LouisvilleMommies

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2012-03-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

LouisvilleMommies' fabulous Flower Power fundraiser is drawing to a close, so if you haven't placed your order yet, now is the time! It's never too early to plan to improve your curb appeal or beautify your backyard. From begonias to tiger lilies and everything in between, Flower Power is the place for quality flower bulbs with a 100 percent money guarantee. This fundraiser runs until March 20, 2012, and your bulbs will arrive in April and May, just in time for beautiful summer blooms. Time is running out! Save time, money, and gas by planning your perfect garden from the comfort of your computer. Spring over to http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/i/t/240216/1H2rwP3Q003O, and check out the wide array of lovely lilies and pretty peonies, among other bulbs. As a bonus, if you spend $40 or more, Flower Power will send you a free bag of 10 Twilight gladiolus, a $10 value. So what are you waiting for? Don't delay: Grow with us today! Profits made through our fundraising link go toward our chapter's operating expenses.

Free Premium Membership Access for a Limited Time

2012-02-28T17:16:00.001-05:00

Ever wonder what's so special about Premium Access to the National Forum? For a limited time The Mommies Network is offering FREE access to premium content like Debate This and Buy/Sell/Swap to all members.
See what you've been missing by logging on to http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/nationalforum/index.php and get started today.

Free Premium Access is available to all current and new members of The Mommies Network National Forum. It is available NOW through April 30th.

Learn a New Language During Cultural Awareness Month!

2012-02-15T00:00:00.001-05:00

Bonjour! Ciao! Hola! Have you been checking the National Chapter and participating in Cultural Awareness Month? In our Multicultural Mommies forum, we’re talking about foreign languages and discovering fun facts about different cultures. Join the celebration, and add some new words and phrases to your linguistic repertoire!

Do you have something to add to the conversation? Share your knowledge with other moms who are learning a language with their children. Go global with TMN as we highlight the many languages and cultures that make our world wonderful!

February Is Cultural Awareness Month!

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

February is Cultural Awareness Month at The Mommies Network, and we're thinking globally! Share a love for foreign language and different cultures with your child in our Multicultural Mommies forum on our National Chapter. Each week, we'll feature several languages and cultural tidbits. You may also participate and strengthen your language lingo in a special webinar. Additionally, our sponsor will provide information on how you can continue your language-learning experience after the month is over.

According to Associated Content, brain research shows that children are at an optimal age for language learning. Although language study is effective at any age, some studies suggest that the human brain is more open to learning a foreign language from birth to preadolescence. Fortunately, researchers have not found an age in which the language window closes completely, especially in the areas of grammar and vocabulary.

Take advantage of this opportunity to think globally, and join us as we learn about foreign languages and different ways of life during Cultural Awareness Month at TMN!

Do You Have Flower Power?

2012-01-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

Are you looking for some curb appeal? Do you need to beautify your backyard? Spring planting season may be a few months away, but there's no better time than now to grow with LouisvilleMommies! We've partnered with Flower Power to bring you a fabulous fundraiser to help you plan the garden of your dreams. Flower Power sells quality flower bulbs with a 100 percent money-back guarantee. Gorgeous geraniums, tantalizing tiger lilies, and beautiful begonias are just a few of the many bulbs available and ready to be shipped to your door. This fundraiser runs Jan. 22–March 20, 2012, and your bulbs will arrive in April and May, just in time for beautiful summer blooms. So save some gas and the trip to your local nursery or big-box store, and plan your perfect garden from the comfort of your computer. Visit http://www.flowerpowerfundraising.com/i/t/240216/1H2rwP3Q003O to view the enormous array of flower bulbs, and spring into Flower Power and LouisvilleMommies fabulous fundraiser! Special bonus: Spend $40 or more to receive a free bag of 10 Twilight gladiolus, a $10 value. Grow with us! Profits made through our fundraising link go toward our chapter's operating expenses.

