Home Grown Families

Thanks Mama Dri-Line Bamboo AIO diaper Review & Giveaway

2012-02-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Thanks Mama is an online retailer offering natural living mama's amazing products! Cloth diaper companies like Fuzzibunz, BumGenius, Kissaluvs and more can all be found in this convenient store. Thanks Mama also carries nursing pads, baby toys, slings, and much more!! I had the opportunity to review a DriLine Bamboo AIO diaper, and couldn't wait to share it with you!

This all in one cloth diaper for babies 8-34lbs, has tons of great features starting with the outside! This diaper features PUL outer with stretchy tabs, giving baby a nice snug fit! There are 2 rows of snaps to adjust sizing, along with cross over tabs. Offers a nice snug fit for climbing toddlers!

The inside of the Bamboo Baby has layers making it super absorbent and silky soft!

The inner features Bamboo Rayon fleece material in an attached liner, making for easy drying! Bamboo material is a top choice for cloth diapers for its antibacterial properties and biodegradability! I have found that bamboo is one of the only things my little one can wear at night without leaking.

Thanks Mama online diaper shop has tons of great cloth diapers to choose from.....so get shopping!

BUY IT: Dri-Line Bamboo Baby All in One cloth diaper is just $19.99! GREAT price for an AIO.

WIN IT: One lucky HGF reader will win a Dri-Line Bamboo AIO in their choice of color and closure!

Click READ MORE to enter via Rafflecopter

a Rafflecopter giveaway

HGF was not paid for this post. We were provided with a product to review, and we have provided our honest opinion as mothers. Thank you to the sponsoring company for working with HGF. You can view our complete PR policies here.

By entering this contest, you certify that you are 18 years old or older and that you have read and agree with the rules, our giveaway policy and disclosure:

U.S only except where prohibited by law. No purchase necessary. Giveaway starts at the moment of the posting of this article and will run until March 12, 2012 at 11:59PM! The prize is one Dri-Line Bamboo AIO diaper as listed above with a total retail value of approx Twenty Dollars {$20} All prizes will be awarded. A list of winners will be available after 4/10/2012 by writing MomToSprouts {at} yahoo {dot} com. All prizes are awarded and forwarded to the winner by the sponsor; in this case, Thanks Mama. Please see Official Rules for more details.

We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

TWITTER PARTY ALERT: Tilex for Spring Cleaning!

2012-02-25T12:04:00.001-05:00

TWITTER PARTY ALERT!!

I am so excited to share this Twitter party with you- as Home Grown Families will be co-hosting with Social Moms!! If it's one thing I know very well- it's how to clean. Some may call it neurotic, I just call it sanity.

Here is a snippet about the party:

In honor of the Tilex® Mold Stain and Mildew Stain Remover, Tilex® and SocialMoms have teamed up to host a fun Twitter Party on Thursday, March 1, 2012. We hope you can join us as we talk about spring cleaning and getting rid of mold and mildew! You’ll be entered for a chance to win great prizes just by participating during the party. Don’t miss out on the fun! We will be joined by our co-host @MomToSprouts of Home Grown Families blog, to chat about spring cleaning tips, killing mold and mildew and more! Please make sure you follow @socialmoms and @MomToSprouts before the party!

So we will be talking about Spring Cleaning- and all those nooks and cranny's that need attention! We will also be discussing ways to get rid of and avoid yucky bathroom mold! As if you needed another reason to come............we are giving away great prizes! Twenty of them in fact!

Prizes will be awarded before the party for those who tweet and during the party to participants that have registered!

So click on over to Social Moms to RSVP and get your early tweet in!

Will you be coming?

Even if you can't come- please Tweet to share- you could still win!

Click to Tweet an invite to your followers for a chance to win prizes!

Barney: I Love My Friends DVD Review

2012-02-24T16:19:00.000-05:00

Barney is a favorite in just about every household with toddlers! The bright colors and catchy songs keep the interest of kids for quite awhile!

Now, LionsGate and HIT Entertainment have released a new DVD: Barney: I Love My Friends

For kids aged 1-5, I Love My Friends talks to kids about the importance of being a friend through keeping promises, helping out and being honest.

