North Carolina Momma

5 Mom-Inspired Driving Tips

2012-01-26T09:40:00.000-05:00

If you are a mom (or dad) you understand the importance of safe driving. Or at least you should! Some days when I am driving I wonder if I am the only one on the road that is being careful. So I want to share my tips for safe driving.

1) Be considerate of other drivers & don't think that you are the only person on the road. I don't know how many times I have been close to being hit because someone in the lane next to me decides they want to drive in my lane - WITH me. Only one vehicle per lane is the rule so please make sure if you are changing lanes that there is no one already there.

2) Keep a safe speed. If you get in a wreck or get pulled over by a law enforcement officer, then you will be later than if you just went the speed limit. Now, I would not suggest being a little "granny" driver and going extremely slow because that can be just as bad as going over the speed limit. So it is very important to keep a "safe" speed...not over and not under.

3) Wear your seat belt! It is hard to teach children to do something if we as the parents are not doing it. It is important to lead our children by example. Children will naturally hate being "tied" into a seat belt, but they are more likely to wear one of they see their parents wearing one as well.

4) Make sure your car is safe. Keep a check on your tires to make sure they are safe. If you have a tire blow out, it can be very dangerous for those in the car as well as those all around on the road. Also, make sure your headlights are working properly. Not only is it important for you to see where you are going, but it is also very important for others to be able to see you coming as well.

5) Don't drive sleepy!! Unfortunately there are many drivers that will keep driving even though they are very sleepy and tired. According to http://drowsydriving.org/about/facts-and-stats/ there are approximately 100,000 police-reported crashes as the direct result of driver fatigue each year. That is a scary number! So please, if you get tired...pull over, take a nap, or let someone else drive for a little while!

There are many other safety driving tips that we could share, but these are my 5 that I wanted to share with you. Please comment with a tip of your own. And be sure to check out Esurance and the tips that they can offer. Be sure to like them on facebook .

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Esurance blogging program for 8,000 My SocialMoms Rewards Points. For more information on how you can participate, click here .”

Online shopping a little easier

2012-01-21T17:57:00.000-05:00

We all know the frustrations of shopping for products and having to go to different stores to find the best prices. Plus, when you make a big purchase, you want to know if what you are buying is a good buy or not. With the way things are these days it pays to be conscious of what we are buying and how much we are spending, not only now but what it will cost in the long run as well.

Well there is a website that will make all of our shopping experiences a little bit easier. It is http://www.become.com/. With http://www.become.com/, you can compare prices, read product reviews and find hot deals. Like if you want to purchase a new heater for your deck, you can get a crown verity vs schwank review. See what others are saying and see where you can find the best prices.

Or suppose you are looking for a brookstone storage benches for deck. You have all of the information that you need to make a purchase and get the best deal around.

This summer as you are looking for pool stuff and other outdoor items, be sure to check out www.become.com so that you can get the best deals. If you want to go swimming before the summer you can always look into getting a pool heater. You can research the different pool heater gas but no spark on purex.

So check them out for your next purchase and see if you can't save some money this year.

Mile in His Shoes - DVD review/giveaway

2012-01-17T21:00:00.000-05:00

From the directors of Angels in the Outfield comes an inspiring story about a special boy with an amazing gift, and the coach who believed. Dean Cain and Luke Schroeder star in the gmc movie based on the book "The Legend of Mickey Tussler".

It is amazing how things seem to happen and how people come into our lives at just the right moment. Coach Arthur "Murph" Murphy is in a losing streak with his baseball team, River Rats. He gets some information about a possible recruit and sets out to find this new possible pitcher. But as he is on his way, he gets lost. While trying to look at the map he runs off the road and hits the ditch where he gets stuck. That is where things get interesting.

Murph goes up to the nearest house to use the phone and while he is calling a tow truck he sees something really amazing. He looks out the window and witnesses Mickey feeding his pig Oscar some apples. The way he feeds Oscar is what is so amazing but all I will say is that he has one good pitching arm. Murph wants to recruit Mickey, but there is one small problem...his dad. Mickey's dad is a little over protective of his son because he has Asperger's syndrome, which is a form of autism.

Without giving away the movie, I will say that this is a great movie about faith, determination and the power of friendship. We also witness the power of jealousy and the affects it can have on a person that will also affect others.

A Mile in His Shoes is truly an inspirational, true story. It is a movie that I will watch again and again, and I recommend that other families watch it as well.

I have a DVD that I would like to give away to one North Carolina Momma reader....So if you would like to win your very own copy here is all you need to do:

Leave me a comment about your favorite family movie and tell me why it is your favorite.

That is all that you have to do. If you would like extra entries you can: subscribe to my blog via email or follow with GFC, you can tweet this giveaway (once daily), or share this giveaway in other ways. Just leave me a seperate comment about what you did to get an extra entry.

This giveaway will end on January 25th @ 11:59 pm EST.

Disclosure: I received a copy of the movie mentioned above for free in hopes that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorcements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Courageous Movie

2012-01-16T20:04:00.000-05:00

I am so excited that the movie Courageous is finally out on DVD...or it will be in about 4 1/2 hours from the time I am writing this!! I went to the theater and saw this movie but I am still ready to see it again.

If you have not seen this movie, I highly recommend that you go rent it or buy it this Tuesday and watch it with your family. If you have not heard about this movie yet then keep reading because I will tell you about it....

Courageous is the newest movie from the brothers from Albany, GA. The first movie they did was called Flywheel, then there was Facing the Giants and then Fireproof. I have seen all of these movies several times and they get better and better with each one.These brothers, Stephen and Alex Hendrick, are truly blessed and have a wonderful gift from God to be able to come up with these movies.

Courageous is my husband's favorite movie. The first movie, Flywheel, is a story line about a used car salesman; then Facing the Giants is about a football team and coach; Fireproof is about a fireman; and then we come to Courageous which is about a sheriff's department. (My husband works for the sheriff's department so that is why this one is his favorite).

In the movie Courageous, we see what the streets are like with gangs & drugs and how families without fathers are affected. We witness heartache when one of the deputies loses his daughter in a car crash involving a drunk driver; we see how someone can appear to be an upright and honest person, but really be a deceitful person. But we also witness how God can answer our prayers and we learn a lesson in forgiveness.

I think everyone should watch this movie...it is great for dads, moms, and anyone that is planning on becoming a parent. There are many life lessons for parents in this movie and I can't wait to see it again myself.

Once you have seen this movie, I am really interested in hearing your thoughts and comments!

Walgreens Prescription Savings Club

2012-01-13T17:00:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Walgreens for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

We all know the importance of having a personal relationship with the people that we depend on for our well being such as doctors and pharmacists. A lot of people that have gained that trust with their Walgreens pharmacist are finding out that they may have to change pharmacies.

For the past year, Walgreens has negotiated with Express Scripts for a new contract but have been unsuccessful. Patients that are covered by an Express Scripts plan are finding a disruption, and are having to find a new pharmacist. Many of these people are even having to drive further to get prescriptions filled. What is even worse is that Express Scripts has told their customers that they will not see any significant savings without Walgreens and costs may even go up.

Walgreens has been working to try to renew their contract to be able to continue to serve the many customers that depend on them and trust them. Follow this link (Walgreens and Express Script) for the press release of the change.

Walgreens is also offering a special discount on annual membership for its Prescription Savings Club: Walgreens Prescription Savings Club. For only $10 a year, a family membership covers everyone in your immediate family, including a spouse, dependents 22 and younger and even pets. Or individuals can join for only $5.00.

It is great to know that Walgreens cares enough about its customers that they have not just given up on those with Express Scripts, but they are trying to find a way that everyone can still be a part of the Walgreens family.

Be sure to follow Walgreens on Twitter and like Walgreens on Facebook to keep up to date on what they are doing.

Slim-Fast's Best Teasting Shakes Ever

2011-12-24T01:01:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Slim-Fast for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

It is that time of year again that we all begin to think of our New Year's resolution. I don't know the true statistic, but I am sure there are about 80-90% of people that want to lose weight as a resolution. Unfortunately, I am one of those people that need to lose weight and I make that my resolution every year. I don't completely fail because I do lose, but sadly I gain too.

Slim-Fast has come out with some new shakes that will make it easier to lose weight because they taste soooo good! The new flavors include:

Creamy Milk Chocolate
• French Vanilla
• Rich Chocolate Royale
• Cappuccino Delight
• Strawberries N’ Cream

I have tried the Cappuccino Delight and the Strawberries N' Cream and all I can say is yummm. With shakes that taste this good it will be hard for some people to drink only one.

Check out Slim-Fast online and get more information on the shakes and the Slim-Fast 3*2*1 Plan. What is the 3*2*1 Plan? Well it is simple...3 snacks, 2 Slim-Fast shakes or meal bars, and 1 balanced meal. There are different snack options, but Slim-Fast has some tasty bars such as Chocolate Mint, Chocolate Nougat, Gone Nuts, and the one I am looking forward to trying Peanut Butter Crunch Time.

Along with the new shake flavors listed above there are some meal bars available too. The Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough looks delicious!

So there are no more excuses! If your New Year's Resolution is to lose weight, then the Slim-Fast 3*2*1 plan is the way to go. Get more information at Slim-Fast and also be sure to like them on facebook Slim-Fast.

Puppies Vs. Babies! The Ultimate Showdown

2011-11-15T03:01:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Puppies vs. Babies for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

What is it about puppies and babies that makes everyone go...awwwww, how cute? It is portrayed in movies all the time; a single man will take a puppy or a friend's baby to the park to pick up women. There is just something about those cute little faces that are so adorable.

But, who is cuter? There is an online contest where you can vote for your favorite, either baby or puppy. Check out the contest here Puppies vs. Babies online contest, and cast your vote.

I personally think the babies are the cutest!! In fact, I have a few photos of my babies that would have won if I had entered them in this contest. Look at that face...who can resist saying how cute that is??? My son is much cuter than any puppy out there!!

And my nephew here is more adorable than even the pooh bear he is almost holding.

But what about you?? Are you a puppy or baby person? Puppies vs. Babies Go cast your vote today. Make sure you leave a comment about which one you are voting for. Let's make this fun and see how many votes we get for the puppies and how many we get for the babies.

Slimming down with Shrinkvivor

2011-09-29T20:04:00.000-04:00

Well I am a day late with this post, but better late than never, right?

I teamed up with this online weight loss group called The SisterHood of the Shrinking Jeans...and they have this challenge called Shrinkvivor. It started Wednesday, 9/28. I am on Tribe Hobari Gray (Go Team!!).

With this week being the first week, we had to weigh in and get our first challenge. I am really excited about this "adventure" because I have gained some serious weight over the last several months. So, I had the hubby take a before picture of me and when I did my first weigh-in, I took a picture of the scale. Most women would never tell their weight, but I am going to put it out there for the world to see...maybe that will help everyone to motivate me and keep me going. Soooooooo...here are the pictures....

Ginny Owens CD Review/Giveaway

2011-09-17T19:50:00.003-04:00

This review is way overdue but I have been really under the weather with inflammation in my chest. But thanks to prayers and steroids I am feeling much better...thank God!!

I received Ginny Owens new CD titled "Get In, I'm Driving", that released on September 13th.

A three-time Dove Award winner, including the Gospel Music Association's 2000 New Artist of the Year recipient, and multiple ASCAP Award winner, Ginny Owens has sold nearly one million albums. A top performer on the Christian radio charts with hits like "If You Want Me To", "free", and "I Wanna Be Moved", among others, Owens' music has impacted mainstream audiences at Lilith Fair, the Sundance Film Festival and the White House. Her music has received widespread film and television placement, including songs on the popular WB series' "Roswell" and "Felicity". Owens was featured on national television, including NBC's "Today" and CNN, for her contribution to help rebuild New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina.

Born and raised in Jackson, Miss, Owens was discovering melodies on the piano almost before she could complete a sentence. Songs began to emerge from her fingers as the vision began to leave her eyes. By the age of three, a degenerative eye condition left Owens completely blind. Despite her physical challenge, Owens pursued a music career. Songs provide a window into a world Owens can't see and an outlet for her to express her thoughts and dreams. Owens' unique musical style and inspiriataional lyrics aontinue to appeal to Christian and mainstream audiences alike.

In 2005 Owens launched The Fingerprint Initiative, and hands-on, non-profit organization designed to "bring hope to the world, one roject and one touch at a time." The organization has partnered with and raised money for groups such as Compassion International, International Justice Mission and Habitat for Humanity.

All of that accomplishment makes me humbled to be able to do this review. It is inspiring to know that there are people out there making a difference in so many ways, and she still has time to record new music for the rest of us to enjoy.

After I received my copy of this new CD, "Get In, I'm Driving", we were on the way to church for family movie night, so it was a perfect time to pop it into the CD player and listen. The very first thing I noticed is there was a great beat to the music. Even with all the kids, and adults too, talking in the background, you can still get into the beat and enjoy the music. I really love any kind of music that I can enjoy listening to even if I can't listen to all the words. When I am at work, I enjoy listening to the radio, even when I can't listen intently.

My favorite song on this CD is Joined At The Heart...."And now you're here with us, Oh the sweet reality, at the end of a hard road, at the close of a long day, we finally hold you in our arms."

Be sure to check out Ginny Owens at the following sites:
Website: http://ginnyowensmusic.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/GinnyOwensMusic
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/GinnyOwens
iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/before-you-fly-single/id442050145

You have the opportunity to get this CD as well with a GIVEAWAY.....If you want to win a copy of this CD and enjoy some good Christian music, here is all you have to do:

For your main entry: Go to Amazon and listen to the samples. Then leave a comment below telling which song is your favorite.

FOR EXTRA ENTRIES do any of the following

1 entry - subscribe to my blog
1 entry - follow with GFC
1 entry - follow me on twitter
1 entry (you can earn an extra entry daily) - tweet about this giveaway. Be sure to leave a link to your tweet in the comment

This giveaway will end on Sunday September 25th and I will draw a winner on Monday. Be sure to leave your email in your comment so I know how to contact you if you win.

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services

mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I
only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.
I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255:
"Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

2011-08-26T13:20:00.000-04:00

True Random Number Generator

Min: 1

Max: 7

Result: 6

Powered by RANDOM.ORG

So I still cannot figure out how to make the little box show up, but I wanted to show the true random drawing for the DVD...Comment # 6
Cheryl said...

I am following via GFC.

dizzybloom(at)gmail(dot)com

August 25, 2011 12:29 AM

Congrats Cheryl!! I will email you shortly to get your mailing information!!

SIMPLE GIFTS

2011-08-25T10:35:00.000-04:00

By Sharen Pearson

As a mother of five and now grandmother of seven, I’ve planned my share of birthday events. I am a creative person, so my problem is “going over the top.” My expectations supersede those of the birthday child. So, I have to step back and say, “Whose birthday is it anyway?” And, therein lies the key to a successful birthday party.

I recently assisted with my grandson, Waylon’s party. He was reaching that big-boy age of 5 years. He knew what theme he wanted: Herbie the Love Bug. He wanted a backyard campfire and a cake with Herbie on it. Simple—Herbie, campfire, cake. Got it! My daughter complied. She invited a few families from church that Waylon knew well and was comfortable around. Since entire families were represented, parents were there to help with crowd control. Bowls of chips and dip provided a place to gather around as people arrived. Children scattered to play in the back yard, parents grouped to watch and chat. Easy, huh? Daddy lit a small fire in the campfire ring in the yard. More talk, more easy playing. The cake was a simple giant chocolate chip cookie with a frosting “Herbie.” Waylon thought it was wonderful.

Mommy announced that it was gift-opening time and everyone pulled up lawn chairs and sat in family groups. Waylon sat in the middle of the circle on the grass and guests watched as he opened each gift and thanked the giver. He received many nice gifts, but to everyone’s delight, a small, inexpensive VW bug toy car was his favorite. He opened it, raised it above his head as if it were a trophy and yelled in delight. Waylon slept with his “Herbie;” woke up and greeted it; placed it on the edge of the tub so he could see it. He had the birthday he wanted. Simple party, simple gift, simple fun!

Some suggestions to consider when planning your party:

•If your child is old enough to have input, allow it.

•For ages 1-5 years, simple is best. Simple decorations, simple food, simple games.

•Invite only one party guest per age of the child. Young children are very intimidated by many children of the same age. Remember, “Whose birthday is it?”

•If guests include family/friends with older children, add activities especially for them.

•Home is the best place for children ages 5 and under. Big party venues are confusing, scary and do not position the “birthday child” as the center of attention as he should be.

Some traps that parents fall into:

•Making the party so complicated that you, as the parent, no longer enjoy it. (Been there, done that.)

•Allowing young party guests to get close to and grab for gifts as as the birthday child is opening them. (Admit it, you’ve seen this haven’t you?)

•Spending too much money. (Guilty as charged.)

•Preparing food for adults and not age-appropriate to the guests. (The only thing to show off today is your wonderful child)

•Engaging in sleepover parties before the age of 9 years. (Children younger than 9 or 10 years often find sleeping at someone else’s home frightening and uncomfortable.)

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Author Bio:

Sharen Pearson’s Goof & Giggle classes and materials continue to provide a quality Mom/Tot interaction. Widely popular, Goof & Giggle’s child-focused play plans are offered in various Arizona communities. She’s also created a variety of Goof Juice DVDs and filmed episodes of Baby D.I.Y. and written workbooks for BabyFirstTV. Arizona Midday (NBC) tapes monthly segments with Sharen to provide their audience with a variety of original and creative “easy to do” activities for babies and preschoolers. Sharen’s creativity reaches a combined audience over 200 million viewers worldwide. Goof & Giggle classes and products encourage green living, repurposing materials from around the house into affordable objects for play and learning. Learn more at: http://sharenpearson.com/

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The above article is loaded at docstoc.com. If for some reason you have difficulty copying or downloading the article, we will be glad to email the article in .pdf or .doc format.

Russ@kathycarltonwillis.com

This article content is provided free of charge by the author through Kathy Carlton Willis Communications. You are welcome to place this article on your site or in your publication as long as 1) it’s used in its entirety, 2) the full bio is also used, and 3) you previously request permission through KCWC at russ@kathycarltonwillis.com.

All other standard copyrights apply.

The Grace Card DVD review/giveaway

2011-08-15T20:42:00.000-04:00

Ephesians 2:8 "For it is by grace you have been saved."

One of the things I have learned in church is that grace is getting what you don't deserve and mercy is not getting what you do deserve. Grace is being nice to the person that is not likeable and is not nice to you. Mercy is not treating that person the way he/she has treated you.

What do you get when you team up a black preacher with a white man who is prejudiced and angry with God? You get a lot of hurt, anger and resentment; but you also get a reason to share the grace card. Have you ever noticed how easy it is to love the people that love you? Your family, your friends, and even people you just meet that smile and are nice to you. But what about those people that you meet that are mean and don't love you? You should love them anyway! Easier said than done, right? It is always easier for us to receive grace than it is for us to give it away.

Have you ever met anyone that you couldn't love? I am sure we have all have had someone come into our lives that has made it hard for us to love them. I try to stay away from these people, but sometimes it is not always that easy. That is when we need to pull out the Grace Card and share with them. What is the Grace Card?

THE GRACE CARD

I promise to pray for you everyday,

ask your forgiveness,

grant you the same,

and be your friend always.

About the movie:

After police officer Mac McDonald loses his son in an accident, years of bitterness and pain erode his love for his family and leave him angry with God... and everyone else. Can Mac and his new patrol partner, Sgt. Sam Wright, somehow join forces to help one another when it's impossible to look past their differences - especially the most obvious one? Every day, we have th eopportunity to rebuild relationships and heal wounds by extending and receiving God's grace. Offer The Grace Card...and never underestimate the power of God's love.

There is power in forgoveness, but it takes a strong person to be able to forgive. And sometimes the person we have to forgive is ourself.