Reminder: Ring in the New Year with TMN!

2012-01-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

The New Year's parties may have ended, but our sponsorship promotion hasn't! We're still ringing in the New Year at The Mommies Network with an incredible deal that will have you reaching for your noisemakers. Moms may have the greatest buying power, sharing business experiences and trends with one another. And since women make more than 80 percent of all purchasing decisions and control two thirds of the nation’s disposable income, targeting this group benefits your company. Resolve to reach this influential portion of the population by taking advantage of this limited-time promotion. With all new/renewed sponsorship agreements, your business will receive a complimentary blog feature (advertorial to include logo/product image and 500 words). Prepaid agreements receive a 5 percent discount and a complimentary two months on one sponsorship listing. Sponsors also receive 20 percent off event sponsorships. Offer expires Jan. 31, 2012. The end of the month is just around the corner, so what are you waiting for? Celebrate with TMN by taking advantage of this amazing deal. For more details on how your business can ring in the New Year with moms across the nation, please contact Jessica Van Dyke at Jessica.VanDyke@TheMommiesNetwork.org.

TMN Weigh-In Challenge News

2012-01-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

Hello, and Happy New Year to everyone!

My name is Karen Skidmore, and I am the owner of Completely Fit, a personal training and fitness company located in Mount Airy, Md. I am a team leader for one of the groups in The Mommies Network Weigh-In Challenge.

All my team members have started off strong and are working very hard to accomplish their goals. They were asked to fill out a detailed questionnaire about their current nutritional and fitness habits, and answer questions about what changes they wanted to create. Based on that information, I have helped each person come up with a detailed action plan that will not only help to accomplish her goals, but more importantly, help to improve her lifestyle.

If you are looking to make a change in your life but are not a part of the Weigh-In Challenge, you too can do it with just a few small changes at a time.

If your nutrition is off track, start by taking away one unhealthy food once a week and replacing it with a healthy food.

If your exercise routine is off track, start by finding something you really enjoy doing — walking, biking, or swimming — and adding 10 minutes of that exercise to your day. Before you know it, exercise will have become a daily routine.

Be sure to track your results, as we do much better when we can see our progress.

I am very excited to be a part of this group and team, and I look forward to reporting our successes back to you each month. — Karen Skidmore, Completely Fit

This Week With the Mommies

2012-01-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

We chat online in a private forum — discussing everything from the best photographers to the worst temper tantrums and all that lies between — and meet up regularly at member-driven events around town. Whether it's a late-night commiseration about a crying baby (there are 4 a.m. posts to prove it) or a Moms' Night Out, LouisvilleMommies provides what our members need, when and how they need it.

Click here to go directly to our calendar, and stay up-to-date on all of our events scheduled for this week.

Staying Healthy This Winter

2012-01-04T09:00:00.001-05:00

A runny nose, coughing, an aching body, and choking phlegm are just a few of the unattractive and uncomfortable symptoms related to the common cold and flu. During the chilly winter months, we find ourselves spending the majority of our time indoors, making it quite easy to send and receive those unwanted cold and flu cooties. Both the common cold and the flu are extremely contagious. Many of these germs are spread by hand-to-hand contact and are also airborne. It seems as though we are destined for some sort of sniffle each year. However, we have control to a certain extent! Give it your best shot this winter and beyond to avoid those pesky cold and flu critter invasions. Here are the top 10 tips for staying healthy during cold and flu season:

