Mom Tested, Kid Approved

Disney on Ice

2009-12-12T22:14:00.000-06:00

We went to Disney on Ice on Thursday night, and had a great time. I have to say, I was sure that my 2 year old daughter would love it (and she did!) and was cautiously optimistic that my 6 year old twin boys would enjoy it as well. I was a little worried when they looked at the program and made a couple of comments to the effect of, "Why did you bring us here? Princessses are for girls." By the time we were 5 minutes into the beginning of the program, the boys were on the edge of their seats looking at everything and my little girl was enraptured.

I was totally impressed too; the costumes were gorgeous, the set and props spectacular and oh to have been one of the little girls in the front row who had Cinderella's slipper tried on their foot as part of the performance!

We were lucky enough to receive tickets for the family (along with VIP treatment) from Feld Entertainment, the company that does the Disney on Ice productions, but even if we had purchased our tickets, I would have been so pleased. The value received for the price of the ticket was spectacular. Especially since you can get discounts on your tickets by going to Ticketmaster and entering the code MOM. (Scroll down to my earlier post for more information about disounts.)

I had fun at the Disney on Ice Princess Classics production, but I will never forget the look on my daughter's face; she just glowed though the whole performance. The boys had loads of fun noticing the small details, like the advancement of the clock toward midnight while Cinderella danced with the prince.

I had so much fun, I can't wait to hear when Disney on Ice will be coming back around next year!

$5 off a $5 purchase at Hallmark Gold Crown stores

2009-12-05T14:48:00.000-06:00

Check this out! A $5 coupon good toward any $5 purchase at Hallmark Gold Crown stores. I am so excited to have a chance to use these! Chatter I have heard says many stores have a promotion going on gift wrap; Buy 1 at $4.99, get one for $0.99. You would pay $0.98 for 2 rolls after the coupon. You should be able to use this on anything in the store, as long as your total before tax is $5 or more.

Giveaway: Disney On Ice- 4 pack of tickets for 12-10-09 at Xcel Energy Center

2009-11-21T01:55:00.007-06:00

And the winner is... Jessica S. Thank you all for entering!

Wow! I am so thriled to be able to announce this giveaway!  I have one four pack of tickets to the December 10th, 2009 show of Disney On Ice, Princess Classics to give away.

My two and a half year old is so excited to be going to see this performance; she can hardly contain herself (her older brothers heard me talking about it with their dad and they spilled the beans!). She is a girly girl and anything princess makes her day, and of course Disney epitomizes princesses.  All three of my children are having a hard time waiting and keep asking when they will get to go see "the skating princesses". I expect it will be a magical night.   I am so excited to be able to share the opportunity to win these tickets with all of you.

There are geographic restrictions; you must be able to be at the Xcel Energy Center in St Paul, MN on December 10, 2009 to claim your tickets for that nights' show.

If you live in MN or western WI or plan to be in MN on December 10th, the entry process is simple;
1) Leave a comment in this thread saying "Yes. If I win, I can be at the Xcel Energy Center in MN to use these tickets on December 10th, 2009" (feel free to quote directly or use your own words).
2) Leave me an e-mail address to contact you. Please be sure to use an e-mail address that you check regularly so I can notify you if you are the lucky winner.
3) Entry deadline is 1:00PM CST on November 30th, 2009.

How easy is that? 1,2,3 and you are entered!
Official rules can be found in the previous post.

Come experience

Disney On Ice presents Princess Classics,
playing at Xcel Energy Center, with your family!

A SPECIAL OFFER FOR YOU!

Purchase a 4 pack of tickets for only $44 for weekday shows or receive $4 off weekend tickets by logging onto www.ticketmaster.com and entering the coupon code: MOM**

Show Dates:

Thursday, Dec. 10: 7:00pm

Friday, Dec. 11: 10:30am, 7:00pm

Saturday, Dec. 12: 11:00am, 3:00pm, 7:00pm

Sunday, Dec. 13: 1:00pm, 5:00pm

**Get 4 tickets for $44 Monday-Friday matinee, or $4 off weekend tickets by entering the code “MOM” in the promotion code box on Ticketmaster. Minimum purchase of 4 tickets required; additional tickets above 4 can be purchased at $11 each. Offer not valid on Rinkside or VIP seating. Cannot be combined with other offers. Service charges and handling fees will apply.

Official Dinsney On Ice giveaway rules

2009-11-21T01:09:00.000-06:00

Disney On Ice 4 Pack Ticket giveaway- Official Rules

Tickets are for the December 10, 2009 show only; no other date.

Transportation is winner’s responsibility.

Tickets may be won by a minor, but must be claimed by a legal guardian 18 years of age or greater and will be listed in adult’s name.

Tickets may be claimed by winner or winner’s legal guardian at the Xcel Energy Center will call window with a photo ID. The person claiming the tickets must 18 years of age or greater and be the same person whose name is submitted to Feld Entertainment and Mom Central as the winner.

One entry per person, either via paper entry form or blog entry. Additional entries will be invalidated.

Incomplete or illegible entries will be invalidated.

Entry deadline is November 30th at 1:00 PM CST.