Photo Credit

Synopsis
Come join in the fun as Barney™ takes his friends on a super-dee-duper™ adventure that shows just what it means to be a friend. Princess Baby Bop™ has a royally good time when she sees that a key to being a friend is keeping promises. Riff™ goes to great lengths to make up for a big mistake and prove he’s a friend who sees things through. BJ™ feels left out when he’s not included in a drawing and learns the importance of being honest and expressing his feelings. With singing, dancing and lots of monkeying around, Barney brings kids on a friend-tastic adventure and shows that everything is more fun with friends!

BUY IT: You can buy Barney: I Love My Friends on Amazon for $14.99.

ETSY:Greenchild Creations Fitted Cotton Twill cloth diaper Review and Giveaway

2012-02-24T14:11:00.005-05:00

Etsy LOVER here!! Everything Etsy and Pinterest makes me smile!! I love handmade one of a kind products, and Greenchild Creations makes just that! As my little girl gets older, cloth diapering has gotten a whole lot cuter as she demands cute prints and vibrant colors! Pastel and white won't pass the test here!

Greenchild Creations sent me their new One size cotton twill fitted cloth diaper to review, and it comes in prints to make a 2 yr old smile :)

We were sent the cupcake print cotton twill fitted diaper, and it looks soo cute on Lil!

This fitted diaper is a one size diaper with a long front flap to adjust rise, and cross over tabs for waist adjustment. There is an inner pocket to stuff- but inserts are not included. I love that I can adjust the absorbancy, without making it hard to dry! This diaper fits great on toddlers, and the perfect solution for nighttime when paired with a good cover.

You can use pins to keep it closed or a snug cover. I am a pin fan myself :) I think the pins hold it together tighter. Every purchase of the OS cotton twill cloth diaper comes with 2 pins.

Greenchild Creations has other products too besides cloth diapers, including pincushions, and all natural soaps & lotions! Support a WAHM- shop Greenchild Creations!

BUY IT: Greenchild Creations OS cotton twill fitted diapers are $12.00.

WIN IT: Winner will receive their choice of OS cotton twill cloth diaper!

tweet: #Win a ONE SIZE FITTED CLOTH DIAPER from @momtosprouts #giveaway http://bit.ly/z6HEm6

ENTER BELOW USING RAFFLECOPTER

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLAIMER:

U.S only except where prohibited by law. No purchase necessary. Giveaway starts at the moment of the posting of this article and will run until March 11, 2012 at 11:59PM! The prize is a fitted diaper as listed above with a total retail value of Twelve dollars{$12} All prizes will be awarded. A list of winners will be available after 7 days by writing MomToSprouts {at} yahoo {dot} com. All prizes are awarded and forwarded to the winner by the sponsor; in this case, greenchild creations. Please see Official Rules for more details.

We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

FRIDAY FOLLOW with G+ hOP!!

2012-02-23T20:00:00.000-05:00

Thank you for joining the Friday Blog AND Google + Hop hosted by myself (Melissa) at and Home Grown Families and Nicole at Mama to 4 Blessings .We invite you to join us every Friday to make more blog friends!

It's very easy to join in on the fun!

Add your main blog (PLEASE DO NOT LINK UP GIVEAWAYS) link (we ask that you please follow the hostesses in the first 2 spots ( Home Grown Families & Mama to 4 Blessings) Then leave us a quick comment letting us know you are following.

Then start blog hopping!

Please feel free to grab our Friday Blog Hop button and add it to your blog and spread the word!

We have added to our Friday Blog Hop for readers to link up their Google + pages too!

Please type in (blog after your blog name or Google + if it's a Google + link)

EX: Home Grown Families (Google+)

Home Grown Families(Blog)

Please only enter your MAIN blog link and please G rated links ONLY - NO CURSING please. Home Grown Families and Mama to 4 Blessings are family friendly blogs.

__________________________________________________

OTHER GREAT THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU LINK UP.....

Do you host giveaways? Feel free to come back every Tuesday and link them up here at Mommy Loves Tuesday Giveaways! You can also find a great giveaway directory here.

Mama to 4 Blessings and Home Grown Families have created a new Facebook Group for bloggers (Bloggin' Social - Media Chat Blog Events) This group is about everything from social media topics to great upcoming blog events! We would love for you toJOIN.

