal that they have going on now - buy 1 get 2 FREE of the Agoo Tushie Huggers.

Here is a breakdown of the deal:

1 Tushie Hugger Pack purchase = 3 Tushie Hugger Packs = $16.65 each
1 Tushie Hugger Bottoms purchase = 3 Tushie Hugger Bottoms = $10 each
1 Tushie Top purchase = 3 Tushie Tops = $8.35 each

I think this is absolutely a great deal!

Check out Agoo for more great deals and some really cute items!

**This was not a sponsored post as I received no compensation for posting. I did, however, receive a product sample in the past. I genuinely liked the quality of the product and wanted to inform my readers of this awesome deal. All opinions are my own, as yours may differ.**

Glee Gum Kit Review and Giveaway

2011-01-30T23:40:00.008-05:00

I am sure most, if not all, of you are familiar with Glee Gum. I remember it being in those candy/gum dispensers at local stores. When I was little, I would always ask my mom for some change because I loved that gum! And you got so many pieces too! And it is still around - still see it and, yes, I still get it too! One of our local Mexican restaurants has a big bowl of it in the four-piece packs at the register, so we always get some there as well. And you know what, I think it is perfect after a Mexican dinner!

I was excited when I learned that I was able to review this kit. We are huge gum lovers here!!! The thought of making our own gum sounded like it would be so much fun - and it was!

I did have pictures of our process in making it, but somehow they were deleted off of my phone (thanks to my 2-1/2-year-old)....but here is what the kit looks like and contains:

This was a fun project for me and my 8-1/2-year-old. Both of us really enjoyed it and the gum turned out great! It came with a cherry and cinnamon flavor. I liked them both a lot and my son liked the cherry flavored ones the best. He was so excited the whole time in making it and it was quality fun that we were able to spend together. He asked if he could take some to school because his teacher lets them chew gum during tests. She said she read somewhere that by chewing gum, it can stimulate your mind and it relieves stress (hmmm, maybe that is why I chew so much gum!!!)....I am telling her all about this kit because it has some educational purposes to it as well.

**Taken from their website**

Captivate kids' interest. Kids have always loved to stir, mix, touch and taste our great activity kits. Now children can make yummy treats while learning about: the rainforest, ethnobotany, chemistry, mathematics and measurement, ecology and environmental issues, home economics, nutrition, the oceans and more!

They offer not only gum making kits but also chocolate kits and gummies kits. How cool is that? Check out the boxes:

And here is one more bit of information for you:
Glee Gum is All Natural! Not only is Glee Gum free of artificial ingredients, it's also gluten-free and Feingold-diet approved. Now that's good news!

You can buy one of these kits (or all three if you'd like) for $13.00 a kit by clicking HERE. Plus you can buy all sorts of other great products. So here is your chance to win one of your very own kits (your choice):

CONTEST RULES:

1. MANDATORY ENTRY: Go to Glee Gum website by clicking HERE and tell me which kit you would like to win.

2. Contest ends at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, February 13, 2011.

3. Open to U.S. residents only.

BONUS ENTRIES:

1. Follow me on Facebook by clicking HERE. If you don't have a FB page, just tell me you don't have a FB page but you would like to enter.

2. Follow Glee Gum on Facebook by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries***

3. Follow me on Twitter by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

4. Follow Glee Gum on Twitter by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

5. Follow me via GFC (left sidebar).

6. Tweet about this contest. **2 bonus entries - can be tweeted daily for 2 extra bonus entries each day. **

7. Subscribe by email (right sidebar). If you already are following me, just let me know. **2 entries**

8. Write a blog post about this giveaway. **5 bonus entries** (must have at least 50 GFC followers).

**Thanks goes out to Glee Gum for sponsoring my review and giveaway. Receiving the above-mentioned products did not influence my opinion in any way. These opinions are my own as yours may differ.**

Four Giveaways Happening Now Plus More To Post!

2011-01-30T11:48:00.006-05:00

I currently have four giveaways posted but I am planning on posting several more today/tonight - maybe like 4 or 5 more! So definitely keep posted and if you aren't subscribed by email, do subscribe to keep yourself updated daily on current giveaways and winners!

Here are the four giveaways currently going on now:

Click HERE to enter to win your choice of Scentsy plug-in warmer and Scentsy bar. Ends 2/13.

Click HERE to enter to win Kidz Bop 19 CD - TWO winners! Ends 2/05/11.

Click HERE to win 2 full-sized Gorton product coupons of your choice. FIVE winners! This one ends tomorrow (1/31/11).

Click HERE to win a Progresso Prize pack (valued at $70) that includes free product coupon, yoga mat, water bottle, head/wrist bands. Ends 2/08/11. EXTREMELY LOW ENTRIES on this one.

Scentsy Review and Giveaway

2011-01-29T23:51:00.009-05:00

Ohhh, you guys knew how excited that I was to be able to try out Scentsy products without me even having to tell you (because you all know how much I love candles, tarts, fragrance, scents in general). I had been seeing a lot of talk about Scentsy but, as far as I know, there are no consultants in my area and I had never ordered from there before. Needless to say, I was thrilled when I learned that I was going to be able to review a Scentsy plug-in warmer and bar....and all thanks to Cassie Stevens, Independent Consultant for Scentsy! ***thank you, Cassie**

Take a look at some of these great plug-in warmers:

I chose the one below. Look at it during the day.....

and this is how it looks like lit up in the dark.....

I have it in my bathroom as I think this is the perfect size warmer for that room. My plug-in is up high (mid-mirror) and it is perfect!!! I love primitive and country styles and this warmer is absolutely gorgeous!

There are multiple things that I like about the warmer:

It is very sturdy. I was a little apprehensive about it being a plug-in warmer, as I was afraid that it would "topple" over. Not a chance. It has a great locking feature when you put warmer together...very sturdy.
I love the fact that it actually has an on/off switch. And again, the quality is very good in this product - made very well.
The depth of the "bowl". You can fit in nice sized tarts without having to compromise.

Now about the Scentsy Bars.....

Wow! There is such a selection that I was driving myself bonkers trying to pick out one scent...lol. So I sent Cassie three or four choices and told her to surprise me and she did....she sent me Home Sweet Home, which is such a nice fragrance. Cinnamony with maybe a flower mixture - not really sure but I really like it! I think I am going to try a few more scents VERY SOON!!! These are not dull scents at all but they are not overpowering either. I think the fragrance level is great (and I am hard to please in this area....lol).

You can purchase the plug-in warmers for $15.00 and the Scentsy bars for $5.00 each (which you get about 8 cubes in the bar) or.....

YOU CAN WIN YOUR OWN SET NOW......

Cassie, being the super-nice gal that she is, is letting me have a giveaway for a Scentsy plug-in warmer of your choice, as well as one package of Scentsy bar of your choice! Here is how you can enter to win!!!!

CONTEST RULES:

1. MANDATORY ENTRY: Go to Cassie's Scentsy bar page by clicking HERE and tell me which scent you would like to try.

2. Contest ends at 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, February 13, 2011.

3. Open to U.S. residents only.

BONUS ENTRIES:

1. Follow me on Facebook by clicking HERE. If you don't have a FB page, just tell me you don't have a FB page but you would like to enter.

2. Follow Cassie Stevens - Independent Scentsy Consultant on Facebook by clicking HERE. **3 bonus entries***

3. Follow me on Twitter by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

4. Subscribe to Cassie's Scentsy newsletter by clicking HERE. You will be notified of the Warmer and Scent of the Month every month, in which you would receive a 10% discount for that month.

5. Follow me via GFC (left sidebar).

6. Tweet about this contest. **2 bonus entries - can be tweeted daily for 2 extra bonus entries each day. **

7. Subscribe by email (right sidebar). If you already are following me, just let me know. **2 entries**

8. Write a blog post about this giveaway. **5 bonus entries** (must have at least 50 GFC followers).

**Thanks goes out to Cassie for sponsoring my review and giveaway. Receiving the above-mentioned products did not influence my opinion in any way. These opinions are my own as yours may differ.**

Nutrisystem Package Is On Its Way To Me - #NSNation

2011-01-29T15:16:00.004-05:00

I was so excited when I received the email today that my Nutrisystem food package was on its way!!! Yippee!!! But after a few minutes, fear set in. It was at that moment that I realized "this is real". I have spent years, and I mean years, watching all of the Nutrisystem informercials and watching all of their spots on QVC. I loved listening to people call in and tell about their wonderful weight loss experience with Nutrisystem and how great the foods tasted. Now it is my turn! I was starting to feel like "What if I don't do well?" But then that fear went away quickly because I know that I will do this. These opportunities just don't come around very often, especially to ME!

So I went out last night and bought myself a plate. Yes, you read right, a plate! I have read in so many places that when you are dieting or trying to watch your food intake, that you should buy a special plate for your meals to help proportion size. Mine may be a little big (not for sure until I get the food) but I thought it was gorgeous. Take a look:

I hate that you cannot see the true detail in the plate in my picture. I thought it looked great with my tablecloth. It makes me want to go and buy the whole set, but at $5.00 a plate, I may have to buy one at a time (or not)...I am cheap and very frugral and I kind of cringed at the thought of spending $5.00 for one plate, but I deserved it...lol. I know I sound crazy but if you only knew how frugal I really am!!! =)

Once my package arrives next week, I will post pictures of its contents. And, after I read thoroughly through the plan, I will be starting it! Super-duper excited!

Oh - and thanks for the support that I have received so far! You guys are awesome!

For more information about Nutrisystem Nation you can click on the link or call 1-888-853-4689.

*** As a member of the Nutrisystem Nation Blogger Program, Nutrisystem is providing their food and program to me for free in exchange for blogging about my journey. All opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way by receiving the free product. Yours may differ.***

Sensational Sunday Follow (posting ahead of schedule)

2011-01-29T11:42:00.002-05:00

So I am going to go ahead and post my Sensational Sunday Follow blog hop a little early today as I have tons of things to get accomplished today and tomorrow and don't want to "forget" about posting it.

PLUS - here is some exciting news with it! I was going to do this before but decided to go ahead and start it with my next edition (not this one). I am going to feature a blogger each week to be in the No. 2 position and to post a little bit about that blogger and their blog. If you would like to be considered to be featured, just leave a comment on this blog post. I will do the Random.org generator to see who it picks. I will pick the guest post on Monday and will send a question and answer email to be completed by Friday so I can have all information up by the next Sensational Sunday Follow and.....I promise, I will work on getting a button for Sensational Sunday Follow! =)

Remember there are no rules but we would love to have a follow-back as this exposes us to a lot of great blogs. I have found so many great blogs through blog hops! And this is a free-for-all blog hop as you can post your blog, Twitter and Facebook pages, etc.

Thanks for linking up and have a great day!

Saturday Stalk Hop - Linky Is Up

2011-01-28T16:09:00.002-05:00

Thanks for those who have been participating from week to week and a big welcome to you if this is your first time. We are so glad you are here! This blog hop is all about having fun, meeting new bloggers and building new readership!

This week's Featured Blog is: Becoming Brea!

