Lille Punkin'

Child Hunger Ends Here Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Thu, 31 May 2012 14:46:00 +0000

Today is my last day sharing news about the Child Hunger Ends Here program sponsored by ConAgra. I have enjoyed helping to share the important message of how many kids in the U.S. go without food or suffer from food insecurity each day. It is an issue that I feel so strongly about, partially because it is completely preventable.

The campaigns are always a reminder that I am incredibly blessed to be able to provide my own kids with nutritious meals and snacks whenever they ask for them -- something I didn't always have myself growing up. It is my hope that someday all kids in America can simply open the fridge and grab an apple or get a hot meal during a cold day that satisfies their soul and keeps them growing healthy and strong.

I encourage you to take a moment to visit the Child Hunger Ends Here site, if you haven't already. Thanks so much for your continued support of this program!

Wanna Win? We are giving away a $25 grocery gift card to a lucky reader to say "thanks" for letting us tell you about this initiative. To be entered to win, just comment on this post with the percentage of people in your county who face food insecurity. (You can find your county's stats here.) We will pick one commenter at random to receive the prize! You have until June 12th at 11:59 pm CST to get your entries in. This giveaway is open to U.S. residents ages 18+ and is limited to one entry per person. See our full rules here.

*I am a compensated blogger correspondent for ConAgra's Child Hunger Ends Here campaign. Opinions and experiences shared here are my own.

Review of #EclosBeauty Products

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Wed, 30 May 2012 09:56:00 +0000

This post brought to you by éclos Skin Care. All opinions are 100% mine.

I gave a new line of skin care products a try this week called éclos. The package contained quite a few treats, including versions of products I already use in my routine (a facial cleanser, facial scrub and an eye cream.) It also allowed me to introduce a few new items I don’t use often (a face serum and a clay mask!) The items were designed to give my face needed moisture, and at the same time keep my skin younger looking.

The difference between these products and others I’ve tried is that they feature a unique ingredient: apple stem cells extracted from a rare Swiss apple. They have been shown to stimulate skin stem cells and encourage your skin to “behave like younger skin.”

Did it work? Here is my experience.

First, the before pics:

My skin is a bit rough and patchy. I have some fine lines around the bridge of my nose and some “frown lines”, as well.

And, the after:

While hard to see, I do have much more supple skin than before. Unfortunately, this product was a bit heavy on the moisture content, and I developed a bit more oil issues than I like. I decided to not use the entire regimen every day, but to use the optional components sparingly. This seems to have balanced things out a bit.

The complete kit costs less than $20 and is a steal compared to similar department store finds. It contains:

• Facial Cleanser Skin Prep

• Cellular Activator Face Serum

• Moisture Therapy Regenerative Cream

• Restorative Eye Cream

• Instant Radiance Facial Scrub

• Skin Renewal Clay Mask

• éclos Terry Cloth Head Band

For stubborn areas that are hard to moisturize, or to pre-empt aging spots on your face and fine lines, I would definitely give this a go. (If you are super oily, however, I would go easy at first and introduce the extras one at a time.)

Find out more info about this product at éclos Skin Care website!

Wanna win? We are giving one lucky reader their own kit! To be entered to win, just comment on this post stating which product from the kit you are most excited to try! We will pick one commenter at random to receive the prize! You have until June 12th at 11:59 pm CST to get your entries in. This giveaway is open to U.S. residents ages 18+ and is limited to one entry per person. See our full rules here.

Tweet and Win! #sharethejoy

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Tue, 29 May 2012 18:58:00 +0000

Join us in a few minutes for the Cesar #sharethejoy Twitter Party from 3-4 PM EST to chat about the joy we experience by owning a dog!

Date: Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Time: 3 – 4 PM EST

Moderator: @MomCentral
Assistant Moderators:@StacyDeBroff, @DadCentral, @MomCentralChat

Guest: @CesarCuisine

Hashtag: #sharethejoy

Prizes: 2 pre-party winners will receive a $50 gift code and two bags of Cesar Cookie Crunchies. 6 party winners will also receive a $50 gift code and two bags of Cesar Cookie Crunchies.

**Bonus Prizes: Anyone who follows @CesarCuisine from now until the end of the Twitter Party will be entered into a random drawing for 10 special prizes from Cesar. Five (5) will win a year's supply of Cookie Crunchies (24 bags) while five (5) other winners will receive Cesar treats customized with an image of your dog!

TweetGrid: http://bit.ly/LthQRb

Pre-Tweet to Win!

Anyone who tweets this from now until the Cesar #sharethejoy Twitter Party will be eligible to win one of two $50 gift codes!

About the Party:

Dogs give us unconditional love each and every day. It's only fair that we show just as much love in return! Is it a long walk in the park, or a 4-minute tummy-rubbing marathon after work? Maybe you show your dog love with a new squeaky toy or hours of throwing their favorite Frisbee in the backyard. Cesar Canine Cuisine offers you a way to show just how much you adore your canine, with their new line of Cesar Cookie Crunchies.

*I am participating as a co-host for this event and have received a gift for my participation.

Super Yummy Sour Cherry Lime Jam Recipe!

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Tue, 29 May 2012 05:11:00 +0000

Cherry season came very early for us this year. Usually, we are picking in the middle of June, and there are almost two weeks to finish the harvest from our one tree. This year, however, they ripened too early, and the flies were starting to eat at them before they were close to being fully ripe. (This was devastating, as we love making dried cherries as our first choice.)