Bright Starts InGenuity Cradle and Sway Swing Review

2012-02-23T15:50:00.000-05:00

One of my big new baby fears was what to do with her during school time, or playtime etc. With 3 other small children to chase I couldn't possibly hold her all day long. I knew a baby swing was the best option but with sooo many choices out there picking the best one was going to be a process. Luckily the search didn't take long.

I was thrilled to come across the Bright Starts Ingenuity Cradle n' Sway swing!

The Bright Starts Ingenuity swing has some amazing features that make this swing comfortable for baby while mom is busy tending to other kiddos!

Deluxe seat featuring super plush fabric, with removable plush headrest for newborns. This seat rotates 180 degrees, so no matter which direction you move baby can easily keep you in sight at all times.

The rotating seat also allows for baby to swing side to side or rock back and forth. I think it helps when baby is getting tired of the same ole thing, to change it up!

Seat easily reclines or sits upright for playful babies!

5 point harness keeps baby safe and sound!

SUPER quiet operation! This baby swing is almost silent- so even when she falls asleep I can easily restart it without waking her.

My daughter fits perfectly in this swing(check out my G+ album for more cute pics!), and it has the power to put her to sleep instantly! She buckles in nice and snug so no need for the activity bar right now.

The Bright Starts Ingenuity Cradle n' Sway swing has lots of great features for baby entertainment too including:

Music!! 8 melodies and 3 nature sounds~!

Removeable tray with attached activity toys.

Mobile that swings out of the way! I am not sure who likes this more?? I love not hitting my head or hers with it!

Soothing vibration unit to keep baby sound asleep!

Mom likes quite a few things too! The controls are easy to use, with the option to set swing for certain minutes and up to 6 speeds. They are easy enough for my 4 yr old to restart the swinging if it stops!

The only con I have is that I wish it had an ac adaptor to plug in the wall. I was really worried about having to change out batteries, but I have not changed them out once since she was born. We have used the same batteries for the past 12 weeks. The Ingenuity swings feature hybridive technology which extends battery life 2x!

My FAVORITE part of my new Cradle n' Sway swing.....peace.

BUY IT : Bright Starts Ingenuity Cradle n' Sway swing retails for around $130 depending on retailer.

Be sure to check out other Bright Starts InGenuity products! You can hook up with Bright Starts on Facebook and Twitter to find out about new products and promotions!

DISCLAIMER:

Munchkin Baby Bath Tub Fun Review and Giveaway

2012-02-23T14:25:00.000-05:00

Munchkin has always been one of those brands you could rely on when it comes to baby products. Just part of the family- always dependable, durable, and there to make life a little easier(and more fun)! I have used Munchkin products for every step of my children's lives from newborn stages to toddlerhood- and I am always impressed with the high quality and spirit their products bring!

We recently received a basket of new Munchkin bath tub toys- and my 2 yr old immediately demanded that it was bath time! Time to put these tub toys to the test!

First up.......Sea Squirts for my little squirt! These cute little sea creatures come 5 in the pack, so they can fill them up and squirt them out!

She had soo much fun lining them up and making them dive into the water! The Sea squirts are just $6- so cheap enough to throw out if they get yucky!

We also received the Dolphin Divers- for some fun pouring action! Great for fine motor skills! As they pour the water, the dolphins swim! I wish they moved a little faster, but she liked pouring!

Of course, we saved the best for last!! Our favorite new bath tub toy is.......the STAR FOUNTAIN!

Holy cuteness!! This adorable star fountain spins, floats, and lights up- making bath time run wayyyyy too long!

Make your little one's bath time fantastic with the new Munchkin bath toys! Check out the other fun bath tub toys!

BUY IT: Munchkin toys are available in local stores everywhere.

WIN IT: One lucky HGF reader will win a set of baby bath tub toys including the star fountain, dolphin divers and sea squirts!