Winner will be notified by December 1st.

This giveaway is sponsored by Feld Entertainment and Mom Central. Mom Tested, Kid Approved and blog owner(s) bear no responsibility for prize after transmission of winner’s information to prize sponsor.

Winner agrees to allow Mom Tested, Kid Approved and blog owner(s) to transmit personal information to prize sponsor.

All information submitted for giveaway entry will be used only for giveaway and will not be used to contact entrants, except to notify of a winning entry. All personal information submitted on paper entry forms will be destroyed after giveaway period has expired. Electronic information submitted to the Mom Tested, Kid Approved Blog and e-mail correspondence with blog owner(s) may remain on blog site or in e-mail archives indefinitely.

Disclosure: I have received consideration from Feld Entertainment and Mom Central for this promotion and giveaway event in the form of tickets to the Disney on Ice show and a meet and greet event.

I'm back with bells on!

2009-11-20T01:39:00.000-06:00

It seems like forever since I have posted. We are finally feeling better after almost a month out of circulation. We got hit by H1N1 in our family and it knocked us for a loop. We are all fine, but blogging fell by the wayside for a while.

The good news is, I am back and ready to blog my little heart out. The better news is a have a couple of really cool givaways coming this weekend. One is for my readers in MN and western WI who can travel to the Xcel Energy Center for a very special show. The next is for all of my readers, no matter where they may be.

Just a few hours and I will be posting the juicy details on the first giveaway. Let the fun begin!

$10 off at Rainforest Cafe

2009-10-14T11:32:00.000-05:00

Rainforest Cafe is offering $10 off a $25 purchase, the coupon is valid through the end of the year.

Coupon of the Day- Progresso

2009-10-14T10:48:00.000-05:00

This coupon is a little more difficult to access, but it is worth it. Get $1 off Progresso High Fiber soup; you will be taken to a Yahoo! page, scroll down and look on the right side for the Progresso ad, this will take you to your printable coupon. If the ad doesn't appear, try refreshing. I am not sure how long this one will last.

Free Honey Nut Cheerios, Sample + Coupon

2009-10-14T10:28:00.002-05:00

This is for a snail mail sample of Honey Nut Cheerios and a $1 coupon.

Free organic toddler sancks

2009-10-13T13:02:00.001-05:00

Little Duck Organics is offering a free sample of their infant and toddler snacks...

"Are you interested in trying Little Duck Organics? We're so confident that you'll love our products that we're willing to send you the product of your choice absolutely free. We'll even pay for the shipping! Just fill out the form and we'll drop them in the mail. You will recieve a confirmation e-mail once your samples have shipped. Enjoy!"

Chose Apple/Banana, Strawberry/Mango or Blueberry/Apple.

Free Quart of Glidden Paint

2009-10-09T23:37:00.000-05:00

Basic rules...
Receive a free quart of Glidden Premium Interior Paint when you register between October 9, 2009 and October 11, 2009.

How to receive your free quart of paint:

• Send the printable form along with the front of any paint label. (Glidden brands excluded)

Simply tear off the brand name portion of your label and attach it to your mailing, but please be sure to keep the safety information segment for your future needs. Must be postmarked by 10/16/09 and must be received no later than 11/16/09 to be eligible.

You can register here, there are quite a few different colors to pick from.

Thanks to AFC for a great deal!

Coupon of the day- BOGO Eggs

2009-10-09T12:59:00.001-05:00

Join America’s egg farmers in a commitment to living more healthfully and giving back to the community. For every pledge made, we will donate one egg to Feeding America – up to one million eggs! That’s in addition to the 12 million eggs donated annually. Pledging is easy. Simply provide your name, email and zip code, and “sign” the pledge by checking the box. That’s it!

The first 20,000 people to pledge will have access to a printable coupon, good for one dozen eggs free when you buy 1 dozen eggs. There are no restricions on brand and the coupon is good until the end of 2009.

Even if you aren't one of the first 20,000, stop on by and take the pledge to donate an egg.

*Coupons have been exhausted, but you can still pledge to donate an egg.

Coupon of the Day- Snow White

2009-10-08T08:34:00.000-05:00

$10 off Walt Disney's Snow White DVD Blu-Ray combo pack, I was able to print this one four times! Enough to share with a friend who has printing issues and still have a couple for myself. I plan to pick up an extra copy for a Christmas gift.

There is also a $5 mail in rebate when you purchase a Hefty brand item.

Be sure to print and use your coupon right away, as it expires 10/10/09, the rebate is good for much longer, but if you can stack the two you will get a great price. Most stores will be offering their best price on Snow White this week, as it was just released on Tuesday. I have heard Wal Mart has this priced just under $20 this week.

Coupon of the Day- Nature Valley reset

2009-10-05T20:29:00.000-05:00

There is a great printable out there for $1.60 off Nature Valley Granola Nut Clusters, this coupon was available last month. The great news is, even if you have already rinted it, you can print it again, as it has reset. Be sure to print this one quickly if you want it, they went quickly last time!

I have seen these on sale at the store for anywhere between $2.00-$2.50. so they would be really cheap with a coupon.