Blog Hop Rules
1. Please follow us: Just Married with Coupons AND Debbie Does Coupons + The Featured Guest - #3 Spot then we WILL FOLLOW YOU BACK.
2. Copy the Saturday Stalk into a blog post.
3. Come back and post the direct link to your blog post here into the link forms below.
4. Follow as many participants as you would like, leave them a comment letting them know you're are following them.
5. Follow back anyone that is now following you and leave them a comment back letting them know you're following back through this event
6. Please follow the rules or we will have to delete you from the list =(

Don't Forget To Enter These Three Giveaways Going On Now!

2011-01-28T11:02:00.006-05:00

Just a reminder about these three giveaways going on now....

Gorton's Seafood - FIVE winners will win 2 coupons each for a full-sized product! Click HERE to enter. Only 126 entries! Ends 1/31/11.

Kidz Bop 19 CD - TWO winners will win their very own CD. Click HERE to enter. Only 84 entries. Ends 2/05/11.

Progresso Prize Pack - includes a yoga mat (very nice), water bottle, hand band, wrist bands, and coupon for a full-size product of your choice. Value at $70. Click HERE to enter. Only 10 entries!!! Ends 2/08/11.

Please Pray For My Family and Updates

2011-01-28T10:54:00.003-05:00

I was planning on posting a few giveaways last night, but my mom fell and broke her hip. As you know she has a form of bone cancer (multiple myeloma) which makes her bones very brittle. She had been doing so well for the past few days and this is just upsetting that she has to go through this now. It seems like her and my dad cannot catch a break. She will have to have hip surgery, and I guess they will be doing her back surgery as well. So please keep her in your prayers - her name is Sara Shawver. I hope and pray she gets a speedy recovery soon.

And, to make matters worse, we have had very heavy snowfall the past few days and the ambulance got stuck in the driveaway and had to be TOWED out! *sigh*

I am going to try to "plan" on posting the giveaways later today. They will probably be posted after my email goes out for my updates, so you may want to check back in later on to see.

My Story and My Exciting News #NSNation

2011-01-26T23:50:00.007-05:00

Based on the above picture, I bet you know what my exciting news is....I am officially a Nutrisystem Nation blogger! ***hang on so I can finish jumping up and down!*** Okay, I am back!

Yes, I was thrilled when I found out that I was going to be a part of this. Thrilled and "thankful". I have gotten to such a place that it is almost hard to swallow at times and all I can ever ask is "How did I get here?" Well, I guess it could be obvious - food. Too much food. Waaayyyy too much food. That will get you every time! *sigh*

But what's done is done, right? The only thing to do is move forward, move ahead, and move on to a better, healthier me and what better way than with the Nutrisystem program!

I want (okay need) to lose a lot of weight - a whole person actually...Yikes! Well, here it goes...I want to lose about 118 pounds! ***hang on while I go pick myself up out of the floor*** When Meredith from Nutrisystem asked me how much weight I wanted to lose, I weighed myself, had a nice cry almost, and kept trying to think positive, while I typed the amount in an email. How mortifying! Well it's not like I can hide it when I go out. I mean, there is no magical shirt out there that will hide that for you! **okay, my sarcasm has to stop?!?!?!**

As you can tell, this is a touchy and "personal" matter for me. I am mad. I am mad at the way I have let myself become. Heck, I don't even know "me" anymore. I used to be so fun, so outgoing. Now I "hide" behind my weight. Or should I say, I "let" my weight take things away from me. And I am putting that to a stop RIGHT NOW (well not this second, but just as soon as my Nutrisystem box arrives I will!!!!)...are you laughing? Or do you think I am crazy??? Maybe a little bit of both?!?!? My family and friends tend to "think it's funny" when I am having a meltdown or a crisis. =)

So as you can see, I need to do this. I WANT TO DO THIS! And you know what, I know wholeheartedly that I WILL do this! And I want you to be a part of this with me, as I will be posting once-a-week about my progress, struggles, food choices, exciting news from Nutrisystem, and such. And I am sure you will laugh along the way - or at least I sure hope that I don't make you cry! =)

And on a serious note, I was making my food choices today for my order...I almost felt guilty. I was thinking "Man, I am going to be eating G-O-O-D!" Haha...The foods looked amazing! Check out some of these things:

Do these not look delicious??? I cannot wait to try them. So, if you are brave enough, follow me on my journey! I am sure it is going to be one great ride!

For more information about Nutrisystem Nation you can click on the link or call 1-888-853-4689.

*** As a member of the Nutrisystem Nation Blogger Program, Nutrisystem is providing their food and program to me for free in exchange for blogging about my journey. All opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way by receiving the free product. Yours may differ.***

Scandle Candle Review

2011-01-26T01:06:00.004-05:00

I was excited when I learned that I was able to review a travel-sized candle from Scandle Candle. Come on - you all know I love my scents!!! (And I really love my sense too but that is a whole other topic to be discussed later on!)...

This isn't your ordinary candle - it is the first Shimmering Body Candle Available Exclusively from Scandle!

The patent pending Scandle Shimmering Body Candle is a candle that burns at 2° above body temperature to produce a shimmering, fragrant lotion to give your skin a healthy, sexy & flawless glow!

Made from 100% natural ingredients, Scandle’s Shimmering Body Candle is the first candle to:

Give Skin a Natural Shimmer
Hide Wrinkles & Imperfections by Deflecting Light
Hydrate Skin
While Adding Aroma & Ambiance to Any Setting

Scandle's Shimmering Travel Candle is in a square lightweight tin for easy application. Silicone band can be removed after use and used as an eco-wrist band reminder to "Reduce. Reuse. Recycle."

MY THOUGHTS: You read it right! It is a candle that acts as a body lotion as well and you better believe that I tried this out! It did exactly what it claimed to do! I loved the shimmer that it gave to my skin and my skin was soft everywhere that I applied it! Not to mention the scent - WOW! I was able to try the Limited Edition for Valentine's Day Sugar Kisses scent and I absolutely loved it!

The candle lasted a long time. I never thought it would last as long as it did when it arrived, as I thought the tin seemed a little small but do not let that fool you. I think it actually outlasted some bigger candles! The scent was a strong scent but definitely not overpowering so, in my opinion, they nailed that!

You can click HERE to take a look at what other scents they have in the tin. You can purchase one for $13.95.

I will add Scandle Candle to one of my favorites as this candle surely produced everything that I was hoping for!

**Many thanks go out to Scandle Candle for allowing me to participate in this review. I was provided with the above-mentioned product in exchange for writing an honest review. In no way was my opinion influenced by receiving the product. These opinions are my own as yours may differ. **

Progresso Souper You Debut and Givaway

2011-01-25T11:03:00.004-05:00

Now the new year has begun and the resolutions have been made and failed already - yes, I said it!!! But enough time has passed now that we are picking ourselves up and realizing that we "can" make the resolutions stick.

Most of our resolutions revolve around weight management or just getting healthier. If you fall in this category, then keep reading. This is some exciting news!

Progresso soup is available in 40 delicious flavors with 100 calories or less. Progresso® Soup can help curb your hunger, making it easier for you to stick to your weight management plan all year long. With hearty ingredients like pasta, beans, corn and rice, and flavor-packed vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, and peppers, Progresso Soup varieties with 100 calories or less offer a good source of fiber and a full serving of vegetables.

To help kick off a new outlook on the New Year, Progresso is excited to announce the return of the "Souper YouTM Debut" contest! From January 3rd through March 16th, you and your readers can visit Progresso on Facebook to enter for the chance to win a full makeover in New York City.

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

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

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

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

Progresso through My Blog Spark kindly sent me the 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. The soups were delicious and I really felt good about eating them as they were all 100 calories or less. No guilt here! And the variety is unbelievable. What is even better, is that Progresso through My Blog Spark is allowing me to giveaway a prize pack to one lucky reader! The VIP prize pack will contain one coupon for Progresso soup, a yoga mat (and it is very nice), water bottle, set of aerobic bands, sport headband, and two sport wristbands. I think this is a great addition to any healthy routine. ARV: $70

Contest Rules

MANDATORY ENTRY:

1. You must be a follower via GFC (left sidebar). And tell me which soup do you think you would like best or is your favorite.

2. Giveaway ends on Tuesday, February 8, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. (EST).

3. Open to U.S. residents only.

BONUS ENTRIES:
1. If you are not following me by e-mail (see right side panel at top - subscribe by email), follow me. If you are following me, just leave a separate comment telling me that you are following.

2. Follow me on Twitter here. TWO BONUS entries for this - leave a separate comment for each one. ALSO - tweet about my giveaway, include the link in a comment for two more bonus entries. You can tweet ONCE DAILY (send separate links) to gain 2 bonus entries DAILY!

3. Follow me on Facebook here.

4. Write a blog post about my giveaway and include your link in the comment section within 4 hours of the end of the giveaway- 5 bonus entries!

Make sure you leave your email address in all comments so, if you are the winner, I can contact you.

**The product, prize pack, information, online coupon and giveaway were all provided by Progresso through MyBlogSpark.These opinions are my own and were not influenced in any way, as yours may differ.**

Pay It Forward

2011-01-25T10:42:00.003-05:00

Yesterday so many people stepped up for me in order to do several nice things for me....and they were so different in so many ways. And I was (and still am) very appreciative and very thankful. That is what has brought me to this post - Pay It Forward.

What exactly does it mean to Pay It Forward? The expression "pay it forward" is used to describe the concept of basically you try to do good to others when good has been done to you - or - instead of taking your turn in something good, pass it to someone else. Nice concept, huh? Wouldn't it be nice if we all tried this? Just think how different our world would be.

There is a movement called Pay It Forward Movement - you can click HERE to read some inspiring stories about this and find out more information. It was started to gather all of the stories and information in one place. This is great. I even read on there about the movie, Pay It Forward.

And there was even a movie called Pay It Forward. Here is the trailer - and I am definitely going to try to find this - it looks great!

So...think of ways that you can Pay It Forward today...and every day!

Time For Tell Me Tuesday

2011-01-25T09:38:00.002-05:00

Last minute thinking - I decided to start a Tuesday giveaway blog hop. You all know I have my Sensational Sunday Follow on Sunday so I thought almost mid-week, we could announce our giveaways. Not too much is happening on Tuesdays so why not link up and enter some giveaways! I know I love entering and winning as well. I will make this a blog hop as well, so feel free to re-post. Since I haven't announced it, I am not sure how many will be on today but we shall see! I named it Tell-Me Tuesday because I want you to tell me all about your giveaway! **I know, I know - the corniness just keeps coming out!**

Many Thanks To Some Fellow Bloggers

2011-01-25T08:32:00.002-05:00

So you all know what kind of mess I have had on my blog for the last few days trying to re-design it. WOW! My goodness. I just wanted to say "thank you" to some fellow bloggers who helped me resolve the issues.

My dear friend, Lesley....wow - she worked hard and tried so many different headers for me, until she became aggravated too...lol. I told her "my" luck was rubbing off onto her. You can check out her cute blog over at Dragonflies 'n Daydreams.

And also a big thank you to Jenny, who basically solved the issue - told me exactly what I was doing wrong within the blink of an eye! (I felt like such a moron...lol) and she even designed me a new header - will probably be using it a little later on but it is too cute! So head on over and check her nice blog out at I'm a full-time mummy.

Thanks again guys!

Gorton's Seafood Giveaway (5 winners) and Exciting Other Contests by Gorton's

2011-01-24T14:19:00.006-05:00

Gorton's has been around since 1849 so you know what this means - they are reliable and they are good! Otherwise, they would have been out when the next wave rolled in...(I know - maybe that was corny, but it made me chuckle)...