Tweet: #WIN a BABY BATH TUB TOY SET from @Munchkin_Inc & @momtosprouts #giveaway http://bit.ly/w52BAK

ENTER BELOW USING RAFFLECOPTER

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLAIMER:

U.S only except where prohibited by law. No purchase necessary. Giveaway starts at the moment of the posting of this article and will run until March 10, 2012 at 11:59PM! The prize is a Munchkin bath toy set as listed above with a total retail value of Twenty dollars{$20} All prizes will be awarded. A list of winners will be available after 7 days by writing MomToSprouts {at} yahoo {dot} com. All prizes are awarded and forwarded to the winner by the sponsor; in this case, Munchkin. Please see Official Rules for more details.

We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Shirts that Go - Adorable Tees for Kids- Gift Set giveaway!!

2012-02-23T10:00:00.000-05:00

Every little boy loves things that go! From airplanes to fire trucks to bulldozers and excavators- they are into it! Shirts that Go has tapped into that interest and came out with adorable t-shirts for boys that love all things that move! These are kid inspired boy clothes!

My 4 yr old old son was so excited to explore the Shirts that Go site, and was thrilled to see movers he sees on a daily basis like garbage trucks and fire trucks! Seeing the movers made him ask tons of questions! He talked my ear off!

After over an hour looking, he finally decided on the Fighter Jet long sleeve t shirt! This F15 goes just about as fast as he does!!

I was impressed with the high quality tee and the finish of the design. This is not a cheap iron on design. It still looks brand new after multiple washings! I think I will be ordering him the kids tractor t shirt next, he already put in his request.

With the purchase of any tee size 3T and up, you can opt to have a custom package for the perfect gift!

Stay tuned...

Shirts That Go is adding sport tee's including soccer & football!

BUY IT: Shirts That Go tee's start at 16.99

WIN IT: One lucky HGF follower will win their choice of tee in decorative box

TWEET: #win a @ShirtsThatGo Planes,Jets,Trains & trucks~ Super cute tee's for kids & toddlers! @momtosprouts #giveaway http://lb.vg/1WD6P

Click READ MORE to enter via Rafflecopter

a Rafflecopter giveaway

U.S only except where prohibited by law. No purchase necessary. Giveaway starts at the moment of the posting of this article and will run until March 9, 2012 at 11:59PM! The prize is a tee shirt of the winners choice with a decorate box as listed above with a total retail value of approx Seventeen Dollars {$17} All prizes will be awarded. A list of winners will be available after 4/10/2012 by writing MomToSprouts {at} yahoo {dot} com. All prizes are awarded and forwarded to the winner by the sponsor; in this case, Shirts That Go. Please see Official Rules for more details.

We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

UMI~ Deal of the Month

2012-02-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

Helllooooo Cap'N America!!!

2012-02-22T22:10:00.002-05:00

MARVEL’S THE AVENGERS hits theaters on May 4th!

Connect with The Avengers on FB!

Dial™ Nutriskin™ to cure your winter dry skin blues! #Dialnutriskin #CBias

2012-02-22T21:18:00.000-05:00

I am a Florida girl by birth, and now a South Carolina transplant. This was our first winter here in SC, and my main complaint is the dryness~! I look twenty years older in my cracked hands- made increasingly worse by my frequent handwashing! As studies show, dry skin is a huge risk factors for wrinkles. Without some serious moisturizer- I will be looking real bad at 40!

Although I use lotion on a daily basis, I am always on the look out for a more nourishing one, as even with daily moisturizing I am still finding my hands cracked. I am not the only victim to the winter dryness either. My husband complains too but refuses to use that "girly lotion". He will not rub anything on that smells of well anything. Scent free is just not enough. My recent trip to Walmart, has saved us from the Winter Blues with the NEW Dial™ Nutriskin™ lotion!

I came across this in store demo and was SOLD! Coupons did sweeten the deal :)

I got to try out the different types, scooped up some coupons, and was directed to the aisle I could score my own. I am a sucker for in store demos(they had another one for Ranch, and yeah bought that too).

My only real decision was which one to buy?

Dial™ Nutriskin™ has lotion for him and her- and in many different scents and for all skin types. I went with the manly scented men's face and body lotion for him, and EXTRA DRY for me! Dial™ Nutriskin™ is great for sensitive skin types, so even my kids can use it if they'd like! You can walk through my shopping thoughts over in my G+ album!