Coupon of the Day- Pillsbury reset

2009-10-03T10:24:00.000-05:00

Okay, if you printed the $1 off PIllsbury Crescent Rolls coupon when I first posted it, you are in luck!! The coupon has reset, so you will be able to print it two more times. 4 high value coupons for Crescent rolls, plus the Catalina deal at my local Cub store, my kids will be in heaven, they love Pigs in a Blanket.

Coupon of the Day- Toy coupons!

2009-10-02T19:57:00.002-05:00

Coupons.com has coupons good for quite a few different Playskool toys. Click on the "Entertainment" category to have them all sorted for you. The expiration dates are printing as 1/15/2010, so these would be great for Black Friday, holiday shopping and after Christmas clearance. Be sure to print the ones you want right now, as there is no telling how long they will be available.

Available coupons are-
$5 on Mr Potato Head Silly Suitcase
$10 on Playskool Dance Cam
$5 on Playskool Tumble 'N Twirl Top
$2 on Mr or Mrs Potato Head
$10 on Musical Sit & Spin
$3 on Lullaby Glowworm
$5 on Mr Potato Head Spud Buds
$5 on DinoRoars Hatchlings
$10 on DinoRoars Stompers
$5 Playskool Activiy Ball
$5 Swing 'N Score Baseball
$5 Step Start Walk 'N Ride
$5 Busy Ball Popper

Even if you don't have kids, these coupons may make for some really good prices for toys to donate to children's charities at the holidays.

Coupon of the Day- Pillsbury

2009-09-30T10:16:00.000-05:00

There are a couple of coupons today, both for Pillsbury. The first is for $1/1 Crescent Rolls, the second is for $1/1 Crescent Rolls or Italian Meal Breads.

At my local Cub Foods there is a Catalina deal starting 10/5 through 11/1 for a coupon good on your next order when you buy Pillsbury refrigerated items that includes all of the items listed on these coupons...
Buy 4 & get $2
Buy 5 & get $3
Buy 6 & get $4

You can print each coupon 2 times per computer, so this should make for some really cheap Pillsbury refrigerated items.

If you don't have a Cub store near you, keep your eyes peeled; I have heard this Catalina will be going on at several different grocery chains.

Free Smuckers Uncrustables- DEAD DEAL

2009-09-28T07:19:00.003-05:00

These are all gone already as of 8:40 AM!

The first 20,000 people to submit an after school organization tip here will receive a coupon for a free 4 pack of Smuckers Uncrustables.

The promotion started today 9/28/09 and I suspect that these will go fast, so submit your tip soon.

Coupon of the Day- Starbucks Frappucino

2009-09-26T20:53:00.000-05:00

$1.00 off any single serve 9.5 oz 0r 13 oz Starbucks Frappucino.

These have been known to go on sale at Walgreen's for $1.25, making them a quarter after coupons! I don't know if there is a sale coming up, but the printable coupon is good through 12/31/09, so there is plenty of time to wait for a sale.

Coupon of the Day

2009-09-25T15:03:00.001-05:00

$1 off Original Cheerios (the one in the yellow box), no size restrictions.

Harry Connnick Jr- Your Songs

2009-09-25T14:04:00.002-05:00

I have always been a Harry Connick Jr fan; that face, that voice, that talent...he might even be better than chocolate! So when I heard that his new album was being released this month (September 22), I was anxious to hear it. I was absolutely thrilled when I was chosen to review the album, Your Songs. (Especially because I got my copy a week before the official release date!)

I was intrigued to learn that he was recording a host of songs that have been made popular by other artists; from the Beatles to Billy Joel to Elvis Presley and I had high hopes, as I love his rendition of "I Only Have Eyes for You" (Only You, 2004).

My first impression as I listened is that Harry Connick Jr is a perfect match for "Mona Lisa" (Nat King Cole) and his rendition of "Some Enchanted Evening" made me want to find my Prince Charming and start dancing. Every song on the album fit well with his style and each song meshed well with the others. I love the mellow tone of the album and found it to be great music to relax with in the evening, once the kids were all in bed.

I was slightly disappointed that, while I enjoyed the music, it just didn't seem to have that particular flair that I associate with Harry Connick Jr, that sense that he is smiling and winking at his listeners.

I would not hesitate to recommend this album. It is a CD that will be universally enjoyed by all ages (my 2 year old loved dancing around the living room to it as I listened), with songs that are easily recognized and beloved by many. I know this will become a frequently used part of my collection; it is a cozy and comforting compilation of romantic and fanciful favorites.

Be sure to watch The Oprah Winfrey Show today, as Harry Connick Jr will be a guest on her show. I know I will be tuning in.

Children's and Infant's Tylenol Recall

2009-09-25T01:16:00.000-05:00

Below is information about the recent recall of Infant and Children's Tylenol, as it appears on the McNeil website. To view their statement and the full list of recalled products, click here.