If you have never tried them, I am sure you recognize their yellow boxes but things are about to change - they are going green. Here is a little snip from their website about this: Environmental responsibility and preserving our natural resources goes beyond our long-time commitment to sustainable fishing practices. It also involves reducing the environmental impact of the work we do and the products we make. As a leader in frozen seafood, we believe that we must also be a leader in environmentally responsible practices, and set a positive example in our industry and our communities.

Gorton's offers such a wide variety of products - from shrimp, tilapia, fish tenders, salmon grilled fillets, to battered fillets and fishsticks just to name a few. There is such a huge range of cooking options that you have for any of these products. And you can check out their recipe page by clicking HERE.

We are huge lovers of the beer battered fillets - YUMMO!

Now here is some exciting news! Gorton's is having some MAJORLY good giveaways going on at Facebook with their Gorton's Seafood January Grilled Facebook Giveaway! They will be giving away: One thousand (1000) FREE grilled product coupons will be given out in four (4) Drawings of two-hundred fifty coupons (250) on: January 10, 2011; January 17, 2011; January 24, 2011; January 31, 2011. One (1) Grand Prize: Xbox 360 Console with Kinect (Retail Value $300.00) to be drawn on January 31, 2011. So you still have a chance to win the 250 coupons and/or the Xbox 360 Kinect - either prize would be awesome!!!!

THE GIVEAWAY:
Five (5) lucky readers will receive two (2) coupons for a full-sized Gorton's product.

I will stop talking and let you get to entering!

CONTEST RULES:

1. MANDATORY ENTRY: Follow me via GFC (left sidebar) and tell me which is your favorite (or would be favorite) of Gorton's seafood.

2. Contest ends at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, January 31, 2011.

3. Open to U.S. residents only.

BONUS ENTRIES:

1. Follow me on Facebook by clicking HERE. If you don't have a FB page, just tell me you don't have a FB page but you would like to enter.

2. Follow Gorton's on Facebook by clicking HERE. Make sure you do this so you can be entered to win all of the great prizes and get updates! **3 bonus entries***

3. Once you follow Gorton's on Facebook, tell them that Amy from Harvest For Tomorrow sent you!

4. Follow me on Twitter by clicking HERE. **2 bonus entries**

5. Follow Gorton's on Twitter by clicking HERE . **2 bonus entries**

6. Tweet about Gorton's January Grilled Giveaway. **2 bonus entries - can be tweeted daily for 2 extra bonus entries. **

7. Tell us what you think your Gorton's favorite recipe would be by clicking HERE.

8. Subscribe by email (right sidebar). If you already are following me, just let me know. **2 entries**

**Thanks goes out Gorton's for supplying everything for my review and giveaways. These opinions are my own and receiving the above-mentioned product did not influence my opinion in any way. These are my own as yours may differ.**

This Designing Is Stressing Me Out!

2011-01-24T09:17:00.002-05:00

I really like the owls and the colors but I have to make my header better. I am not sure why it is a little blurry and I need to work on the larger letters and such. But this will have to do for now. I am exhausted...So I guess I will be working on it later. Hope no one minds the "mess" right now.

New Blog Design - Hmmm..Keep It Or Change It Again?

2011-01-23T23:36:00.002-05:00

So I was fooling around with my blog and it ended up to this...not sure if I like it, if it is too "busy", or if this (like everything else) I just don't succumb to change very well.

What are your thoughts? I may fool around with it some more until I come up with something that I really like. I asked my husband what he thought and he asked "Was Abe honest?" Really - what kind of question is that? He was supposed to be honest but was he truly honest? I know - simple question that I made it out to be something confusing. So after yelling at him (I'm sorry), he said that my blog needed changed up a bit....lol

What do you think? Honest opinions please....

Four Winners To Announce - Are You One of Them?

2011-01-23T11:59:00.008-05:00

The giveaways for Silly Band Factory kits (3 winners) and the $15 gift code to ThePrincessDress.com has came to a close. Check to see if your name is on the winner's list!

Silly Band Factory kits:

#85 - Cassie at stevensc81@......com

#34 - independentmami at super_alba_star@.....com

#101 - Teresa at tmyoung@rochester....com

And, wow, these boxes are all over the place! I thought if I made them a bit smaller, I could fit all three on one line. But right now I am in a hurry, so hope this "mess" doesn't hurt your eyes!!! lolol..

Now...for the winner of the $15 gift code to ThePrincessDress.com...

#44 - Polly....pkeintz@.......com

Thanks to everyone who entered! And I am in getting back into the "groove" of things, so (fingers crossed) I will be able to post all of my giveaways in the next day or so - I have several!!!

I will be sending out an email today but if you see this first, just send me your shipping address. Again, thanks so much for entering!

Newest Giveaway Announcement:

In case you missed it - I have a new giveaway up for Kidz Bop 19 CD with TWO winners! Check out the review and enter to win HERE.

Some Awesome Freebies Via Facebook (thanks Shari)

2011-01-22T21:21:00.003-05:00

So my dear friend Shari, over at 1grown2togo has informed me of some great Facebook giveaways. Thank you, my dear gracious, Shari! Here is what she told me:

Herbal Essence shampoo - they are giving away 6,000 coupons tomorrow (Sunday - 1/23/11) starting at 12 p.m. EST.

Plus, if you "like" Downy on Facebook, starting Monday (1/24/11), they will be having giveaways as well. Click HERE.

From Jan. 24 through Jan. 27, 2011, Clairol will be giving away 25,000 of their new Color Blend Foam each day (oh how my gray hairs would love this....) - Yeah, I am only 36 but my, what gray hairs I have!!! Click HERE to visit their FB page...and "like" them. Make sure you stop by 1grown2togo to see when their release dates will be. Follow her on FB to get the up-to-the-minute (or moment) finds and notices! =)

Again, many, many thanks Shari for the news!!! Oh, did I mention that you can find Shari and these awesome deals at 1grown2togo? Okay, okay...I thought I had - just wanted to make sure!

Sensational Sunday Follow - It's A Blog Hop!

2011-01-22T20:12:00.002-05:00

Time again for Sensational Sunday Follow blog hop! Hey, I am actually getting it up and running early! That must be a record! Now I need to work on a button for it - so maybe next week, I will have a cute button.

Feel free to add any links to your blogs, Facebook and Twitter pages, etc. We would all love a follow back, but there are no rules. As I have said before, I find a lot of great blogs and interesting things from these hops. Thanks for linking up and let's make this one a huge hit!

Now - stop reading and start typing your links! =)

Kidz Bop 19 Review and Giveaway (2 winners)

2011-01-22T15:16:00.006-05:00

If you have kids, then you are probably well aware of the Kidz Bop series. They are today's biggest hits sungs by kid for kids....and I love them!
We have songs that we like and then the Kidz Bop series makes them more kid-friendly. I know my boys like the songs. And the CDs come with today's top hits.
In Kidz Bop 19 you get these great songs:

DJ Got Us Falling In Love
Firework
Just The Way You Are
Dynamite
Cooler Than Me
Airplanes
Club Can't Handle Me
Bulletproof
Animal
Just A Dream - our favorite
Magic
Mine
Please Don't Go
The Time
The Only Exception
Somebody To Love

I must say - these kids have true talent!!! The songs are done very well. My kids surely danced to these tunes. This is really nice because you don't have to worry about explicit language or inappropriate content and, being a parent, that is great!

Here is a video of one of the songs on the CD - this is a great dancing song - gets you in the mood for some fun dancing!

You can purchase your very own copy by clicking HERE for $13.98.

But I am proud to announce that the readers of Harvest For Tomorrow have a chance to win 2 of these great CDs. Here is how:

Contest Rules

MANDATORY ENTRY:

1. You must follow me on Facebook by clicking HERE (leave your FB name) or if you don't have a Facebook account, just tell me what song you like the best on the CD.

2. Giveaway ends on Saturday, February 5, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. (EST).

3. Open to U.S. residents only.

BONUS ENTRIES:
1. Follow me via GFC (left sidebar).

2. If you are not following me by e-mail (see right side panel at top - subscribe by email), follow me. If you are following me, just leave a separate comment telling me that you are following.

3. Follow me on Twitter here. TWO BONUS entries for this - leave a separate comment for each one. ALSO - tweet about my giveaway, include the link in a comment for two more bonus entries. You can tweet ONCE DAILY (send separate links) to gain 2 bonus entries DAILY!

4. Follow Kidz Bop 19 on Facebook by clicking HERE.

5. Follow Kidz Bop 19 on Twitter by clicking HERE.

6. Subscribe to Kidz Bop 19 on YouTube by clicking HERE.

7. Write a blog post about my giveaway and include your link in the comment section within at least 4 hours before end of the giveaway- 5 bonus entries!

Make sure you leave your email address in all comments so, if you are the winner, I can contact you.

***I received the above-mentioned product in exchange for an honest review. The opinions stated above are my own and receiving the free product did not influence my views in any way, as yours may differ. ***

Today We Celebrate Our 10 Year Wedding Anniversary

2011-01-20T08:24:00.005-05:00

Wow! With the way things were turning out this time last year, I honestly didn't think we would make it to our 10th year anniversary...but we did and that is all that matters.

Last year was a very rough year but it brought us to where we are today - together and happy.

I have learned that marriage is something that needs to be worked on on a daily basis. You can do simple things that mean a lot to someone - help them with a project that they have been working on, grabbing their hand when you are walking in a store, or just basically actually listening to them when they are talking ot you - all so simple to do, yet they usually have huge outcomes.

I read somewhere that the divorce rate would be much lower if people would put in only a small percentage into their marriage as what they put into other things, like work, hobbies, etc. And I can definitely see where that would be right.

Here is a wonderful quote:

The way to love anything is to realize that it may be lost. ~G.K. Chesterton

So this was us 10 years ago - my we look young...lol...Do you ever look back at older pictures and think how times have changed and how fast they have gone by?

I am looking forward to the next 10 years of our marriage, as I think they will be the best ever. I truly have high hopes! Now we need to go and get a new family portrait done......

It's Blog O'Clock Somewhere Blog Hop 1/20/11

2011-01-19T19:42:00.002-05:00

Grandma Sez So is hosting Thursday blog hops called It's Blog O'Clock Somewhere. You can link up any of your sites that you would like to have more people be aware of. See below. And I must say, she has such a cute blog! So come on over and join in!

Howdy! This hop will start every Thursdays and end the following Thursday.

It's for anyone that wants to gain followers on:
•Twitter
•Facebook
•Blog
•My Space
•You Tube
•RSS
•Where do you need a little support?

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Winner Announcement - Is Your Name On The List?

2011-01-19T12:37:00.003-05:00

So I am a day late on the Purex Complete Crystals and I apologize - just going through some things right now. Here is the list of the three winners for the Purex Crystals and following is the winner of the HandClens foaming hand sanitizer. I am running late, so I am not going to copy and paste the Random.org generator - hope you guys don't mind. Here is the list:

Winners for Purex Complete Crystals:

pmj said... I would pick the tropical splash!
pjames330 at........

ohhhfire said... i am a twitter follower 1
ohhhfire@......

Doodle741 said... Tweeted!
residentmayor at ..........