Sleep eight hours a night. Yes, lack of sleep can affect the immune system. While we sleep, our immune system releases proteins called cytokines. Cytokines are necessary for fighting infection.
Get stress levels under control. Stress can decrease immune system function. Research has found that cortisol and catecholamines, hormones that are released during times of stress, can turn down the effects of the immune system. The following link provides more info on the effects of stress: http://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2007/Januar ... res_01.htm.
Yoga, deep breathing, meditation, exercise, and getting yourself into the present moment are all ways to cope with stress.
Get outdoors every day. Spending too much time indoors, especially around people, can increase your chances of contracting those cold and flu cooties! In addition, getting sunlight for 15 minutes every day can improve your mood and Vitamin D levels.
Exercise! Indoors or outdoors, exercise has repeatedly been shown to strengthen not only our bodies but also our immune systems. For detailed information regarding exercise and immunity, check out this link: http://my.clevelandclinic.org/disorders ... ystem.aspx.
To review guidelines on physical activity, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website: http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/eve ... index.html.
Wash your hands!
Consume a balanced and nutritionally dense diet. Proper nutrition goes a long way! There is no better way to receive vitamins and minerals than through fresh fruits and vegetables and whole grains. For the dairy lovers and meat eaters out there, choose the leanest options available. Vitamins and minerals provide our cells with the building blocks it needs to fight off disease! Excess sugar and fat can create a systemic inflammatory response, making it more difficult for our bodies to fight off disease and illness.
Hydrate! Water can flush toxins from the body and carry much-needed nutrients to our body’s cells and tissues. The dry winter months can cause insensible hydration losses that we are typically not aware of. In addition, mild dehydration can make you feel drained and more susceptible to the dreaded "C": constipation.
Rinse the nasal passages! A practice that many refer to as nasal flushing is a safe and effective way to clean out the nasal passages. During cold-weather months, the respiratory tract creates more mucus in an attempt to warm and moisten our airways. When that mucus spends too much time inside the body, germs can linger and proliferate. By flushing the mucus from your nose, you are removing some of those unwanted infestations. For more information, check out http://www.neilmed.com/usa/index.php.
Avoid the inevitable. It may be best to avoid situations where you know you will encounter individuals with the cold or flu. In many instances, this is not possible, or perhaps you are unaware of someone's pending illness. Nonetheless, take precautions by strengthening your own immune system and washing your hands postvisit. Also, remember to avoid putting your hands near your face until a thorough washing occurs.
Keep your living spaces clean and tidy. Keyboards, doorknobs, countertops, and fruits and vegetables can all be hosts and carriers of bacteria and viruses. Disinfect often!

For more tips regarding nutritional supplements and vitamins to complement the tips mentioned above, consult your health care provider.

And remember, an apple a day just may keep the doctor away! Best to you and your family for a safe and healthy holiday!

Post submitted by Marisa from The Mommies Network's Content Team

To Die For Blueberry Muffins

2012-01-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

I am not a morning person at all. When my daughter screams, "Mommy!" in the morning, all I want to do is hide under the covers for a few more minutes. So usually, I am not in the mood to make a huge breakfast, either. I like something that is good and quick.

Lately, Virginia has been on a blueberry kick. She loves her some blueberry waffles. When I was at the grocery store, I grabbed some fresh blueberries for her. Well, don't you know, my silly goose turned up her nose at the blueberries. I don't like to waste food, so I decided to make blueberry muffins. I usually use the store-bought muffin packs, but I ran across this To Die for Blueberry Muffin recipe on AllRecipes and decided to give it a shot.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Grease muffin cups, or line with muffin liners. I always like to put two liners in one muffin spot. Like my mother, I tell my family that the one that gets the double liner is going to have a lucky day. Combine 1 1/2 cups flour, 3/4 cup sugar, salt, and baking powder.

Measure 1 cup of vegetable oil; add egg and enough milk to fill the cup. Mix this with flour mixture.

Fold in blueberries. Fill muffin cups to the top, and sprinkle with crumb-topping mixture.

To make crumb topping: Mix 1/2 cup sugar, 1/3 cup flour, 1/4 cup butter, and 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon. Mix with fork, and sprinkle over muffins before baking.

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes in the preheated oven or until done.

Post originally submitted by Kathy (absolutelykathy) to the CentralPiedmontMommies blog on Sept. 8, 2011.

This Week With the Mommies

2011-12-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

MOMics Comics - Installing a Carseat is Easy!