You may have heard that McNeil Consumer Healthcare (the makers of TYLENOL®) is voluntarily recalling certain lots of Children's and Infants' TYLENOL® liquid products that were manufactured between April, 2008 and June, 2008. All products manufactured met internal specifications. However, the company is implementing this recall because during this period, an unused portion of one inactive ingredient did not meet all quality standards. Therefore, as a precautionary measure, it was decided to recall all Children's and Infants' TYLENOL® liquid products listed below, which were made during this time.

Parents and caregivers who have questions or concerns should contact their child's health care provider or our consumer call center at 1-800-962-5357 (available Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time). Consumers can find the lot numbers on the bottom of the box containing the liquid product and also on the sticker that surrounds the product bottle. The lot numbers of the affected products are listed below.

These actions do not apply to Children's TYLENOL® Meltaways and Junior Strength TYLENOL® Meltaways. The voluntary recall applies only to select lots of Children's and Infants' TYLENOL® liquid products.

Coupon of the Day

2009-09-24T11:48:00.000-05:00

$1 off at eBay!!!! eBay is offering a $1 off coupon to the first 100,000 users who sign up for their Daily Deal alerts. Small print says your coupon will appear in the My eBay section of your eBay account within 7-10 days.

I am so excited about this coupon, I am a frequent eBay customer, in fact I just bought a vacuum there last night! I am sure I can find something to spend my $1 on, hope you can too.

Coupon of the Day

2009-09-23T16:05:00.000-05:00

Today's coupon is $1.00 off any Frito-Lay 22 count variety pack, great for school lunches or snacks. Even if you don't need this coupon right away, don't fret, the one I printed expires 12-1-09. Just don't forget to print now, before the print limit is reached.

Coupon of the Day, plus a bonus

2009-09-22T18:50:00.001-05:00

Today's coupon is for $1.00 off any one Welch's 46 or 64 oz juice or light juice drink. As an added bonus, once you have printed your coupons, be sure to click the icons to donate 8 glasses of juice to feed the hungry. It is free to click, Welch's will donate up to 1 million glasses of juice total. On click per person, per day.

Isn't it wonderful when you can save a little and do a little good as well?

Coupon of the Day

2009-09-21T15:08:00.000-05:00

Today's coupon is for $1.00 off two any size/variety Pillsbury refrigerated Grands or Grands Jr biscuits . Not a bad coupon, even better if you can find a sale to pair it with.

Coupon of the Day

2009-09-20T13:16:00.001-05:00

While this isn't a high value coupon, it is for a product my family uses regularly. Hopefully it will be useful to you as well.

Del Monte, save $1.00 when you buy any 5 Del Monte fruits, vegetables, tomatoes (11-15.25 oz) or Fruit Cup Snacks (plastic 4 packs, 3.75-4 oz)

This coupon can also be found in the 9/20/09 Red Plum insert in many areas, so you can most likely get extras by purchasing your local paper.

Coupon of the Day

2009-09-17T16:26:00.003-05:00

Here is a great printable coupon for $1.00 off Pillsbury Toaster Strudel.

IE Link

FF Link

If you have already printed this coupon this month, try again, as it has reset!

Thanks to all the great people over at HCW for the links and info on printable coupons.

Coupon of the Day

2009-09-16T14:55:00.001-05:00

I am finding so many really good online printable coupons recently. I thought you all might appreciate them just as much as I do, so I am going to try a "Coupon of the Day" post to share some of the best (in my opinion) with you.

Please bear with me, some coupons are so exciting that I may have more than one coupon of the day!

Today's Coupon of the Day is from Healthy Choice.

There are two printables, one is for $2 off Healthy Choice Frozen Meals, the other is for $1 off Healthy Choice Fresh Mixers, both can be printed from the Healthy Choice website.

Free film developing, today only, at Walgreens

2009-09-16T14:35:00.002-05:00

Are you like me? Do you have a couple of rolls of film sitting around your house waiting patiently to be developed? If so, then you are in luck today. Walgreens is offering free 4x6 inch film developing today, Wednesday September 16th only.

Just print this coupon to recieve one free APS, 35 mm or single use camera developing service at Walgreens.

The only catch is that they want your e-mail address in exchange. So, you are opening yourself up to future marketing e-mails. I just plan to use one of my free accounts that I always use for newsletters and marketing.

Free Beech-Nut Next Steps Kit

2009-09-15T09:59:00.000-05:00

Following along in the baby theme today...

I received a heads up from Savings_Queen_MN that when you sign up for the Beech-Nut newsletter, you get a free Next Steps Kit, including free Beech-Nut baby food.

According to Beech-Nut, they also send out "helpful advice and money-saving coupons" in their newsletter as well.

$5 off Luvs coupon

2009-09-15T08:53:00.000-05:00

Starting today Luvs has a $5 coupon available to those who sign up on their site for the Luvs Welcome Kit. I don't know how long this one will last, but have heard it is a one day only deal, so be sure to head on over and sign up ASAP.

Free $10 gift card to GGP malls

2009-09-04T10:49:00.005-05:00

If you have a GGP mall near you, you are in luck. They are offering a $10 mall gift card to the first 500 people to register. Visit here and use your ZIP to search for a mall near you. There is a catch; you need to sign up for the gift card now, before supplies run out and then bring the voucher they will e-mail you to the mall September 17-19, 2009 to redeem. Hurry, they're going fast!