Now for the winner announcement for the HandClens Foaming Hand Sanitizer .....and the winner is.....No. 32:

tarter95 said I use a sanitary wipe for my grocery cart at the store.
tarter95 at........

I will be sending out an email within the next few hours but if you see this beforehand, just email me your shipping information.

Thanks to all who entered! And don't forget about these two giveaways going on now:

Silly Band Factory Kit - THREE winners! Ends 1/22. Click HERE to enter! And $15 GC to ThePrincessDress.com, which also ends on 1/22. Click HERE to enter.

On a final note, I have several more giveaways to post so I will try to get on those this evening so I will have those for you tomorrow! Thanks again for all of your support!

In Observance of Martin Luther King, Jr

2011-01-17T12:16:00.003-05:00

Isn't that saying the truth? We need to learn to love and be able to be loved before we can expect great, powerful changes during these times.

On March 29, 1968, King went to Memphis, Tennessee in support of the black sanitary public works employees, represented by AFSCME Local 1733, who had been on strike since March 12 for higher wages and better treatment. In one incident, black street repairmen received pay for two hours when they were sent home because of bad weather, but white employees were paid for the full day.

On April 3, King addressed a rally and delivered his "I've Been to the Mountaintop" address at Mason Temple, the world headquarters of the Church of God in Christ. King's flight to Memphis had been delayed by a bomb threat against his plane. In the close of the last speech of his career, in reference to the bomb threat, King said the following:

And then I got to Memphis. And some began to say the threats, or talk about the threats that were out. What would happen to me from some of our sick white brothers? Well, I don't know what will happen now. We've got some difficult days ahead. But it doesn't matter with me now. Because I've been to the mountaintop. And I don't mind. Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I'm not concerned about that now. I just want to do God's will. And He's allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I've looked over. And I've seen the promised land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the promised land. And I'm happy, tonight. I'm not worried about anything. I'm not fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord.

King was booked in room 306 at the Lorraine Motel, owned by Walter Bailey, in Memphis. The Reverend Ralph Abernathy, King's close friend and colleague who was present at the assassination, testified under oath to the United States House Select Committee on Assassinations that King and his entourage stayed at room 306 at the Lorraine Motel so often it was known as the "King-Abernathy suite."

According to Jesse Jackson, who was present, King's last words on the balcony prior to his assassination were spoken to musician Ben Branch, who was scheduled to perform that night at an event King was attending: "Ben, make sure you play "Take My Hand, Precious Lord" in the meeting tonight. Play it real pretty."

Then, at 6:01 p.m., April 4, 1968, a shot rang out as King stood on the motel's second floor balcony. The bullet entered through his right cheek, smashing his jaw, then traveled down his spinal cord before lodging in his shoulder. Abernathy heard the shot from inside the motel room and ran to the balcony to find King on the floor. The events following the shooting have been disputed, as some people have accused Jackson of exaggerating his response.

After emergency chest surgery, King was pronounced dead at St. Joseph's Hospital at 7:05 p.m. According to biographer Taylor Branch, King's autopsy revealed that though only thirty-nine years old, he had the heart of a sixty-year-old man, perhaps a result of the stress of thirteen years in the civil rights movement.

The assassination led to a nationwide wave of riots in Washington DC, Chicago, Baltimore, Louisville, Kentucky, Kansas City, and dozens of other cities. Presidential candidate Robert Kennedy was on his way to Indianapolis for a campaign rally when he was informed of King's death. He gave a short speech to the gathering of supporters informing them of the tragedy and urging them to continue King's ideal of non-violence. James Farmer, Jr. and other civil rights leaders also called for non-violent action, while the more militant Stokely Carmichael called for a more forceful response.

President Lyndon B. Johnson declared April 7 a national day of mourning for the civil rights leader. Vice-President Hubert Humphrey attended King's funeral on behalf of the President, as there were fears that Johnson's presence might incite protests and perhaps violence.

At his widow's request, King's last sermon at Ebenezer Baptist Church was played at the funeral, a recording of his "Drum Major" sermon, given on February 4, 1968. In that sermon, King made a request that at his funeral no mention of his awards and honors be made, but that it be said that he tried to "feed the hungry", "clothe the naked", "be right on the [Vietnam] war question", and "love and serve humanity". His good friend Mahalia Jackson sang his favorite hymn, "Take My Hand, Precious Lord", at the funeral.

The city of Memphis quickly settled the strike on terms favorable to the sanitation workers.

Two months after King's death, escaped convict James Earl Ray was captured at London Heathrow Airport while trying to leave the United Kingdom on a false Canadian passport in the name of Ramon George Sneyd on his way to white-ruled Rhodesia. Ray was quickly extradited to Tennessee and charged with King's murder. He confessed to the assassination on March 10, 1969, though he recanted this confession three days later. On the advice of his attorney Percy Foreman, Ray pleaded guilty to avoid a trial conviction and thus the possibility of receiving the death penalty. Ray was sentenced to a 99-year prison term. Ray fired Foreman as his attorney, from then on derisively calling him "Percy Fourflusher". He claimed a man he met in Montreal, Quebec with the alias "Raoul" was involved and that the assassination was the result of a conspiracy. He spent the remainder of his life attempting, unsuccessfully, to withdraw his guilty plea and secure the trial he never had. On June 10, 1977, shortly after Ray had testified to the House Select Committee on Assassinations that he did not shoot King, he and six other convicts escaped from Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary in Petros, Tennessee. They were recaptured on June 13 and returned to prison.

Some Martin Luther King, Jr. quotes:

Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.

Pity may represent little more than the impersonal concern which prompts the mailing of a check, but true sympathy is the personal concern which demands the giving of one's soul.

Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.

The first question which the priest and the Levite asked was: "If I stop to help this man, what will happen to me?" But... the good Samaritan reversed the question: "If I do not stop to help this man, what will happen to him?"

I look to a day when people will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.

Sensational Sunday Follow - It's A Blog Hop!

2011-01-16T10:23:00.003-05:00

It's that time again - Sensational Sunday Follow. No rules. I think this is a great way to find new blogs. I have found some really great ones lately. So just add any links you want (besides giveaway links - they will be in a separate place at the bottom)....add blog, Twitter, FB, etc. And feel free to grab the code and post on your blog too! Happy hopping!

Now...List your giveaways:

These are two separate blog hops so if you are going to post on your site, be sure to get both codes!

Busy Weekend and It's Just Saturday!

2011-01-15T16:17:00.010-05:00

I have been so busy this past week and weekend. I have several more giveaways to post and I am hoping that I will get them posted in the next day or so. But here is a look at what we have been doing the past few days. Hope you enjoy!

Hahaha..Yeah, we went to the monster truck show! It was fun, I must say...lol. I was a little apprehensive about taking my youngest son, who is 2-1/2-years-old because of how loud the noise would be but he loved it! He laughed..here is a picture of him enjoying it (without his ear plugs..lol):

I posted this on my personal Facebook page - all of the pictures - and one of my friends that I graduated with lives in Colorado now...she said "OMG - that is where we graduated from high school at!" I thought that was so funny because it really was the place that they held our graduation! lol. And then another friend lives more north than we do, as we are from West Virginia, and she said "Ya'll are so country!"...lol..We are indeed! =)

And here our some pics of my oldest son's first basketball game. They only had one practice because of the other practices were canceled due to our horrendous snowy weather lately. But they won - they skunked the other team, as the other team only made ONE shot!!! Gooooo Panthers!!!! =)

Prayer before game - I love the fact that they do this!

Jonathan shooting the ball..He is #33!

And Joshua wasn't too interested in the game - he found a little boy that had Thomas the Train (his favorite) and he was content!

So, what did you guys do so far this weekend? I love these family times and can't wait to have more of them!

100 Delectable Recipes for Your Gluten-Free Kid - Partial Guest Post

2011-01-14T00:21:00.005-05:00

What does it mean to be gluten-free? From what I have read, it means giving up foods containing gluten, which is the protein found in wheat, barley, and rye -- that means traditional breads, pizzas, etc. Some people may be doing this because they have celiac disease and others may be doing it just to cut carbs.

I was pleased when Nursingschools.net contacted me about hosting an article about this as this is becoming more and more necessary for adults, as well as children.

Here is an excerpt from their blog regarding this title:

Finding recipes that your picky kids will eat is hard enough, but when you add in the requirement that those meals be gluten-free as well, things can get a bit tricky. Luckily, there are loads of other parents, chefs and gluten-free eaters out there who paved the way towards good eating and willingly share their knowledge with others. Here are 100 great recipes created by these gluten-free gurus that are sure to please your little one, at home or at school, while making sure he or she stays happy and healthy at the same time.

And then it goes on to give you 100 gluten-free recipes and here are just a few examples:

Gluten-Free Granola

Pancakes

Chicken Fajita Quesadillas

You can check out the complete article and all 100 recipes on their blog by clicking HERE.

**This was a partial guest post. I did not receive any form of compensation for this post. These opinions are my own.**

Everything For Emily - Please Help If You Can

2011-01-12T00:04:00.004-05:00

Read Emily's story HERE.

If you would like to make donations for Emily, you can do so from this link. This is a great way to raise money for someone online and it go directly to their PayPal account. This allows us all to help them and gives them access to this help immediately. This site is called http://www.chipin.com/.

A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THIS SITE:
ChipIn is a Web-based service that simplifies the process of collecting money from groups of people. We make this process quick, easy, and secure, and we provide organizers with numerous ways to get the word out about their ChipIn event.

We are still soliciting gas cards, food cards, Wal-mart cards, and gifts for Emily. She loves Mickey Mouse, Tinkerbell and Justin Beiber.

Please send an email to me at aesnyder@suddenlink.com and I will make sure it gets to the right person or email southcarolinamommy@gmail.com if you would like to send her something.

PLEASE FEEL FREE TO SHARE THIS WIDGET. YOU CAN EASILY COPY THE CODE BY HITTING COPY AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS WIDGET.

THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR GENEROSITY AND KINDNESS, AND ESPECIALLY YOUR PRAYERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

PLS RT @SCMOMOF2BOYS 3 year old Emily Needs Your Help http://tinyurl.com/362cwlj #chipin #fightcancer #30daygive #faith #hope SUPPORT@Couponmomof2

Shannon from Coupon Mommy of 3 really needs our prayers. Please say a prayer each night for this family. Prayers do work!

Educational Daycare On The Rise - Guest Post

2011-01-11T23:53:00.001-05:00

Educational Daycare on the Rise

In a perfect world, we could stay at home with our kids, providing them with the love and knowledge they need to survive in the world, while maintaining a career. Unfortunately that is the reality for very few, instead we rely on day care programs to prepare our children for the world therefore choice of day care is extremely important, it can affect their learning habits and their ability to function in a classroom.

Young children who are lucky enough to attend a certified day care, operated by trained, certified early childhood educators, are at an advantage for many reasons. A preschool teacher cannot replace a parent, but the experience of learning in a school setting during the early years can be a valuable supplement to a child's experience at a time when the brain is being shaped and developed.

The Measure of Success

It is likely that most parents are aware of these developmental domains on an instinctive level. However, certified preschool educators are trained in the scientific theory and methodology that can make the difference between a child succeeding – and succeeding brilliantly.