I took the opportunity to pick them a little on the sour side with the thought I would make jam. I noticed that I had a couple of limes in my fridge that I didn't know what to do with, so I began searching for cherry lime jam recipes. I settled on this one, as it made a small batch -- something I thought I should stick to for my first time making jam!

Here's the process from start to finish:

1. Pick and rinse your cherries. Pit them (I love this pitter I found that lets me pit 4 cherries at a time!)

2. Chop your cherries. I use a cheapo $4 food chopper I got from a Black Friday sale 6 years ago! Be careful not to chop them too long if you like big chunks in your jam.

3. Assemble your ingredients. In addition to 3.5 cups chopped cherries, you'll need:

1/2 cup apple juice (I used a cherry apple juice blend)
1 box 1.75 oz. of Sure-Jell pectin
3 cups sugar
zest of 1/2 a lime

4. Now it's time to cook! I followed the original recipe exactly. First, I brought the cherries, juice, and pectin to a boil, and then I added in my sugar and lime zest. When the complete mixture is at a boil, I continued to keep it on the burner for 1 minute before removing.

5. Fill your clean jars, place the clean lids on top, and then put them in a boiling water canning bath for 15 minutes. I admit that I didn't have the best boil when I did this, and I had to leave them in a bit longer. I think this is ultimately what made my jam a bit thin, but this is actually my preference. We use our "jam" for both a toast topper and a syrup substitute (cherry syrup is expensive!)

6. Remove the jars and wait for the "ping." This is music to a cook's ears!

This recipe is supposed to make 4 half pint jars, but mine made almost 5 (I think it's because my cherries were so juicy and I overcooked the jam.) The finished product is a super-sweet and tangy jam that is perfect on pancakes or straight out of the jar. Yum! This is also a great recipe for cherries that aren't quite at their peak ripeness.

You can get additional ideas for making delicious treats with SURE-JELL at their website.

Wanna Win? We are giving one lucky reader an amazing prize to help you get JAM OUT with SURE-JELL, too! The prize pack includes:

Granite-Ware 9-PC 21.5 Quart Canner Kit
Bormioli Rocco Quattro Stagioni 8-1/2-Ounce 4-Piece Canning Jar Set
Canning Tips and Tricks from SURE-JELL and Kraft Foods

Total value is $70!

To be entered to win, just comment on this post with your favorite way to use SURE-JELL, your favorite canning recipe, or a link to one you want to try. We will pick one commenter at random to receive the prize! You have until June 12th at 11:59 pm CST to get your entries in.

BONUS ENTRY: Get one additional entry by pinning this post to Pinterest and using #YesIJam in your description! (Be sure to leave a separate comment to let us know!)

This giveaway is open to U.S. residents ages 18+ and is limited to one entry plus one bonus entry per person. See our full rules here.

*Kraft Foods is providing the prizes for this program at no cost to me and has provided me with a gift of equal value for review. This program is not administered or sponsored by Kraft Foods or its affiliates, but solely by Lille Punkin'.

Win SWAG from Tour de France Bicycles in honor of National Bike Month!

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Mon, 28 May 2012 19:15:00 +0000

Tour de France Bicycles is giving you the chance to win FREE SWAG in honor of National Bike Month and the in-store launch of its 6-model bicycle line in select Walmart retailers nationwide.

Check out these tips to consider before setting out to bike as a family and scroll down for info on winning FREE swag and FREE bikes from Le Tour de France ...

Do your homework: Make certain you are familiar with the bike route. If you get lost or the route is longer than expected, your child may suffer not only from a diminished experience, but potentially in more serious ways such as dehydration or exposure.
Start early: Children tend to tire quickly in the afternoon. Take advantage of their energy in the morning and start your ride early.
Invite playmates: Cycling is more fun when shared. If your child has a friend who is at the same level of competency on a bike, bring him or her along.
Slow down: Realize that a 4-mile ride may take 2 hours. Don't expect to ride as fast as you would on your own.
Be aware of traffic: What might seem like light traffic to you could be a more dangerous situation for your child, whether biking separately or in a trailer.
Be prepared: Carry a tool kit and know how to use it. Also, carry a first-aid kit that includes a few bandages and antibiotic cream to handle minor cases of road rash.
Dress right: Bring a daypack to hold extra jackets in case the weather changes.

Le Tour de France racing bicycles offer trekking, mountain, road, and fixed gear styles. The varieties of models under each adult style allow you to choose based on your preferred components, design, and price. The line is perfect for the whole family because they’re also available for children and young adults.

Wanna Win? We are giving one lucky winner a swag gift pack ($50 value) complete with water bottles, t-shirts and sweet biking gear perfect for the whole family! To be entered to win, tell us why you love biking and how you and your family are celebrating National Bike Month!

This giveaway offers BONUS chances to win. For each additional method of entry, let us know in the comments. (One comment per method of entry.)

1. “Like” Tour de France Bicycles on Facebook.
2. “Follow” Tour de France Bicycles on Twitter.
3. “Follow” Tour de France on Pinterest for fun bike tips.
4. Check out the Tour de France complete family of bikes and let us know which one you like best!

You have until June 10th at 11:59 pm CST to get your entries in. There is a total of five (5) entries per person. This giveaway is open to U.S. residents ages 18+. See our full rules here.