I highly recommend this movie for all families and even church groups. In fact, I have offered my copy of this movie to share with the church at our upcoming family movie night. I watched this movie with my husband and son and by the end of the movie my husband's allergies were really bothering him. He told me I was not allowed to tell anyone he cried so we have to go with the allergy theory.

This movie is out on DVD on Tuesday, August 16th so you need to go out and get it. If you don't want to buy one just yet you can WIN ONE right here!!! Along with the DVD that I was sent to review, the company is holding one for a lucky North Carolina Momma reader for a giveaway!!!

TO ENTER GIVEAWAY:

Visit The Grace Card websitehttp://www.thegracecardmovie.com/ and tell me something about the movie that I did not mention already.

Leave me a comment and make sure your email address is in your comment so if you win I can contact you. To keep from getting spammed you can leave your email like this - gerrie DOT shaeffer AT yahoo DOT com.

For addtional entries: leave a comment for each entry....

like The Grace Card on facebook
become a follower of North Carolina Momma with GFC
Share this giveaway with your friends
tell me in a comment your all time favorite family-friendly movie

This giveaway will end on August 25th @ midnight.

Disclosure: "I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorcements and Testimonials in Advertising."

My Coke Rewards for Schools

2011-08-05T10:01:00.001-04:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of My Coke Rewards for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Are you familiar with Mycokerewards? I have been saving those yellow caps for years now and have gotten quite a few nice things from the program.

If you are not familiar with the program, let me share a little about it with you. Any time you buy a Coke product (there are 15 participating brands), there is a code. If you are buying a bottle, the code is under the cap; if you buy a 12-pk or 24-pk of cans, the code is inside the box. Go to www.mycokerewards.com and set up an account, then enter your codes there. The caps are worth 3-pts and the others are 10-pts or more.

But that is not all. You can also donate points to your school through My Coke rewards for schools. It works the exact same way but you will go to mycokerewards.com/schools. Pick your school and then you can donate as many ponts as you would like.

If your school is not yet participating, encourage them to go to mycokerewards.com/schools and click "Register Today". Then spread the word through newsletters, or meetings and encourage the parents and faculty to donate points. This is a great way for schools to get some of the supplies they are in need of but can't afford - such as art supplies.

As parents, you can also use the points that you save in your account and get school supplies as well. So what are you waiting for? Drink Coke and help out the school that your children, grandchildren, or neighbors go to.

Also, from July 13 through September 30, Sprite is giving away 25 playgrounds, worth $25,000, to schools and are giving consumers who purchase and enter a code from any package of Sprite/Sprite Zero an entry into the sweepstakes to help their school win. In addition, every three points donated to the school through the Sprite Spark Parks for Schools sweepstakes will give the school additional chances. Any new school that registers will be given a chance to win.

Monte Carlo - The Must See Summer Movie

2011-06-29T03:01:00.001-04:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Monte Carlo for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Grab your daughter(s) and/or friends and race to the theaters this Friday to check out Monte Carlo!

Movie synopsis: Grace (Selena Gomez) is an ordinary girl who becomes an accidental heiress when a summer trip to Paris turns into the fantasy of a lifetime. On a dream vacation, Grace, along with her best friend and step-sister, discover that the greatest adventure is finding out who they really are.

Check out the trailer . You can get tickets ahead of time beginning Wednesday, 6/29, by going to Fandango, then you will be ready for the family date night Friday night when the movie hits theaters!

Be sure to "like" the official Monte Carlo Facebook page. This will be a fun movie for my daughter and I to watch together. She is a fan of Selena Gomez and I am a fan of Paris! And we are both fans of dreams coming true - or in this case she had a fun time pretending!

It really looks like a great family- friendly movie, and sure to be a hit for moms and daughters everywhere!! Check out Monte Carlo for yourself, and make that date night with your special someone! My family enjoys spending time together and watching good movies. This movie will be one that the guys might not like as much as the girl do so we may have to make a mother/daughter date night and watch this without them. Most girls, like my daughter, likes Selena Gomez and they like the "fairy tale" story. That is what this movie seems to be, a modern-day Cinderella; except the girl in this movie is not stuck home cleaning and being a slave, but happens to look like someone famous and she gets to live the life of that other person for a short time. Wouldn't we all like to go to a place where our "twin" is famous and we accidentally get mistaken for them? I know I would, if nothing but a short time just to see what they other side lives like. Maybe if we all were given that opportunity, we could be grateful for the life we have.

Will you and your daughter have a date night?? Let me know your plans.

Important help from Cryo-Cell for new moms

2011-06-06T17:00:00.001-04:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of CryoCell International for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

When a woman becomes pregnant she is either excited or scared or a little of both. No mother wants to think about their child not being healthy. In fact, a lot of times you will ask a new parent-to-be what they want, boy or girl, and they will say "It don't matter as long as it is healthy". It would be nice if that could be possible but sometimes the unfortunate happens. That is why it is important to check into cord banking with Cryo-Cell.

Since 1992, Cryo-Cell has helped more than 230,000 clients worldwide preserve their newborn's umbilical cord blood for potential use against many diseases. Along with cord banking, Cryo-Cell Cord Bank is pioneering the way in research, to find more solutions to preserve stem cells in a noncontroversial way. Cord blood is just the first step in new medical advancements.

Cryo-Cell knows that as a new mom, it's hard to find time to exercise. We believe that Cryo-Cell moms really understand the importance of safeguarding the future health and well-being for both their newborns and for themselves. With the award-winning Baby Jogger City Mini stroller, new moms can work out as they enjoy time in the beautiful outdoors with their new baby.

What better way to celebrate the birth of your newborn and get back in shape all at once? enroll today in Cryo-Cell's signature U-Cord service and for a limited-time receive a free Baby Jogger City Mini .

10 Tips for Keeping Your Family Safe on the Road

2011-06-04T18:26:00.000-04:00

It is vacation time..YAY!! But with that, comes a little concern about safety and traveling. Safelite auto and SocialMoms has asked for some tips to stay safe...and here is my list to share with you.

The very first thing you should do before you ever leave the yard, is make sure everything on your vehicle is like it should be. Check the oil, tire pressure, make sure the wipers work, etc. The last thing you want to do is break down because of something that you could have prevented. It is not safe to stop on the side of the road anyway, but you also never know who may show up to offer "help".
Don't carry a lot of cash, but make sure you have some in an emergency. Just say you do break down and a truly nice patron comes along to offer assistance. It would be nice to offer him/her a little money for their help. Also, you never know where you may end up that doesn't take debit / credit cards
Beware of pickpocketing. They are unfortunately everywhere so you have to be prepared. Some suggestions for that is...don't have loose money in your pockets. Use a fanny pack or something else that zips so that it is harder to get into. Men~~ don't leave your wallet in your back pocket if it is loose and you cannot feel if someone touches you. Women~~ use a purse that zips and keep it zipped at all times!!
This may seem a little elementary, but use the buddy system!! Especially when going into public restrooms. This is safe for adults as well as children. Women get raped inside of public restrooms just like children.
Make sure that everyone that has a cell phone, has the ICE phone number listed. This is In Case of Emergency. That way if you are in a wreck and someone needs to get help, they can easily find a phone number in someones phone. If your kids have cell phones, they may have the parents numbers listed, so in the case of everyone being together on vacation, it may be smart to change them all to the same person/number.
Don't look too obvious that you are a tourist or on vacation. Get your maps out at the hotel room to see where you want to sight see and don't pull it out in the street. You don't want to draw attention to the fact that you are a tourist or visitor because this makes you vulnerable to trouble.
Carry as little as possible. Don't carry your camera around everywhere you go, or pad your pockets so they look like you have a wad of cash in them. Be smart about what you carry out with you.
You also have to be careful in the hotel rooms. Make sure that the hotel you are staying at has a safe inside the room. That way you can lock up any extra cash you have as well as other valuables, while you are out enjoying yourself.
Make sure your family has a plan for the "what if's". I am sure everyone remembers the Home Alone movies where the little boy gets left by his family. Make sure your family is prepared and everyone is on the same page in any kind of scenario of getting lost or other scenarios. If you are planning a shopping trip to the mall, where is the meeting place if someone gets missing. Those things are not thought out before hand, but rather parents end up in a panic.
And last, but surely not least on my list, always be aware of your surroundings!! If you are going to the ATM, look around to see who is in the area. We all have natural instincts and in some cases you have to rely on them. If something feels weird, then go another route.

Most of all, have fun on your vacation!!

I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Safelite blogging program, for a gift card worth $30. For more information on how you can participate, click here.

Freschetta by the slice - review & giveaway

2011-05-05T22:01:00.001-04:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of FRESCHETTA® for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Have you tried the new FRESCHETTA® By the Slice? If not, what are you waiting for?? They have a great variety of flavors and they are good!!

I recently received a coupon for a free FRESCHETTA® By the Slice and also a 6-pc Freschetta storage set. I also have one to give away so keep reading. We LOVE pizza in our house!! So we have tried all kinds of frozen pizzas as well as the pizza chains. I have to say that I did not even know about the FRESCHETTA® By the Slice until I was given the chance to do this review. With my coupon, I went to WalMart and looked and was wowed at the different varieties of such good looking pizza!! They have a BBQ recipe chicken, Chicken, Spinach & Mushroom, Six Cheese Medley, and Vegetable Medley.

I got the BBQ recipe chicken and I was impressed! I usually want to make sure I can cook my frozen pizza in the oven, but I took this for lunch one day and all I had was the microwave. They have it where you can cook it in the microwave and it comes out crisp like in the oven. My only problem is I only had one slice and was left wanting more. I cannot wait to try out the other flavors as well, and I want you to try them out too if you haven't.

Giveaway:

Mandatory Entry: If you would like to win a coupon for a slice of pizza and a 6pc storage set like I received, visit FRESCHETTA® By the Slice and in a comment, tell me which flavor you would like to try. Make sure your email address is in your comment.

After the mandatory entry you can come back daily and just leave a comment just to say hello, tell me about your day, or anything else! Show me the love in a comment.

This giveaway will end on May 20th and I will draw a winner using random.org. Giveaway is for US only ages 13 and over.

Just in time for Easter - Magdalena: Through Her Eyes from Campus Crusade for Christ. Review & Giveaway

2011-04-22T20:35:00.000-04:00

With Easter fast approaching, we alwasy reflect back to the sacrifice that Jesus made for each of us when he came to Earth and then died on the cross. The meaning of Easter has been lost behind Easter bunnies, Easter eggs and other "things". But we must remember that Easter is all about Jesus going to the cross but then rising again in 3 days!! If he had not come back to life, then we would not have anything to truly believe in.

As we read the Bible, we find many accounts of God and Jesus through the eyes of the writers. But how about seeing the story of Jesus through someone else's eyes, Mary Magdalene. The story Magdalena: Through Her Eyes, is the life of Jesus through the eyes of the woman that was once full of demons. When Jesus came by and released her from the bondage of the demons, she began to follow Him. She is telling the story as the scenes go back to the time she is telling about.

I like the fact that this DVD shows the story of Jesus from someone else's eyes. Each time we read the Bible, it is the same. The word of God never changes. And in this DVD it still does not change, but we can see how the life, and death, of Jesus affected others. This is a great DVD for small study groups or just for families.

I was so grateful to be given the opportunity to review this DVD and also to offer a giveaway. If you would be interested in receiving this DVD package, please leave a comment below. The first person that says they want this will receive the DVD along with some group study materials.

For more information on this DVD, visit the website http://www.magdalenatoday.com/

And you can also watch a preview

Preview: http://magdalenatoday.com/video/trailer.html?iframe=true&width=640&height=480

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this DVD and promotional materials in hopes that I would post a review and/or giveaway on my blog. I was not compensated in any other way and all opinions expressed are 100% mine.

NMEDA - Finding independence again

2011-04-17T10:01:00.001-04:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of NMEDA for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Do you have a loved one that has a disability that keeps them from being able to get out and about like they would like to? NMEDA is here to help. This is a non-profit company that helps to educate consumers about buying products from dealers. NMEDA DOES NOT SELL ANYTHING: NMEDA is the only association that promotes safe driving and equipment for disabled people. They are non-profit and their members are required to adhere to the safety standards of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. NMEDA dealers (members) are the ones who sell handicap vans and vehicle modifications for disabled people.

No two people have the same needs, so it does not do a whole lot of good to buy "generic" products to take care of someone with a disability. That is why NMEDA offers a personalized "in person" evaluation to make sure are getting just what you need.

NMEDA has Dealers AND Quality Assurance Program (QAP) dealers. The Quality Assurance Program (QAP) is the only nationally recognized accreditation program for the Adaptive Mobility Equipment Industry. It is based on the principle that in order to satisfy customers consistently, companies must have a systematic and documented approach to quality.

Even if you do not know someone that is disabled, how about an aging parent? The people at NMEDA can help you now to decide what kind of assistance you may need to help them out, even if they don't need the help right away. We all enjoy our independence, so why take it away from those we care about?

Memories from Coca-Cola

2011-04-14T06:47:00.000-04:00

Coke® is a classic, all-American beverage that always stirs up memories of good times with family and friends no matter where you’re from. These kinds of memories are the glue that bring families and communities together.About Coca-Cola®

Created in Atlanta, Georgia, by Dr. John S. Pemberton, Coca-Cola was first offered as a fountain beverage by mixing Coca-Cola syrup with carbonated water. Coca-Cola was introduced in 1886, patented in 1887, registered as a trademark in 1893 and by 1895 it was being sold in every state and territory in the United States. In 1899, The Coca-Cola Company began franchised bottling operations in the United States.

I have great memories of Coke from my childhood. I had an uncle that was a manager at the local Coca-Cola plant. Anytime that one of us kids would get sick, he would bring over cases of Coke. I grew up thinking Coke was some sort of miracle medicine or something. Recently I met one of my mom's cousins at a funeral and they were reminiscing about their youth days, and he said something about going to another family members house and seeing a garage full of Coke cases and he knew our uncle had been there. He also knew that someone was, or had been, sick. Now when one of my children get sick, I automatically want to get some Coke. I don't know that it makes you feel any better from the sickness, but Coke always makes you feel better when you drink it.

Several years ago after I had both of my children, I was on a weight loss journey. I had a friend that had lost a huge amount of weight by going to Weight Watchers, so I joined up and went to the meetings with her. I did really great, but had to quit near Thanksgiving. Weight Watchers is a great program and I recommend it to anyone that needs to lose weight but can't do it alone. I just wish I could afford to go back myself! But one of my favorite part of WW was the support and the recipes that are shared. I found a recipe on a website one day that my family has fallen in love with. This website, http://www.dwlz.com/ is from a lady that lost an enormous amount of weight using the WW program, and she shares her success with others. She also has a recipes section that has the points and everything layed out for you. It is a wonderful tool. The recipe I got from her site is called Cola Chicken. Here is the recipe:
Cola Chicken

Makes 4 servings
Ingredients:
4 skinless boneless chicken breasts
1 cup ketchup
12 oz can diet Coke

Put chicken in non-stick skillet. Pour catsup and diet cola over the top. Bring to boil.
Cover, reduce heat and cook for 45 minutes. Uncover, turn up the heat and continue to
cook until the sauce becomes thick and adheres to the chicken. It turns into the most
incredible BBQ sauce and it's only 4 points per serving. Yummm!

I have told others about this recipe and they turn their nose up at the thought of Diet Coke making a BBQ sauce but I tell you it is awesome! The first time I made this recipe, I made the chicken and a big pot of macaroni & cheese. I figured the kids would eat the mac-n-cheese and leave my chicken alone...but I was wrong!! They loved it!! I didn't have enough. It is a recipe that is good whether you are dieting or not, but it is great to know you can eat something that tastes so great and still lose weight!

So, do you have any memories of Coke or any great family recipes? If so, please share in the comments. I always enjoy reading the comments of my readers.

More info: http://www.cookingwithcoke.com/
Join Coca-Cola® on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/cocacola
Join Coca-Cola® on Twitter: http://twitter.com/cocacola

"I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Coca-Cola® blogging program. If I am one of the first 100 blogs received by SocialsMoms, I will receive a $25 gift card. For more information on the program, click here"

Don't forget to enter these giveaways

2011-04-07T11:10:00.000-04:00

I have two giveaways right now that end next week and both have only a few entries:

Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce (ends 4/15)

Rebecca St James Worship CD (ends 4/16)

Favorite PEEPS Moments

2011-04-07T10:47:00.000-04:00

It is already April...wow where has the time gone?? That means it is also almost Easter and you know what that means>>>>Candy!! Do you ever notice how candy has become such a big part of so many holidays?? And the fun part is that there are different candies for each holiday so we can always have a variety! My kids get so much candy that we end up throwing away about half of it. I cannot remember as a child ever getting so much candy. In fact, I had a friend at school that would bring me some of her candy to share. But I can say that the times that I did get candy and other treats, I enjoyed it more than my kids probably do today because of the fact that I did not get it as often.

One of my favorite candy as a child was the Peeps candies. They are so fun to eat and play with. I am the type that when I get any candy, I eat it layer by layer and as slow as I can so that I can enjoy it longer. With the peeps, they are fun to stretch and distort. Then you have to eat off one ear at the time and pretend it is crying, so you eat the face. Am I the only one that plays with my food this way?? I am not completely crazy, I just enjoy to have fun with my food and everything else too!

Here are some fun facts I bet you didn't know about Peeps:

In 1953, it took 27 hours to create one PEEPS® Marshmallow Chick. Today, thanks to advances in technology, it takes six minutes.
Just Born produces enough PEEPS® Brand Marshmallow Candies in one year to circle the earth twice.
In the late 1950's PEEPS® wings were "clipped" to give them a sleek, modern look.
PEEPS® Brand Candies have been the #1 non-chocolate brand at Easter for over 20 years*. *Source: IRI Total U.S. FDMx.
Yellow is America's best selling color of PEEPS® chicks and bunnies.
Yellow and white PEEPS® chicks and bunnies came first, followed by pink, lavender, blue, green and orange.
PEEPS® branded products have made celebrity appearances on many programs including: Good Morning America, The Today Show, CBS Sunday Morning, The Early Show, Saturday Night Live, Martha Stewart, Ellen, South Park, and The Daily Show.
If you had 8,000 PEEPS® bunnies, and you stood them in a straight vertical line, you could reach the top of the Sears Tower in Chicago.
PEEPS® have become gourmet favorites as fondues, Crème Brulee ingredients and cappuccino toppings!

Wow, did you notice the one about makeing enough Peeps to go around the Earth two times?? That is a lot of Peeps!! Check the Peeps mobile tour and see if they are coming near you.

Do you need some Peeps for your Easter baskets?? Shop online and use this promo code at checkout - SMSPRING11 for 20% off all of your purchases until 5/4/11!

About PEEPS & COMPANY®

In 2009, Just Born, Inc., maker of PEEPS®, MIKE AND IKE®, HOT TAMALES® and PEANUT CHEWS® opened its first retail store named PEEPS & COMPANY®.

PEEPS & COMPANY® is located at the banks of the Potomac, minutes from Washington D.C. at the very center of National Harbor’s dynamic main plaza. Directly in front of the PEEPS & COMPANY® store is the Seward Johnson’s famous statue, The Awakening, along with sweeping views of the beautiful Potomac River. The store’s location is at a converging point for residents and thousands of visitors arriving by bus, car, and ferries, which dock at the piers in front of the store.

Keep up to date with our friends at PEEPS and Company:
http://www.peepsandcompany.com/

PEEPSandCOMPANY.com online store

http://www.facebook.com/PEEPSANDCOMPANY

http://twitter.com/#!/peepsandcompany

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and PEEPS blogging contest, for a chance to get a gift card worth $50. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

Little Switches That Make a Big Difference

2011-04-06T16:07:00.001-04:00

Have you noticed how so many times our lives will become so routine that we get bored and want a change? In 2008, when Barack Obama was running for president he used the slogan a lot about time for a change. So many things have changed over the years with technology and other things that we can't even keep up; yet, our lives still seem to be so routine and we become bored.