SPICE

There is arguably no substitute for a loving parent-child relationship and daily interactions – but scientific methodology has an important place. This is where trained, certified early childhood educators can "fill the gaps" when it comes to a young child's development. For example, were you as a parent aware that there are five equally important areas of a young child's development? These are summed up by the acronym, "SPICE" – Social, Physical, Intellectual, Creative and Emotional.

Social development involves the way a child relates to others and functions in a group setting. If you are among the increasing number of parents choosing to limit their family size to one child, the importance of socialization in a structured environment becomes apparent.

Physical development refers to building motor skills, from the gross (basic movements such as walking and running) to the fine (such as holding a writing implement).

Intellectual development is achieved through structured play, and of course means development of language and math skills as well as the child's innate sense of curiosity and wonder; Intellectual development is central to success in school later on.

Creative development addresses artistic talents in visual arts, music, storytelling and even theatrics. Although it is popular in American culture to dismiss creativity and the arts as unnecessary, creativity is the foundation self-expression and problem solving. It is arguable that without creativity, there would be no innovation nor entrepreneurship. (It was Einstein himself who said "Creativity is more important than knowledge.")

Emotional development is also frequently overlooked, even by the most devoted parents. Yet, without a sense of self, including self confidence and the discipline to deal with one's own emotional responses, a child will have difficulty functioning in society later in life.

The Advantage

It is likely that most parents are aware of these developmental domains on an instinctive level. However, certified preschool educators are trained in the scientific theory and methodology that can make the difference between a child succeeding – and succeeding brilliantly.

Co-written by Emily Patterson and Kathleen Thomas

Emily and Kathleen are Communications Coordinators for the Atlanta day care facility, a member of the AdvancED® accredited family of Primrose Schools (located in 16 states throughout the U.S.) and part of the network of day care preschools delivering progressive, early childhood, Balanced Learning® curriculum.

Winner Announcement!!!!

2011-01-10T10:46:00.003-05:00

Congratulations!!! Random.org chose....No. 308......Emmi at mommyfreetime@........

I will be sending you an email shortly. Please respond within 48 hours.

Thanks to all who entered!

Be sure to enter one of my other four giveaways going on now. Click HERE and then check the left top sidebar to enter. We still have the $15 store credit to ThePrincessDress.com, as well 3 winners for the Purex Crystals softener, three winners to The Silly Band Factory kit, and the HandClens foaming hand sanitizer.

My Review of Ride-Ons Tikes Patrol 30th Anniversary Edition

2011-01-09T13:17:00.001-05:00

Originally submitted at CSN Stores

Now this kid-powered car has a whole new look.

Features:

Tikes patrol 30th Anniversary edition
Fabric ears for softie play
New features include removable floor and a handle on back for parent-controlled push rides
Designed with...

Definitely The Ride-On Car To Get!

By Amy E. Snyder from West Virginia on 1/9/2011

This was a wonderful product for our 2-1/2-year-old son. First of all, the design of the car is so nice. The graphics and stickers are great! This is a very durable vehicle and it is well-made. It did take a little bit of time to put together, but the end product was perfect! He is in this car more than he is out of it. Overall, great product!

Tags: Picture of Product, Using Product

(legalese)

Sensational Sunday Follow - It's A Blog Hop!

2011-01-09T10:56:00.003-05:00

Feel free to post on your blog as well. This will be open for one week - until the new Sensational Sunday Follow begins again!

It is that time again, folks! Link up your blogs, Facebook and Twitter pages! Hope to see you there!

Giveaways Galore On Harvest For Tomorrow

2011-01-08T11:55:00.009-05:00

I have five giveaways going on right now. I would love it if you entered.

The choice of Sesame Street game (Wii, DS or PC - your choice) ends tomorrow at 11:59 p.m. EST. Enter HERE.

And here is a great giveaway to ThePrincessDress.com. You have a chance to win a $15 store credit and their items are very reasonably priced. This is open to US and Canada residents. Click HERE to enter.

I also have a giveaway for THREE winners to win their very own Silly Band Factory kit. Click HERE to enter.

Another giveaway with THREE winners is the Purex Crystals Complete Softener. I really love this and honestly it is my favorite fabric softener now - no joke! Enter HERE to win!

And, last but not least, I have the HandClens foaming hand sanitizer giveaway. I really like the scent of this and this bottle will last a long time. Click HERE to enter.

So head on over to these and enter today! =)

More Info On My From My Home To Yours Giveaway

2011-01-08T10:47:00.005-05:00

I am in the process (still) of getting things together for my From My Home To Your Giveaway Event going on at the end of this month. But on one day of my giveaways, I am going to have a DVD and giveaway collection. Here are a few that I have ready so far (and I have only just begun on this collection):

The top three DVDs have been unopened. And, the Top Gun DVD is a set - the anniversary edition. =) I love Top Gun but I just never really have time to watch all of these older movies (even though I think they are the best). But, again, I will have more to add - these were just the ones on the top of the pile...lol

And here are some older CDs...such a variety from Bob Seger to AC/DC to Joe (does anyone remember him from the 90s? I loved his song "I Wanna Know") to Martina McBride and Marvin Gaye (Sexual Healing - oldie but goodie - haha)...

I have a long ways to go to finish getting these things together but will update you when I add more to the collection and there will be more! =)

ThePrincessDress.com Giveaway

2011-01-07T18:30:00.008-05:00

Take a look at these cute items:

and

not to mention accessories like these:

and
These are just a few items you will find for your own "princess" at ThePrincessDress.com.

Here is a little more information about how ThePrincessDress.com came about:

It all started with a little girl who dressed up with pots for hats and towels for dresses. One year her parents decided to buy her dress up clothes for Christmas, but after shopping all over town were disappointed to find only a few items for their princess. They decided to open their own dress up store online where princesses everywhere could make their dress up dreams come true. Just over 3 years later we are one of the top princess dress websites online and we have helped thousands of girls with their dress up collections. We carry a great selection of costumes from Disney Princesses, and Barbie to Southern Belles and Super Heroes. Because we also provide Shoes, Jewelry, Accessories and Toys we can be your one stop princess shop online.

I was very excited when I was contacted by ThePrincessDress.com to do a giveaway. Since I have two boys, I tend to do giveaways for boys but now you moms and dads who have girls, can now enter to win on my site!

ThePrincessDress.com is allowing me to offer a giveaway of a $15 store credit to their shop! And, this is open to US and Canada residents as well, which they offer inexpensive shipping to!

Contest Rules

MANDATORY ENTRY:

1. Click HERE and tell me what item(s) you would like to purchase if you won the store credit!

2. Giveaway ends on Saturday, January 22, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. (EST).

3. Open to U.S. and Canada residents.

BONUS ENTRIES:
1. Follow me via GFC (left sidebar).

4. Sign up for ThePrincessDress.com newsletter by clicking HERE.

5. Follow me on Facebook here.

6. Follow ThePrincessDress.com on Facebook by clicking HERE.

7. Follow ThePrincessDress.com on Twitter by clicking HERE.

8. Write a blog post about my giveaway and include your link in the comment section within 4 hours of the end of the giveaway- 5 bonus entries!

Make sure you leave your email address in all comments so, if you are the winner, I can contact you.

***I received no compensation or product for this post. The opinions stated in my post are 100% my own. Thank you ThePrincessDress.com for sponsoring this giveaway ***

Silly Band Factory Review and Giveaway - THREE Winners!

2011-01-06T23:16:00.007-05:00

If you are a parent then you know all of the craze right now is silly bands! My oldest son loves them and everyone in his school is crazy about them as well. I know this because: 1) His friends all have them and their parents talk about them and 2) Every single time they send home a note about upcoming events where we can send items, silly bands is always on the list!

So I found an awesome site that I know you guys will love....Silly Band Factory! You might be asking yourself, "What is Silly Band Factory?" Well it is an awesome product that allows you and your children to make your/their very own silly bands! You can make any shape that you wish, including words, names, etc. You can play around with the pegs and make unique silly bands that you cannot buy at the store. This would be great to make for your best friends!

I received a kit and here is what the kit looked like after we opened it:

You get instruction sheets that include a few designs to help you out, a generous amount of bands, and a bag of pegs. We opted to use the design of an airplane and here was our result:

It was so simple and my son really enjoyed it! He was extremely excited and he kept telling me other silly band designs that he wanted to make! It is a great activity that you can do with your kids, so I think this product is wonderful - and the end product is useful and fun for them as well! I think the Silly Band Factory had a wonderful idea behind the product! And the people are super-nice as well that developed the products - very family-oriented! I wish you guys much success with your product!

**Just a note - the first batch I made, I "forgot" that they were in the oven and they melted. Yes, I was about 20 minutes OVER the time limit...lol...so it was definitely my fault. But the reason why I am mentioning this is because, other than the bands, the rest of the products were fine - nothing caught fire, nothing became damaged. The products are designed to withstand the heat of the oven (225 degrees) and I think this is important because as a parent we tend to "forget" things and I like that the fact that this product is forgiving! =)

Where Can I Buy?

You can click HERE to order your own kit and items.

But THREE LUCKY WINNERS will receive their very own Silly Band Factory kit!

Contest Rules

MANDATORY ENTRY:

1. You must be a follower via GFC (left sidebar). And tell me what shape you would like to make.

2. Giveaway ends on Saturday, January 22, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. (EST).

3. Open to U.S. residents only.

3. Follow me on Facebook here.

4. Write a blog post about my giveaway and include your link in the comment section within 4 hours of the end of the giveaway- 5 bonus entries!

Make sure you leave your email address in all comments so, if you are the winner, I can contact you.

***I received the above-mentioned product for review purposes. Receiving the item for review did not influence my decision in any way. These opinions are 100% my own. Thank you, Alison and the Silly Band Factory, for sponsoring this review and giveaway! ***

Running Behind But Hopefully Two More Giveaways Will Be Posted Tonight

2011-01-05T12:58:00.003-05:00

I have sooo much today but I feel like I am running in circles. School started back this week from Christmas break, my oldest son started basketball - which means practices and games nonstop, and with doctors visits, eye appointments, dental appointments, I am T-I-R-E-D!

I am running a bit behind on two more giveaways and reviews that I need to post; hopefully I will get that done late tonight.

And I want to update the status, with pictures, of some items for my giveaway event at the end of this month. So hang in there with me folks, and throw me some much-needed energy, because I need it!

Shame On You Oil Companies!!! ~ My Rant

2011-01-03T12:51:00.005-05:00

I am tired of handing over $60 to fill up my gas tank - which I normally cannot afford to do. I usually put in a $20 and barely have my gas hand read at 1/4 of a tank of gas! Seriously - do YOU people have to be THAT rich?

Check out this article from 2006 - five years ago - from ABC News. I can only imagine what profits they are seeing now!

While Americans were stung by historically high gas prices this fall, the world's biggest oil companies saw their profits skyrocket.

In October, ExxonMobil, the world's largest publicly traded oil company, announced net income of $9.9 billion for the most recent earnings quarter, eclipsing analyst expectations and dwarfing the $5.68 billion reported for the same quarter in 2004. It was the largest quarterly profit ever for a U.S. company.

ExxonMobil wasn't alone. Royal Dutch Shell saw profits grow 68 percent, to $9.03 billion. BP announced profits at 34 percent above 2004 levels, and ConocoPhillips saw revenue jump 43 percent.

And the trend continued into 2006. Today, ConocoPhillips surpassed expectations with $3.68 billion in fourth-quarter profits. And more sky-high earnings are expected through the end of this week, as the other big companies report.

