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

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

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

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?

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

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

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

Check out these new coupons from Coupons.com


$2.00 off on any Slo-Niacin
$2.00 off AmLactin Moisturizing Body Lotion
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$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!

NMEDA ~ National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association

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

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

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

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

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'

AMF bowling - HOT coupon

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!

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!!!)

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

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??

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 Giveawayhttp://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=170928126268597&id=100001693987457&notif_t=share_reply#!/carmexlipbalm?v=app_11007063052  . . (.    . ( find the    

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

 http://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=170928126268597&id=100001693987457&notif_t=share_reply#!/carmexlipbalm?v=app_11007063052 A soon as I   Biothhttp://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=170928126268597&id=100001693987457&notif_t=share_reply#!/carmexlipbalm?v=app_11007063052 

Winner of the Pillsbury Prize Pack

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

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

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

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

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?

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

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

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

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

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!!!