Well, I am a firm believer that sometimes you can make little switches that can make a big difference. I am not much of a cook, my husband is a great cook so I do not usually break that routine of him cooking dinner. Recently I was given the opportunity to review some Country Bob's all purpose sauce (see my review here). I cooked dinner one night while my husband was working and had dinner on the table for him. And it was wonderful!! I made cheeseburgers and they turned out so juicy and tender all because of a little change I made in an ingredient. But that little thing really made a big difference that night in our home....I now have more confidence in my cooking and am eager to try more new things, and my husband was glad to be able to come home like I do so many nights and just be able to sit and relax.

Another example of little switches with big differences is drinking water. We all have heard of the health benefits that water has on our bodies and we know we need to drink more water, and a lot of people did start drinking a lot more water over the last few years. But unfortunately, we are using way too many plastic bottles. If each person would use reusable water bottles, we could make a huge difference in the amount of waste we have. I have started using the recycle containers they now have at Rite Aid, and I am really surprised at the amount of recycling I have each week that was normally going in with the regular trash. Unfortunately, so many people have the mind-set that they cannot make a difference; but we all need to realize that it is the small things that each of us can do that in the end will result in a big difference.

There are so many areas in our lives that we can make little switches in as well. I would almost make a bet that most of the time when someone in a relationship has an affair, or even thinks about it, it is because their own relationship has become boring. Not that I am saying that makes it alright, but I do feel that we have to do the small things to keep our relationships alive! My husband and I have been married for 13 years, and this year we have gone out on 2 date nights.Those date nights have not been anything extravagant, but yet they have made a big difference in our relationship. All couples need to have time set aside that they can spend together without the kids. If everyone did this, I believe we would have fewer divorces.

I want to hear from my readers...What are some ways that you can make little switches that make a big difference? If you really think about it, I bet we can all come up with some great tips. And if we get these tips out to others, then maybe we can all really make a BIG difference!

Cottonell also is making little switches. The Cottonelle brand provides innovative comfort solutions for perineal personal care. Cottonelle toilet paper is available in three forms: Cottonelle Ultra toilet paper, Cottonelle Aloe & E toilet paper, and Cottonelle Premium toilet paper. To help people feel cleaner and fresher than with toilet paper alone, Cottonelle offers Cottonelle Fresh Flushable Moist Wipes and Cottonelle SoothingClean Flushable Moist Wipes enriched with Aloe & E.

More info about the Cottonelle Ultra Switch: http://www.cottonelleultraswitch.com/
Cottonell on Facebook
http://twitter.com/#!/cottonellebrand

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Cottonelle blogging program, for a gift card worth $25. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

Rebecca St. James CD review and giveaway

2011-04-05T11:41:00.001-04:00

Rebecca St. James charts yet another new course with I Will Praise You, a new collection of worship songs she terms “ her most personal recording to date.” From the opening notes of track one, listeners are offered a welcoming connection with Rebecca’s recognizably authentic vocal warmth and delivery. More than anything, I Will Praise You represents the latest steps in Rebecca’s life long journey towards the presence of God.

I absolutely love to listen to good music, so when I was given the opportunity to do a review of Rebecca St. James' new CD I Will Praise You, I was ecstatic. I was looking forward to the mail arriving each day and when it finally came, I was not disappointed!

I work in an office at an assisted living facility. I am one of only a few Christians that work in this facility so I enjoy having my gospel music going on my radio at all times. I enjoy hearing preaching too, but when I am busy in my office I can't concentrate on what they are saying so it is hard to get into the preaching, so I really enjoy it when I can get a good CD to listen to so I don't have the interruptions. Sometimes I will have clients, staff or even visitors come in and catch me singing along too.

The new CD, I Will Praise You, by Rebecca St. James is great for listening to and singing along with. In only a few days, my daughter and I can sing along with a few of the songs! The songs on this CD are great easy listening, yet wonderful worship songs. And I absolutely love that each song has a Bible scripture that is coincides with. In the insert page, the words to the songs are written out, and at the title there is a Bible scripture.

This CD hits stores TODAY, April 5th!! If you would like to have a great worship CD to listen to at work like I do, or in the car or even at home, you can buy it starting today or you could win one!!

Be sure to check out Rebecca St. James on the web:
Website: http://www.rsjames.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/rsjames
YouTube: http://rsjames.com/updates/2011/3/22/video-rebecca-explains-her-song-shine-your-glory-down.html
Amazon: http://amzn.to/gqOroA

On top of getting a CD to review, I have also been given the opportunity to give away a CD to a North Carolina Momma reader!! If you would like to win a copy just follow the entries below!!

Mandatory Entry:
Go to http://rsjames.com/listeningparty and hear a preview of the songs on this CD, then come back here and tell me what your favorite one is.
That is the only required entry.

Extra Entries:
The extra entries are not required but will give you extra entries and a bigger chance of winning. Please leave a seperate comment for each entry.

Subscribe to this blog through email or RSS feed (1 entry)
Follow this blog through GFC (1 entry)
Follow Southern Mom of 4 blog with GFC (1 entry)
Follow me on twitter - be sure to leave your twitter name in your comment (1 entry)
Tweet about this giveaway - be sure to include @shaffermom and a link to this giveaway in your tweet. Leave a link to your post in your comment (1 entry per tweet per day)
Email a friend about this giveaway - CC me at gerrie.shaeffer(at)yahoo(dot)com (1 entry per person emailed)

Make sure your email address is in your comment. To protect you from SPAM, you may leave the email like this gerrie.shaeffer(at)yahoo(dot)com. This giveaway will end on April 16th and the winner will be chosen on April 17th.

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

SMB Super Miracle Bubbles

2011-04-04T17:47:00.000-04:00

Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce --- Review & Giveaway

2011-04-02T16:47:00.001-04:00

Well I must start out by saying that I have heard all over the blogosphere about Country Bob's sauces. I have entered many giveaways trying to win some of this sauce, because if what everyone was saying was true, I wanted to try some! But I also have to say that I am NOT a cook! I am very spoiled and anyone that knows me will tell you that. My husband does most of the cooking in my house, and my mother in law lives with me so she does the cooking when she is not working. Both of them have schedules completely different than mine, so they are able to have dinner on the table by the time I get home from work.

With that said, I was sent two (2) bottles of Country Bob's all purpose sauce. I was thrilled to finally be able to try this sauce that so many bloggers we already talking about. And I wanted to cook something myself too. So I brain stormed about what a non-cook could cook and use this sauce in. I decided on hamburgers. Easy enough right!?! The funny thing was that my MIL also picked up stuff for hamburgers the same night. I told her what I wanted to do so she stood back and let me fix the burgers! I thought, if my burgers turn out bad then we can always cook hers up; win, win!

I mixed some of the sauce in with the hamburger and then patted them out into patties. My MIL did not trust me enough so she did the cooking. OK so that is not completely true, she did trust me, but she is a natural in the kitchen so after I put my patties on the griddle she just kind of took over. I was completely OK with that anyway, that way I was not the only blame if the burgers were not good.

When hubby finally got home from work we sat down to eat the absolute best burgers ever!!! The Country Bob's all purpose sauce made them so juicy and tender and also gave them a little bit of a sweet taste. I was thrilled! Everyone loved them!! The only bad thing about these burgers....is now I am the official hamburger maker. But as long as I have Country Bob's, I am good to go!!

One of the best thing, to me, about Country Bob's is the fact that they are a Christian company. Here is a quote from their page "It would be nice if we could claim responsibility for the success of the company, however, credit must be given where credit is due. Proverbs 16:3 says, "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed." We have placed true ownership of Country Bob, Inc. in the hands of God. "Christ is our CEO" and He is an Awesome Boss!"

So, what about you...how would you like to try some of this wonderful sauce?? You can go to their page and order some OR You can win some here!!

I have two (2) bottles of Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce to giveaway to TWO (2) North Carolina Momma readers!!

Mandatory Entry:
Go to Country Bob's website, and then leave a comment below with something that you learned! That is the first and only required entry to this giveaway.
Be sure to leave your email address in your comment. To avoid spam, leave it like this gerrie.shaeffer(at)yahoo(dot)com. I will not search for an email so please make sure it is included!

Bonus Entries:
Leave a seperate comment for each entry!! If it is worth 2 entries, be sure to leave 2 seperate comments.

Become a follower of this blog through GFC - 1 extra entry
Go to my sister's blog Southern Mom of 4 and become a follower of her blog with GFC - 1 extra entry
Become an email subscriber of this blog - 1 extra entry
Share this giveaway on facebook (leave a link with your comment) you can do this once a day - 1 extra entry each day that you share
Follow me on twitter (shaeffermom) - 1 extra entry
Tweet this giveaway - be sure to include a link to this post and add @shaeffermom in your post - you can do this once daily for an extra entry each day
Like Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce on facebook - 1 extra entry
Email a friend about this giveaway - CC me @ gerrie.shaeffer(at)yahoo(dot)com - 1 extra entry for each person you email

This giveaway will go through April 15th. Winners will be drawn on April 16th and notified via email. Winners will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be drawn!

Disclaimer: "I received 2 bottles of Country Bob's all purpose sauce for the purpose of this review/giveaway. I was not asked to make a positive review and I was not compensated for this review in any other way. All opinions expressed in this post are 100% mine and my family"

By Your Grace, For Your Glory

2011-04-02T15:35:00.000-04:00

This is my baby girl and a young man from church singing their first duet together! They did a wonderful job...I may be a little biased but I am also a critic!!

10-tips for a fun, distraction-free family vacation

2011-03-31T15:55:00.000-04:00

It is hard these days to plan a true distraction-free family vacation, with all the technology out there for us to stay up to date on everything. I have teamed up with the Twitter Mom group and have come up with a list of things that you can do to plan a fun vacation that does not include distractions.

1) Don't let the kids take their portable games. If they have their games in hand they are going to want to play and may not be as involved with the family activities as you would like. If they are left at home, they will have no choice!

2) Only take one cell phone. We all know that we need a cell phone these days in case there is an emergency. But if you use your cell phone for business then you need to leave it home - you are on vacation so business will just have to wait!!

3) Leave laptop computer at home!!! If you take it you will be tempted to work, and how can your family enjoy being with you if you are still working?? There are those neat little messages that you can put on your email that says "I will be on vacation but I will reply as soon as I can when I get back". I suggest using these messages to let others know that you are on vacation and you are not just ignoring them, but also so they won't be tempted to try to continue to contact you.

4)Come up with fun games to play in the car. If the kids don't have their games they are going to be bored but there are lots of fun games that the family can all get involved in during the trip. One that I have always enjoyed is the 50 states license plate game. See who is the first person the see a license plate from each state, or see who sees the most.

5) Nobody wants to go on a vacation where you have so many plans that you are tired and miserable, but you do need to have some plans. If you do not have any idea of what you want to do then you may find yourself bored and possibly arguing over what to do. So make plans before you go, but make sure these are plans that can be changed if needed.

6) Let the entire family (including the kids) help out with the plans for the trip. Get the family together before the trip and look at all the possibilities of things to do, then let each person give their input of what they want to do. The kids will have more fun if they get a part in deciding where to go instead of being "drug" to places they are not interested in.

7) Depending on how far you are traveling, it may help to schedule special stops on the way. Look at the map and search before your trip of some fun and exciting places that the family would love to stop at and explore. This may be just a simple place that has a nice lookout or an old country store, but somewhere that will give everyone a break from the ride and keep the interst up.

8) Make a check list of things that need to be done before you leave home. It would not make for a fun time if you are constantly trying to remember if you turned the coffee pot off, etc. Make your check list ahead of time so that you can have time to think of everything that needs to be done before leaving and check everything on the list before walking out the door.

9) Make sure that you have completed all of your tasks at work. Don't go on vacation thinking about what you needed to do at work but didn't, or think about what you will have to do at work when you get back. Claer your mind from work things so that you can enjoy being away from work.

10) And finally, probably the most important tip I can offer is...make sure there is no tension among the family. If you and your spouse have been in a recent argument, make sure everything has been cleared up before vacation. Clear your mind, clear your schedule, and relax and HAVE FUN!!!

I hope some of these tips will be beneficial to someone as you take your summer vacations this year. I am also interested in some tips that you may have as well.

Discover a great degree at it online courses

How I Keep My Family Happy

2011-03-31T06:55:00.001-04:00

In 2011 there are so many games, gadgets, and our phones are "smart". We no longer have to read a real book because now we can read it on a device. Our phones can do about as much as a computer. And the gaming systems are so high-tech these days that you can actually play online, download movies and other fun things.

So why is it so hard to make our families happy?

I am a firm believer that "stuff" does not make you happy. And all the things that I described above is proof of that. It starts out with small babies and toddlers. Have you ever noticed that when a small child gets a gift, they would rather play with the box? So it starts when they are small, but we still continue to get them "stuff", which only makes them happy for a short while. They really would love to just have that big box to make a space ship out of it.

Now I am not judging anyone by no means because my family has a lot of these games and gadgets as well. But it is not those items that keeps my family happy. My son is happiest when he can go outside and play with the "scrap pile" and find something to build. Him and my nephew have built a clubhouse, and now they are adding more things to it. They have swing and a slide and each day they look through the scraps to see what else they can come up with. Those are the moments he will treasure the most when he is grown.

My daughter loves to sing. She is happiest when we get together and put in a CD, or plug in the MP3 player in the car, and we sing together. She walks around the house with the MP3 and sings all the songs over and over. She is going to be the next American Idol cause this girl loves to sing!

Farm Rich wants to help you “Keep ‘em Happy” with a selection of tasty and easy-to-prepare snacks! They have great snacks such as cheese sticks, quesidillas, and meatballs. Around my house we love to get together for family movie nights. We love making these kinds of snacks, put them on a big platter, and sit around the t.v. eating and watching. When I was growing up I can always remeber my dad being at work. We did not do many family activities other than family vacations. I appreciate all of the time that my dad spent working for our family, but I do love the fact that my children will have the memories of us having family time together.

So what is it that makes your family happy? Is it food that makes them happy, or something else? Please share your thoughts about your family in the comments, I would love to read some of your stories!!

Disclaimer: I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Farm Rich blogging program, for a gift card worth $25. For more information on how you can participate, click here.

What is your favorite part of Easter?

2011-03-28T19:46:00.000-04:00

Easter is right around the corner and the group from Social Moms wants to know, what is your favorite part of Easter. When I was younger I really enjoyed the Easter egg hunts. We would go to church and the adults would hide the eggs and then the kids would go out and run as hard as we could to find the most eggs. And someone would find a special egg! It was so much fun. And of course on Easter morning, the thrill of getting up to an Easter basket full of goodies. But all that aside, I think my absolute favorite part of Easter was getting a new dress to show off at church.

As I got older, my ideas and favorites changed but stayed the same. I know that statement did not seem to make sense so I will explain. Now that I am a mother, I don't hunt eggs or get an Easter basket, but I love the excitement that they have with these experiences. The fun and excitement they get when it is their turn to hunt eggs is priceless. And although my kids stopped believing in the Easter bunny a long time ago, they still enjoy the surprise of the basket that the bunny leaves for them. It is a wonderful feeling transitioning from the one with all the excitement about Easter traditions, and then making those traditions fun for the next generation.

But Easter would not be worth celebrating at all if we did not mention, or celebrate the true meaning of Easter which is the resurrection of Jesus Christ. My family enjoys the Easter egg hunts, and getting the Easter baskets, but our top priority is going to church and participating in the Easter program. If it were not for the resurrection, there would be no reason to celebrate so we make sure that is the most important part of our celebrating. And I love that our church has a different program each year. We have a program for the kids and one with the adults. They become very thought provoking and inspirational.

So, I ask you...what is your favorite part of Easter? Do you have some traditions or favorite activities? Share your favorite Easter activities in the comments. I would love to read some of your ideas. To make new memories, make sure to take your family out to see the movie Hop. It looks like it is going to be hilarious!

Disclaimer:“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Hop blogging program, for a gift card worth $25. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

Make Money Monday

2011-03-28T17:27:00.000-04:00

When I began this blog, I never really imagined the possibilities to make extra money. Now I have not made enough that I can quit my job and stay home full time, but I have made enough to take care of birthdays and other holidays. So I decided that each week I would share some of those "money makers" with you. Some readers may be like me, and work full time but need extra money on the side; or you may be a stay-at-home mom and need a way to make some extra money. Either way, I hope you can have success in some, if not all, of these ideas from each week.

For the first one, I want to share SwagBucks. SwagBucks is a site that offers different ways to earn "Bucks". These "Bucks" can be used to get different items from the swagstore such as gift cards, gift items, or even cash put into your paypal account. I love getting the Amazon gift cards, and I usually earn enough to get about 2 a month (@ $5.00 each). So, how do you earn swagbucks?? Well let me tell you!!

Click on this link SwagBucks and sign up. Then use swagbucks to search the internet. Periodically you will get rewarded with Swagbucks! You can also earn swagbucks by playing games, watching videos on Swagbucks TV, and so many other ways.

This is not one of those sites that will make you an instant millionaire, but if you want something to do, and want to earn "swagbucks" to trade in for stuff, then sign up and have fun!

Walgreens Brand Health & Wellness Products

2011-03-17T21:00:00.001-04:00

This is a compensated post written by me on behalf of Walgreens. All opinions are 100% mine.

Do you take vitamins on a regular basis? I have known for a while that I need to take vitamins but they seem to be so expensive. With gas prices on the rise still, and everything else going up as well, I put vitamins on the way back burner. But like I said, I know I have needed them because I am always tired! In fact, my doctor recommended prenatal vitamins because they have extra iron that is good for energy. But to get prenatal vitamins, you still need money or a pregnant friend that don't take theirs. I have neither.

But there is good news; I recently found out about Walgreens Brand Health & Wellness Products. They are just as good as the "name brands" that we are so used to, but the cost is so much better. I received a sample of the Walgreens Brand vitamin A to Z. It is comparable to Centrum but at only a fraction of the cost. If you can get the same benefit at a lower cost, why would you not? I am asking myself that now wondering why I went so long without taking vitamins. You really feel better, or at least I have.

Another great thing I learned about Walgreens is the Walgreens Way to Well Fund™. Purchase of every Walgreens Brand Health & Wellness Product supports bringing preventive wellness services to local communities through the Walgreens Way to Well Fund™.

a. Walgreens will contribute up to $3 million annually to the Walgreens Way to Well Fund™.

b. The Walgreens Way to Well Fund™ will provide free preventive health tests as well as other health and wellness services and education to local communities. Some of those services will include preventive health tests through the National Urban League Health & Wellness Tour and vouchers redeemable in select stores.

c. For details, visit walgreens.com/waytowell.

So, the next time you need any Health and/or Wellness products, check out Walgreens Brand Health & Wellness Products and help the community through the Walgreens Way to Well Fund™.

Dive into the season's sexiest swimwear

2011-03-13T10:01:00.001-04:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Express for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Spring is upon us! With that comes warmer weather, which means swimsuit season is fastly approaching as well. Express has some new women's swimwear for this spring season. Since I have a very ugly c-section scar, I can't wear the two piece swimwear or bikinis, but they have a great selection of swim suits that we all can wear and feel sexy in. My favorite piece is this pretty one piece.

Right now if you sign up for Express e-mail, you will have a chance at winning one of ten $200 Express gift cards! Check out the sweepstakes rules for more information. The sweepstakes ends 4/21/11 @ 11:59 p.m. EST so sign up now!

Shop Our Newest Arrivals in the Express Spring 2011 Swim Collection!

* Available in our always-popular monokini, sexiest string bikini and must-have strapless and halter bikini styles.
* Shop bright solids, on-trend graphic prints, the essential reversible style, nautical-inspired striped and sleek metallic styles.
* Designer details include flirty ruffles, sexy self-tie sides, glam beaded embellishments and polished metal hardware.
* Removable padding in tops.
* Bottoms fit smaller to size for moderate back coverage.
* Swim shorts available for men.
* Accessorize with Express spring essentials including sandals, tote bags, sunglasses and hats For Him and For Her.