The main reason for the soaring profits? High oil and gas prices.

And keep in mind, those figures were quarterly figures so times it by four to get the yearly profits. **sighs in disgust**

I am frugal - I admit it - and even if I were rich (which I just see that NEVER happening), I would try to "help" others as well. I would want others to enjoy the things that I could enjoy too. I just wouldn't want it all for myself, especially while I sat back and watched others struggle.

Oil prices affect everyone - good or bad. So many people have cut down vacations and trips, while others are really living it up (from the profits) and going places that only we can dream about.

But, who am I to say anything? Well, I am a person that has to decide whether to buy gas or buy dinner. I am the person that tries to do right and help others whenever possible. I am that person that has a family to raise and all you care about raising is the cost of gas. I am a "nobody" to you when, in reality, I am one person helping you live the life of luxury that you are living due to your greed because I am paying these ridiculous prices for gas. (Stepping off of my soap-box now).

HandClens Foaming Hand Sanitizer Review and Giveaway

2011-01-03T10:50:00.005-05:00

Hand sanitizers are big in our house, as I have one son in school (germ city) and another one who is little and does not know exactly a whole lot about germs except they are "yucky", so I was very interested when I was contacted by Bio Shield Technologies.

HandClens is an alcohol-free foam disinfectant with hand lotion built in. It's good at fighting germs and also good for your skin, unlike a lot of cleaners on the market.

HandClens provides more than three times the number of applications of comparable size alcohol sanitizers. HandClens helps stop germs wherever you are...at work, home, traveling, shopping, or anywhere that you may go. And it has a nice light scent - not perfumey (is that even a word) and not chemical smelling either.

I think it is a great foaming hand sanitizer and I rank it at the top of my choices for hand sanitizers. It is not greasy and it truly does not dry out your hands.

Where Can I Buy?
You can click HERE and purchase your very own. And I see where this is on sale right now for $4.95!

You can WIN your very own too!

Contest Rules

MANDATORY ENTRY:

1. You must be a follower via GFC (left sidebar). And tell me one way you fight germs.

2. Giveaway ends on Tuesday, January 118, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. (EST).

3. Open to U.S. residents only.

3. Follow Bio Shield Tech on Twitter by clicking HERE.

4. Follow me on Facebook here.

5. Follow Bio Shield Tech on Facebook by clicking HERE.

6. Write a blog post about my giveaway and include your link in the comment section within 4 hours of the end of the giveaway- 5 bonus entries!

Make sure you leave your email address in all comments so, if you are the winner, I can contact you.

***I received the above-mentioned product for review purposes. Receiving the item for review did not influence my decision in any way. These opinions are 100% my own. Thank you, Bio Shield Technologies for sponsoring this review and giveaway! ***

Purex Complete Crystals Softener Review and Giveaway - 3 Winners!

2011-01-03T08:02:00.009-05:00

I was super-excited when I found out that I was accepted to be a Purex Insider! What does this mean? It means that I will get information and samples of new Purex products to try out before the general public gets to. How cool is that? Pretty cool in my book since my washer and dryer are running most hours of the day - every day!

Laundry is important to me as having two boys and a husband - well, do I need to say anything else? lol....

I was sent a sample bottle of Purex Complete Crystals Softener and it was packaged so beautifully! Yes, I said it - softener for my laundry was beautifully packaged! That is just something you do not see every day. But it got even better - when I opened the lid to the delightful fragrance of Fresh Spring Waters bottle, I was blown away! This scent was absolutely amazing! You all know how much I love my "scents" and this was right on! I knew I had to do some laundry now just to try this out - but wait - these were crystals so I really did not know what to do with them - easy fix - I just read the directions!

You basically just add your amount of crystals to the top of your clothes before you start your washing machine...yes, on top! And then you are done - just let the machine and the "magic" of Purex do the rest.

I like this fact about it:

And here are a few more things you might like to know:

My Thoughts:
I am hooked. Seriously, when I received my sample, I was able to do about five loads of laundry and I did them all back-to-back (because I am crazy like that) just so that fresh smell would stay infused in my house! Once the clothes hit the dryer, it was on! And...it has been about a week since I washed my clothes and used the Purex softener and - NO JOKE - I could still smell the softener on my clothes and this, by far, has outlasted anything that I have tried! I was sent a coupon for a FREE full-sized bottle as well and I went to my local Wal-Mart yesterday with coupon in hand because I needed some fabric softener (I am out) and I was so excited to get the Purex but my Wal-Mart did not have any in stock. What?!?!?! Needless to say, since trying the Purex Complete Crystals Softener, I would NOT buy anything else - and I didn't...I will go out today to another store and get it. Yes, it is that good (in my opinion) that I did not want anything else once I tried the Purex Crystals.

And they come in three scents:
• fresh spring watersTM
• lavender blossomTM
• tropical splashTM

So check out your local Wal-Mart and pick you up a bottle today! Or...wait...here is YOUR chance to WIN a bottle! THREE winners each will win a coupon to get a full-sized bottle of your choice!

Contest Rules

MANDATORY ENTRY:

1. You must be a follower via GFC (left sidebar). And tell me which scent do you think you would pick.

2. Giveaway ends on Monday, January 17, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. (EST).

3. Open to U.S. residents.

3. Follow me on Facebook here.

4. Follow me via GFC (sidebar).

5. Write a blog post about my giveaway and include your link in the comment section within 4 hours of the end of the giveaway- 5 bonus entries!

From My Home To Yours Giveaway Event

2011-01-02T14:29:00.005-05:00

Did you guys see this coming after I posted my "idea"? I bet some of you did. I am in the midst of all of this cleaning, moving things from one place to another and I realized that I just want to move these things OUT! Hence, that is what inspired my From My Home To Yours giveaway event! =)

I will be working more on this event over the next few days and hopefully by then, I will have all of the odds and ends tailored up nice and neat in my little blog.

I would love for all of you to join in and participate. I am trying to think of a way to get everyone involved, as I think we all could move some things out. Just remember - what is one person's trash (not necessarily these items are trashy so to speak) is another ones treasure! In this thought, feel free to email me (aesnyder@suddenlink.net) and include your blog post link to what you want to pass on to others in the form of a giveaway that will run between January 24, 2011 to January 28, 2011, and I will have a running list at the end of this post and will update as I get them in!

I, myself, will plan on having one day of giveaway for toddler and boys clothing, one day of DVD giveaways, one day of books, and there will be a few more day of giveaways - I just have to see what I can round up that is in great condition!

So get a jumpstart on Spring cleaning and let's pass things on - kind of like an online yard sale - just that we will be winning instead of buying, and we will be sitting in the comfort or our own homes instead of wasting gas to get to each other's destinations! =)

Of note - Once I figure out how to add my blog button to my sidebar with a link, feel free to repost the button on yours!

And, one other thing, I will be using those Priority Shipping boxes that whatever you can fit in a box, it is one low cost - so if you have a few extra dollars to spare and you want to get rid of some things, and you love having giveaways, this is the deal for you!

I Need Your Feedback On This Idea....

2011-01-02T13:10:00.003-05:00

I am cleaning, sorting, and organizing as we speak. And this process may take a week or two to complete. Ahhh, don't you love that? lol. Anyway, in doing this, I am coming across TONS, and I mean TONS, of nice clothes that my boys have simply just outgrown. What are your thoughts (and it may be cheesy, maybe not - that is why I am asking your thoughts) on me having a giveaway for these items? For example, I have tons of baby boy clothing from ages 18 months to 2T/3T and up for my older son. And, of course, I would post pictures of the actual items so you would know what you would be getting.

We have been blessed with having been able to provide nice clothes for our boys and I hate to see these just end up nowhere. Of course, I could just take them to Goodwill or somewhere but I was thinking about offering a giveaway. What are your thoughts? Too cheesy or a nice idea?

I am also thinking about having a giveaway BOX of things that I have received in the mail that we did not use and such, coupons, etc. I had this idea last year but, after thought, I didn't think the items were that good so I just stopped. Again, what are your thoughts on this?

See ---- told you I love giveaways!

Three More Giveaways and Reviews Will Be Posted Tonight!

2011-01-02T11:44:00.003-05:00

So you would think the above pictures has represented me during the past few days - just sitting around, twiddling my thumbs...but that is so NOT true. I am overwhelmed slightly. School starts back up tomorrow, which means I have to get all of the school things ready, backpack, clothes, books, etc. Basketball season begins on Tuesday for my oldest son, Jonathan. This will be a treat (and a lot of running around). I have to finish getting our house in order - I soooo want to Spring clean right now, but I will probably just kind of deep clean (but not Spring deep clean), shampoo carpets, and try to get rid of some clutter. Oh I need some organizational items badly - I desperately need a nice bookcase and a few other shelves. I bought 30 more coat-hangers today at the store in "hopes" of getting most of the laundry completely hung up (laundry = not my favorite thing to do - granted, I don't mind throwing the clothes in the washing machine, or even the dryer for that matter, but I hate, hate, hate to get them out of the dryer. It must be a mental block.)

But, in all of this, I will be posting three great reviews and giveaways tonight! I feel so lost without a giveaway happening! The Sesame Street Wii, DS or PC game giveaway is still going on and it has had wonderful results! They are surely cute games!

With all of this ranting, I just wanted to say to be on the lookout for THREE GIVEAWAYS that I will be posting TONIGHT!

(As you can see, I am scattered brained today!)...lol...

My Final Six Pick For Stylish Blogger Award...

2010-12-31T12:37:00.003-05:00

Honestly, I want to pick all of you! I have came across sooo many wonderful blogs recently that I am just amazed at the talent out there! =) So, with that being said, here are my final six:

Join Me In 2011 Blog Hop

2010-12-31T10:54:00.003-05:00

I just decided at the last minute to have an end of the year blog hop - so not sure how well it is going to go over, but we will see. Please link up and add the hop to your page to get exposure. Entries will be able to be added for one whole week - so let's follow some new blogs. Feel free to add your Twitter and Facebook links as well as an entry!

I Won Another Blog Award - The Stylish Blogger!

2010-12-30T09:25:00.002-05:00

So I was super-excited whenever I received notification from The Queen of Swag that she had nominated me for the Stylish Blogger Award - this is my third award - and I love getting blogger awards! Thanks so much, The Queen of Swag for this award!

Here's how it works...

1. Thank and link back to the person who awarded you this award.

2. Share 7 things about yourself.

3. Award 15 recently discovered great bloggers.

4. Contact these bloggers and tell them about the award!

Hmmm...let's see, seven things about myself:

As you all know, I love blogging!

I am super-duper frugal. We don't eat out (hardly ever anyway) unless we have a coupon and our family of FOUR can usually eat for around less than $9.00 TOTAL! (See, told you I was frugal.)

I am a constant worrier. If I don't have anything too much to worry about in my own life, I usually end up worrying about people that I don't even know from reading things on the web.

I love Spring and Fall time and I cannot wait for Spring to arrive here! Tough winters in WV!

I cannot wait for 2011 to begin. I am hopeful and excited with what the new year will bring.

I would love to have one of those Kia Sportage SUVs...love them.

I truly find pure enjoyment when I have giveaways on my blog. The whole process is fun to me.