If you are too late to snag a gift card at your local GGP mall, you can still get a $10 mall gift card. Just spend $75 at a participaing GGP mall September 17-20, 2009 and bring your receipts to the "Shop Smart Zone" to receive a $10 mall gift card.

Boston Market 50% off

2009-09-03T12:24:00.010-05:00

Get 50% off any Family Meal or Market Feast at Boston Market this Labor Day weekend, September 5-7, 2009. Just bring in this printable coupon.

Whether you are thinking about an easy picnic or a sit down family meal, this is a great deal. I think we might just pick up dinner on the way home from the cabin Monday afternoon. Tuesday is the first day of school and it would be so wonderful to have a well rounded dinner already prepared so we can focus on those last minute back-to-school tasks.

I was lucky enough to get in on a BzzAgent campaign for Boston Market this summer and I have to tell you, we are loving it! I especially love the wide variety of sides available; something for even the pickiest of eaters.

Free Blue Bunny Labor Day Weekend

2009-09-02T11:00:00.003-05:00

Hey everybody! Who wants free ice cream?

I know, I know... dumb question!

Purchase any variety of Blue Bunny Aspen or Sedona ice cream treats between September 5 and September 7, 2009 and they will refund your purchase price. You can find the rebate form here.

Here's hoping you have a happy (and yummy) Labor Day weekend!

Free Oscar Mayer hot dogs

2009-05-20T09:51:00.002-05:00

That's right, you heard me, free hot dogs! Just in time for summer. Oscar Mayer is giving away coupons for free hot dogs, today only, while supplies last. Just go here to request your free coupon.

Happy grilling!

Things to come...

2009-03-17T16:48:00.003-05:00

Oh my! I have been neglectful! It seems between family and work obligations and trying to recuperate from all the wonderful germs my children have been sharing with me this winter, the blog has suffered.

Spring is around the corner though, and my spring resolutions are to stay healthy (the #1 priority around here!), get the house decluttered and cleaned (and disinfected!) and to get a fresh start on blogging.

So stay tuned; there will be lots of fun deals and freebies coming soon.

Free Suave product- January 14th only

2009-01-14T11:36:00.003-06:00

Head on over to suave.com to receive a coupon for a free Suave product (up to $3.00). Once you are there click on the banner that says "Suavenomics" and a link will open to sign up for your coupon. This offer is valid January 14th only.

Here is the fine print-
* Register on suave.com to receive a coupon for one (1) bottle of Suave Shampoo, Conditioner, Hair Spray, Styling Aid, BodyWash, or Body Lotion (good up to $3.00) by mail. Registration begins at 12:00:01 a.m. ET on January 14, 2009 and ends at 11:59:59 p.m. ET on January 14, 2009. Open to all legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia, age 18 years or older. Limit one coupon per household. Coupons will be mailed 2 - 4 weeks after registration close and can be redeemed through February 28, 2009.

Free Book- Suze Orman's 2009 Action Plan

2009-01-08T16:08:00.002-06:00

Just learned on Twitter (I am quicky falling in love with Twitter!) that you can download Suze Orman's new book 2009 Action Plan from Oprah's website. Thank you Feelslikehome, I appreciate your Tweet!

Hurry though, the free download expires on January 15th.

I have not had a chance to read the book yet, I was too excited to tell you all about it to wait, but from browsing the table of contents it appears the book addresses quite a few of the financial issues that are hitting many of us in this tough economic climate. http://www.oprah.com/article/oprahshow/20081119_tows_bookdownload

I am off to read the first chapter now. Ta ta!

Free Ziploc gift pack to first 5000 to reply

2009-01-07T16:25:00.003-06:00

Check out this gift pack from Right@Home. The first 5000 people to reply will receive a variety pack of three sizes of Ziploc Big Bags. http://www.rightathome.com/offers/jangiftpack/default.aspx

I use these at home and they are really handy for keeping things organized. I have used them for many things, from storing bedding to carrying toys with us on vacation.

You do need to reply ASAP, because these go really fast! Good luck!

Congratulations to the Avon winners!

2008-12-29T21:43:00.002-06:00

Congratulations to.....

carogonza
Lori
joannaonthelake
ihchicky
janetfaye

You are all winners in the Avon giveaway!

Thank you to all who entered and be on the lookout for my next giveaway coming soon.

This drawing was done via random.org. A screenshot of the winning numbers is available to anyone who wishes to see it. Please send me an e-mail with your request. Screenshot results will be saved for one month past drawing date.

Surviving the holidays

2008-12-28T00:12:00.003-06:00

Whew! Made it through the holidays with no major meltdowns and only one faux pas; 5 year old H opened a present from his Gramma and announced, "I have this already!". I saw a wonderful teaching moment and asked, "If someone gives you a gift you already have or don't really want, what should you say?" (The correct answer being, in my eyes, "Thank you.") H replied, "I should say, No thank you." Okay, so it was polite at least and Gramma was more than understanding, but we did have a little talk about just saying thank you and asking mom or dad for help exchanging it later.