HOT AMF Bowling coupn

2011-03-11T15:25:00.002-05:00

Does your family do date nights?? Do you enjoy bowling?? AMF Bowling is offering $20 off four people. Go here to sign up for the eClub and get your coupon, then make a family date night!

What makes you feel lucky?

2011-03-10T06:16:00.002-05:00

Are you a superstitious kind of person? Do you carry a four-leaf clover, rabbit's foot, or something else that is supposed to have "luck"? I have felt like a lucky person most of my life. I have always had the ability to walk by a clover patch and find the one that has four leaves.

Whether you are lucky or not, Redbox has a promotion for everyone. The only thing better than $1 a night movies – free movies! Lucky you, redbox is giving everyone the chance to score free movie credits now through St. Patrick’s Day during the redbox Lucky to Have Friends Like You promotion. Each fan receives 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, and lucky you could be rolling in free movies this March.

We own over 600 DVD's...yes, we are a small Blockbuster! I have never personally used the Redbox rental but with this promotion, I think I may just have to break out of my comfort zone and try something new. It is not that I won't use the box, but I don't always think about it when I am going to rent a movie. Plus, like I said, we own a lot of movies so I go to where I can buy the movies I want to see. But with the Redbox promotion, I can watch a movie to see if I like it, then go somewhere else to buy the ones I want to see again and again.

My family will tell you that I LOVE anything that is FREE!! And we all love to watch movies, so this promotion is perfect for all of us. I feel not only lucky but blessed to have everything that I have in my life. Pretty good health, a husband that works hard and takes care of me...in fact, I have to stop here and just share that I am SPOILED! My husband does the cooking (unless he is on night shift then I stop somewhere and pick up something for me and the kid), he does most of the house cleaning (he made the mistake of criticizing my efforts - they were not good enough for him so now he has to do it). And about a year ago I learned about blogging and I have been really lucky in getting opportunities such as this one to share with the world.

So please share with us, what makes you feel lucky? Redbox is making it easy for anyone to feel lucky by helping us score FREE movie rentals! Be sure to check out this promotion and score some movies for your next family movie night.

Disclaimer:“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and redbox blogging program, for a $25 Walmart gift card from redbox. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

Pier 1 outdoor furniture

2011-03-09T04:01:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Pier 1 for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Spring is in the air, or at least getting closer in most places, and Pier 1 is getting ready too. Although I do not personally have a green thumb, I do enjoy looking at the beautiful flowers that everyone has planted. There is not much about the outdoors that I do not love! I am a spring and summer kind of girl and I am so ready for the warm weather to come on and stay. I am ready to see the flowers in bloom, the kids in shorts, and the winter decorations coming down and spring decorations going up.

If you are like me and you enjoy the outdoors, then you need to visit Pier 1. The outdoor furniture has arrived and they have some beautiful stuff in stock. One of my favorite items is the outdoor wicker rocker. It combines two of my favorite seats, wicker and rocker! I also love this ceramic bird bath and the hanging frog bird feeder. There is nothing like sitting in the yard watching the birds and listening to them sing.

Pier 1 is having a special in-store offer the weekend of March 18-20. If you would like to be a part of this special event, go to www.pier1.com/outdoor and sign up. Also, be sure to sign up for the Pier 1 Outdoor newsletter and be on the look-out for upcoming Pier 1 Tweetups coming to your area. These Pier 1 Tweetups will be in the following areas:

Orlando: March 9, 2011
Dallas: March 22, 20011
Atlanta: April 5, 2011
NYC: April 20, 2011

For more information on these dates and times, visit http://izea.com/a-pier-1-tweetup-coming-to-your-area/

March 20th marks the official beginning of Spring, so be sure to check out the great deals at Pier 1 and get your home and yard ready!

Are you pregnant? Get a FREE BellyBag

2011-03-02T10:02:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of CryoCell International. All opinions are 100% mine.

My babies are not babies anymore, they are 10 (almost 11) and 12. I will be the mother of a teenager this year and that kind of scares me a little! When I was pregnant what seems like eons ago, it seems the idea of banking cord blood was just starting out. No one knew a whole lot about it, but even in the early years it seemed like a good idea. More and more we are hearing stories of children that are being treated for terminal illnesses by using their cord blood, and even the cord blood of siblings.

If you are pregnant, now is a great time to start thinking about banking your child's cord blood. None of us want to think about or imagine our child getting sick, but unfortunately it is a reality in more cases than we like to accept! I encourage you to go to www.Cryo-Cell.com and read up on the company that can bank your cord blood. One of the reasons that Cryo-Cell is the company you should choose is: Cryo-Cell boasts the industry’s highest levels of quality certifications and accreditations. On their site you can read the other nine (9) reasons they give of why you should choose them.

Also, right now if you go to www.Cryo-Cell.net, you can get a FREE bellybag. Although we never want our children to get sick, it helps to have a plan for when they do! And with the help of www.Cryo-Cell.com, you can feel confident in your choice to bank your cord blood.

MOST - DVD review & giveaway

2011-02-28T18:16:00.004-05:00

John 15:13 "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."

Recently I was sent a DVD to watch and review and I have to say that this has been a difficult review for me to write. The main reason is because I am a little slow and I did not really get the full point of the DVD until today~~~a full 8 days after I watched the DVD. So let me tell you a little about this DVD that had me stumped for so long.

MOST (czech for "The Bridge") is a visually enthralling, 21st-century parable about a loving father, his young son, and the fateful day when they attempt to head off an impending rail disaster. Hundreds of passengers aboard an oncoming steam train are completely unaware of the danger that looms as they head toward an open drawbridge. A desperate young woman witnesses an act of mercy beyond imagination, changing her life forever - and the lives of all who see this story. Both heart wrenching and glorious, MOST vividly portrays the greatest offering of love, sacrifice, hope, and forgiveness to man.

This is a 33 minute video that illustrates the love of a father to his son. John 3:16 says "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten son that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish but have everlasting life." I don't know about you, but I have thought that God sending Jesus to Earth just so that He could die for our sins was probably easy because, well He is God! It just doesn't seem the same as if you or I were to be in that same situation so it makes it a little harder to understand. Now I am not completely ignorant, and I do believe in the Bible and accept it, but as humans we tend to question these kinds of things. Or at least I do. That is what makes this DVD so inspiring and awesome.

Now I do have to be honest and say that I had a hard time keeping up with the story line. I wish it had been made a little differently because it did not seem to fall into place from beginning to end. And the fact that it is filmed in Czech so you have to read the subtitles makes it a little difficult to watch as well. But even with those two "cons" the "pro" of this movie makes up the difference.

All through the movie the one thing that is clear is that this man loves his son, and his son loves him. So when the dad has to make the decision to let his son die in order to let the other people live, it really brings to life the message in John 3:16. It brings it into perspective for those of us that have to question life. I recommend this video for church groups or families. It is truly inspiring!

Check out the MOST website: http://www.facebook.com/mostthemovie
and check out this video on youtube : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c67NF3I55ew
WIN IT:
I also have the opportunity to give one of these DVD's to a North Carolina Momma reader. If you would like to experience the true meaning of love through the eyes of a father, comment below. I will make this easy...the first person to comment to say they want to see this DVD will get a copy.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this DVD for the purpose of this review. All opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and I was not influenced by anyone to write a positive review.

We have WINNERS!!

2011-02-24T09:18:00.002-05:00

Well I am a little behind, but we do have a few winners to announce. Congratulations to comment #13
DEBIJOT who said:I like Honey Nut Cheerios

She is the winner of the Big G whole grain prize pack.

And congratulations to Jennie who wins a box of chocolates from H&S candies.

I will be emailing the winners shortley and they will have 48 hours to respond or I will pick another winner.

Are you a Blogger?

2011-02-18T08:55:00.002-05:00

Do you blog? I started out this blog last year mostly to get extra entries in giveaways. I needed a blog in order to add other blogs badge to my page. But since then I have learned how to make money with my blog. And occasionally I have been able to host some pretty neat giveaways as well.
So, do you want to earn money with your blog?? If so, go to http://izea.in/raQu and sign up with SocialSpark. They send you opportunitues for blogging and if the publisher accepts, you get paid!! I have been given opportunities that range from 500 points (or $5.00) up to 2500 points ($25.00). And you can cash out via paypal when you have 5000 points($50.00). This makes good extra income and comes in handy for Christmas or vacations!

H&S box of chocolates giveaway

2011-02-11T06:20:00.005-05:00

It is almost Valentine's Day so what are your plans? Hubby and I are going on a date night tonight to Olive Garden! I am so excited because we only get to go there about once a year and this year we are doing it early. His daughter and son-in-law are doubling with us because she has never eaten at Olive Garden. Now our son-in-law will be mad at me because I am sure she will be like me and get hooked!

What do you and your other half give each other on Valentine's? Do you get or give chocolate? If so, you need to check out the great people at heart and soul candies. They know the true meaning of Love and they know how you can share that love with others. Since God is Love (1 John 4:16), the only way we can truly share love is by sharing God. So why not give a box of chocolates this year with a message of Hope, Faith and LOVE! Share 2 of the greatest things there is...GOD and chocolate!!

You can purchase H&S candies at most Wal Mart locations for only $5.00.

OR you could WIN a box here!!

We are going to make this a fast and fun giveaway. Comment on this post as many times as you like with memories of your favorite valentine, your worst valentine, or anything you would like to say about valentines. We will close this giveaway on Monday the 14th at midnight...yes that is Valentine's Day!! The person with the most comments will win their very own box of chocolates and let me say they are delicious!! My dad tried them out and told me he was my biggest fan when I got chocolates.....lol. So get to commenting!!

This giveaway is open to US age 18 and older.

Disclaimer: I received a box of H&S chocolates for the purpose of this review and giveaway. I was not comensated in any way for my opinion and the opinions in this review are 100% mine and my family.

Big G Whole Grain GIVEAWAY

2011-02-05T15:42:00.003-05:00

Did you know that 95 percent of Americans don't get enough whole grain in their diet?

According to the 2010 Report of the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, only five percent of Americans get the three full recommended daily servings - a shocking statistic.

With many Americans making New Year's Resolutions to live healthier, it's never been easier to get the whole grain you want without sacrificing taste. Every Big G cereal contains at least 8 grams of whole grain per serving, with more than 20 General Mills cereals delivering 16 grams or more. (At least 48 grams of whole grain are recommended daily.) Big G cereals are America's number one source of whole grain at breakfast, providing America with more whole grain at breakfast than any other breakfast food from any other manufacturer.

Only whole grain gives you the vital nutrients from the complete grain. The health benefits of whole grains can't be pinpointed to one particular component of the grain. It's the "whole grain package" that makes the difference. In addition to fiber, whole grain contains antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and other vital nutrients that help ensure a healthy diet. A diet high in whole grain has been found to help with diabetes and weight management, and it may help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

Get into the whole grain habit by just looking for the big white check on Big G cereals! Cereal is already one of the healthiest breakfast choices you can make, and the entire Big G cereal line is made with whole grain, making it a great choice. Big G cereals have the brands and flavor your family will love, including Cheerios®, Lucky Charms®, Cinnamon Toast Crunch®, Honey Nut Cheerios®, Fiber One® and Total®.

To be sure the other foods you are choosing have the healthy whole grain you need, just follow these two easy rules:
Look for a whole grain symbol like the big white check on Big G cereals or the Whole Grain Stamp developed by the Whole Grains Council

Scan the ingredient list and choose foods that list a whole grain near the top of the list
Visit www.WholeGrainNation.com for more tips, additional information about the benefits of Whole Grain and how Big G cereals can be a convenient and tasty way to incorporate more whole grain into your day.

Thanks to General Mills and Myblogspark, I was given the prize pack shown above and my family is getting more whole grains in our diet. We also want to share this prize pack with someone else as well. So how would YOU like to get more whole grain for YOUR family??