Wanna Win Some More? Enter the separate “Ride with Me” giveaway for the chance to win a FREE bike. Two new fans of the Tour de France Facebook page will Go to and “Like” TourdeFranceByc on Facebook Two new fans will receive a FREE Le Tour de France adult or kids bicycle weekly. Winners will be selected randomly throughout the months of May and June. No purchase necessary.

Review of CrinkledNose.com

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Mon, 28 May 2012 15:24:00 +0000

Photo printing and custom greeting card sites are a dime a dozen. Those that can create your original photo designs into beautiful, full-color magnets for your fridge or office aren't!

We recently sampled the services of CrinkledNose.com and were stunned by the results! We picked a family photo, uploaded it within seconds, and had amazingly professional custom calendars that stick to the fridge within 7 days! I am not very handy with designs, so I appreciated the variations of templates that were available. I picked one that looked just right, and I was able to import my photo and have it look just the way I wanted. You can even adjust your photo within the design!

I ordered 10 of these magnet calendars and gave them out as gifts to family members. They really enjoyed them, and since calendars are actually useful, these photos won't end up in a "memory box" at the back of someone's closet (at least not until after December 2012.) And while ideally it's probably best to hand out calendars in January, there are still 7 months left to the year that need tracking.

CrinkledNose.com lets you pick cards and printed gifts that you can use for any occasion -- then create a magnet with a couple easy additional steps. Who else does that with so much simplicity?

You can check out CrinkledNose.com on Facebook and Twitter!

Wanna Save? Use discount code: LilleP25 for 25% off your order!

Wanna Win? We are giving one lucky reader 10 custom magnetic calendars like the ones we reviewed. To be entered to win, just visit CrinkledNose.com and browse their greeting card or magnet catalog. Then leave a comment about your favorite design. You have until June 10th at 11:59 pm CST to get your entries in. One entry per person, please. This giveaway is open to U.S. residents ages 18+. See our full rules here.

Don't forget to enter our other blog giveaways while you're here!

*Samples received to review. Opinions are my own.

"Thank You" Is Never Enough

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Sun, 27 May 2012 13:39:00 +0000

Tomorrow we will remember those who have given the ultimate sacrifice to protect our country and share hope and freedom with others. Memorial Day isn't just a time to visit the graves of the fallen or share the stories of our family members who have served; it's also a time to remember the living.

In 2011, Walmart helped to honor those who have lost their lives by being there for their families left behind; through a partnership with the Wreaths Across America Program, a wreath was placed on every grave at Kentucky Veterans Cemetery West in Hopkinsville, KY last year. This is one of the ways that Walmart chooses to celebrate Memorial Day -- and it's something that I think is an important method of reaching out to the families of fallen soldiers.

This year, they are continuing to do even more for those who have fulfilled their service duties and are needing to find meaningful civilian employment that can support their families:

A new program, funded by the Walmart Foundation and administered by Goodwill®, will empower military veterans with the tools they need to find employment, advance in their careers and ensure long-term financial stability for their families. The Walmart Foundation’s grant of $1 million will support the program, known as Operation: GoodJobs, at Goodwill agencies in the three key markets of Austin, Houston and Tacoma through 2013. Operation: GoodJobs assists veterans with job training and placement, but also plans for each participant’s continued success by designing individualized, holistic plans that support the needs of their entire family and helps ensure economic security for participants and their families in the long-term. Each participant in Operation: GoodJobs will receive a complete career assessment and an individualized development plan that will include a range of family needs, from basic needs like nutrition, shelter and child care, to specific job training identified in the assessment process.

This year, I'm encouraging my kids to write letters to soldiers and learn more about our rich history so that they understand the decades of hard work and dedication the U.S. Military has provided through the years. When the tour of duty is over, military families still need our support. In addition to some of the things that Walmart is doing to say "thank you", what are you doing in your community?

Have a Blessed Memorial Day. And "Thank You" to those who have served, and continue to serve, for the good of our beautiful nation.

*I am a participant in the Walmart Moms program. Walmart has provided me with compensation for my time on this post. Participation in this program is voluntary. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

Review of Dole Fruit Bites

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Sat, 26 May 2012 04:19:00 +0000

Fruit is a hugely popular food at our house. Our one son eats an apple and a pear daily; but what can a mom do when fruit isn't affordable, in season, or able to be stored properly? We turn to dried fruits for such times, and dried cherries and apples have been our faves in the past. Dole just came out with a new kind of dried fruit that is covered in yogurt and whole grain oats. Here is what we thought of them.

At first bite, these were really different. The middle was, of course, like any other dried fruit, but the outside first tasted like sugar, and then a bit like a powdered cereal. I wasn't very fond of the apple, because I'm not as big of a fan of apples as my kids are. I really did enjoy the mango, because it was more chewy and tangy. The pineapple I found to be too sweet to really enjoy.

The kids' opinion of the fruit was at first slightly negative. "Why does this fruit have breading on it?" they asked. I laughed and explained what it was, and then they were more open to trying it. Of the 5 kids, 4 loved at least one variety, and one was OK with the mango. All said they would eat this as an alternative to a "fruit snack", which I explained had very little fruit in it, at all.

What I enjoy most about these is that they contain less than 100 calories per pouch and they are more filling and satisfying than a 100 calorie "fruit flavored snack." If you are doing Weight Watchers, Special K, or another eating plan, they can fit right in as a morning or afternoon snack. I like mine with milk!