Now the fun begins; Mom (meaning me) has to find a way to entertain all three kids for the next week while the two oldest are off from school. Staying home just invites fights and whining, so I have a couple of outings planned. I think we will hit the zoo and Underwater Adventures at the Mall of America. We have memberships to both and have found that while it is a bit of a shock to pay the yearly fee, it saves us quite a bit of money in the long run. I plan to have them help me make play dough another day, and of course we have all the new toys and games to play with.

Hopefully having a plan will prevent fighting and whining and help to preserve my sanity. Or it could just be wishful thinking... I guess only time will tell.

Hope you all have peaceful holiday breaks and if you have a great idea for keeping the kids happy and calm (and, no, duct tape doesn't count!) please let me know. Maybe I will try it too :)

'Tis The Season

2008-12-23T12:39:00.005-06:00

It is almost Christmas. The month of December just seems to have disappeared from underneath me! Where did the days go? I had it all planned out, and then life interfered! I am feeling like I am behind, but the 25th will come, whether I am ready or not.

I truly am blessed, my children are wonderful, my husband has a job- in a time when so many do not, and we are all feeling healthy (which hasn't happened in a while around here!). My parents are on their way over to help me catch up on the cleaning I didn't do while I was sick; Mom will help me and Dad will keep the kids entertained baking cookies. By the end of the day, I will have a cleaner house and cookies to munch on too. Not bad.

Just one last trip to the grocery store to buy the ingredients for the Christmas meals and I will be all set. I can't wait to see the expressions on my kids faces come Christmas morning.

Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or some other winter holiday, I hope your days are peaceful, fun and fulfilling.

Wishing you the best the holiday season has to offer,
Rebecca

I won a ruby pendant and earrings, you could too...

2008-12-18T16:35:00.006-06:00

I am newbie on Twitter and honestly, I was a little unsure about the application. Would it be worthwhile, would I ever learn all the ettiquette rules (still working on that) and who should I follow, who would follow me, etc.

Well, I am officially a Twitter lover. I have been enjoying the conversations and the links to contests and yesterday I won a ruby heart pendant and ruby stud earrings from GemAffair. Thank you so much GemAffair and Katy, you made my week :-)

Want to get in on the contest? They are still giving away jewelry to 4 winners every day this week! Just head on over to Twitter and follow me beccaj73, then send me a DM (direct message) and I will send you the info on how to enter, or if you are an experienced Twitter user you can just check my history to find the @GemAffair tweets :-) A simple RT (re-tweet) gets you an entry into this great contest.

You can also check out GemAffair's website for some gorgeous jewelry and some great savings too! Use code GA28XMAS and get free shipping plus 10% off $150 orders and 20% off $300 orders. They have just added hundreds of items to their clearance section as well.

Good luck to you all, be sure to tell me if you win some bling too.

The pneumonia blues

2008-12-15T23:45:00.006-06:00

Those of you who know me, know that my family has had a bad month, healthwise. Ear infections for the kids (twice in a month for the youngest) and my husband and I won the grand prize of respiratory illnesses; pneumonia. Don't ask how we both got it at the same time, I'm still shaking my head over that one.

Anyway, I am here to ask if anyone has any great home remedies (nothing too gross please) for a cough and wheezing. It is driving me flipping nuts! DH is barely coughing and I feel like I am hacking up a lung! I have delved into my nurse bag and have tried all of the old tricks I can think of; steamy showers, humidity, honey, throat lozenges/cough drops, hot tea, eliminating milk products. This is in addition to my antibiotic, tessalon pearls (for cough), mucinex and inhaler (for cough and wheezing).

It is bad. Mothers hide their children behind their back in the grocery store when I walk down the aisle, the bank teller gets out the big jug of antibacterial hand gel when she sees me, when we go to the zoo people start looking for the seal when they hear me from around the corner. Okay, so it's not quite that bad, but honestly, I am beginning to feel like Typhoid Mary, no one wants to be near me!

I have almost given up hope and am about to make another appointment to see the doctor, but honestly, I am kind of sick of seeing her and would prefer not to go back. It's not that I don't like her, but I have been to that office way too much recently.

So, if you have a suggestion, don't be shy, let me know. Don't let it be said that you can't teach an old nurse new tricks! Send me your ideas and suggestions, please! At this point I am willing to try almost anything! Note I said almost, no eye of newt, tongue of bat sorts of remedies please!

Update 12/22/08
Well, it turns out that the pneumonia was not fully treated by the first antibiotic I was on. I finally gave up and went to see the doctor again, they repeated the chest X-ray and lo and behold, the pneumonia was still there, even though I had completed my antibiotic! It was better, but not gone. Started a new antibiotic on Friday and I am a new woman. I am still coughing, but I feel much better! Thank you all for your suggestions and well wishes.

Avon Giveaway- 5 Winners!

2008-12-08T08:42:00.012-06:00

My first review and giveaway, I'm so excited. Thanks so much to MomSelect and Avon!