I work as a busy emergency room nurse, so frequent hand washing makes my skin even dryer. I love that this non greasy formula adds back a lot of those vitamins and nutrients that I am constantly rubbing off. I have been using mine, but my husband was not too thrilled with my purchase.

So I put out the big bottle of Nutriskin™ lotion right next to the sink in hopes he will try it out(I found myself using the mens scented lotion). I mean I don't want him to age too fast- he may make me look bad :)

While I am not sure if my plan worked......it did attract a young man. Everyone needs some moisturizing in the winter. Maybe it will rub off on the bigger version.

To cure your winter dry skin, check out the new Dial™ Nutriskin™ lotion! Have you seen an in store demo for it in your local Walmart? You can connect with Dial™ Nutriskin™ on Facebook and Twitter for coupons and promotions!

“This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias. #CBias . All opinions are my own.

More Winners!!!!

2012-02-22T20:04:00.001-05:00

It's time for winners!!

The winner of the The Peanut Shell Boutique giveaway is...

3164 trixx Subscribe to feedburner(email)

The winner of the Journal 10 giveaway is...

708 Connie G Follow us on Google +

The winner of the Baby Bedding Zone giveaway is...

1533 Selinda M "Like" the Blog Post

The winner of the Sprout Shell giveaway is...

1689 JuRita B Subscribe to email updates

Don't forget to enter our other giveaways!

Maxi Cosi High Chair!! 3/7

Step 2 Pin Pals 2/29

Wordless Wednesday with Linky- Pirate or Viking?

2012-02-21T21:33:00.001-05:00

The ~~Viking~~ Pirate who doesn't do anything.

* In the green room humming into the microphone. Future superstar.

Check out some of our WW friends and link up!
Energizer Bunnies' Mommy Reports
7 on a Shoestring
Mama to 4 Blessings

Link up you Wordless Wednesday below!

Mommy Loves Tuesdays Giveaways~ link-up & WIN!!

2012-02-20T22:11:00.003-05:00

Do you love to win stuff?

Do you have a great giveaway going on?

Come over and win some free stuff or show the linky love and link up your giveaways! Make sure you come back every Tuesday!

Follow us for updated giveaways. You can find other places to link up with our new and improved Giveaway Linky List!! {Comment if you would like to be added!} You can find the list under "Bloggin" in the drop down header menu.

*Please keep all giveaways family friendly!!*

Check out the right side bar to ENTER all of our giveaways!!

Maxi Cosi Leila high chair $150RV 3/4

SnuggyBaby $50 GC 3/7

STEP 2 Pin Pals Bowling Set 2/29

Staying sharp at tax time with #XACTO and @Elmers #CBias

2012-02-20T15:12:00.002-05:00

It's tax time and nothing strikes fear into the heart of bloggers more than that word!

Blogger forums are over flowing with tax related questions like:

"What, exactly, do I have to claim?"

"Do I claim the MSRP or the sale price?"

"Do I really have to?"

This tax season was a little stressful for me. It included going through all my old posts and e-mails to figure out the value of everything I have received this year. Yeah, I didn't keep very good records.

I have to do better for 2012.

See! I'm plenty organized, I just need better record keeping!

One of the things I desperately needed, but didn't have, was a pencil sharpener! You can't do your taxes if you don't have the right tools! Thankfully, Elmers came to the rescue with their X-ACTO pencil sharpeners!

I chose the Spira.

The girls were so excited to finally have a pencil sharpener! No more hunting around for a pencil before we start school work!

See the point on that pencil!?!?

And, right now, there is a Spira $3 off coupon that will make it less then $17 at Wal-Mart! That is the best price for an electric sharpener that I have found anywhere!!

While you're there, look for a good book for keeping track of blog stuff. These wouldn't work but if you find something that will, let me know!

Make sure you keep #XACTO in mind when it's time to shop for your tax time supplies!

SEE MY ENTIRE SHOPPING TRIP IN GOOGLE+!

Find X-ACTO on Facebook
Elmers on Twitter

Staying sharp at tax time with @Elmers and #XACTO from HGF {@MomToSprouts} and #CBias http://bit.ly/yWz6Gp

This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias. #CBias All opinions are my own.

Why I fight for Hunger?

2012-02-19T23:32:00.002-05:00

The World Food Programme wants to know why I fight for world hunger?