Learn more about these at the Dole Facebook page; you can also enter to win a trip or daily prizes via their "3 Steps to True Bliss Sweepstakes!"

Wanna Win? We are giving one lucky reader a 2-month supply of Dole Fruit Bites (6 bags!) To be entered to win, just comment on which fruit you want to try first (apple, pineapple, or mango.)
You have until June 8th at 11:59 pm CST to get your entries in. You may enter every day, and we will pick one winner at random from all eligible entries. (Please answer the question for the first comment entry. Each daily entry after that can be "enter me." ) This giveaway is open to U.S. residents ages 18+. See our full rules here.

Don't forget to enter our other blog giveaways while you're here!

*Samples received to review. Opinions are my own.

Snag a Salad Sandwich (and your Chance at $10,000!)

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Thu, 24 May 2012 22:13:00 +0000

We've always enjoyed taking the kids to Arby's for special lunches. They usually get the kids meals, and I love to have a salad. I was excited to see that they recently brought back the Market Fresh Pecan Chicken Salad Sandwich; it combines the freshness of a salad with the filling flavors of a sandwich!

In addition to the good news about the crunchy, sweet, and sassy sandwich, they have been holding a rather fabulous promotion that will award one lucky fan $10,000. Just think of all the things you could do with that cash!

To get in on this exciting chance to win, visit their Facebook page, where you can earn points for socializing with the fan page. You can choose to use your points just for the giveaway, or redeem them for fun perks like t-shirts and gift cards!

This Gourmazing Giveaway won't go on forever. Head over to the official page soon to claim your chance at winning big cash! (And don't forget to check out that sassy sandwich the next time you're at an Arby's!)

*Arby's let me try their sandwich to help me tell you about it!

Our Kids Try Nickelodeon GAK and Floam

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Thu, 24 May 2012 20:36:00 +0000

GAK and Floam are two of those products that my kids have been begging us to buy since they first saw the commercials on TV. I have to admit to thinking they were junk at first. I even worried they would be too messy. We were able to give both products a try in our home recently to see if my suspicions were accurate. Here is how our test turned out.

1. Both products are messy. Some of the colors (like the red) seem to leave an ooze behind on everything they touch. Others seem relatively self-contained. Their annoying characteristics, however, are also what make them so delightful for the kids. Just be sure to wash your hands before and after playing with them and lay down a wipe-able table cloth on any surface you want to protect. They aren't supposed to stain, but I don't like to take chances.

2. The GAK was more fun that the Floam. The GAK could have a straw inserted into it to create an air bubble, which is how my kids spent most of their time using the stuff. The FLOAM was fun for awhile, but didn't have the kids returning as often as the GAK. (Squishy flatulence noises won out every time.)

3. They are hard to remove from their containers and even more difficult to get back in. The consistency of the product made it hard to get out the first time. (The yellow required some scraping.) The shape of the containers made it impossible for the kids to get the stuff back in on their own, and I had some trouble.

We kept getting the corners of the containers full of air and had a difficult time getting the lid on. Maybe a simple round container would work better?

Aside from the toddler shrieking at the top of his lungs because he couldn't participate, our review of these products went well. The kids had their own ways to play, and they do ask to get the GAK and Floam out as much as they do typical modeling doughs.

You can find both products at their sites: www.floam.com and www.gak-is-back.com

*Samples were received from Child's Play PR for us to review. Opinions are 100% our own.

Review of Alexia Frozen Foods

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Thu, 24 May 2012 20:03:00 +0000

I love potatoes, and french fries are an admitted weakness for me. I really like my fries, tots, and wedges crispy, so I indulge them in a bath of hot oil when I'm really wanting a crunchy final product. Unfortunately, not only does deep-frying keep them from being as healthy as they could be, they can lose some of the flavors while swimming in the oil.

Alexia sent me some of their most popular all-natural products to try with my family, and I was amazed at the complexity of the flavors of their potato products, in particular. My favorite item was the Waffle Cut Lemon Parmesan Potatoes, as they were completely different from any other "fry" I had tried -- plus they crisped up nicely in the oven. (2 of the 5 kids weren't crazy about them. They were a bit confused by the essence of lemon.)

I was also pleased to learn that Alexia offered flavorful french "garlic" breads! The Garlic Baguette came with two in a package -- more than enough to feed my family. Not only is the flavor one of the best I've tried with a convenience bread, it comes pre-sliced, so portions are controlled and the knife stays in the drawer.

Finally, the one item that was a hit with every member of the family was the Sweet Potato Puffs. They are so sweet, they felt like they could have been a dessert! We cooked them a bit longer to make them crunchy and to get some of the moisture out of them. (Sweet potatoes can be mushy if not cooked very well.) They really didn't go with ketchup, but were delicious on their own.

We continued to snack off the baking sheet long after we left the table. Since the potatoes were so much more filling than white potatoes, we didn't need nearly the serving size initially. (But you really couldn't stop picking at these treats. They were even good cold!)

Learn about the complete line of delicious products made from REAL ingredients at the Alexia website.

Wanna Save? Get a printable savings coupon off your next Alexia purchase!

*Samples received to review. Opinions are my own.

Review of MakaziVille Online Game (and Interview with the Duggars!)

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Thu, 24 May 2012 05:13:00 +0000

I have been a big admirer of the Duggar family for as long as I've known about them. While my family isn't as large, we homeschool and try to live simply. I look to them as a source of inspiration, and I've always considered their advice to be genuine and reliable.