I had the opportunity to try Avon Advance Techniques Professional Hair Care Instant Recharge Treatment. I received several varieties and tried the Intense Repair, which states it is for dry, damaged hair. Since this is winter in Minnesota, I figured dry just about sums it all up.

The product comes in a box with four separate weekly treatments and looks a little like the hot oil treatments I used way back in high school. Unlike the hot oil treatments, these required no preheating (a major plus- with 3 small kids, I like things streamlined). There was more than enough product in one tube to treat my just-past-shoulder-length hair. The first thing I noticed was the scent; it was reminiscent of my Pantene days. The next thing I noticed (and this is my only complaint) is how easy it is to lose the little white cap on the floor of a white bathtub! I had to get down on my hands and knees ('cause I am blind without my glasses) to find it before it went down the drain. Okay, it was actually kind of funny in retrospect.

Then the results; my hair was softer and more manageable all week, and after the second week's treatment it was even softer still. I am sold, the product really works.

Now for the fun part... this product isn't even available to buy yet (it should be out in January 2009), but I have 5 to give away to 5 lucky winners! I have-

*1 box Intense Repair
*2 boxes Frizz Control
*2 boxes Volumizing

As an additional bonus, Avon is offering free standard shipping on orders over $30 through January 1, 2009. Just enter the code JINGLE30, you can find an Avon eRepresentative here.

To enter, please visit Avon and leave a comment telling me what your favorite product is. Please also leave a note in your comment about which version of the Advance Techniques you would like to win. It's that simple!

For extra entries you can-
*Become a follower of my blog (if you are already a follower, just leave a comment to let me know)
*Subscribe to my RSS Feed
*Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway

Be sure to leave a separate comment for each additional entry!

The fine print-
Only one prize per person please. Must be 18 and a resident of the US or Canada to win. Entry deadline is 11:59 PM EST on 12/28/2008. Winners will be drawn using a numerical randomizer such as random.org and will be contacted via e-mail, so be sure to leave a valid e-mail address, either in your profile or comment. I will do my best to offer each winner their first choice if a preference is expressed, but can make no guarantees.

The $1 Give

2008-11-25T15:21:00.003-06:00

Most of my posts are about freebies and giveaways, things you can get. In this season, it is so easy to get The Gimmies, you know the syndrome, we have all seen it in our children and have most likely seen it in ourselves from time to time. While there is nothing wrong with getting, sometimes it is better for us to give. It makes our hearts feel good and it can cure a case of The Gimmies in a flash.

To that end, I want to tell you about The $1 Give, the brainchild of a couple of Mom Bloggers. The premise behind The $1 Give is that if we all band together to each give one dollar every day in December we can make a difference. They will have a featured charity each day and ask that you give $1 to each cause, for a total donation of $31. The theory being that if enough people participate our $1 can add up to a lot of good. I think this is a wonderful idea and plan to participate myself and would encourage you all to at least consider donating as well. I know money can be tight in this economy and especially this time of year, but if you can help on a small level maybe we can all make a difference collectively.

Free Dr Pepper

2008-11-23T23:23:00.006-06:00

Dr Pepper is giving away coupons for a free single serve Dr Pepper (I believe they mean a 20 oz bottle by this) through Monday November 24th at 6PM EST. The giveaway was scheduled to run for a day on Sunday the 23rd, but, as I can attest, they seem to have had some technical difficulties, and so have extended the giveaway.

To get your free Dr Pepper you need to visit the Dr Pepper website and sign up. The process does not seem to be trouble free even yet, as I have been unable to get my form to submit. But I am hopeful, as I was unable to even access the form on Sunday.

The promotion is a result of Guns 'N' Roses newest album being released. Apparently there was a statement made by Dr Pepper that if the album actually did release in 2008 they would give America free Dr Pepper. If you care to learn more you can read an article here.

Now everybody sing along with me...I'm a Pepper, he's a Pepper, she's a Pepper. Wouldn't you like to be a Pepper too? Enjoy!

Thank you Emily for notifying me of this giveaway.

Godiva Truffle Break

2008-11-18T16:15:00.008-06:00

Who would like some free chocolate? I know, I know...stupid question! Well, if you are in the vicinity of a Godiva store on November 20th (Thursday) from 1PM to 3PM you are in luck. Godiva stores will be handing out free truffles. Not only is it chocolate, but it is sinfully good chocolate!

Not sure where the closest store is? Check out Godiva's Store Finder here to see if there is one near you. The offer is good at Godiva Boutique Stores.

Jewelry

2008-11-16T10:06:00.004-06:00

Hey girls, we all like a little bling, right? I have found though, that as a busy mom, I don't like to wear my nicer (read more expensive) pieces everyday for fear of loss, breakage and fingerpaint. That is why I like Silver Jewelry Club. They offer low cost jewelry made with sterling silver and semi-precious gemstones. They will tell you that their jewelry is free (see the link to the left) and it is, but you still have to pay S&H, so your cost comes to $6.99 per piece. While it is not entirely free, I feel that the price is reasonable and the quality is good, though not excellent (hey, what do you expect for $6.99?). I have ordered from them before a have been thoroughly satisfied. They have jewelry to suit every taste, most with gemstones, some pieces are made solely of sterling silver. The format is unusual, they offer a piece for 15 minutes and then it is gone (it may pop up again later), they offer 4 pieces at a time. They also have a preview button to see what is coming up over the next hour or two.