It seems like such a silly question to me. The only thing I can think of is WHY NOT?

Tonight I will lay down in my warm bed, with a full belly and a feeling of peace knowing my children are happy, healthy, and safe. Many mothers around the world won't have that peace. The thought breaks my heart.

They will struggle, suffer, and fear for their children's health. They will fight for a single meal, and never find peace that their children will be provided for.

1 BILLION people will go to bed hungry tonight.

Each year, almost 11 million children die before reaching the age of five; malnutrition is associated with 53 percent of these deaths (source: Caulfield et al., The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2004 July)

1 in 6 people in this world do not have enough food to live a healthy life.

HUNGER will kill more than AIDS and Tuberculosis.

WHY NOT FIGHT?

As a mother, I can not fathom seeing my child suffer from lack of food to nourish his body.This world problem is such a preventable problem if we could all come together and reach out.

It is not the child's fault the economy crashed. Not their fault their country is at war, and not their fault they were born into poverty.

But it is our fault for allowing this to continue.

I fight because ALL children are worth fighting for.

To find out more ways that you can fight for world hunger, please check out WFP. Every family can make a difference.Why do you fight for hunger? Report it here!

SnuggyBaby Wrap Carrier Review and $50 GIFT CERTIFICATE GIVEAWAY!

2012-02-17T14:35:00.000-05:00

Babywearing is something that is close to my heart- in more than one way. There is nothing better than having your little one chest to chest on you. They have heard and felt your heart beat for the last 9 months, and find comfort in that. Studies show that babywearing improves mental and social development and that babies worn cry 40% less.The upright position is great for colicky babies.

For me, it is more than that. I find comfort in knowing that she is in the safest place, and that I am there to help her explore the world and her surroundings. Babywearing also has great benefits for mom! It can alleviate postpartum depression, allows for discreet nursing, and HELLO CONVENIENCE!! I have 4 little ones, I need to be on the go at all times! Baby can come along for the crazy ride!

SnuggyBaby is a mom made company that produces beautiful baby carriers including ring slings and wraps!

We had the opportunity to review a baby wrap, and they are perfect for little ones! Unlike ring slings, wraps evenly distribute the weight so baby can be worn for hours! It provides a nice snug and secure hold, which is exactly what a busy mama like me needs! SnuggyBaby has TONS of amazing prints- which are for the front panel! No blah 5 yards of fabric! I knew when I seen the vibrant red that I NEEDED it!

SnuggyBaby wraps are made with 100% cotton knit fabrics, are are very supportive. While wearing my 24 lb daughter, I experienced very little sag. Each wrap is 5.5 yds long, and have tapered tails for a clean knot. The fabric is super soft, and as it appears my baby loves it!

Worried about the learning curve? Don't be! Every SnuggyBaby wraps comes with a DVD, and the website has some great tips! I found this how to wrap video!

Snuggybaby doesn't just carry baby slings for moms, they carry them for kids too!! OMG I was in love! I quickly ordered a fleece ring sling for Lil so she could be just like mama! I am instilling in her some attached parenting ways!

Shop SnuggyBaby for ring slings, baby wraps, child slings, wet bags and more! For a limited time you can use the code HGF10 to score 10% any purchase! Be sure to check out the great sale section as well!

BUY IT: You can purchase a wrap in many different colors and patterns for $56! Don't forget your coupon code!

WIN IT: We are giving one lucky HGF reader a $50 GC!!

TWEET:#WIN @SnuggyBaby $50 GIFTCERTIFICATE BABY SLING, WET BAG, OR TOY SLING! from @momtosprouts #giveaway http://bit.ly/xmpfeo

ENTER BELOW USING RAFFLECOPTER

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLAIMER

By entering this contest, you certify that you are 18 years old or older and that you have read and agree with the rules, our giveaway policyand disclosure:

U.S only except where prohibited by law. No purchase necessary. Giveaway starts at the moment of the posting of this article and will run until March 7, 2012 at 11:59PM! The prize is a baby wrap as listed above with a total retail value of Fifty Six dollars{$56} All prizes will be awarded. A list of winners will be available after 7 days by writing MomToSprouts {at} yahoo {dot} com. All prizes are awarded and forwarded to the winner by the sponsor; in this case, SnuggyBaby. Please see Official Rules for more details.