With the release of a new online gamine community for kids called MakaziVille (which the Duggars have partnered with), my kids can now learn how to virtually participate in some of the community and mission-oriented tasks that I seek for them to experience -- just like the Duggars do on their TV show. The site, which is 100% family-friendly, allows kids to learn about other cultures online in a safe environment and to also experience mission work from simple game play tasks and activities.

Here is some additional info about the company that developed the site:

MakaziVille is developed and owned by The Seed Company, an affiliate of Wycliffe Bible Translators. As your child progresses through the game, both of you will become more familiar with Bible translation and the ministry of The Seed Company. For more information on The Seed Company please visit www.TheSeedCompany.org.

In addition to learning about this unique and exciting game that all of my children can enjoy safely in our home, I had the chance to talk with Jim Bob and Michelle Duggar about their family life and ways that they teach their own kids about helping others.

Some things they have done with their kids include:

Baking cookies as a "thank you" to give to the local fire department
Getting involved in local and national politics
Encouraging kids to help one another in the home (like having the older children assist with the younger children's school work)

I was amazed that, despite the differences in our lifestyles, we had quite a bit in common with regards to the important lessons we wanted our kids to learn. The Duggars, while not TV-watchers, embrace technology and use it in their home daily for learning. (I can just imagine that their computer "classroom" resembles the one in my local library!)

With my kids asking to play video and online games daily (and sometimes 2-3 times a day), my husband and I have realized that there is no use in trying to thwart their natural curiosity and desire to play. We have decided, however, to redirect their passions into online games and programs that encourage responsible gaming and allow families to pass on their faith and principles to their children.

To learn more about MakaziVille (which if FREE), visit the official website and sign up your children for their accounts.

*I was also able to ask Michelle a few questions about her homeschool life and managing a household. She directed me to the Duggar's official website, where there is a generous "Resources" section designed to be a help to families. I recommend you check it out, as well (I found so much good stuff there!)

DIY Project: Spray Paint Plastic Outdoor Toys

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Wed, 23 May 2012 04:58:00 +0000

We were blessed to receive several very nice plastic outdoor play items from my sister, who used to have a daycare. These items were sturdy, but had shown quite a bit of wear to their surface, both by being bleached by the sun, and by having lot of scuff marks on them. Normally, I wouldn't care about such things, but since the colors were also outdated, I wondered if we could give them a face-lift with some Krylon Fusion for Plastic Spray Paint I had seen at my local Walmart.

We decided to test out this product on something small to start with: the Little Tikes Picnic Table. Here is how we did it:

1. We took apart the picnic table by removing the plastic bolt covers and using the power drill to take out the bolts.

2. We gave the table parts a thorough washing with a solution of dish soap and water; then we sprayed it down with a hose. (I used a small brush to get into the crevices of the joints.)

3. We let the pieces dry standing up to let all the water out. (This took about an hour on a breezy day.)

4. Then, the painting began! Using 3 colors of Krylon, we sprayed a nice coat of paint on the pieces according to this design: magenta would become red, yellow would become white, and turquoise would become blue. (Patriotic seemed much better than the "90's" theme it was currently sporting.)

We were sure to do this in a well-ventilated area in my husband's shop, and we followed the directions exactly for optimal coverage and safety.

The pieces were sprayed on one side first, and after they had 15 minutes to dry to the touch, we flipped them over for the second side. The hardest coat was the white, which required quite a bit of paint to cover completely. (The red had the best coverage.)

We even removed the "Little Tikes" name plates from the side of the picnic table. (They popped out with a screwdriver.) My husband covered the center with tape, so we could give the outer edge of the logo a fresh hit of the red paint.

We had to remember to spray the little bolt covers, too.

5. Now, after a minimum of 1 hour drying time, it was time to put everything back together. We used the drill again to put the bolts and covers back on.

We also did a little touch up on some places that we missed due to lighting issues in the shop.

Here is our final project -- (excuse the late night lighting.)

All in all, we were VERY happy with the new look of the table, and we used about 3 cans of the Krylon at $4+ each. I would do this project again with a hand-me-down or very cheap piece of plastic outdoor play furniture. It would also work great for giving a face lift to any of your older or outdated-looking pieces.

You can find the Krylon Fusion for Plastic at your local Walmart stores in several colors to match your DIY style.

*I am a participant in the Walmart Moms program. Walmart has provided me with compensation for my time on this post. Participation in this program is voluntary. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

Getting Your Kids to (Cheerfully) Give to Charity

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Tue, 22 May 2012 15:48:00 +0000

If you follow most of the methods of getting your kids to manage their money, they almost always involve having your child set aside 10% (or more) for "giving." This is all well and dandy, and likely a good practice for when they get older, but does it really mean anything to the child? Do they view it as a tax of sorts? And do they understand where it goes and how it affects others?

Kids want to be helpful!

If you are unsure as to your child's feelings about giving, now is the best time to ask. We have been asking our children to volunteer a percentage of their allowance each week to the Blessing Bank on our living room shelf. We are all in agreement as to where the money will go, and we decide this ahead of time. This ensures that every time a child puts in a quarter, dime, or dollar, they can feel good knowing that their money is going to be directly affecting another child who doesn't have as much.

The past two times our Blessing Bank got too full, we were in agreement that it would go to the Foodback for the Heartland in Omaha. It is the bank that provides food supplies to most of the needy in Nebraska -- especially the 300 Food Insecure children in my county alone! (And before you go thinking that 300 kids aren't that many, my county is small. That number makes up 18.4% of kids!)