I find these pieces to be nice for everyday wear and have been known to keep a pair of earrings or a pendant on hand for a gift. One caveat, if you want to order a ring, make sure to check the size, the size listed in the description is the size you are ordering, there is no choice. You can visit them here

Free Sterling Silver with real Gemstones, no catch, no gimmicks, no obligation

or click on the banner to the left. I will leave the banner up, so you can access the link quickly if you want to find it in the future.

Free photo book from Snapfish and Oprah

2008-11-13T01:04:00.004-06:00

A great big thank you to Brenda for alerting me to this deal.

It seems Oprah had a piece on her show today about organizing kids artwork by taking digtal pictures of their art and having it made into photo books, so the art can live on, but you no longer have to store the original pieces.

As a special bonus, Oprah and Snapfish are offering viewers the opportunity to receive a free 20 page photo book! You can make a book of kids art, as was suggested, or just assemble some of your favorite photos together. You do need to pay shipping and handling, but, from what I have heard the cost of shipping is running at about $8, a huge bargain if you wanted to make a book to give as a gift for grandparents or just to keep for your family. The retail price for these books at Snapfish is $29.99!

I have not created my book yet, but wanted to post this deal right away, because time is of the essence. You must go here Free Photo Book before midnight on Friday November 14th and you much complete your order by Sunday November 16th.

Family fun on a budget

2008-11-07T22:52:00.002-06:00

We all know sometimes entertainment for kids can be expensive, so when I was clued into a free kids activity last year by my friend Emily, I was thrilled.

Lowe's Build and Grow Clinics are recommended for kids in grades 1 through 5 (per their website), but my older two started attending at age 5, while still in preschool. This is an event for a child and caregiver to attend together. There is a scheduled craft, generally of the woodworking variety, and your child gets to bring home what he or she has made. On their first visit my boys received an apron and each time they complete a project they receive a badge to sew onto their apron. They have made things like squirrel/bird feeders, periscopes and trucks. These events occur on Saturday mornings approximately twice a month. Registration can be completed online and is very simple.

Home Depot Kids Workshop, this event is recommended for ages 5-12 (per their website) and is also an event for a child and caregiver to attend together. The kids received an apron there as well and each project completed earns them a pin to place on their apron. The boys have brought home projects like pencil holders, race cars and flower boxes. We do not have a Home Depot close to us, but my parents (who live an hour away) do. It has become a fun adventure to go to Grammy and Granddad's for an overnight and then they all go to complete a project together on Saturday morning, before coming home again. The Home Depot lists only one event a month on a Saturday morning, but at the one my children attend, they run clinics twice a month; once with the monthly project and once with leftover kits from previous projects, a sort of pot luck project day. Home Depot is not terribly user friendly in their registration process; they do not offer online registration, nor do they allow phone registration as a general rule, they prefer you come to the store and sign up at the customer service counter. They have taken phone registration for us as a special circumstance, when my parents couldn't make it to the store to register the boys.

Overall, we find these to be a wonderful diversion on a Saturday morning. The projects are cute, the boys get a wonderful sense of accomplishment from having created something, they enjoy the special time with parents or grandparents and the price can't be beat!

My father has started carrying a couple of extra tools to these events. Generally they supply hammers, wood glue and paper towels. He brings his own pliers and a utility knife (like a Leatherman or Swiss Army knife), as he finds that they are sometimes handy.

Build A Bear Giveaway

2008-11-07T00:54:00.000-06:00

The Integrated Mother is hosting a giveaway for a $10 Build A Bear gift certificate. There are several ways to win, the first of them is super easy; just go to The Integrated Mother, check out the Build a Bear website and leave a comment on the giveaway thread on her site. The others are not much harder than that! Hurry, the giveaway ends tonight, November 7th.

Starting small

2008-11-06T23:43:00.000-06:00

I have discovered that there are so many wonderful giveaways and sample offers on the internet. So many, in fact, that a person would never have the time to sort through every one of them and sign up for each one. That is where this blog comes in. I will post some of my favorite freebie offers, blog giveaways and contests here. While I can't promise to find every wonderful deal, I will do my best to help compile a list of some really great offers and giveaways.

The first couple of sites that come to mind are a couple of the first sites I started my freebie journey at.

Bloggy Giveaways This is a wonderful site that highlights mostly small businesses (though there are some larger corporate giveaways as well). There are multiple giveaways each week and the entry process is simple and straightforward.

Start Sampling This site has endless opportunities for samples (you may be limited in the number you can request per day), coupons and trial offers. I have been a member for years and have always been pleased with the samples offered. They do have a rewards program, but generally all of the rewards are sold out when I check for availability.

I am always looking for new freebies, giveaways, coupons and contests. If you know of a good site, please drop me a line.

I look forward to sharing some of my favorite sites and opinions with you in the days and weeks to come.

Rebecca