Now for the 15 blogs that I have recently came across that I would like to give this award to:

Mommy Does

Life With Two Boys

Giveaways For You

Masshole Mommy

We Don't Have It All Together But Together We Have It All

The Life of a Sippy Cup Mom

Our Breezy Beach Life

Kortney's Krazy Life

Snack Bar Reviews

Okay - I know this is only 9 but I will add more later. I have been working on this and the power went out - thankfully it saved a draft copy. So going to make sure the power stays on and will finish up in a bit!

Reflections of 2010 - What A Year!

2010-12-29T17:52:00.004-05:00

Goodbye to 2010.....

The year 2010 was quite a year - not such in a good sense in my case, but oh were there lessons learned. So much has happened in 2010 to my family and I that I am sooo looking forward to 2011!

Where do I begin? First, I guess I am writing this post because on my poll, more personal content is winning high on the list - so here it goes I guess. =)

My marriage...
Nine years of marriage was about to end. During our 9th year anniversary, my husband and I decided to separate. Ouch. We had gotten to a place of "routine" I guess - nothing extraordinarly or ever out of the ordinary did we do. We were living as though life had done passed us by and we were merely waiting for our demise. Sad, huh? Especially when we had only been married for 9 years and were only ages 35 and 36. But that was us. We got back together a few weeks later, only to end completely separated with divorce papers filed a few months later. How did we get here? In the beginning of our relationship I thought that this would NEVER happen to us - we were strong and our relationship was strong. I guess marriages/relationships are just like anything else - if you do not tend to them, nurture them, then it too will fade and disappear. Needless to say, many months went by and over $3000 in lawyer fees - we got back together! And this time, it was for good. I think it took us getting so close to being forever "apart" that we had to go through those months of separation. I know, myself, that I learned a lot. We "both" had some issues to work on and we really had to work on them if we were going to make our marriage a success and we are doing this daily. And, knock on wood, things have been good and we have been back together since about mid-July now.

So here is my piece of advice (for what it is worth):

1. Keep your faith in God - for He knows the plans that He has for you and everything is in His timing. When you are going through hard times, thank him for the joys that you have had and that you are about to have. He wants a close relationship with all of us and, I feel, that sometimes he puts us in trials to gain that relationship back y drawing you closer to Him. (Again, just my opinion).
2. If you have to keep questioning a decision then, most times, it is a bad decision. Your gut can tell you a lot of things (which I think it is God's way to reach some of us). If you are staying up all night worrying over it, let it go and hand the situation over to God. Put it on the backburner and look at it another day.
3. Believe in yourself first before you can be expected to believe in anyone else.
4. And, most times, the grass is not greener on the other side. Just saying!

My mom...
As many of you regular followers know, my mom was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in July of 2010. We had no idea she had this form of cancer or for how long she had had it. She first had fractured a few vertebra in her back and had to have "cement-like" material placed in between the vertebra. And then it was weeks later, after she was still declining, that the doctors finally found the cancer -an incurable cancer. My mom is only 58.
And the reason for her fractured bones in her back was due to the form of cancer that she had.

My mom has been the "rock" of the family and now she is the one needing the help. It is sad how rapidly she has detoriorated. But she is still fighting. She is doing somewhat better; at least now she is able to walk around a bit - at first, she could not even do that and she could not even lift herself to get up out of bed. Chemo has been okay with her but now they are wanting to up it to 3-times-a-week, so that does not sound good to me. They said they would be treating her cancer aggressively as when they found it, it appeared to be in the last stages already - seriously, how can you miss cancer that long of time when she had regular checkups, bloodwork, etc? But the good in all of the bad is that she and my dad have rekindled their love for one another. My dad now takes care of her, buys her everything, and just spoils her and it makes her feel good!

My boys...
Jonathan turned 8-years-old in October and Joshua turned 2-years-old in June. They have had quite a year themselves. Jonathan has made some really wonderful friends and Joshua...well, Joshua is just being Joshua. He is a very stern 2-year-old and he is already set in his ways...lol. It is hard to believe how different two children can be. But I am so thankful for them and I could not imagine them not being in my life. They are my world!

Me...
A lot has changed in my views, expectations, and realizations due to the events that took place in my life this year. I have became more humble than ever (and I thought that I was pretty humble before). I have realized that if you don't get your house completely cleaned today, there is always tomorrow. I have realized that it is better to spend that quality time with the people you love because you never know what is around the corner for you or them. I have realized that people matter - not things. I have realized that even if you are having a bad day, offer that smile or helping hand to someone else - they could be having a bad week or month. I have learned that it is never, N-E-V-E-R too late to apologize for anything that has weighed heavily on your mind. You may not get the response that you needed but at least you put in the effort and did your part to make things right. And, most of all, I realized that I totally love blogging more than I ever thought and I have made so many "online" friends through this blog that I am grateful to each and every one of you!

So....GOODBYE 2010 and I welcome you 2011!!!!

Sesame Street Video Games Review and Giveaway

2010-12-26T09:27:00.006-05:00

As being a mom of two boys with vast age differences (one is 8-years-old and the other one is 2-1/2-years-old), I often forget about my youngest son, Joshua, when we are purchasing video games. I think the reason why is because you just do not see a lot of video games geared toward the younger players - that is until you step into the world of Sesame Street video games!

I was so excited when I learned that I was able to review two of their games - Elmo's A to Zoo Adventures and Cookie's Counting Carnival.

I loved the fact that included was a remote cover to help cover unneccesary buttons. This certainly helped to avoid confusion.

Features of Cookie's Counting Carnival:

Cookie's Counting Carnival encourages mathematical skills that include number identification, counting, shapes, and pattern recognition through fun and exciting mini-games.
Journey through the game in the many areas of the carnival such as The Grandstand, Rides, Petting Zoo, Concession Stand and the Arcade.
Easy to follow audio-visual directions that preschoolers can master on their own.
Use the second Wii Remote™ to drop-in and assist your child when needed.
Game difficulty adapts to your child’s level.
Customize up to four profiles, set functions including difficulty level and game limits, and review the games and educational content your child has played on the Parent's Page.
Wii and Nintendo DS versions include Gameplay Helpers to simplify gameplay for your preschooler.
The Wii gameplay helper is a soft and fuzzy character cover with special grips that slips over the Wii Remote, minimizing unnecessary buttons and making it easier and more fun to hold and play with.
For Nintendo DS, there is a jumbo click stylus designed for smaller hands, simplifying interaction with the touch screen.

Features of Elmo's A to Zoo Adventure

Elmo's A-to-Zoo Adventure encourages literacy skills, including letter identification, letter sounds, and word families, through engaging and fun mini-games.
Explore exciting Zoo habitats including the Aquarium, Savanna, Jungle, Forest and the Arctic.
Easy to follow audio-visual directions that preschoolers can master on their own.
Use the second Wii Remote™ to drop-in and assist your child when needed.
Game difficulty adapts to your child's level.
Customize up to four profiles, set functions including difficulty level and game limits, and review the games and educational content your child has played on the Parent's Page.
Wii and Nintendo DS versions include Gameplay Helpers to simplify gameplay for your preschooler.
The Wii gameplay helper is a soft and fuzzy character cover with special grips that slips over the Wii Remote, minimizing unnecessary buttons and making it easier and more fun to hold.
For Nintendo DS, there is a jumbo click stylus designed for smaller hands, simplifying interaction with the touch screen.

My Thoughts:

These are very nice games. They are intended for players 3 and up, and I think that is a great age group. My son is 2-1/2-years-old and he had a little trouble understanding some things, yet he could to the counting activities very well, as he has been able to count way before his 2nd birthday. The colors and graphics are outstanding and these both are just overall cute, family-friendly with great learning capability games. And, he knows that these are "his" games, as he goes and gets them as soon as he wants to play. I think with a little more playing, he will be able to catch on. And he just loves his remote covers! You cannot go wrong with purchasing these cute games for your little ones and with a name like Sesame Street, you know the education is there - all while having fun!

Where Can I Buy?

Check out the website HERE for all games listed above, as well as for Wii, DS, and PC games.

But wait....YOU have a chance to win ONE of your very own games as listed above in the format of Wii, DS, or PC.

Contest Rules

MANDATORY ENTRY:

1. Go to the Sesame Street Video Game website by clicking HERE and tell me which game you would pick if you won and for what gaming system.

2. Giveaway ends on Sunday, January 9, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. (EST).

3. Open to U.S. residents.

3. Follow me on Facebook here.

4. Follow me via GFC (sidebar).

5. Write a blog post about my giveaway and include your link in the comment section within 4 hours of the end of the giveaway- 5 bonus entries!

6. Vote in my poll on the top right sidebar (it only takes one second/one click) on what content you would like to see more of on Harvest For Tomorrow.

Kaleidoscopes To You Review

2010-12-26T09:11:00.002-05:00

If you are looking for a unique gift for ANY occasion, you need to check out Kaleidoscopes To You. They have such unique kaleidoscopes that I was thoroughly impressed so, of course, I was very excited when they allowed me to do a review of one of their items.

I was able to review the 5.5 Inch long Laminated Solid Woods with Paduk and other Hardwoods Teleidoscope by N & J. Beautiful solid Laminated woods including padauk teleidoscope. Measures 5 3/4 inches long eyepiece to ball lens and is approx 1 1/8 inches in diameter. Stands approx 2 1/8 inches tall on base. Base size is 3 1/2 inches long by 1 inch tall. Suggested plate/ engravable area dimensions are 3 1/8 by 3/4 tall. The interior Image pictures shown here are shown to show you whatever you point the ball lens towards is what you are going to see in abstract thru this type of kaleidoscope. These interior pictures were taken looking thru the teleidoscope looking at the computer screen at the Microsoft Windows logo.

The product I received was very high quality and it was absolutely gorgeous! And whenever you look at lights with it - so cool!

Again, this was a great product - my son took it and showed it to my dad and my dad absolutely loved it! He is very hard to buy birthday presents, Father's Day presents, and such for, so that little light bulb went off in my head that I know exactly what I will be purchasing for him on the next gifting event!

To see their wonderful selection, click HERE.

**Thank you Kaleidoscopes To You for allowing me to review an awesome product. I received the above-mentioned product in exchange for an honest review. In no way was my decision based on receiving a free product. These opinions are my own, as yours may differ.**

CSN Stores Review

2010-12-26T08:33:00.004-05:00

As you may recall, I had a post a few weeks ago about an upcoming review of CSN Stores. They have such a HUGE selection of items, and items that you just would not find anywhere else. I guess that is understandable since they have over 200 online stores!!!! I am becoming a more shop online type of person and, seriously, CSN stores is your one-stop-shop when shopping online!

As you know, I decided to review the Little Tikes Ride-On Tikes Patrol 30th Anniversary Edition...all I can say is this thing is awesome! Check it out:

He kind of reminds me of Fred Flintstone there with his feet! =)

I saw the regular ride-on Little Tikes like this at a local store (major retailer) and it was nowhere near as nice as this one, was NOT the anniversary edition, and was not a police car - it was just plain with primary colors, and it was priced almost exactly as this was priced at. To me, CSN stores offered a much better deal with this!

The whole online ordering process was simple and they were very fast! I placed the order, had no problems with checkout, and once my order was processed (which was only about one day if that), I received a confirmation email that my order had been shipped with a tracking number! I loved the fact that I knew what was happening with my order and that I could track it. The box was huge and it arrived intact with all parts needed - hey, sometimes I receive items with parts missing, the box totally tore up; so this was a welcome change!