When it is time to cash out the bank, I take the money, put it in my bank, and make an online donation to the food bank. They are very efficient with their resources, so my dollar would buy much more food through them than if I took it to my local grocery store and dropped off a food donation. The kids get really excited seeing just how many meals a family of 4 can get from their hard work and giving!

Great news! There is another way your kids can get involved with giving to kids who don't have enough to eat! Regardless of whether they receive allowance, asking kids to help cut the codes from specially-marked packages of select ConAgra brand foods (and then having them enter the codes online) is a great, free way for them to help feed other kids.

To learn more about this fun and free initiative, visit the official Child Hunger Ends Here website.

*Stats provided by the kind folks at ConAgra foods. I am a compensated blogger correspondent for ConAgra's Child Hunger Ends Here campaign, a cause that I am passionately committed to. Opinions and experiences shared here are my own.

Review of Beyond Coastal Sun Products

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Mon, 21 May 2012 04:03:00 +0000

We have been outside almost 8 hours of every day these past two weeks! Between gardening, cleaning up the yard, and just watching the boys ride bikes after a long winter, it's been early when we go out -- and late when we come in. My husband and I are very concerned about keeping our skin safe in the sun's rays so we always try to put sunscreen on the kids (and ourselves) before we head out.

Kids goofing off while we garden...

We sampled a new line of natural sun products called Beyond Coastal. I like this brand, because it offers several different solutions for our families various needs. Here are a few of our faves from the line:

They have a natural Kids 30+ SPF sunscreen that goes on very easily. My kids are used to wearing sunscreen, so they don't mind when I rub it into their arms and neck. For their face, I prefer to use the active stick that you twist up like a deodorant stick and rub on. (This is perfect for the top of their ears, too!) There is also a natural clear sunscreen that I prefer to use when I don't have access to a mirror (because who wants white residue embarrassing you!)

I haven't used the lip protector yet, but since this is an area that burns easily on my face, I should be giving it a try. Currently, my lip color has sunscreen in it, but on days when I go natural with my look, I'll have this in my purse for a quick swipe.

You can learn all about the various offerings from this very family-friendly company at their website. Even if you have picky kids who are hard to track down, there is likely a product that will work for your sun protection needs!

Wanna Win? We are giving away a prize pack from Beyond Coastal! To be entered to win, just tell us what your favorite fun-in-the-sun activity is! You have until May 26th at 11:59 pm CST to get your entries in, and we'll pick one comment at random to win! (One entry per person, please.) This giveaway is open to U.S. residents ages 18+. See our full rules here.

*Samples received to review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Peppa Pig: Too Cute!

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Sun, 20 May 2012 23:59:00 +0000

Have you seen the children's show Peppa Pig on Nick Jr.? This ADORABLE cartoon follows the life of an everyday, loving family who just happen to be swine.

I caught a preview of this over 5 years ago, and I was hooked! My kids re-watched that same episode for years, and we were thrilled to see that the UK fave was coming to the U.S. permanently. (The show airs Monday-Friday at 12:00 and 12:20 pm and Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 and 2:30 pm on Nick Jr.) We DVR it and try to never miss an episode.

There's just something I can't explain about how simple and yet hilarious this show is. Maybe it's the way the whole family laughs by snorting, or maybe it's the cheeky British accents. Either way, the basic animation style and lovely character development really compliment each other.

Oh, and the theme song is QUITE catchy!

Learn all you need to know before you watch at the official Peppa Pig website and their Facebook page!

*I wrote about one of our favorite shows as part of a Child's Play PR campaign and I received a gift. Opinions are 100% my own.

Projects Made Simple: Installing a Towel Bar

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Sun, 20 May 2012 22:17:00 +0000

I am not particularly handy, but I don't see any reason why I couldn't be. I recently had the chance to pick my favorite from Walmart's Projects Made Simple website and see if I could pull off an identical DIY solution. While I hit a few bumps along the way, it turned out OK. I really appreciated having a how-to video to refer to, as well as a shopping list and printable directions.

Here is the original Walmart project video that I chose to accomplish.

Here is my video:

There were a few things that made my project a bit difficult:

My house is not flush. I made the towel bar straight according to my level, but now it looks a bit crooked on my wall.
The towel bar didn't come with a screwdriver to tighten and loosen the tiny screw at the bottom of the bar. Make sure you have one before you start, because it is not included on the original Walmart supplies list.
If you don't know how to use a power drill correctly -- learn. I could have saved myself half of my time by not stripping screws because I wasn't holding the drill at the proper angle. (But now I know!)

Have you ever attempted to install a towel bar? If you've wanted to, there's no reason you can't do it without the help of a spouse or professional. Get the full set of directions for this project and several others the Walmart Projects Made Simple website!

*I am a participant in the Walmart Moms program. Walmart has provided me with compensation for my time on this post. Participation in this program is voluntary. As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

Review of Pinterest for Dummies

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Sat, 19 May 2012 18:50:00 +0000

Pinterest.

It's the buzz word of the internet right now, and it's sending bloggers into a flurry of activity to create the best "pinnable" content to cater to the popular website. But is there a secret to what will bring the most traffic? Are there a list of do's and don'ts that both bloggers and pinners should be aware of? Pinterest for Dummies seeks to answer those questions, and it does a darn good job doing so.