It is now time for the fun part!!
~~~THE GIVEAWAY~~~

One North Carolina Momma reader is going to win the same prize pack that I received. For your first and main entry I want you to answer the following question in the comment section.
With which of your favorite Big G cereals do you like to start your day off? That is it! Remember to leave your email address in the comment as well.
You can also get extra entries by doing any or all of the following:

*subscribe to my blog or let me know if you already subscribe- 2 extra entries
*follow my blog with GFC or let me know if you already follow- 1 extra entry
*follow me on twitter http://twitter.com/#!/shaeffermom - 1 extra entry
*tweet this giveaway - including @shaeffermom and #myblogspark and the link to this giveaway - good for one entry a day
*share this giveaway on facebook or other social media site. Leave a link to your post in the comments section.

This giveaway is open to the US only and it will close on Saturday, February 12th. The winner will then be notified via email and will have 48 hours to respond.

Disclaimer: I received this prize pack and coupon from General mills and myblogspark for the purpose of this giveaway and review. Any opinions expressed in this post are 100% mine.

The WYLDS - movie review

2011-02-05T15:13:00.006-05:00

About the Movie:

SMALL IS THE GATE AND NARROW THE ROAD THAT LEADS TO LIFE, AND ONLY A FEW FIND IT.
The Wylds is an action-packed, adventure film inspired by the hugely popular classic, “The Pilgrim’s Progress” by John Bunyan. Filled with outrageous characters and exciting special effects, this thought-provoking allegory is a movie the whole family will enjoy.
Chris, a runaway child, lives with a group of misfits in a junkyard, stealing to survive. When a traveling preacher tells him that his father is alive and wants him to come home, Chris must leave his family of thieves and venture into the wilderness in search of his father and a better life.
Join Chris on an action-packed adventure as he outwits bandits, escapes swamp monsters, battles evil robots, and learns valuable lessons about choosing the right path in life.
A contemporary allegory inspired by John Bunyan’s “The Pilgrim’s Progress.”

My Thoughts:

I have to admit that when I saw the preview of this movie I thought it was going to be dumb. But I agreed to watch it anyway and I am really glad I did. This turned out to be a great movie. As I began to watch the movie, I realized that each character was a representation of something else. Chris is a christian trying to find his way back to the celestial city to find his Father. On the way, he finds out that there are people that will get in your way and try to stop you from finding that city. Luckily, Chris has Faith and Hope on his side and sees the truth.

This is a great movie for church groups to show the youth. It helps young people to see and learn how the devil works. He is sneaky, so we have to be prepared and focused and always remember that even when the road is bumpy, we always stay on the narrow road!

Disclaimer: I was sent this movie for free for the purpose of an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine!

We have a winner...

2011-02-01T06:21:00.003-05:00

Thanks to everyone for entering the giveaway for the CSN stores gift certificate. With 50 entries, the winner is comment #30 Debbie said...
Twitter follower @suburbsanity.fourkidsrgreat(at)gmail.com
January 25, 2011 8:44 PM

Debbie I will be emailing you soon! Congratulations and check back...I will have a chocolate candy giveaway soon for Valentine's Day!!

The Narnia Code - DVD review

2011-01-29T14:15:00.002-05:00

The Chronicles of Narnia series by C.S. Lewis has become one of the most globally beloved franchises in history. And yet, there are mysteries about the author and these seven stories that have fascinated scholars for nearly half a century.

Enter Michael Ward who takes us inside the pages of Lewis's masterpieces and discovers a "secret imaginative key" - The Narnia Code. Like a detective embroiled in an elusive chase, Ward takes us on an illuminating adventure into medieval cosmology and spiritual symbolism. His absorbing conclusions reveal a new third layer of hidden delight that will forever change your love and appreciation for C.s. Lewis and the Narnia books.

I have to admit that I have never been one that was interested in these books or even the movies as they started coming out. And the reason for that is I did not really understand what they were all about. After watching this DVD I think I want to read the books and watch the movies and see just what I have missed out on. I learned so much about this series by watching this DVD and now I have a better appreciation for the stories that C.S. Lewis was sharing with us.

C.S. Lewis went from being an atheist, to becoming a Christian and also had an appreciation for the planets. In fact, the seven books that he wrote are based on the seven planets. Something very interesting that I also learned is how our days of the week were named after the planets as well. Such as Monday is named for the moon, Saturday for Saturn and Sunday for the sun.

I have to say, this was a very intersting DVD. I recommend it to anyone ESPECIALLY if you are like me and have been confused over all the "hype" of these books. You can also get an appreciation for the series and maybe get in on the "hype".

You can find The Narnia Code on Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Narnia-Code-Norman-Stone/dp/B0047H7Q22/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1296329632&sr=1-1.

CSN stores $25 gift certificate giveaway

2011-01-22T09:24:00.003-05:00

CSN Stores has over 200 online stores where you can find everything from kids’ swing sets to stylish furniture to cute cookware! I was honored recently when I was given the opportunity to offer a giveaway on my blog for a $25 gift certificate good for any of the 200+ stores.

So what would like to get from CSN stores? I guarantee, you can look at their sites all day long and still not see everything that they have to offer. If you don't believe me then I challenge you to do so. I also promise that you can find some of everything in one of their many stores!

So, you want to win a gift certificate?? Of course you do. And here is how you can get one:

Main Entry: Go to CSN stores and tell me what item you would get with your $25.00.

Easy peasy, right?!? Of course, that is the way we do things around here! But you can also get additional entries as well!

Additional entries: Leave a seperate comment for each entry

subscribe to my blog (2 extra entries)
follow my blog with GFC (1 extra entry)
follow me on twitter (1 extra entry)
tweet this giveaway - include @shaeffermom and @CSNStores (can do this once daily) - leave link to your tweet in the comment section.

This giveaway is open to US and Canada and will end at 11:59 p.m. on January 31st. Make sure you leave your email address in your comment (to keep spam down you can do it like this: gerrie(dot)shaeffer(at)yahoo(dot)com. Winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond before another winner is drawn.

Disclaimer: I was given a code worth $25 for the purpose of this review. All opinions are 100% mine and I was not compenstated in any way for this post.

Box Tops For Education $50,000,000 Flash Parade

2011-01-22T08:07:00.000-05:00

Help schools in your area by saving box tops and sending them to the school. Our schools can earn part of the $50,000,000 that will be given out!!

Box Tops for Education was created by General Mills in 1996 as an easy way to help make a difference for kids and schools. Since then, schools have earned more than $375 million through the program to help get the things they need-from books and school supplies to playground equipment and computers. Help make a difference in schools by clipping Box Tops from more than 240 brands, including Cheerios, Betty Crocker, Pillsbury, Hamburger Helper, Kleenex, Ziploc, Hefty, Juicy Juice, Avery, Welch´s, Land O´Lakes and Brita. Find out how much your school has earned and learn other ways to earn cash for your school at www.btfe.com.

Become a fan of Box Tops for Education on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BoxTopsforEducation

Follow Box Tops for Education on Twitter at www.twitter.com/BTFE

Your Teen Could Own a Micro Business - guest post

2011-01-18T11:36:00.003-05:00

Carol Topp, CPA advises teenage business owners through her Micro Business for Teens book series. Carol’s day job is accountant to business owners, and she enjoys teaching teenagers to succeed beyond their dreams. Students appreciate how she shares what they need to know in clear and helpful lessons. Her website is microbusinessforteens.com

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Your Teen Can Own a Micro Business
How to Launch It in Ten Simple

“I want to walk dogs; what do I need to do to get started?” asked a teen boy. I had inspired him to think about starting a micro business and he was ready to get going!

I encourage teenagers to start very small businesses—micro businesses. A micro business is a one-person business that can be started easily, usually without any up-front cash, using what a teenager already owns. Micro businesses are usually home-based and very flexible so a busy student can keep up with homework, sports and a social life.

Teenagers can use their skills to develop businesses such as teaching guitar lessons, doing web design or caring for children. Other teenagers have started micro businesses by offering services such as house cleaning, pet care, and lawn mowing. One easy-to-start micro business is tutoring. Some students tutor math, Spanish or computer programs such as Photoshop.

After your teenager has an idea, he or she can launch a micro business in a short amount of time with very little start up money. Share these starting steps with your teen:

Conduct a mini market survey. Start by asking a few potential customers if they need your service and what price they are willing to pay.
Decide on a price. From the mini-market survey, you should be able to set a fair price. You may get your first customers by undercharging the competition. One teenager charged half what other piano teachers charged and quickly had eight students.
Volunteer a few jobs to practice your business skills and build a reputation. Use recommendations from these jobs in your future advertising. Sarah took senior pictures as a favor for a friend and received three other jobs from referrals.
Launch your first advertising campaign. Try to use free advertising such as emails, Facebook posts and handing out fliers to friends and neighbors.
Work your plan on a small scale. Start with one customer at first. Learn a lot from that experience and grow slowly.
Evaluate, adjust and change. As you grow in experience, you may be able to charge more. You will probably need to create a payment policy. Sarah discovered that she needed to be paid up front and have a cancellation policy when she scheduled photo shoots.
Pick a name and register it. Usually, you can use your own name, such as Cathy Smith's Babysitting Service, without needing a name registration. If you do want a business name, learn what your state or local government requires. This website is a good place to start: www.business.gov/register/business-name/dba.html
Open a checking account. Accountants usually recommend a separate business checking account to keep from mixing personal and business expenses. A teenager can usually get by with one checking account, if you keep good records. Usually a parent must agree to be a co-signer on a checking account for minors.
Read up on taxes. You’ll need to file your own tax return, may owe federal or state income tax, and may be subject to self-employment tax also. Self-employment tax is Social Security and Medicare taxes for self-employed people.
Learn about customer service, marketing and record keeping. Become a student of business and seek to be continually learning more. Read books, take a business class, find a mentor and ask a lot of questions.

TABASCO(R) Original Red

2011-01-12T10:01:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of TABASCO® Original Red. All opinions are 100% mine.

How much do you love Tabasco Original Red sauce? The Original Red was the first sauce introduced by the McIlhenny family back in 1868 and continues to be their most popular sauce of 6 total sauces. This sauce is good on anything...according to my husband anyway! He loves his sauce on pizza, hamburgers, hot dogs, spaghetti and even the occasional egg. I am not that much into the spicy and hot sauces, but he has taught our children to love it as well.

There is one recipe that he tried once that I fell in love with. We love to eat pizza at one of our local pizza places in town and they have this great pizza called Spicy Buffalo Chicken pizza. It is great!! All you have to do is:

chop up some chicken into pieces and soak them in some Tabasco original red sauce for a few minutes. You can also put a thin layer of Tabasco original red sauce on the pizza crust. Top the pizza with the chicken and cheeses (we love cheese so we smother our pizza with cheese). Then bake and enjoy! It is great!!!

So, do you have a favorite recipe with TABASCO® Original Red sauce? Please share in the comments if you do! Also, check out Game-Day Party Menu to get some other great recipes to add to your collection as well. Anytime you have a game day party (think Super Bowl), you can use these recipes and you will the hero of the party. Also look at Pizza Perfected and find some ways to doctor up your delivery pizza.

It is not about being hot with this sauce, but it is all about enhancing your food!

New Year, New Vacation Spot

2011-01-12T10:00:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Hiltons of Branson. All opinions are 100% mine.

Experience all that Branson has to offer with a weekend getaway at the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel and Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing.

Situated within the electrifying entertainment capital of the Midwest in Branson, Missouri, the Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing and Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel offer guests access to shops, boutiques, restaurants, a river walk and other attractions. Both hotels are within easy driving distance of Branson’s championship golf courses, lakes, museums, theme parks and 49 live entertainment theaters. Enjoy being in the midst of all the action by booking your stay at either hotel today!

A while ago I did a post on Christmas at Branson, Missouri and now we are back with a new year and a great place to make a new vacation spot. With all the many attractions at both the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel and the Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing, it is hard to decide on what a family should do. The view from these rooms are so amazing that if I was staying in one, I would be content to just stay in the room. They even make first class accommodations for your dog. "Our hospitality goes beyond humans. We'll supply dog beds, bowls and water, treats, lanyards identifying rooms with pets, a staff trained to handle animals and more. We can accommodate pets up to 75 lbs." Wow...sounds like they will baby our dogs just like we do!

On my vacation we will:

Stay at the Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing in one their suites. We will arrive on Monday and that day will be spent resting and lounging. We will enjoy the indoor pool, and take advantage of some great food at the Level 2 steakhouse.

Tuesday, we will visit the Castle of Chaos. This is an adrenaline rush type of show that I am sure my family would love! While there we will also check out the Hollywood Wax Museum . Take some pictures and see how many people we can trick into thinking we met famous people!

Wednesday, we will enjoy some miniature golf at Shoot for the Stars Mini Golf. . . . .

Thursday, we will shop til we drop at the Tanger Mall. With 250 places to shop, there will be plenty of shopping for all of us!

On Friday, we will be packing up and getting ready to head back home, so we will enjoy the pool in the hotel until check out time. On the way out of town we will stop at the Barbara Fairchild's Diner... . .

Before you make your plans for your 2011 vacation, make sure you check out Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel and Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing and see how much fun you could have in Branson, MO with your family!

Bright Beginnings

2011-01-09T01:01:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of PBM Products. All opinions are 100% mine.

Bright Beginnings offers a variety of FDA-regulated infant formulas that are nutritionally equivalent to the big national brands - at prices that will fit your family's budget. Their products include:

Premium Milk-Based Formula
Gentle Milk-Based Formula
Organic Infant Formula
Soy Infant Formula
Soy Pediatric Drink

It costs so much to have children, so it is great that there are options out there to save money! We do not have to purchase the big named brands anymore because there is an equivalent in a generic form. And they all have to meet the same FDA requirements. Check out Bright Beginnings on Facebook. Make sure to "like" them so that you can keep up-to-date on specials and other things going on with Bright Beginnings.

You can also buy on diapers.com now too. And diapers.com has a 2 great offers right on the top of their page. You can get 30% cash back on your diapers purchase, or 10% cash back on everything else. Plus, you can get free shipping on orders of $49 or more.

So what are you waiting for? Go to the Bright Beginnings on Facebook and "like" them and next time you need formula, buy on diapers.com.

If Children Are Cheaper By The Dozen...can I get a discount on six? ~~Book review

2010-12-31T09:46:00.003-05:00

Have you ever thought that you could write a book about your life that other people would enjoy reading? I know I could write a book but I do not know that anyone else would enjoy it at all. But I found a book that as I read it I was so glad that this lady decided to share her life with us in a book. The book is titled If Children Are Cheaper By The Dozen...can i get a discount on six?

From the Book:

A mass exodus to the ER for a child to regurgitate possibly swallowed pills, blow-drying a half-naked toddler's pants in a museum restroom, hauling several youngsters up and down hills after a stroller collapses - these are the everyday experiences of a mother of six. In her quirky, lighthearted memoir, If Children Are Cheaper By The Dozen, Can I Get a Discount on Six? Elizabeth Kathleen shares the mayhem of mothering a busy household.
Embracing the pressures of a crowded household, Elizabeth maintains positivity to meet each challenge. From clothing mishaps to outlandish pets, this family has seen it all. Things as simple as washing a dog turn into a comedy event when there are half a dozen extra minds in the mix. Follow the fun-filled account of raising six children born within seven years, Shiloh, Abigail, Josiah, Elijah, and twins Isaiah and Loru, and experience a glimpse of family life that would leave you asking, If Children Are Cheaper By The Dozen...Can I Get a Discount on Six?

About the Author:

Elizabeth Kathleen has spent the last twenty-two years of her life in research for this book. She has studied the eating, sleeping, playing, and educational habits of the average American child, hers. She and her family reside in rural Ohio.

My Thoughts:

I don't know that I have ever laughed so hard when reading a book in my life! The different situations that this family finds themselves in on a regular basis is just too funny. I am sure they were not funny to them at the time, but I am glad that she was willing to share these moments for the rest of us to laugh at (and with) them now. She starts out with the funniest story ever at the doctor's office when she first found out she was pregnant. The nurse sent her in the restroom with a 32 oz container for her to get a urine sample in. Elizabeth "thought" she had to fill up this container, so she was in the bathroom for over an hour. Finally the nurse offers her some water, in which she gladly accepts, and proudly walks out of the bathroom with her cup almost running over! Thank goodness I was not pregnant, or did not have to use the bathroom, as I was reading this because I would have surely wet myself.

This is just one of the MANY funny stories that Elizabeth shares in her book If Children Are Cheaper By The Dozen...Can I Get a Discount on Six? If you have had some funny (and maybe embarassing) situations with your family, or if you have not began your family yet, you will love reading this book. Get your book today from Tate Publishing http://www.tatepublishing.com/bookstore/book.php?w=978-1-61663-762-0 or Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Children-Cheaper-Dozen-Discount-ebook/dp/B004EPYM1U

I promise you that you will laugh often while reading this book.

Disclaimer: I recieved this book for the purpose of a review. All opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine!

Charter Moms

2010-12-27T13:01:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Charter. All opinions are 100% mine.

Are you a mom that would love to voice your opinion? If so, I would like to share Charter Moms with you. Charter Communications, Inc. is a Fortune 500 company and the fourth-largest cable operator in the US. They have developed a facebook page for moms to share their opinions. Here is what they have to say...

Moms... It is YOUR turn. We want to hear from you. Join the brand new Charter Mom's Panel Facebook Page ( http://www.facebook.com/#!/CharterMoms) to tell us what you love and what we could do to make you happy. We're always looking for new and better ways to connect with you and naturally, to entertain you and your families. You'll be the first to know about new services and programming and we hope you'll help to guide us as we look to make Charter stronger than ever.

Charter wants us moms to tell them what we think about programming, entertainment, what our kids watch or don't watch, and what they want to watch. If you have read my blog at all, you will see that I love family friendly movies and family night movies. We own over 300 DVD's and we watch a LOT of movies together, so I really enjoy the ones that I don't have to screech at when they use language that is inappropriate for all ages. In fact, a lot of movies are ruined by the language, so I like it when they come out on TV and have to be censored!

I am excited about being able to share ideas with this company and I hope you will join in with them and do the same. It is amazing to me at how many companies are FINALLY realizing that a mom's opinion is worth so much!

Family movie night coming back January 8th on Fox

2010-12-21T21:02:00.001-05:00

Walmart and P&G present Family Movie Night. Don't miss Change of Plans starring Brooke White, Joe Flanigan and Phylicia Rashad, Saturday, January 8th on FOX at 8/7c

About the movie:
Sally Danville is a free-spirited musician on her way to the top. Her husband Jason is fighter pilot who doesn’t want to be tied down. Together, they live life on the go, free of domestic responsibilities. But when they get a phone call from Child & Family Services, they quickly learn that things don’t always go according to plan. Named legal guardians of four kids – three of them from third-world countries, they now must learn to parent this instant family. The story is both humorous and heartwarming, revealing how fulfilling life can be when you look beyond your own plans and invest in the lives of others.

My thoughts:
I was given the opportunity to see this movie before it comes out on television and I absolutely loved it!! How would you feel if all of a sudden your life was completely turned upside down because of an accident? What if you were asked to raise 4 kids that are basically strangers to you? What if you had to put your dreams and plans on hold because there was suddenly someone else that depended on you?
That is the situation that Sally and Jason find themselves in. They have careers nad they are both very much free spirited, so when Sally finds out that her best friend has been killed in an accident, their world is completely turned upside down! They go from a free spirit to a family.
This is a movie about love, sacrifice and courage. I recommend that every family make plans to watch this on Fox on January 8, 2011. You will be touched and even inspired by this family and the choices they make. Watch the preview and then make family movie night plans with your family!

:30 Change of Plans from Moms4FamilyTV.com on Vimeo.

Check out the Family movie night website: http://www.familymovienight.com/change-of-plans/

And on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/familymovienight

Psst… want to save up to $46?

2010-12-17T16:31:00.001-05:00

Hey! I just learned a clean little secret about Lowe’s. They have quite the selection of cleaning products plus air and water filters to help keep your home spic and span inside and out. And they’re sending out up to $46 in savings so you can really clean up. Get your coupons before they’re gone! Go to vocalpoint.com/Lowes.

Keep Christ in CHRISTmas with H&S candies~review & giveaway

2010-12-17T10:12:00.007-05:00

Well Christmas is upon us once again and I have to say that I am excited! I love this time of year; it seems that people are in a better mood and they seem to be nicer to each other. But I like to reflect on this time of year and remember the true meaning of the season...it is not about a man that wears a red suit and passes out toys on Christmas Eve, but it is about a baby that was born over 2000 years ago. The birth of Jesus reflected a lot about how His life would turn out...He was rejected in the beginning when there was no room for Him in the inn. So He was born in a stable and His crib was a feeding trough. But what is sad is how He is treated even today. This king left His throne in Heaven and came down to earth to live as a human so that He could understand all that we go through, then He was beaten and killed...but the greatest part is He is alive today!! Jesus' birthday should be a special time for you to reflect on how great He has been in your life and I pray that this year you will do just that with your family.

I found a poem that I wanted to share with you:

Don't Forget Jesus
Christmas is a special time
To reflect on Jesus Christ
The wonder of His lowly birth
Brings meaning to our lives

There really is no other reason
We celebrate this day
The birth of God’s precious son
And the life He willingly gave

But so much seems to distract us
In the busy-ness of our lives
We lose our focus in all the happenings
Not knowing, we leave out Christ

We lose sight of the true meaning
As we endlessly rush about
Trying to find that perfect gift
Seems to cloud our Saviour out

We need to stop and reflect awhile
Remembering our precious Lord
His birth, His life and sacrifice
And all that He stands for

For though the world may celebrate
It seems though for other reasons
Let’s keep in mind that Jesus Christ
Is the true meaning of the season.