We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Umi Birthday Club!

2012-02-17T12:23:00.000-05:00

You can sign up over at the Umi Facebook Page!! Someone let me know what they get for their birthday!!

KITCHENAID Mixer giveaway!!!

2012-02-16T00:01:00.000-05:00

Well, you asked for it and we are delivering it! I have joined with Coupon Spice and some other really amazing bloggers to bring to you this KitchenAid Mixer Giveaway!

One lucky winner will win a KitchenAid Mixer! This giveaway starts at 12:01 AM (EST) on Feb. 16, 2012 and will run until Midnight (EST) on Feb. 29, 2012.

To enter, simply use the Rafflecopter Form below. If the Widget isn’t showing, please refresh your browser or click “Continue Reading” to enter. If you have any problems or questions with this giveaway, please Email Coupon Spice Here

This Giveaway is in no way sponsored or endorsed by Facebook, Twitter, Google or any other website. It is sponsored by the Bloggers listed on the Rafflecopter Entry Forms.

View our Complete Giveaway Terms and Conditions Here

a Rafflecopter giveaway

By entering this contest, you certify that you are 18 years old or older and that you have read and agree with the rules, our giveaway policy and disclosure:

U.S only except where prohibited by law. No purchase necessary. Giveaway starts at the moment of the posting of this article and will run until February 29, 2012 at 11:59PM! The prize is a KitchenAid stand mixer as listed above with a total retail value of approx Two Hundred Seventy Five Dollars {$275} All prizes will be awarded. A list of winners will be available after 3/12/2012 by writing MomToSprouts {at} yahoo {dot} com. All prizes are awarded and forwarded to the winner by the sponsor; in this case, Coupon Spice. Please see Official Rules for more details.

We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Social Media Monthly Spotlight~ Twitter

2012-02-16T00:00:00.001-05:00

Hostessed by Mama to 4 Blessings and Home Grown Families with the help of several other fantastic bloggers we bring you Social Media Spotlight "Twitter"!

This giveaway runs from 12:01 AM on Thursday 2/16 and will run until Thursday, 1/23 at 11:59 PM (all Eastern times). One winner will receive $35.00 Cash into their paypal!

OPEN WORLDWIDE!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

WINNERS!!!!

2012-02-15T10:25:00.000-05:00

We LOVE to announce the winners of our giveaways!! Did you win??

The winner of the Rain or Shine Kids weather proof blanket giveaway is:

358 Emillie Follow us on Google +

The winner of the Ringling Bros tickets is:

155 Karen "Like" Ringlingbros on Facebook

The winner of the Newsletter Secret Code giveaway is:

324 Jessica Follow @momtosprouts on Twitter

The winner of the Modest Mom Nursing Cover giveaway is:

293 Carla G Subscribe to feedburner(email)

The winner of the Frecklebox GC giveaway is:

2073 Theresa J "Like" Frecklebox on Facebook

The winner of the Funkoos GC giveaway is:

245 Anne E. P Subscribe to email updates

The winner of the Kokopax giveaway is:

2161 Valerie Taylor M Subscribe to email updates

The winner of the Aden & Anais giveaway is:

2162 Brandi E Subscribe to email updates

The winner of the Joseph Allen Designs giveaway is:

338 Michelle M "Like" Josephallendesigns on Facebook

The winner of the Kidz Med VeraTemp Thermometer is:

2290 kerri Enter another giveaway

The winner of the Skidders giveaway is:

4260 Velvet H Follow us on Google +

Did you know that we have some great giveaways going on now?!?!

Maxi Cosi Leila high chair giveaway 3/4

Step 2 Pin Pals bowling Ball set 2/29

The Peanut Shell Boutique infant car seat cover ENDS TODAY!!

Wordless Wednesday with LINKY

2012-02-14T16:44:00.000-05:00

OMG cuteness in her Tummy Tub! PIC OVERLOAD!!

Check out some of our WW friends and link up!
Energizer Bunnies' Mommy Reports
7 on a Shoestring
Mama to 4 Blessings

Link up you Wordless Wednesday below!