The book, written by Kelby Carr, is a seriously thorough resource for anyone wanting to get started on Pinterest. It tells you how to request an invite, how to set up your first boards, and why changing your board names is a pretty bad idea. It also gives basic etiquette for staying out of trouble and making your pins count!

For those who have been using it for awhile, and want to expand their skillset, there are a few really great tips to pick up on promoting your blog content and keeping your content "pin-worthy". She also helps you to integrate your other social media accounts into Pinterest.

(One thing to note is that this book pretty much assumes you are using Wordpress for your blog; if you are using Blogger - like I do -, the tips for installing widgets won't apply. Rest assured, however, that a quick Google search should give you the info you need to adapt.)

I gathered quite a few little tidbits I wasn't aware of, and I recommend this book to anyone with a desire to enjoy Pinterest more or use it to promote their social media platforms. (There are some incredible examples of users who are doing it right that you can use for inspiration, too!)

Get more info on the book from the Wiley website.

Wanna Win? We are giving one lucky reader a chance to win this book. To be entered to win, just tell us what you use Pinterest for! You have until May 26th at 11:59 pm CST to get your entries in, and we'll pick one comment at random to win the book! (One entry per person, please.) This giveaway is open to U.S. residents ages 18+. See our full rules here.

Don't forget to enter our other blog giveaways while you're here!

*Sample received to review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Crib Tent, Baby Rattle, and Sippy Cup Recalls

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Sat, 19 May 2012 03:12:00 +0000

Please check the following recalls to be sure you are not affected. The full details for each product recall can be found at the link for each.

Tots in Mind crib and play yard tents recalled due to strangulation and entrapment hazard.
Bonded Apparel hooded shirts recalled due to strangulation hazard.
Manhattan Baby Rattles recalled due to choking hazard.
Bunny sippy cups sold by Target recalled due to injury hazard.

Stay Safe!!

Nonni Biscotti now has "Bite!"

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Fri, 18 May 2012 15:03:00 +0000

I have been a fan of Nonni brand Biscotti for the past 5 years. I would buy the giant tubs of the stuff at my local Big Box Store, and I would anxiously await my daily "biscotti treat" each afternoon with coffee. Needless to say, the wait was horrible, and I would devour the entire piece in one sitting.

Now, with the launch of new Biscotti Bites, I don't have to wait all day to get my fix (or as I call it "Biscotti Moment"). If I want a small piece with morning coffee, and a small piece with afternoon coffee, and a piece before I go to bed (they are also good with milk), it won't ruin my eating plan. Since I have a hard time deciding what flavor to eat (they come in 3 scrumptious varieties), I can mix them up throughout the day, as well.

These little bites have all the same crunchy, not-too-sweet goodness of their grown-up predecessors, but you get to enjoy them in small doses. I also find them to be easier to dunk into your cup of joe (if you that's your style.)

Here is a view of the Caramel Milk Chocolate -- my fave -- with it's creamy chocolate edge and the chewy caramel bits inside. It's the sweetest of the three, and a real indulgent snack without the guilt of a rich full-size dessert.

You can find all three flavors: Almond Dark Chocolate, Caramel Milk Chocolate, and Classic Almond, at your local retailer that carries Nonni.

Wanna Win? There is a fun sweepstakes going on at the Nonni Biscotti Facebook Page! You can enter to win a trip to Hollywood or other fun prizes simply by sharing your Biscotti Moment with a photo! Here is the pic I chose to enter:

That's me -- working hard!

You have until June 15th to enter the daily sweepstakes and weekly photo contest. What's your Biscotti Moment?

*I wrote this review while participating in a campaign by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of Nonni’s Biscotti and received a product sample to facilitate my review and a promotional item to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Review of Gutzy Gear

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Fri, 18 May 2012 04:10:00 +0000

I wasn't sure what I thought about the idea of this product at first. Since my kids rarely use backpacks, I didn't how how a product that allows kids to customize the straps of their backpacks would fit into our life. Seeing the product up close and in person, however, changed my view of how neat they are.

Gutzy Gear is a line of backpack strap covers and patches (called "Gutzies) that can be stuck on. No sewing is required, which is good news for the moms (like me) who are in no way crafty. They are also very high-quality patches. They are embroidered, and they have very good detail in the designs. There is also quite an assortment of patches to choose from, and they are expanding their offerings all the time.

These could really catch on as a "collectible" item, something that kids trade or give away as gifts. I really think they make a good motivational tool; rewarding kids with the patches seems like a fun way to let them know they did a good job in school or with chores!

The website for Gutzy Gear is not the best representation of how neat these products are. The graphics make them seem cartoonish, when, in reality, they appear like my photo below.

I'm glad I gave Gutzy Gear a chance for a review. I think my boys will really enjoy customizing their gear to show their favorite patches! Learn more at GutzyGear.com!

*Samples received to review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Review of Farm Rich Frozen Appetizers

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Fri, 18 May 2012 04:09:00 +0000

I remember saving my money as a teen to buy my favorite fast-food treat from the local ice cream shop: breaded mushrooms. Just the thought of them makes me happy, but they are usually very expensive to order from a restaurant!

I was thrilled to find that Farm Rich not only makes the cheese sticks that my kids are crazy about, but they also make a delicious breaded mushroom. I enjoyed these this weekend with the kids as part of my Mother's Day dinner.