The people at H&S (Heart & Soul) candies also want you to keep Christ in CHRISTmas this year as well. From The Heart to The Soul...

About Us

Heart and Soul Candies was founded on the premise that any pursuit that pushes the ceiling of excellence will earn the right to be heard. That is why Heart and Soul founder, Bill McGee, has been intent on developing a chocolate that rivals the various gourmet brands on the market, while also, intent on taking a unique position of delivering this excellent chocolate in creative packaging that conveys a scripture-based message worthy of being heard by all.

Since its inception in mid-2005, Heart and Soul Candies has grown into several markets including Christian bookstores with its everyday piece candies, large drugstore and mass retail chains with its seasonal products, independent wholesalers, and most recently, a growing presence on the internet.

Heart and Soul continues to grow by developing new chocolate products and creative packaging. More products other than chocolate are also being introduced on the website. We search long and hard for these products as they must meet the same quality standards that are established for our chocolates. All said and done, developing excellent products for our customers is our welcomed challenge...conveying a message from God's word is our passion.

Our products can be found in Walmart, Ingles Markets , Family Christian Stores, Berean Christian Stores, and LifeWay Christian Stores nationwide. To find out if a store near you carries these candies, go to heart and soul candies.

The Vision & Mission:

The Vision: Heart & Soul Candies Vision is to give cheerfully and generously to good works around the world by providing scripture based high-quality chocolate and candy products that bless the hearts and souls of people everywhere.
2 Corinthians 9: 7, 8: Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
The Mission: Heart & Soul Candies Mission is simply to love God with all of our heart, soul, and strength as a growing inspirational confections company focused on building long term loving relationships, offering exceptional products, and serving our customers with uncompromised compassion.
Mark 12:30: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength

Chocolate with a word of God...it doesn't get any sweeter than that!!

Now for the SWEET part...I have a box of H&S chocolate candy to give away to a North Carolina Momma reader. To enter all you have to do is share a Christmas story, tradition, recipe, or anything else CHRISTmas that you would like to share. The person with the most comments will win so comment away! This giveaway will end on December 31st at midnight. The winner will be notified via email (so make sure you leave me your email address in your comment!!) and will have 48 hours to respond. Open to residents of the US only.

Disclaimer: I received a sample of H&S candies in order to try for the purpose of this review. All opinions are 100% mine and I was not compensated in any other way.

Christmas from Branson, Missouri

2010-12-15T23:00:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Hilton Branson. All opinions are 100% mine.

So, if I could get my family in on a new tradition at Christmas, we would start making a family trip to Bransonm, Missouri. There are so many exciting things going on this time of year and it is beauiful. If you are in the area, or you want a place to go and start a new tradition, check out the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel and also the Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing. The Hilton BCC Hotel and the Hilton Prmenade are both just minutes from 49 live theatres, Branson golf courses, Table Rock Lake, Silver Dollar City, outlet malls, Titanic Museums and many more Branson Attractions.

Celebrate the holiday season with a full array of festivities for the whole family at the Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing and Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel.

As the temperature begins to drop and the leaves fall from the trees, enjoy the warmth and comfort of the holiday season with the Hiltons of Branson that await you and your family!

So don’t forget bring your camera and your list, because Santa is coming to Branson and staying at the Hilton. Beginning November 27 and running every Saturday and Sunday morning in Level 2 Steakhouse, Santa will visit children in the dining room and be available for pictures. Hours are from 9-11am, ending on December 19th, so Santa can go back to the North Pole and finish up making the toys for the good little girls and boys. He will also be available in the lobby of the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel for family portraits each day beginning December 12th though December 24th from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm. It’s the perfect opportunity to have your picture taken in front of the Christmas tree and email it back to family and friends!
And don’t forget about Story Time with Mrs. Claus. Becoming a Holiday tradition at the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel, Mrs. Claus reads stories each Friday and Saturday afternoon beside the Christmas tree in the hotel lobby. Story time runs from 5 pm to 7 pm starting November 26th and ends on December 18th. Story time is free and open to the public.
With so much to experience, the Hiltons of Branson are the perfect place to spend the holidays. Special Room rates with savings of up to 50% off in-season room rates are available from December 12 to 30 at both the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel and the Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing.

Make a new holiday tradition with your family and travel to Branson, then stay in luxury at either the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel or the Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing. And have a Merry Christmas!

New coupons from Coupons.com

2010-12-15T11:14:00.002-05:00

Check out these new coupons from Coupons.com

$2.00 off on any Slo-Niacin
$2.00 off AmLactin Moisturizing Body Lotion
$1.00 off on AmLactin Foot Cream Therapy
$1.50 off 2 DOVE Chocolate Bags (8.5oz. - 9.5oz.)
$1.00 off TWO (2) Boxes of Ronzoni Smart Taste
$0.75 off Pledge Multi Surface product
$1.00 off Any Three (3) STOUFFER'S Entrées
$5.00 OFF any size HP Photo Book
$1.00 off when you buy InStyle magazine
$6.00 off StarStruck Plus Wizards on DVD
$5.00 off purchase of HM: Who Is Hannah Montana?
25% off (up to $36) only at www.tryboda.com
$1.00 off on any ONE (1) TENA Product
$1.00 off any LISTERINE for Kids product
$1.00 off one (1) Starburst Sweet Gamebook
$1.00 off one (1) LIFESAVERS Gummie Wreaths
$1.00 off ON ANY ONE (1) FLEXITOL PRODUCT
$2.00 off any one (1) Triaminic product
$4.00 off Any Benefiber Product

Funny Christmas video - I just had to share!

2010-12-13T11:05:00.000-05:00

NMEDA ~ National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association

2010-12-08T15:00:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of NMEDA. All opinions are 100% mine.

Do you, or someone you know, have a need for safe driving equipment for disabled people? If so, you need to check out this company NMEDA.

- NMEDA is a non-profit trade association; they educate consumers on buying products from a NMEDA qualified dealer.

- NMEDA DOES NOT SELL ANYTHING: NMEDA is the only association that promotes safe driving and equipment for disabled people. They are non-profit and their members are required to adhere to the safety standards of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. NMEDA dealers (members) are the ones who sell handicap vans and vehicle modifications for disabled people.

No two people with a disability are exactly the same. Beware of adapted wheelchair vehicles sold over the Internet or through catalogs. After a personalized “in-person” evaluation, you can be sure you are getting the right driving solution customized to your specific lifestyle and needs. If you need additional training or product refinements, your NMEDA dealer is there to help you.

* The Quality Assurance Program (QAP) is the only nationally recognized accreditation program for the Adaptive Mobility Equipment Industry. It is based on the principle that in order to satisfy customers consistently, companies must have a systematic and documented approach to quality.

I work in an assisted living facility where we take care of the elderly and disabled. I see first hand the need for personalized equipment. We have several of our residents that have to travel in a non-emergency ambulance because they cannot get into our facility van. Those residents can only go to doctor's appointments or to the hospital. For anyone living at home, they do not have to be home bound any longer.

**Please be sure to go to NMEDA and on the homepage, hit the dealers locator and type in your ZIP code and see if there is a qualified dealer near you.

I have 1 dealer near my I have one dealer near my home and work, and three others within a 100 mile radius. So I encourage you to check out your local dealer as well. See how much they can do for you to get you moving!

Parent's Choice Infant Formula

2010-12-07T21:00:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of PBM Products. All opinions are 100% mine.

Are you having trouble finding Similac® Advance® Infant Formula at your local retailer?

Consider trying a store brand infant formula alternative sold at retailers including Walmart, Sam’s Club, Target, Kroger, Walgreens, CVS, and Babies “R” Us.

For example, you can compare the nutrition of Parent’s Choice Advantage™ Infant Formula to Similac Advance and feel comfortable knowing that these formulas are nutritionally equivalent and offer the same benefits:

- Prebiotics to help support baby’s immune system

- Milk-based nutrition containing all nutrients, vitamins and minerals for growth and development
DHA & ARA, which may support brain and eye development

- Available in 23.2 oz and 12.4 oz sizes

Thanks to the Infant Formula Act of 1980, all baby formula sold in this country must meet minimum nutrient requirements and FDA regulations. That means that you can save money by getting the store brand and feel safe that your baby is getting all the nutrition that he/she needs. You don't have to spend a lot to get a lot when it comes to baby formula.

Look for yourself about the store brand formula. Also, I encourage to read more about the Similac recall and see for yourself why you should switch to generic formula.

The Similac recall should also serve as a reminder for parents that they need to be vigilant about baby product safety in general. The best way to do that is to sign up for emails from the government’s http://recalls.gov website.

Pier 1 - Christmas must haves

2010-12-07T16:01:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Pier 1 Imports. All opinions are 100% mine.

Have you seen the cute little commercials from Pier 1 this year? I smile every time I see a new one. They are so cute! They are advertising that Pier 1 has Entertaining, Gifts, and Decor that "speaks to you". If you have not seen them, then you need to look out for them the next time you are watching t.v. So I decided I would look at Pier 1 and find some holiday gifts that I would love to have for myself and family. I would love this vanity mirror. http://www.pier1.com/Catalog/Gifts/tabid/501/List/0/CategoryID/119/level/a/ProductID/130/ProductName/Hayworth-Mirror-Vanity-uu/Default.aspx

Pier 1 has all your entertaining needs as well. Like the and this really cute . If I was entertaining this Christmas season, one thing on my must have list would be the .

So what about you? Has anything "talked to you" this Christmas season? If not, then you need to head on over to Pier 1 and let their selection of gifts speak to you!.

Also, make sure you "like" Pier 1 on facebook http://www.facebook.com/pier1. For every new fan they get, they will donate $1.00 to Toys for Tots. For the month of December, you also can support Toys for Tots by dropping off an unwrapped toy and/or making a cash donation at the register.

Tom's of Maine

2010-12-07T15:01:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Toms of Maine. All opinions are 100% mine.

Are you concerned about the ingredients that go into the products you buy? So are the people at Tom's of Maine and that's why on their web site they share every ingredient, its purpose, and its source. Check it out here: http://www.tomsofmaine.com/research/ingredients From Tom and Kate's family to yours In 1968, Tom and Kate Chappell left Philadelphia, where Tom worked for an insurance company, and moved to rural Kennebunk, Maine. As part of their goal to simplify their lives, they sought out natural, unprocessed foods and, unadulterated products. Unable to find natural personal care options for themselves and their children, in 1970 Tom and Kate decided to create and sell their own. They began with a $5,000 loan from a friend and the philosophy that their products would not harm the environment. From this small start, Tom's of Maine grew and developed into a different kind of company, one based on the belief that people and nature deserve respect. Over the years our product line moved from non-phosphate laundry detergent to natural personal care products such as the first natural toothpaste (1975) and deodorant (1976). We've grown in size and in 2006, we became part of the Colgate-Palmolive Company. But our simple, direct approach hasn't changed one bit: we listen to what our customers want (and don't want) in their products, we learn how it can be done, and we respond with effective natural(and sustainable) solutions. They have been around for over 40 years. They offer products such as: toothpaste, deodorant, mouth wash, dental floss, and soap. And all of them are from naturally sourced, wholesome ingredients. And they taste great! I received a free sample of the toothpaste in the mail and it was great...fresh breath and leaves your teeth and mouth feeling good. Where can you get Tom's of Maine for yourself?? You don't have to be in Maine! You can get the products at your local Rite Aid, Walgreen's and Target stores. Just to be sure that the product you are looking for is at your favorite drug store just go to the store locator part of their page http://www.tomsofmaine.com/where-to-buy. Check out Tom's of Maine online Tom's Of Maine. If you have a facebook account, make sure to "like" their facebook page http://www.facebook.com/TomsofMaine?v=app_4949752878 and follow them on twitter https://twitter.com/TomsofMaine

I am sure you will love their products as much as I do!!

Also, check out their contest page and see how you might win a $500 Target gift card That's Wicked Fresh contest page

Don't let the holidays get you depressed

2010-12-07T06:20:00.002-05:00

For some people, the holidays can be very depressing. That has been the case for some in my family for a few years because I had a nephew that passed away on December 14, 2007. He was only 7 months old. It has been a sad reminder every year since then. But, for us, we have realized that we are blessed and he is with Jesus. That is not the case for many other families. Some people get so depressed and upset over the holidays and they turn to suicide. Maybe they are in a situation like ours, or they may have lost a job and can't afford gifts. Whatever the reason, I want to reach out to anyone that may have suicide thoughts this holiday season.

There is help for anyone that has suicidal thoughts, and I pray that if anyone reading this knows of someone that may be suffering, that you will please direct them to this post and the sources I have to share. Here is a link to a site "God Test". http://godtest.com/surveya/index.html Go here and take the test to see what your results are. They also offer a new believer's Bible study http://www.godtest.com/surveya/biblestudy.htm and other resources such as books about suicide and coping with death http://www.godtest.com/surveya/books.htm.

Here is a download that I also wanted to share with you. At the bottom you will see a phone number for the suicide hotline:

Dear Friend,
I'm so sorry you’re going through a hard time. Good news, though—there
really is hope. Time will change your current situation. You’ll soon find that
these dark feelings are temporary. Peace and joy are available to you.
I'm not promising that you’ll never have losses, but the pain will pass as you
keep praying and seeking God. Keep your head high in this storm until the
sun shines again. Soon this dark period of your life will be behind you.
There is hope. Jeremiah 29:11-13 says,
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD,
“plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give
you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come
and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me
and find me when you seek me with all your heart.”
Recommendations:
1. Go to other believers for encouragement.
Find a church home. Join a small Bible study in a home or church
setting. Surround yourself with others your age who seek God and
study His Word.
2. Listen to inspirational music.
You can find Christian music in your favorite style. Try your local
Christian radio station or one online.
3. Take time to read the Bible.
If you don't have a Bible, there are versions available on the Web
that you can download. Or ask your church for assistance.
4. Read the book, Purpose Driven Life.
This is a great Bible study and will give you a sense of direction
and purpose for your life so you feel plugged in.
5. Get help.
Call 9-1-1 or go to an emergency room if you fear you are no
longer able to prevent taking your life. Allow someone outside
your situation to intervene. Also, consider going for counseling.
Seek out a pastor or other professional who will listen, care, and
help you with your struggles.
You are in our prayers during this difficult season in your life.
Linda Evans Shepherd
www.GodTest.com
Suicide Helpline: 1-800-SUICIDE
Sometimes good things happen suddenly. It was New Year's Eve 2003 when I
considered all the people contemplating ending their life that very night. As a
person who has also experienced a dark night of the soul, I understood how a
crisis, circumstance or depression could create a state of hopelessness. It’s only
by the grace of God that I survived my dark night to live a life of joy.
Sometimes all it takes to survive a dark time is a little hope and encouragement
as well as a fresh perspective of God's love. That's when I decided to hook up
my interactive website, GodTest.com, with the suicidal lanes of the Internet.
That night 20 people came to Christ. By
Monday morning 100 people had escaped
suicide and found faith. Two weeks later, we
were at 12,000 hits and 2000 souls coming to
faith.
I soon added other features to the site. With
each improvement, we experienced greater
statistics. More than that, we received
personal reports to show the site served a
purpose. A depressed pastor wrote, "Thank
you. This was the worst ministry day of my life.
Your site helped me feel better."
A dad of a disabled child wrote, "You saved
two lives tonight. You see, I was going to kill
both myself and my child, but your story has
encouraged me. The two of us will live."
Since then, we have seen thousands of suicides prevented and over half a
million people have come to faith. Millions have found the encouragement they
need. We’ve recently redesigned the site and hope this will attract even more
people to the site and encourage them to draw close to God.
As the president of a tiny nonprofit, Right to the Heart, we are delighted to help
and encourage so many. Please visit the site, link to it from your online
presence, and spread the word.
Linda Evans Shepherd
www.GodTest.com
U.S. Suicide Statistics
(2005)
• 1.3% of all deaths are from
suicide.
• On average, one suicide
occurs every 16 minutes.
• Suicide is the second leading
cause of death for 25-34
year olds, as well as
college students.
• More people die from suicide
than from homicide.
• There were over 800,000
suicide attempts in 2005.
About
GodTest.com
Suicide Helpline: 1-800-SUICIDE

Christmas is a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus. Unfortunately, we have turned it into a time of stress and even sadness. Please seek help if you feel overwhelming stress and sadness this Christmas. There is a better way!!

I pray that you and your families have a very Merry Christmas!! And for those people that only want to say Happy Holiday I say this ~~~without Christ there would be no holiday!!

Don'

2010-12-07T06:19:00.001-05:00

AMF bowling - HOT coupon

2010-12-03T09:42:00.002-05:00

If you enjoy bowling, then you really should take advantage of this HOT coupon offer from AMF bowling. Click on the link below and find the location nearest to you, and print off a coupon for $20.00 off for 4 people! That means the whole family of 4 can go out on a date night and not break the bank!

Consumers can have fun with friends, family members or their co-workers at AMF Bowling Centers and find the nearest location to them. They can get a $20 off coupon for 4 people.

Click here to get your coupon.

Shopscotch - Get Cash back when you shop!

2010-12-03T09:34:00.002-05:00

Get extra cash back from hundreds of top brands when you buy through Shopscotch. Join free today and get $5.00 Credit! Shopscotch is a social cash back shopping site. · Its members earn cash back for making online purchases. · Its members are able to share their earning activity within the community allowing others to see where people are shopping and how they are benefiting from the program. · In addition to cash back, members will also earn badges based on their shopping behavior and other interactions at Shopscotch. · Membership is free and quick, causing a high conversion rate. · Shopscotch has partnered with hundreds of top brands including eBay, GAP, Staples, Barnes & Noble, Walmart, Macy's and Apple. It continues to add new stores every day. Check them out by going to Shopscotch and signing up for a new user account and start getting paid to shop!

Official JESUS FREAKS TRAILER (NEW!!!)

2010-12-02T06:37:00.002-05:00

Circle of Belief Productions (COBP) is releasing a new Christian documentary to inspire Christians of all ages about the life-changing impact faith is having among young people throughout the world! Check it out....

I get truly inspired when I see young people share their faith and take a stand for Jesus! This will be a great film for youth groups and families to watch together!

Also, I want to encourage to use the share options and tweet and/or share on facebook!!

Flipped movie - mom/daughter date night

2010-12-02T06:35:00.004-05:00

Did you check out the new movie release of Flipped? If not, you really need to get it. If you liked My Girl I am sure you will like this movie too. And if you have a daughter then you really need to check out the mom & daughter date night download. It gives some great and exciting ideas for a date night that your daughter will never forget!
Here are the 10 ideas for a great date night that they share:
Tip: Do one of these activities on your “Flipped” date night or on another occasion.
1. Make a 1950s-style dinner (malt shakes, fries, burgers, etc.)
2. Start a mother/daughter book club by reading “Flipped” by Wendelin Van Draanen;
then, watch the film
3. Bake a special family recipe to snack on during “Flipped”
4. Create homemade cards for other people to show them how much you love them
5. Write a modern-day fairy tale together based on a classic
6. Take a dance class together to learn swing, salsa or ballroom dancing
7. Make a mixed CD/playlist together of favorite love songs of both generations
8. Ride bikes together before or after watching the movie
9. Read favorite love poetry from school or life and/or write love letters to discuss
together
10. Have a princess tea party and describe fairy tale love

And they have other great ideas to make your date night special.

So make plans today to rent/buy this movie and share a "Date Night" with your daughter. I am sure she will treasure that night for the rest of her life!!

Why can't I give this away??

2010-12-02T06:24:00.004-05:00

So I have drawn 2 names so far for the Pillsbury sweet Sunday morning moments prize pack, and I did not get a response from neither one. Why can't I give this prize pack away??? It is a really great prize...free cinnamon rolls, scrapbook, scissors and glue. I don't personally scrapbook, but that will make a great Christmas gift!!

So, here is what I am going to do. The FIRST person to comment on this post that says I want to win, will get the prize pack. You must leave your email address so I can reach you.

Here is what you will win...

I would love to give this away so leave me a comment!!

Cardstore.com - review and discount

2010-11-29T10:33:00.004-05:00

I have never been the one to make Christmas cards using a family picture. Not that I have not wanted to, but I just never was able to get the family together and get one made. That probably has something to do with my procrastination problem but we will deal with that "later".

This year I found a new company called Cardstore.com. One Sunday after church when we were all still dressed fairly nice, I made everyone get together and we took pictures! We took several pictures to make sure we had a good one and this is the result:

I am so excited to get these out to family and friends!!

At checkout, they even give you the option to address your envelopes for you, they will add postaage for you, and they will even mail them out for you if you would like! And best of all, I placed the order on Sunday afternoon and had them by Wednesday! They shipped fast! And they look GREAT!! I am rather proud of my good looking family.

Check out their selection of holiday cards and photo cards. Some of the things they offer include:
--Unique designs: Choose from over 7,000 designs from more than 70 artists. Select card styles that are smart, stylish, playful, original or modern
--Get personal: Create unique messages with up to 14 photos, 18 fonts and 10 colors
--No minimum order: Create one card for someone special or hundreds of cards for an entire company
--Eco-friendly: Cards are printed on 100% post-consumer waste recycled paper, and Cardstore’s carbon footprint is offset through Carbonfund.org
--Designer quality at a bargain price: High quality cards designed by well-known stationery artists with no hidden fees. Cards are priced from $0.79-$2.79
--Direct mail: upload your address book and Cardstore.com will print and mail your cards at no extra charge!

It is not too late to get your cards for Christmas and I am sure you will love these! PLUS, cardstore.com is offering North Carolina Momma readers a 20% discount on your first order. Just use coupon code CSHOLIDAY20 at checkout!

Winners

2010-11-29T09:45:00.002-05:00

Flipped Movie Winner:
Congratulations to comment #6 Nancy who said I remember having a crush on a fellow first grader when we were the ones to pick up our class' milk snack from the cafeteria and later dispose of the same empty cartons.

Nancy
allibrary (at) aol (dot) com

I will be emailing you shortly Nancy...congratulations and I hope you enjoy your movie!

Redraw for the Pillsbury sweet Sunday morning prize pack:
I had to redraw and get another winner for the Pillsbury Cinnamon rolls prize pack because I did not have an email address for the previous winner. So now I want to say congratulations to comment #3 Rebecca W who said On Sundays we get up and go to church as a family. I love being able to worship as a family! Then after church we eat lunch and have a lazy rest of the day!
rebeccaw2005 at hotmail dot com

I will be emailing you shortly as well!

Both winners will have 48 hours to respond to the email or I will pick another winner!

Thanksgiving - Not just a day

2010-11-25T20:27:00.003-05:00

I hope everyone has had a wonderful Thanksgiving, but I want to ask a question...what is Thanksgiving? Is it just a day that you celebrate with your family where you sit around and eat turkey and say the things that you are thankful for? That is a really good idea..BUT Thanksgiving should not just be a one day celebration. Rather, it should be a lifestyle. We should live everyday with thanks in our hearts. God has been so great to all of us and we need to be thankful each and every day!
So, after the turkey and pies are gone, don't lose your spirit of giving thanks. Make a daily habit of saying thanks to the people that matter to you, say thanks to God for all the blessings He has given you, and let's make a lifestyle of thanksgiving and not just a one day holiday!

Now I want to share a lovely Thanksgiving video for you...hope you enjoy!!

Family Movie Night coming December 3rd

2010-11-23T23:59:00.001-05:00

If you have read my blog at all, you know that I LOVE family movie night. I really enjoy the time that the whole family can get together and watch a good movie. So many movies that could be good are ruined by the language and sex, so I am always thrilled to get the opportunity to get together and see a movie that has not been ruined. A movie can be good and not be vulgar!!

Our opportunity is coming up very soon to see a great new family friendly movie. It is called A Walk In My Shoes and it will be airing on December 3rd on NBC @ 7 pm CST. Watch the trailer here and make plans for your next family movie night.

A Walk In My Shoes - 2:33 TRLR from Moms4FamilyTV.com on Vimeo.

I also encourage my readers, if you have a blog, to share this on your blog as well.

If you have a Facebook account, make sure to Like Family Movie Night on facebook.

Encourage your readers (and you as well), tune in to NBC on Friday, December 3rd for this great movie!

Flipped - Movie review with giveaway

2010-11-18T06:37:00.008-05:00

Do you remember the moment you "flipped" from not liking girls or boys and thinking they had cooties to trying to figure them out and feeling something different for the opposite sex? I remember playing cops & robbers with my sister, a girl friend next door, and a boy and his cousin from next door. The boys were the cops and the girls were the robbers. They always picked one to already be in jail and for some reason, it was always me. One day I realized why it was me. On this day, the cousin "Charley" told everyone that he was tired so he was going to sit down for a little while. He sat there with me. I started noticing that he was scooting closer and closer to where I was sitting, but I was naive so I didn't pay any attention to it...until he leaned in and tried to kiss me! Ewww gross!! I jumped up and ran home! My sisters picked on me and laughed and joked and I was just embarrassed.

But I can't really say that I remember the specific time after that when I wished I had let him kiss me. I know I thought about it but only to myself because I did not like boys like that. I just know that I am glad that I finally realized that boys were more interesting instead of just always embarrassing.

There is a new movie coming out on November 23rd that follows a young girl and boy from grade school to junior high, and we see the moment that he flips from thinking she is gross to looking at her a little differently. You know, how we start to day dream about the one we like? Can't think of anything except her, can't concentrate on school...the first signs of being "flipped".

This will be a wonderful movie for moms and daughters to watch together. Check out this mom & daughter resource guide: http://partnershub.com/widgets/flipped/downloads/flipped_resource_guide.pdf And I have the opportunity to offer a DVD to be given away to one of North Carolina Momma's readers. This is going to be fun.
For the mandatory entry: Go to Have You Flipped? and take the quiz. Come back here and tell me your answer!

Additional entries:
You can earn additional entries by doing any or all of the following:

1 entry - share your story of knowing that you had flipped or a story from before you flipped.
1 entry - Like Flipped on facebook http://www.facebook.com/FlippedMovie?v=wall
1 entry - follow my blog with google friends connect
1 entry - subscribe to my blog with email updates (upper left hand corner)
1 entry - follow me on twitter www.twitter.com/shaeffermom

Giveaway will end on November 25th..winner will be drawn using rrandom.org and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. Available to US only and must be 13 or older. You must include your email address in your comment if it is not visible on your profile.

Disclaimer: I was asked to write this review for the upcoming release of this movie. I will be receiving a free DVD for the purpose of a giveaway, but I have not received, nor will I receive, any other compensation for this post. All opinions are 100% mine.

Carmex - healing cream and healing lotion

2010-11-16T18:00:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Carmex®. All opinions are 100% mine.

I hate the winter months! For one, I am very cold natured so I much rather have the warm months. But also, my skin dries out so bad and I get chapped lips and hands. It is so annoying when they start to itch and crack and nothing seems to help. I constantly use chap stick, and I have found Carmex to be one of the absolute BEST!! Carmex does not only moisturize, but it protects your lips from the sun and helps to heal them when they are chapped or even have cold sores. Unfortunately my whole family gets cold sores and we get them year round so I keep medicated chap stick in my purse at all times.

Well as we approach the dreaded cold weather months, Carmex has some great news for us!! They have a NEW Carmex® Healing Lotion and Carmex® Healing Cream. Both the cream and the lotion are $5.99 and can be purchased at Walgreens stores, walgreens.com, or drugstores.com. As soon as I heard the Carmex had these new lotions and creams, I went straight out to my local Walgreens store and bought one of each! And let me just say that I am not disappointed at all!! I think I may just survive the winter with my lips and my hands! I have been using the Healing cream and it has made my hands feel so good. The cream is not greasy at al and I can feel the healing in my skin.

I encourage my readers to also try out the NEW Carmex® Healing Lotion and Carmex® Healing Cream . I encourage you to "like" Carmex on facebook and enter the Carmex® Tube Lovers Trio Giveaway

You can find them on facebook here http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=170928126268597&id=100001693987457&notif_t=share_reply#!/carmexlipbalm?v=app_11007063052

Thanks Carmex for helping my hands and mouth feel better when the cold, wind and sun try to make them feel itchy, dry and chapped! You win this battle, and for that I will be forever grateful!

Check out Carmex online: Carmex® Healing Lotion and Carmex® Healing Cream

Winner of the Pillsbury Prize Pack

2010-11-16T09:12:00.003-05:00

The numbers generated by this widget come from RANDOM.ORG's true random number generator.

Congratulations to comment #2 Never That Easy said... 2
These are great for Sunday mornings! We tend to move slow on weekend mornings, but there's a local food program that we usually wind up watching. Makes us drool about all the good places we could wind up having lunch.

I don't have an email address to get up with the winner, but she will have 48 hours to get up with me before I pick another winner!

Store Brand vs. Name Brand

2010-11-15T16:20:00.001-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of PBM Products. All opinions are 100% mine.

How often do you buy store brand items as opposed to name brand? As I have been trying to save money, I have learned that name brand is not important. When I get a prescription or over the counter medication, I go for the generic rather than the more expensive name brand. They both have the same ingredients but one cost a whole lot less than the other.

So what about baby formula? Have you ever considered giving your baby a store brand of baby formula over a name brand? If no, then why not?? All formula sold in the US has to meet the same exact FDA requirements. The biggest difference is the price. We all know that having children costs a lot of money. At first we buy the most expensive diapers, the most expensive clothes and even the most expensive formula. But eventually we realize how crazy we are and we begin to bargain shop.

Store brand formulas cost up to 50% less than name brand formula, which can be a potential savings of $600 a year per baby. Wow, what a difference. The reason for this is because they are not heavily marketed or advertised and are not given away to hospitals for free. That cost savings is passed along to the consumer. For more information, I encourage you to visit http://storebrandformula.com. Here you can see all the statistics, nutritional value and other information on the benefits of switching from name brand to store brand baby formula.

I also wanted to make you aware, if you have not already been made aware, of a Similac recall. Abbott voluntary recalled certain Similac powder infant formulas because of the possibility of the presence of a small common beetle in the product last month. The FDA determined the formula poses no immediate health risk, but some infants could experience symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort and refusal to eat as a result of irritated GI tracts.

If these symptoms persist for more than a few days, a physician should be consulted.

The recall of these powder infant formulas includes:

Certain Similac powder product lines offered in plastic containers.
Certain Similac powder product lines offered in 8-ounce, 12.4-ounce and 12.9-ounce cans.

To immediately find out if the Similac product in your possession is affected call (888) 376-2054. The return process will be explained.

store brand formula

The Way Home ~ movie review

2010-11-04T06:31:00.004-04:00

This was one of those movies that I actually cried when watching the preview. I think the only other one that made me cry at the preview was Letters to God. Both movies are true stories and totally awesome!!

The Project:
On March 31, 2000, Randy Simpkins came home early from the office to help his wife, Christal, pack for a vacation to the beach. Christal asked Randy to load their two year-old, Joe, into his car seat. Instead, Randy left Joe riding his tricycle in the driveway while he went inside to turn off the lights and lock up. They lived on a rural farm in a safe area. Their kids played outside all the time. Randy didn’t give it a second thought to leave Joe for a couple of minutes, figuring he’d be cooped up long enough on the drive to the beach.
When Randy returned outside, Joe was gone. His tricycle was laying on its side, motionless. Randy called for Joe and looked around the yard. He was greeted with an eerie silence. A sudden feeling of panic rushed over him like a wave. Randy did not realize it at the time, but the next eight hours would put him through a life-altering rollercoaster of emotions that would challenge his priorities regarding God, his family and community.

My thoughts:
When my family sat down to watch this movie, I grabbed the tissues and handed them out. My husband told me I was crazy, but by the end of the movie he needed one as well! This movie tells a story that most of us live everyday. We get married and our days become so much of a routine that we forget to love each other. If we are not careful our relationships will get bitter and we will begin to argue over the smallest of things and even blame one another when something happens that was not any one's fault. That happened in this movie when Joe became missing. Christal told her husband Randy to put Joe in the car seat and since he didn't want him "cooped up" for longer than he had to, she played the "I told you" game. Their bitter relationship was restored in the end and the tragedy that almost happened was a true eye opener. I hope that every couple will watch this movie and decide to find a way to always love your spouse and not let it get bitter! Things are going to happen that is out of our control and we need the one we love to be there for us and with us instead of being bitter towards us!

Connect with The Way Home movie:

facebook

twitter

Blogger

official website

Watch the trailer

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Sunday mornings with Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls - giveaway

2010-11-03T06:21:00.010-04:00

My weekdays are so hectic some mornings. I have to get the hubby up (he doesn't know how to use his own alarm clock), then I have to fight with the kiddies to get them up for school (that is always a chore!!), and all the while I am running around trying to get ready for work and make sure everyone has taken their meds, eaten breakfast and has lunch money. By the time I get to work I feel like I can take a break!

Sundays are thankfully a different story. On Sunday I get up quietly so I don't wake anyone else. I start my pot of coffee and go get the paper. Then I cook up some Pillsbury cinnamon rolls and enjoy a cup of coffee with a cinnamon roll while reading the paper and listening to CMT on the TV. It sounds busy and chaotic, but I enjoy the quiet and being able to juggle what I want! And Pillsbury has made breakfast easy with the cinnamon rolls....they are easy to fix and everyone loves them. Have you tried the Pillsbury flaky cinnamon rolls yet? New Pillsbury® Flaky Cinnamon Rolls with Butter Cream Icing are the perfect Sunday breakfast to help make your family’s time together even more sweet. A delicious Sunday morning treat for the whole family, the light, flaky dough, rich vanilla butter cream icing, and amazing Cinnabon Cinnamon make each roll mouthwatering. Just place and bake, and with an aroma that is almost impossible to resist, Flaky Cinnamon Rolls with Butter Cream Icing will quickly become your family’s favorite Sunday morning tradition.

They are so good!! And thanks to Pillsbury and Myblogspark I was given a prize pack with free cinnamon rolls and a scrapbooking kit. What better way to spend your Sunday morning with Pillsbury cinnamon rolls and capturing the moments on camera.

But that is not all!! I was also given the same prize pack to give away to one of my lucky readers!! Here is what you could win:

Then you too can curl up with a cinnamon roll, cup of coffee, newspaper and TV just like me! Or you can do your own Sunday morning routine.

So would you like to win this prize pack?? Of course you do.

All you have to do is share your family's sweet Sunday morning moment in the comment section. Enter as many times as you like. I can't wait to hear some of your stories!!

Don't forget to leave your email address in your comment so I will know how to contact you. Leave it in the format of yourname(at)emailprovider(dot)com. This will help keep spammers away from your email!!

This giveaway will run through November 15th and I will draw a winner on the 16th so get commenting and sharing this with all your friends!!

Disclaimer: I was given this prize pack from Pillsbury through Myblogspark but the views and opinions are 100% mine!

Getting ready for Christmas - Purse & Bag Review

2010-11-01T19:21:00.012-04:00

So I cannot believe it is already November and as I was reminded today, only 51 days until Christmas. Do you have your Christmas lists ready yet? I am working on mine a little at the time. I found a great idea for that hard to buy for lady in your life...purses and bags.

There are two things that all ladies love...shoes and purses! But sometimes it is hard to find a one-of-a-kind purse for that one-of-a-kind person. Not any more!! I want to introduce you to Sherry Smith Designs. She does not have a web site right now but is workin through her facebook page. She has LOTS of fabrics in stock and/or she can find just what you are looking for. She can even make a purse from a t-shirt!! Do you have a favorite t-shirt that maybe is too small but you just can't part with it? How about making it into a purse?

I sent her an iron-on that I had and she made me an awesome bag

Isn't this awsome?!? She ironed it on a t-shirt...and she tells me that this was no easy job. Apparently I had those iron-ons a little too long...ooops.

The inside of the bag has a removable bottom that is hard so that the purse does not bend. And it has 4 large pockets.....I lose my keys now all the time :)

And the back is quilted, black fabric.

This bag is so well put together and I loved it so much that I had to order myself a second purse for Christmas. I have always wanted a Christmas themed purse but have never found one that I really liked. But I ordered this one and I LOVE it!!

Isn't it just the cutest thing ever??? Sherry does an awesome job.

So now you want to know how you can get one of these great bags, right?!?!? Well I am glad you asked because I have the information you need.

First of all you can go to her facebook page. Check out her pictures of all the fabrics she has in stock and look as some of the other bags she has done. She even does weekender bags for those overnight trips. Here are her prices and her introduction:

You will have to send her a friend request on facebook so make sure you tell her that North Carolina Momma sent you!!

How Important is Education to you?

2010-10-25T23:01:00.001-04:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Ashworth College. All opinions are 100% mine.

I am a full time mother of 2, a wife of 1 and I have a full time job outside the home. My schedule is very busy, especially when you throw in all the other activities such as church and programs for the kids. I try hard to teach my children the importance of getting a good education but I have learned in my years that the best way to teach is through example. I have a great job that pays well considering I got it without a college education. I need to be the example to my children and finish my education, I have plenty of credits I just never was able to finish and get a degree. But if you were paying attention at all you can see that my life is full and I don't have time to go back to school.

But a college education no longer has to be extreme time consuming. It is easy to "go to college" by staying home and taking online courses. You can take as many or as little as you can fit into your schedule. Say you always wanted to go back to school but the course you need is not offered at a time that is convenient for you....with online classes you can do the work early in the morning while everyone else sleeps in, or in the evening when everyone else goes to bed, or any time in between that is convenient. Today there are almost 4,000,000 students taking at least one course online.

There are more than 100+ nationally accredited career diploma, Associate Degree, Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree and Certificate programs for today;s hottest and most popular careers, including: Medical Billing, Web Design, Bridal Consulting, interior Decorating, Human Resources, Marketing, Early Childhood Education and more. At these online schools, tuition is about 88% less than traditional brick and mortar institutions. And since there are no student loans, you can graduate without school debt!

For more information, and to see how you can get the education you have been putting off, I recommend you check out Ashworth College Online College. You can also check out the Ashworth Video Gallery.

Don't keep putting off getting your education. With the economy the way it is today, and with unemployment still on the rise, it is very important for us to be prepared. Plus if your children are like mine and don't like to sit down and do homework they would probably do better if you offered to all of you do your homework together! That makes for more family time and study time together.

Ashworth College Featured by National Education Report

Breast cancer awareness

2010-10-21T11:08:00.003-04:00

October is breast cancer awareness month....have you seen all the pink around?? My son's favorite color is pink...yes he is in touch with his feminine side! But it is very important for women to "check themselves" often. That is why I wanted to share this video with my readers. Watch and even share this video with women that you care about as well!

Watch live streaming video from treasureyourchest at livestream.com

Family Movie Night with Bringing Up Bobby

2010-10-20T09:39:00.004-04:00

I really enjoy family movie nights at my house. I received a new movie through Provident Films, called Bringing Up Bobby. With my hubby's crazy work schedule, we could not get a night that we could all get together, so the kids and I sat down one night and watched this Christian comedy together. Did you catch that part of it being a Christian comedy?? Yes that's right...Christian comedy!! When I watched the preview for this movie I have to say I had my doubts. I thought it was going to be "cheezy" and stupid; but when we watched it we laughed so hard! Let me share with you about this fun family movie!

SYNOPSIS: A Different Kind of Comedy About Being Kind of Different
When 20-something filmmaking brothers Chris and Nick Staron were
told it's impossible to make a Christian comedy, they laughed ... and then got to work. Bringing Up Bobby is the result, and the madcap antics of the entire Wyler family will convince you that the Staron Bros. have created comedic dynamite!

Destined to be a favorite of families and youth groups, Bringing Up Bobby is a quirky exploration of what it means to live out your faith ... and to find humor in whatever comes your way!

This is a story about a family that lost their parents at an early age. The oldest of the 4 took over as the "parent" and he took care of his siblings. Now 14 years later, the 16th birthday of the youngest boy, the family finally will find out what is in the will. Unfortunately, when there is a will and assets involved, families can get greedy and go against each other. This story is no different. What is amazing is how God works things out in the end!! I will not spoil that for you, you will just have to watch the movie.

One thing I really loved about this movie, is the "war table". This is where each member of the house dresses up in silly costumes and tells each other what is on their mind. I may start this tradition in my family....each of us dress up and talk without being judged or ridiculed. Another family favorite was the blow up boxing gloves. I need some of those as well in my house...we could take our frustrations out on each other without actually hurting each other.

I recommend this movie for your next family movie night. You will laugh while learning a valuable family lesson in priorities. You can get your copy by clicking here. Also you can find them on facebook http://www.facebook.com/bringingupbobby.

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

UPSIDE~~Movie Review

2010-10-07T08:47:00.002-04:00

I am sure you have heard the saying that if you walk a mile in someone elses shoes you will find out a lot about that person. But have you ever thought about how you might view things if you could look through someone elses eyes? In the movie UPSIDE that is exactly what happens. This is a remarkable story about a high school athlete that takes a hard fall and blow to the head that causes his vision to be upside down. He has every reason to be mad and angry because he may now lose his scholarship to the college of his dreams, until he meets Wren. She is totally blind yet she has so much faith in God that she "sees" the true beauty of life. This is a movie for families and even church groups to watch together! When you feel like things are bad and not getting any better, just remember there is an upside!

SYNOPSIS: It's all how you look at it From the looks of things, Solomon White
has a well-mapped future. Finish his senior year of high school, select an elite
university, continue his lacrosse career, and reap the rewards of success on
whichever road life takes him.

But a devastating hit on the lacrosse field leaves his world literally turned
upside down. Will he be able to gain the perspective needed to face his new reality?

UPSIDE provides a fresh look at life through the eyes of Soli (Randall Bentley,
"Heroes"), a young athlete struggling to discover where he's headed, both
figuratively and literally. Viewing the world upside down is a challenge few
will ever face, but that hardly is the extent of Soli's pressing concerns.

He has trouble at home with his mom, he's trying to end his relationship with his
girlfriend, and he has to come to grips with a teacher that thinks he can be much
more than he wants to be. Suddenly, Soli's senior year looking nothing like he
imagined it would be.

Add in Wren (Leah Sims), an unlikely love interest with a strong faith in God, and
Soli must take a new look at everything he believes in. Can Soli win the heart of Wren,
who happens to be blind? Can he believe in something he can't see? Will he find a new
direction for his life, even if his eyesight never returns to normal?

When you can't trust your eyes, you still have your voice. This unique story is an inspiring
reminder that when life gets you down, there's always an UPSIDE.

Follow UPSIDE on facebook:
www.facebook.com/upsidemovie

Click on the widget above to see the trailer for this movie and to purchase your copy too! I promise you will not be disappointed with this movie.

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Shrinkvivor - weigh-in #3

2010-09-29T09:36:00.005-04:00

Well this week has been a true challenge for me with Shrinkvivor. For our second week we were challenged to exercise and keep up with our "minutes". The girls from Tribe Navy Seals ROCK!! I almost believe that some of them are robots with the amount of minutes they put in this week. For my minutes I was only able to get in 160 minutes (and trust me that was A LOT for me!!) I can only hope that it was enough. I am happy to say the scales were nice again this week!!

Beginning weight: 174.8

Week 1 weigh-in: 172.4 (-2.4)

Week 2 weigh-in: 171.2 (-1.2) Grand total loss: 3.6 lbs!! WOO HOO

The non-physical challenges were to continue with our water and no fast food. Well I have not kept up with the ounces on my water intake but I do drink more water than anything else these days where I used to do good to get in one glass of water a day!

The fast food challenge was just that...a challenge!! But I did it!!! I went to Subway twice (cause it was allowed) but that was it! I even went to CFA to get some chicken minis for the kids and did not eat even 1!! And those things are the bomb!! I wouldn't even go and get a salad. I cannot wait for the next challenge...I am more pumped and excited than ever before!