Mommy Loves Tuesday Giveaways LINKY

2012-02-14T06:48:00.001-05:00

Do you love to win stuff?

Do you have a great giveaway going on?

Come over and win some free stuff or show the Linky love and link up your giveaway. Make sure you come back EVERY Tuesday!

Follow us for updated giveaways! You can find other places to link up with our new and improved GIVEAWAY LINKY LIST!! Comment if you would like to be added! * You can also find the list under Bloggin in our header menu!

*Please keep everything family friendly!*

Make sure you check out the right sidebar and ENTER!!!

Maxi-Cosi Highchair $150 RV 3/4

Step 2 Bowling Pins Toy $50 RV 2/29

Baby Bedding Nursery Curtains $600 RV 2/19

Sprout Shell- ALL IN 1 Car seat/ Nursing/ Shopping Cart and high chair cover 2/19!

ENDS TODAY!! Skidder shoes for kids and socks for mom!! 2/14

Peanut Shell Boutique new car seat cover! 2/15

Journal 10 Life notebook 2/28

ENDS TODAY!! KidzMedz No touch thermometer 2/14

Uncle Ben's Beginner Contest- Cooking Healthy Meals with Kids!

2012-02-10T12:00:00.000-05:00

Around my house, my kids know that our bodies grow best when fed the right foods, and food selection must be taken seriously. Even though they know that, they still argue about why they must eat a well balanced dinner over Cheetos and Dr.Pepper(mind you I don't buy either). Healthy foods and natural diets are something I feel passionate about- maybe because I see the repercussions of unhealthy diets in my heart attack patients and obese children. I feel that early education is key to raising healthy minded children that make wise decisions for their bodies. Food is everything.

But how do we get them to think this way? We wrote a great post a few months ago, 10 tips and tricks to get your kids to eat vegetables, that highlighted several ways to incorporate more greens in your child's diet and ways to get them to like it! My favorite is #7- Try new recipes.

To expand on this, get your kids involved in the recipe picking and in the preparation. Children LOVE to cook, and "most" are likely to eat a creation they made despite it's healthy ingredients. I like to target foods I know my kids aren't fans of, and look for very creative recipes that make that veggie delicious. I think my kids like the challenge. 1001 ways to eat a squash- who knew?

With the hectic schedules most moms carry nowadays, family cooking is a great way to not only get healthy foods involved, but to get quality time involved. I love to cook with my children, and cherish the moments we have with flour in our hair and veggie peelings all over the floor. In our home, mess means education. ALOT of learning went down if we made a mess :)

We like to start our meal cooking with a healthy staple like rice. Read below to hear a good reason why............

Studies show that when you begin preparing your meal with rice, you end up with a meal that's better for you. Plus, beginning your meal with Uncle Ben’s rice opens your plate up to better eating because rice attracts colorful vegetables, savory spices and leaner cuts of meat that the whole family loves!

So get your kids and get cooking up a great dinner- let rice inspire you! Ben's rice is having a great Beginner's Contest to get your child's creative juices flowing! Entering is easy and the prize is fantastic! You could win $20,000 cash, appearance on The Rachel Ray show, and a school cafeteria makeover up to $50,000!! My son is super excited to get started on his video- and would love to donate his school makeover to a school in need since we homeschool. May the best kiddo win(mine!).

Here is how your child can enter this great contest:

*Cook a creative meal with rice with your children.

* Video tape a 2-3 min segment sharing their enthusiasm for healthy foods.

*Upload for a chance to win

For more information on Uncle Ben's Beginner Contest, like below to like them on Facebook! You will upload your video there!

So tell me, will you be entering to win $20,000 cash? Do you love cooking with your children?

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Uncle Ben’s blogging program, for 6,000 My SocialMoms Rewards Points. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

Friday Blog Hop

2012-02-09T23:52:00.000-05:00

It's very easy to join in on the fun!

Then start blog hopping!

Please feel free to grab our Friday Blog Hop button and add it to your blog and spread the word!

We have added to our Friday Blog Hop for readers to link up their Google + pages too!

Please type in (blog after your blog name or Google + if it's a Google + link)

EX: Home Grown Families (Google+)

Home Grown Families(Blog)

OTHER GREAT THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU LINK UP.....