We snacked on the creamy cheese sticks with homemade marinara and I scarfed down the mushrooms alone (my family doesn't like mushrooms.)

With so many servings in one bag, my whole family of 7 can enjoy one with a few leftover for an "after-the-kids-go-to-bed" snack. The breading is so tasty, and while it's probably more healthy to bake these in the oven, I pop them in the deep fryer for 2-3 minutes. They are super crunchy, and taste just like restaurant quality!

Learn more about the full line of Farm Rich products, including Mozzarella Bites, Mini Philly Cheese Steaks, and Mini Pizza Slices at their website.

Wanna Win? We are giving one lucky reader 2 coupons redeemable for a free Farm Rich product. (Value $5.99 each) To be entered to win, just tell us in the comments which product from the line you'd like best! You have until May 28th at 11:59 pm CST to get your entries in. One entry per person, please. We will pick one winner at random from all eligible entries. This giveaway is open to U.S. residents ages 18+. See our full rules here.

Don't forget to enter our other blog giveaways while you're here!

*Samples received to review. Opinions are 100% my own.

Trampoline and Safety Locks Recalled

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Fri, 18 May 2012 04:01:00 +0000

We have two new recalls to tell you about today. Click on the product links to get the full details from the CPSC website.

Safety 1st Toilet and Cabinet Locks recalled due to failure.
Aqua-Leisure Trampolines recalled due to fall hazard.

Stay safe!!

Pampering Myself with new P&G Products!

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Wed, 16 May 2012 21:31:00 +0000

I have an entire cluttered drawer full of makeups and facial products that I may never use. It's partly because I like to try everything that ever hits stores shelves and mostly because I am very loyal to the few products that I find really work for me.

This past week, I sampled a whole box of new items from P&G that were designed to make my life easier and more beautiful. I'd love to share my faves with you!

CoverGirl Blast Flipstick

My FAVE of the bunch, this lipstick boasts two different colors on each end of the stick. You get two full-size lipsticks that are creamy, bold, and long-lasting. They compliment each other, too, so you can mix them together and layer them to create new looks -- without having to buy another lipstick to achieve variety. As you can see from the photos, you can pick a color for day and one for night. (This is my go-to lip color now.) Get it at Walmart for less than $8!

Pantene Pro-V Aqua Light Shampoo and Conditioner

My husband likes this shampoo and conditioner. It offers squeaky-clean washing and conditioning without weighing heavy on your locks. Since we work outside quite a bit, this is the fam's favorite in our shower for getting the day's dirt and grime down the drain where it belongs. It's also pleasant-smelling! Walmart.com has it for less than $4!

LashBlast 24-Hour Mascara

This mascara is devious. You think it's not there (it's very lightweight), but it produces dark color through your day and through the night! You definitely need a makeup remover to get this stuff off, but it isn't thick or clumpy, and it won't flake off as the day goes on.

See the little brush?

It's bristles are more like little nubs, and they make sure it goes on evenly! Snag it for less than $8 at Walmart!

CoverGirl & Olay Simply Ageless Tone Rebab 2-in-1 Foundation

For those of you who want to get aggressive battling the aging process, this foundation may be the key. It's a clever combo of CoverGirl foundation and Olay serum. This makes for a very therapeutic makeup that is a bit hard to get off at the end of the day. (You may appreciate having some Olay Clean & Mild Makeup Remover Cloths on hand.) I like how this product went on -- very silky.

I do admit, however, that I like less coverage, and I don't wear moisturizer during the day. If you like to hydrate, however, you'll find this a perfect fit! It's available for under $13 at Walmart.

These are just a few of the new goodies P&G has in store for moms this season. You can find all of them at your local Walmart! And be sure to check out what Liz and Heather have to say about these products...

Starting out With Skype - Tell a Mom You Care!

noreply@blogger.com (Linsey) — Wed, 16 May 2012 20:07:00 +0000

I have been a little inconsistent with my Skype activity over the past few years. I have enjoyed using the chat feature with clients as an alternative to back-and-forth emails (which take forever), and as a more private way to talk than Facebook. Using the voice service, however, was a bit difficult for me to adapt to. Our internet has been spotty in the past, and while a new high-speed router really improved my ability to talk, old habits really do die hard.

After reviewing our utility bills and the number of different paid services I use in my small business, however, I am determined to revisit using Skype for more of my communication needs. So it is with perfect timing that I have been asked to be involved in the Mom Central Skype Ambassador program!

To kick off my acquaintanceship to Skype, I checked out their newest feature "Say it with Skype" - which you can find as a tab on their Facebook page. I composed a very quick video message to a mom in my life (my sis) and I chose the "You Rock" design. By doing so, it made for a personal way to give my sister some encouragement in her life (especially since I missed seeing her on Mother's Day.) It also allowed for a charitable contribution to occur; for every "Mom you Rock" video sent, $1 went to Save the Children's Global Action Fund in support of the new MomsTheWord.org campaign!

Here's a screen shot of me customizing my message to my sis:

In today's technology-driven world, you may think that it's harder to connect with friends and family on a personal level, but I have to disagree. With video chat, in particular, I see it as a way to really give of your time and energy in a way that traditional greeting cards and mail can't.

Do you video chat? What has been your experience? Be sure to check out Skype's Facebook and the Mom You Rock feature for a fun way to connect -- without the cost of a postage stamp!

*I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Skype. I received Skype credits to facilitate my review and a promotional item to thank me for participating.