GO TEAM NAVY SEALS!!!

Winner of The Mysterious Islands

2010-09-24T17:53:00.003-04:00

True Random Number Generator
Min: 1
Max: 13
Result: 6
Powered by RANDOM.ORG
katychick said... 6
http://twitter.com/katychick123/status/24666733298

i tweeted
tcogbill at live dot com

I don't know how to copy the picture of the random.org number generator, but I did copy what I could get....and I wanted to say CONGRATULATIONS to katychick for winning the DVD The Mysterious Islands

Oh My Goodness I GOOFED!!! I am so sorry but thank you to Jennifer57 for bringing it to my attention that I drew a winner a day early~ I had a blonde moment but because of MY mistake I did draw another winner as well....I am giving away my copy of The Mysterious Islands to lucky comment #9

Victoria said...
CommentsCounter=CommentsCounter+1;document.write(CommentsCounter)
9
Following via google friend as Victoriavschilke at gmail dot com
September 20, 2010 10:01 PM

Please don't think that this will be a continuous thing....I accept that I made a mistake and I hope that you all will accept my biggest apologies!!

Free Music and Great Offers from Discount Mexico Vacation Hotels

2010-09-23T06:52:00.001-04:00

Playstation Move - get moving

2010-09-22T14:13:00.000-04:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of PlayStation(R) Move. All opinions are 100% mine.

How well do you enjoy exercising? If you are like me, it takes some motivation. I used to be a member of a gym but found out it was a waste because I was spending all that money to work out for 30-45 minutes on one machine. But at home I cannot get into motivation to do anything active. When I was younger I did not have that problem...my sister and I stayed outside all the time. We also stayed very small!!

But this generation does not believe in getting outside and doing much of anything. They would rather stay sitting in front of the TV or a video game. There are too many of our young people that are facing obesity these days.

Is there a solution?? YES! It is called Playstation Move. With the Playstation Move all, you can get the whole family involved in exercising AND playing video games. This system will bring the generations together in a great way! I would totally love it if I could find that magical genie would leave one of these on my door steps. Some of the things that would change my family would be how we spend our family nights together. Instead of sitting in front of the TV watching movies, we would have family game night. I can see competitions between husband & wife, and brother & sister. Or maybe we could go girls against the boys!

I would love to play the Get Fit with Mel B. In my experiences, I have always done better at ALL things with support and help. With this "game" you will work out beside the world-famous Spice girl Mel B herself! There are different levels for you to accomplish, which I truly love, so it benefits everyone no matter what level you may be. I would also like to play Sports Champions...this will be a fun family game where we can compete against each other with different sports.

You can bring motion gaming exclusively to your existing PlayStation®3 for only $99 with the MOVE bundle to your existing PlayStation 3 for only $99 with the MOVE bundle package. This is way less than a gym membership and you are sure to have way more fun!!

PlayStation®Move has something for everyone. Whether you’re experienced, casual, or somewhere in between, PlayStation®Move has a wide variety of games including sports, action, party, family, and shooters. The games are addictively fun and the outcome of every move is all under your control.

Visit PlayStation(R)MOVE and learn about the new PlayStation®Move!

Shrinkvivor weigh-in #2

2010-09-22T08:35:00.007-04:00

Week one is complete for the shrinkvivor challenge. The first week had 2 challenges for us all. One was physical which was miles. We were to walk, run or jog to get miles. On our weigh-in today we had to put in our total miles for the week. I wish I could have done more, but I am happy to say I was able to get in 9 miles! That is a huge accomplishment for me!

The second challenge was water. I have always heard to make sure you get in 64 oz. of water, but with the challenge this week we were encouraged to take our weight, divide it in half and that was the number of ounces we should drink. For me that was 175/2=87.5 oz. WOW..that is a lot of water. Especially for someone that does not normally drink much water! But I was able to get in between 60-80 oz a day.

So what are my results?? Let me show you....... This is my weigh in from week 1...174.8. This is my weight this week...172.4. That is a weight loss of 2.4 lbs.!!!!
I could not have done it without my girls in tribe "Navy Seals"...those girls ROCK!!! They are wonderful encouragement and inspiration for me on this journey!!

I bought some new shoes...those that say they will help tone your legs and butt while you walk. My first day of walking I took the kids to the park so I could walk on the track there. I wore my new shoes and did not feel any different AT ALL. I thought surely I wasted my money...BUT LET ME TELL YOU...Saturday night I started to feel it in my legs. By Sunday morning I was sore from the lower part of my legs to the lower part of my back! Have you ever known anyone to be excited about being sore?? Well I am!! I know the shoes are doing what they promised to do!! I wish I would have measured my body prior to this challenge so I could see how many inches I may have lost compared to weight loss as well...I feel like I "toned up" some this week and gained muscle and unfortunately the scale alone does not show that...but the smaller jeans will!!

Are you on a weight loss journey?? If so, how have you done?

Share your success in a comment. Also, it is too late to sign up for the challenge but you can still participate with us on this journey. Check out The Sisterhood of the Shrinking Jeans.

Shrinkvivor - The sisterhood of the shrinking jeans

2010-09-16T06:23:00.003-04:00

I have joined an online weight loss group called Shrinkvivor ~~ taken from Survivor. We were put into "tribes" (I am part of Navy, which we changed to Navy Seals). I am really excited!!

First weigh-in was yesterday and my starting weight is 174.8

We have weekly challenges, each tribe is there to support each other and I am really EXCITED!! I have been doing a weigh-in each week with a co-worker and we have been on a journey to lose some weight, but we seem to have gotten into a "funk". I needed some other type of motivation and I know this is what I needed!

So over the next 7 weeks I will keep my readers updated on my journey. By the way if anyone has any good recipes for healthy meals PLEASE share them with me!! I need to lose about 20 lbs and I will be happy!

The Mysterious Islands DVD review and giveaway

2010-09-13T12:15:00.013-04:00

Have you ever heard of the Galapagos Islands? If you are anything like me, you may have heard of them but do not remember. We first learned of the Galapagos Islands through Charles Darwin and his theories of evolution. I have been raised in church and from as far back as I can remember we were taught that if you can't believe the first four words of the Bible then you cannot believe any part of it. The first four words are "In the beginning God". That is all that I needed to know is that God was the beginning and He is the creator. But I do know that there are other people out there that have to see proof of things. That is where this DVD comes in handy.

Like I said, we first learned of the Galapagos Islands when we learned of Darwin's evolution theory. Charles Darwin went to these islands and this is where he studied the animals and came up with his theory. The Mysterious Islands is a documentary of a group of men that wanted to find proof and also truth in the dispute of evolution vs. creation.

SYNOPSIS:

"A Surprising Journey to Darwin's Eden"

At the far end of the world, there exists a strange and unusual chain of islands, resting above vast tectonic plates in the ocean below.

This is the world of the Galapagos Archipelago, home to salt-spitting marine iguanas, flightless cormorants, and giant tortoises that can live to be more than 150 years of age. It is also the birthplace of Darwinism. For here in 1835, a young Charles Darwin began to formulate a theory which would turn the world upside down. More than a century and a half later, these mysterious islands remain at the center of a controversy that has shaped the way modern men perceive science, religion, culture, and life itself. While Christians look to Jerusalem, and Muslims to Mecca, evolutionists look to the Galapagos as the spiritual center of their scientific faith. And the unique ingredients found on the Galapagos Islands have led many of Darwin's most devoted followers to describe it as Darwin's Eden, and a "laboratory for evolution."

Now, for the 200th anniversary of Darwin's birth and the 150th of his magnum opus, On the Origin of Species, Doug Phillips leads a Christian team of scientists and investigators to this "ground zero" in the war of the worldviews. Seen through the eyes of 16-year-old Joshua Phillips, who joins his father and noted researchers like Dr. John Morris of the Institute for Creation Research, The Mysterious Islands is the story of one boy's search for answers to the greatest controversy of the modern world. It is a refreshing father and son adventure that combines cinematically breathtaking footage with high adventure. The Mysterious Islands is a fast-paced film that tracks their journey of discovery as this unusual team walks where Darwin walked and engages with the amazing creatures that he chronicled in his research. Their quest: To determine whether the Galapagos Islands are a laboratory for evolution, as Darwinists claim, or a showcase for the biblical account of creation.

This beautiful ninety-minute documentary takes viewers deep beneath the ocean waves among hundreds of white-tip sharks, into volcanic craters with giant lizards, and to the unusual habitat of the blue-footed booby. Featuring a Christian team of scientists and investigators to shoot a documentary on the Galapagos in 2009—Darwin's anniversary year—The Mysterious Islands brings a fresh perspective on the Theory of Evolution and presents sweeping cinematography of one of the most remote, desolate, and fascinating locations in the world.

MY THOUGHTS:

I truly enjoyed watching this DVD. I watched it with my parents and I know my dad enjoyed it and went to work talking about it to others. I feel like I learned something by watching this DVD because like I said in the beginning I never paid much attention to Darwin when I was in school. I paid just enough attention to pass, but I believe the Bible to be truth so I did not get too deep into any other theories. I would highly recommend this DVD to anyone that has a question about evolution vs. creation. I feel like this group of researchers did a wonderful job in showing us how these animals have adapted to their environment rather than evolve as Darwin suggested. Darwin made his theory based on the fact that the animals have changed since they have migrated to these islands; but, in this documentary these researchers show us how the animals are changing but only because they are adapting to the environment. They are not evolving because they are staying the same kind of animal. Just as humans change and adapt to their environment, so will the animals. When we finished watching this DVD I made this comparison to my parents~~my husband is originally from Indiana and I am from North Carolina. The weather is so different that when my husband first moved here he wore shorts almost year round. As he stayed here longer his body adapted more to the weather here and he is not able to wear shorts year round anymore. He adapted and changed by wearing more clothes, but he has not evolved into anything different than the man he was.

For more information on the DVD, the crew, and the islands please visit the site here.

Now for the giveaway....YAY!! I have a copy of The Mysterious Islands to offer to one of my readers. If you would like to win a copy of this DVD you can do the following:

Mandatory: Go to The Mysterious Islands site and tell me something that you learned.
Easy right?!? But you can also get extra entries after you do the mandatory one:

1 extra entry ~~ follow me on twitter
Leave your twitter name

1 entry daily ~~ Tweet about this giveaway & leave the link to your tweet. You can copy this:

Evolution vs. Creation #win The Mysterious Islands DVD @shaeffermom http://bit.ly/bwCmfc Ends 9/25 Pls RT

1 extra entry ~~ follow me with google friends

1 extra entry ~~ email a friend about this giveaway, cc me @ gerrie(dot)shaeffer(at)yahoo(dot)com

1 extra entry each ~~ use any of the share options at the bottom of this post and leave me a comment with which ones you did.

Make sure to leave your email address in your comment, or another way I can contact you. Giveaway ends 9/25 @ 12 CST.

Giveaway is open to US residents.

“Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Bull's Eye BBQ sauce WINNERS

2010-09-10T16:21:00.003-04:00

Congratulations to the winners of my very first giveaway. Random.org picked the following numbers:
#2 Katychick

#13 Cakeblast

#7 Frugal Mom

#5 Samantha

I have emailed all of the winners and they 48 hours to respond so I can get the certificates out to them.

I will be having another giveaway very soon for a DVD "The Mysterious Islands". It is a christian documentary about the islands that Darwin went to when he made his theory on evolution.

Help Chili's in the fight against childhood cancer

2010-09-01T16:26:00.004-04:00

Join Chili's in the fight against childhood cancer.

Chili's has teamed up with St Jude's to help with the fight against childhood cancer. One of the saddest things for me is to find out about a child that has cancer. I wish there was something I could do for each of them. Chili's is giving everyone the opportunity to help. If you visit a Chili's near you, you can purchase a cool t-shirt or even a special chili silly band. Proceeds from these sales will go to St. Jude's hospital. You can also do like me and create a pepper of your own. Also, go to Chili's on September 27th for the Big Day.... Dine at Chili's on September 27 and all profits go to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital®. For more information on Chili's fight and to find out how you can help CLICK HERE.

Join Chili's in the fight against childhood cancer.

Create a Pepper.

FIRST Giveaway...Bull's Eye BBQ Sauce

2010-08-31T15:29:00.005-04:00

Back on June 26th of this year I was selected from House Party to host a Bull's-Eye Regional BBQ Sauce Party. I was sent 8 full size bottles of the new regional bbq sauces which are: Carolina, Kansas City, Memphis, and Texas Style. Being a Carolina girl myself, I was kind of partial to that one, but my hubby liked the Texas style the best. I made chicken wings with each of the four flavors, then I had everyone try at least one of each. They guessed whcih one was which (my smarty-pants hubby got it right) and then decided which one was the favorite.
Also included in my party pack was coupons for free bottles of the Bull's Eye regional BBQ sauce. I was able to pass these out to all the guests but I still had some left over as well. So I decided to have my very first giveaway on my blog!!
I have 4 coupons to give away to 4 readers!! All of them are good for one (1) FREE (up to $2.49) BULL'S-EYE Regional Barbeque Sauce. If you would like to win here is what you do:

For your first Main entry: Tell me if you have tried the Bull's Eye regional sauces. If you have, what is you favorite? If not, what is your favorite BBQ sauce?

EXTRA ENTRIES:

After you do the first entry you can do any of these for extra entries:
1) Follow me on twitter 1 entry

2) Tweet this giveaway 1 entry daily

3) Leave a comment on any other post 1 entry for each comment

4) Follow me on Google Friends 1 Entry

Make sure to leave your email address in your comments. This giveaway will end on Friday, 9/10 at noon. The winners will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond.

For more information on the Bull's Eye regional sauces check them out here.

Joke of the Week

2010-08-30T13:14:00.000-04:00

A magician worked on a cruise ship and did the same tricks each week.

However, there was a problem: the captain's parrot began to understand how the magician did every trick and started shouting out the secrets in the middle of the show.

The magician was furious but couldn't do anything; it was, after all, the captain's parrot.

One day the ship had an accident and sank. The magician found himself, with the parrot, adrift on a piece of wood in the middle of the ocean.

They stared at each other with hatred, but did not utter a word. This went on for a day, then another, and another.

Finally, after a week, the parrot said, "OK, I give up. Where the heck is the boat?!"

10 Tips for Planning a Unique Baby Shower

2010-08-26T21:20:00.003-04:00

Tiny Prints and TwitterMoms are asking blogging moms to share ten of their tips for planning a unique baby shower. As a mother of 2, and someone who loves babies, I wanted to participate and share some of my ideas.

1) If you can pull it off, a surprise shower is a fun idea. This is good for second pregnancies rather than the first because with the first one the mom-to-be is not going to want a surprise cause she is going to be too excited and in need of a lot of items!

2) Decorations play a big part in a baby shower going well. Find out ahead of time, if at all possible, if it is a boy or girl so that you can decorate accordingly.

3) One of the last baby showers I went to, had a really neat idea with the decorations. The mom-to-be was having a girl so her mom took a bunch of pink onesies and hung them up all around the room. This made for a really neat looking decoration and it is something that does not have to be taken down and thrown away.

4) I LOVE those cute diaper cakes...I really wish I was talented enough to make them but unfortunately I am not talented at all. But there are many sites and places that you can go to and get one of these. They make a wonderful decoration and a gift as well.

5) Come up with a theme for the shower. If there is something special that the mom-to-be needs, then don't be afraid to put it in the invitation; but make it a fun instead of a pushy way. This is especially helpful if this is not the first child because they may already have a few things so they may only need the everyday essentials.

6) I went to a shower a couple of years ago that gave away a $50 giftcard to WalMart to one of the guests. The way they did the drawing, was ask everyone to bring a package of diapers and their name would be put into a drawing. This was a good way to get the one thing that you can never have too many of, and it gave the guests an incentive as well.

7) One of my favorite games to play at a baby shower is the clothes pin game. At the beginning of the shower you must tell everyone the "words" that cannot be spoken. The words may be baby, diaper, the baby's name, etc. Be creative and have fun. When someone says one of the words, they lose their clothes pin. At the end, the person with the most pins wins.

8) Another fun game is the one that you take a piece of string and each guest cuts off the amount of string that they believe is the size of the mom-to-be around her belly. Then after everyone has cut their piece of string, they actually measure the string. The person that is closest wins a prize.

9) The prizes for guests can be fun and go along with a theme of the shower. One great gift idea is taking a baby bottle and filling it with body wash. It is great if you can get the one with the color blue or pink!

10) And my last tip but not least of course), is invite everyone you know and HAVE FUN!! Baby showers are not intended to be stressful and they should be fun so let loose and enjoy!

Make your invitations as much fun as the shower too. Get some great ideas and order your invitations from Tiny Prints by going to http://www.tinyprints.com/baby-shower-invitations.htm

What are some of the fun activities that you have had at your baby shower? I would love for you to share some of your thoughts in the comments section.

Disclaimer: “I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Tiny Prints blogging program, making me eligible to get a Tiny Prints gift code worth $50, plus 25 FREE Tiny Prints greeting cards—a total gift value of $149.75! For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

Five simple things you can do for your child to help keep their smiles healthy and bright

2010-08-26T16:18:00.003-04:00

Did you know that each year, more than 51 million school hours are lost as a result of problems related to tooth decay, the most common chronic childhood disease in America [1]? In fact, tooth decay affects approximately half of all second graders and nearly 80 percent of 17-year-olds[2]. That’s why Trident® has partnered with Smiles Across America® to help underprivileged children get the dental care they need.

It’s no surprise that education can play a large role in preventing cavities. Nine in 10 (92%) parents believe cavities in children are preventable, yet a majority of parents (86%) struggle to get a child to take care of their teeth[3]. So how can parents get involved and convince their children to take proper care of his or her teeth? It is no easy task, but there are simple tips and reminders to keep in mind. For instance, clinical studies have shown that chewing sugar free gum, like Trident®, after meals helps fight cavities[4].

[1] Oral Health in America: A Report of the Surgeon General, May 2000
[2] National Center for Health Statistics, National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III
[3] Trident: Oral Health perception survey, June 2010
[4] Deshpande A, Jadad A. The impact of polyol-containing chewing gums on dental caries: A systematic review of original randomized controlled trials and observational studies. JADA 2008; 139:1602-1614.

I am one of a few bloggers that are teaming up with Trident and TwitterMoms to help share five simple things you can do for your child to keep their smiles healthy and bright. I have to admit that I have not always been one to take care of my teeth or my children's either. In fact, I had to confess to the dentist earlier this year that my daughter (she was 9 at the time) had never been to a dentist. I was embarrassed to say the least, but I did not have dental insurance so it was hard. Now I have AFLAC dental and we have regular visits. I am going to share some tips for you moms that you can use for your kids whether you have insurance or not.

1) Start your kids out young with the brushing. If you wait until they are older then they will already be in the "wrong" kind of habit. I used to give my kids a tooth brush to chew on when they were cutting teeth; it helped to soothe them and it also brushed on their teeth as well.

2) YOU have to be the example!! If your kids do not see you brush your teeth regularly then they are not going to brush either.

3) Encourage them to drink milk. We all know that milk has calcium in it and calcium is good for teeth. If your kids do not like milk, show them other options of calcioum fortified items such as yogurt and cheese.

4) Monitor your kids cugar intake. I know this is hard sometimes to do but if they have a time or day that they have a lot of sugar, have them brush extra that day. This will help them to get into a habit of doing that.

5)All kids love chewing gum, so why not give them some Trident gum that actually helps to fight cavities!

Just remember to always encourage your kids. There are so many kids in the world today that get picked on because of "petty" things and we, as parents, don't want to give them any ammunition. It is fun for the tooth fairy to come, but she quits when it is permanent teeth coming out!

Disclaimer: I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Trident blogging program, making me eligible to get a $25 gift card. For more information on how you can participate,
click here.”

Fracture - product review

2010-08-25T08:10:00.007-04:00

I have recently learned about a new product for photographers (or moms that love taking pictures). It is a new way to way to print your pictures and frame them. The company is .
Here is a little about the company.
Printing and framing pictures is often a huge hassle and can become really expensive really fast. Between getting your photos printed, finding a suitable frame, and figuring out how to mount them, the frustrations (and dollars) have mounted, and the magic has gone away. However, you now have a contemporary, affordable, and practical way to show off all your favorite family pictures -- Fracture. Fracture is the fastest, easiest, best way to get your pictures from your camera to your wall.

Fracture's introductory product lets you print your digital pictures right onto glass! There's no paper, film or anything involved. Simply ink and glass. We have effectively combined printing, framing, and mounting into one simple process. You upload your photo to FractureMe.com, we print it on glass, and send it on it's way with everything you need to mount and display. It's a one-stop, complete photo decor solution.

Fractures are very safe: all sharp edges are removed, and they are completely okay to touch and handle.
Fractures are durable: the prints are shatter proof (unlike traditional glass frames), and the images will not fade for years beyond average prints.
Fractures are very practical and elegant: you can use them for any occasion, from Christmas and graduation gifts, to simple "Thank You's".
Fractures are for everyone: from avid photographers to snap happy point-and-shoot lovers, anyone can get Fractured!

With the holidays coming up, this is a great gift idea for parents, grandparents, and other family members. Check them out today by clicking here.

I am really excited about this new product and I am hoping that I am one of the first 100 bloggers that will get an opportunity to try it out for free. If I am one of the first 100, I will have a follow-up blog post to tell you just how much I love it!
Check out Fracture online:

Website - www.fractureme.com
Facebook - www.facebook.com/fractureme
Blog - www.fractureme.com/blog
Posterous - fracture.posterous.com

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

Joke of the Week

2010-08-24T15:50:00.000-04:00

A young man saw an elderly couple sitting down to lunch at a fast food joint. They had ordered one meal. The old man carefully divided the meal in half.

The old man then began to eat, and his wife sat watching, with her hands folded in her lap.

The young man decided to ask if they would allow him to buy another meal for them so that they didn't have to split theirs.

The old gentleman said, "Oh, no. We've been married 50 years, and everything has always been shared, 50/50."

"But why isn't she eating?" the young man asked.

"It's his turn with the teeth," the old man's wife told him.

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