Since the entire process was excellent, I will be making more purchases from the CSN Stores and I highly recommend them to all of you!

**Thanks CSN Stores for providing me store credit in exchange for a review. Though I received a credit, this did not influence my post in any way. These decisions are my own as yours may differ.**

Wow! What A Day! (Oops! I Am Supposed To Be On Break!)

2010-12-25T00:35:00.002-05:00

I know - I am supposed to be on break. You guys knew I couldn't make it long - not even a day, but everyone is in bed, Santa has came and gone, and I am the only one up. We stayed at my mom and dad's tonight and it has been a GREAT day! Everyone was feeling pretty good, my mom did as well as possible at this moment in time, and everyone had a great day! So looking forward to tomorrow (which is really today since it is 12:37 a.m.)!

It is strange sleeping some place other than your own house...grandfather clock chiming every 15 minutes with the grand finale every hour, a cuckoo clock going at its destined times, OTHER clocks TICKING - wow - TONS of clocks that I never paid attention too! =)

Everyone was wiped out, and so was I, but I guess I think too much at bedtime - which keeps me up.

I hope you all have had a wonderful Christmas Eve and I hope you have an ever better Christmas Day!

Well, I hear my dad stirring around, guess I better cut this short now.

Many Christmas blessings to you ALL!

On Break - See You Guys Next Year!

2010-12-24T00:42:00.003-05:00

Today will start my break - to spend time with the kids, family, and to get the giveaway and review events in order so get ready for some awesome events in the new year!

Again, Merry Christmas everyone and have a safe and happy New Year! Don't drink and drive! Take lots of pictures! Have the best of times during your Christmas and New Year celebrations!

Results of Next Event Poll!

2010-12-23T10:16:00.003-05:00

It was a close race the entire time! Home organization won by ONE vote!!! Yes, ONE vote, with a tie of second place to candles/scents and pamper mom event!

So while I am on break, I will be gathering some sponsors for these next events to start soon after my return!

Don't forget to vote in the next poll; this will be up until I get back around Jan 1, 2011 or so. Please vote as to what you would like to see more of on Harvest For Tomorrow. We have a tie already, so make your vote count! It only takes ONE click! =)

Winner Announcement!

2010-12-23T10:09:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to No. 34, Niecey! I will be emailing you shortly. Please respond within 48 hours to this email!

Merry CHRISTmas - a Savior is born!

2010-12-22T22:10:00.004-05:00

Matthew 1:18-25 (New International Version, 2010)

Joseph Accepts Jesus as His Son
18 This is how the birth of Jesus the Messiah came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. 19 Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. 20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel”[d] (which means “God with us”).
24 When Joseph woke up, he did what the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took Mary home as his wife. 25 But he did not consummate their marriage until she gave birth to a son. And he gave him the name Jesus.

Wishing you all a wonderful CHRISTmas, hoping you have wonderful times and great memories with your most precious loved ones this season!

Flowers For Christmas

2010-12-21T21:13:00.003-05:00

Flowers for Christmas would make anyone smile; I know I would produce a huge smile on my face if I received a nice arrangement of flowers like the one posted above. Carnations and roses are popular during this season and I like those as well, but my favorites are lilies! Lilies are so pretty - actually I have never seen a flower that wasn't pretty.

You can surely find a lot of last minute deals at FTD. They even offer same-day delivery on some purchases, along with next day delivery - so you have time to make those very last minute gifts arrive on time, even the one pictured above!

It's A Twitter Mom Blog Hop - Add Your Twitter!

2010-12-21T13:46:00.002-05:00

This has tons of entries already - please add yours as it is posted a few places! I am number 205 but I have automatic followback on Twitter, so once you follow me, my Twitter automatically follows you back! I just learned about the auto-followback and it has made sure that I haven't missed anyone and, with this, I have seen some very useful tweets!

Lots To Announce and Taking A Christmas Break - Read On

2010-12-20T16:29:00.003-05:00

So Christmas is fastly approaching which means....Christmas break for school children. I will be taking a blogging Christmas break beginning December 23, 2010 and I will start back on January 3, 2011! I know that is a bit of time away from blogging but I am going to spend a lot of time spending time with my kids and family, along with organizing some huge events for my blog. I am going to try to get everything in order in my house ---eek and that means laundry too!!! As well as, searching and trying to get some great sponsors (which I already have a few) for MANY upcoming huge events!

Over the past several months, I have had an awesome time with my blog. I say the past few months because during that time, I have really put in some time on my blog, made a lot of great partnerships and friends along the way and I LOVE IT!!!!

Blogging has brought a whole new perspective on many things in my life and I honestly cannot imagine going through life not having my blog! Does that sound crazy? It is something that I am very passionate about and I hope to make it better and more fun and enjoyable for you guys as well - because YOU GUYS ROCK!

So with all of this being said, I have a few favors to ask from you:

Only 2 days left to vote on the next huge blog event! It is a tight race between candles/scents and a home organization event! Home organization is winning by 1 vote...but it has been going back and forth as candles and scents tie with home organization but then another vote comes in for home organization and puts candles and scents down one! Soo.....if you haven't already, submit your vote. And, in the event of a tie, we will have two huge events for each!

I am going to be placing another poll just below the event poll. I want to know what things you want to see more on Harvest For Tomorrow! I will leave this poll up until I get back on January 3, 2011. (Really, do you think I can stay away from blogging that long? I honestly do not know but I have good intentions in order to get some awesome events organized and be ready to post.)

Finally, I want ALL OF YOU to have the best Christmas you have ever had! Enjoy the memories you make with your families and remember the "reason for the season". Remember those less unfortunate than you are and lend a helping hand if you have the resources. Remember your neighbor who is alone and take them some homemade food and cookies, spend a little time with them - it may mean everything to them. And I cannot wait to get back to see what Santa brought you all!

Merry Christmas and cannot wait to see you in the New Year because 2011 is going to be absolutely amazing!!!!!

Win With The Give The Word Bible Contest and Giveaway!!!

2010-12-20T12:18:00.002-05:00

Tyndale House Publishers is working in coordination with some awesome giveaways - where tons of people can win. Check out this information:

With the Give the Word Bible Contest and Giveaway:
Click on the NLT Facebook page and "like" them to enter. Here is what you can win (taken from the Facebook page):

Enter our Bible Contest to win NLT Study Bibles, a Grand Prize trip to Orlando, FL, $250 in resources and more! Plus your vote will help three ministries Give the Word of God to those who desperately need it by generating a donation to Wycliffe Bible Translators, the Dream Center or Oasis International.

I think this is a great contest and not only could you possibly win, but there will be so many others out there that will benefit from this as well. There are so many languages that are in need of translation of the Bible, so many countries that do not receive Bibles and needs them, that this would be a win-win situation for everyone! So please go and "like" NLT on Facebook and help get the message out.

**By posting about this, I , too am entering into a contest from Tyndale House Publishers. Thank you for this great contest!**

Harvest for Tomorrow

It's Official - Harvest For Tomorrow is Back From Break!

I Am Back!!!

Redbox Lucky To Have Friends Like You

redbox "Lucky To Have Friends Like You" campaign = FREE movies for you!

Winner Announcements

If You Have Won A Prize in the Past 30 Days

Enter Lots of Giveaways on Facebook For My 550 Fan Celebration/Giveaway Event

Week 4 Weigh-In With Nutrisystem - #NSNation

My 550 Fan Celebration/Giveaway on Facebook Has Started!

March Is Kidney Month

March is National Nutrition Month

More To Come Today (hopefully)

Why I Haven't Posted Lately

Four Winner Announcements - Did YOU Win?

Week 3 Weigh-In With Nutrisystem - #NSNation

I Am Still Here....Just Sick

Week 2 Weigh-In With Nutrisystem - #NSNation

Don't Forget - SIX Giveaways Going On Now!

Holloway House Quick Shine Glide Sweeper Review

It's That Time of the Year Again - Tax Time!!!

Six Great Giveaways Going On Now!

JumpStart.com Review and Giveaway

Winner Announcement - Scentsy and Glee Kit - Did YOU Win?

Give It To Me Monday - A Blog Hop and Giveaway Link Up!

Yoplait Kids Pack Review and Giveaway

UNBELIEVABLE Week One Results of Nutrisystem Program #NSNation

Six Giveaways Happening Now (And More To Come)

Giveaway Scout - A Great Place To Post Your Giveaways (and find out about giveaways too)

EatSmart Digital Bathroom Scale - Review & Giveaway

Wubbzy Be Mine DVD Review and Giveaway

Chuggington First Ever DVD - Review and Giveaway - Honk Your Horns!!!!

"How To Believe In Love Again" by Laura Lee Carter Review and Giveaway

Three Winner Announcements - Did You Win?

Day 1: Nutrisystem Program #NSNation

Yippee!! Received My Nutrisystem Final Package #NSNation

Gorton's Seafood Winner Announcement - Did You Win?

Update On Purex Winners!

Diet Tips From Dr. Oz

**WooHoo** Just Received My Frozen Foods From Nutrisystem!! #NSNation

Agoo Tushie Huggers - Buy 1 Get 2 Free!!!

Glee Gum Kit Review and Giveaway

Four Giveaways Happening Now Plus More To Post!

Scentsy Review and Giveaway

Nutrisystem Package Is On Its Way To Me - #NSNation

Sensational Sunday Follow (posting ahead of schedule)

Saturday Stalk Hop - Linky Is Up

Don't Forget To Enter These Three Giveaways Going On Now!

Please Pray For My Family and Updates

My Story and My Exciting News #NSNation

Scandle Candle Review

Progresso Souper You Debut and Givaway

Pay It Forward

Time For Tell Me Tuesday

Many Thanks To Some Fellow Bloggers

Gorton's Seafood Giveaway (5 winners) and Exciting Other Contests by Gorton's

This Designing Is Stressing Me Out!

New Blog Design - Hmmm..Keep It Or Change It Again?

Four Winners To Announce - Are You One of Them?

Some Awesome Freebies Via Facebook (thanks Shari)

Sensational Sunday Follow - It's A Blog Hop!

Kidz Bop 19 Review and Giveaway (2 winners)

Today We Celebrate Our 10 Year Wedding Anniversary

It's Blog O'Clock Somewhere Blog Hop 1/20/11

Winner Announcement - Is Your Name On The List?

In Observance of Martin Luther King, Jr

Sensational Sunday Follow - It's A Blog Hop!

Busy Weekend and It's Just Saturday!

100 Delectable Recipes for Your Gluten-Free Kid - Partial Guest Post

Everything For Emily - Please Help If You Can

Educational Daycare On The Rise - Guest Post

Winner Announcement!!!!

My Review of Ride-Ons Tikes Patrol 30th Anniversary Edition

Sensational Sunday Follow - It's A Blog Hop!

Giveaways Galore On Harvest For Tomorrow

More Info On My From My Home To Yours Giveaway

ThePrincessDress.com Giveaway

Silly Band Factory Review and Giveaway - THREE Winners!

Running Behind But Hopefully Two More Giveaways Will Be Posted Tonight

Shame On You Oil Companies!!! ~ My Rant

WooHoo Just Received My Frozen Foods From Nutrisystem!! #NSNation