2011-12-28T09:00:00.001-05:00

Illustration by Rainey Niklawski from RichmondMommies.com, A3 for The Mommies Network

If you enjoy drawing or designing mom-centered comics of your own, consider contributing to our weekly "Momics" column! Send us an email at blogs@themommiesnetwork.org

Menu Monday: Kiss Me Chocolate Chip Cookies

2011-12-26T09:00:00.000-05:00

I am always making CCC a million different ways, just search Chocolate Chip Cookie/s on here and you'll get a few hits. Can't help it. These are chewy soft yummies. And I had a ton of chips I needed to use up. When a few cooled I took them on a plate to Pixie girl- she took one, walked away took a bite and came back towards me, I told DH, "yup she wants one in each hand..." NOPE. She came over, put her arms around me and kissed me... then took the other cookie. I love that little baby.

2 sticks melted butter

1/4 c sugar
1 1/4 c brown sugar (lightly packed)
2Tbs milk
2 tsp vanilla
2 eggs

2 Tbs sour cream

Sift-

2 1/4c bread flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt- I used kosher last night

1 cup oats
2 cups chocolate chips
1 cup nuts (optional)

Cream sugars and butter until light and fluffy. Add remaining wet ingredients. Beat well. Mix in flour mixture. Stir in oats, chocolate and nuts.

Chill dough thoroughly. I left this dough overnight in the fridge. I used a small cookie scoop for these cookies. I baked them on stoneware. Which took longer, than my standard parchment lined jelly roll pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 9-10 minutes depending on your oven.

You can also scoop the dough onto a cookie sheet, flash freeze the dough balls and put them in a Zip top bag and bake a few at a time.

OR roll the dough into logs and wrap in plastic wrap and slice and bake them also.

Post provided by the Please Give Peas a Chance Blog.

Heartland Music Together to offer 3-week Holiday Session!

2011-12-07T10:35:00.005-05:00

Miriam Klein, the Director of Heartland Music Together knows kids and music are one of the best combinations on earth! Here in Louisville, she is dedicated to exploring the joy and fun of music making through the Heartland Program! She has decided to carry on her wonderful music throughout the holiday season by offering a 3-week Holiday Session!

Miriam stated, “This fun, three-week mini-semester will help tide you over until our new semester starts in January. We'll play with our most beloved songs from the Music Together^®curriculum, we'll take requests and enjoy seasonal favorites too. These classes are open to everyone, both previously enrolled families, and families new to our Heartland community. Think of it as a taste of Music Together, before our main course starts in January. Yummy!”

Heartland Music Together is one of the best creative classes for children in Louisville! My son has been enrolled with them this past year and I intend to continuehim in their new, upcoming 5-7 year old class in 2012! I also love that my 10 month old can attend babies-only music classes! If they need to miss a week, I can always make it up and take them to a mixed-age class together! The prices are very affordable for the 10 week sessions that meet once a week! Your tuition includes a Music Together CD and Songbook! There is a wide variety of session locations and times to choose from! You can always attend a free class first to be sure it is right for your family! But, I have never known anyone to sign up and not go back!

The curriculum has a rich offering of songs, chants, rhythm & movement activities, and instrument play! Children are encouraged to move around and explore so the session is fun! Families are encouraged to attend together so it can be a truly inspirational experience of sharing! You are always encouraged to bring a friend if you think they would be interested in joining! Babies, Toddlers, Preschoolers and Adults all enjoy the benefits! One of the best parts is that children quickly start to recognize the songs and love when a familiar favorite comes up in class!

Advance registration for free demo classes, Holiday Sessions, and Winter Sessions can be completed online at http://www.heartlandmusictogether.com. The 10-week winter session begins Jan 9, and registration is now open for all families. Hurry because space is limited and these classes do sell out! For further information email info@heartlandmusictogher.com or call 502-491-3131..

Ring in the New Year with TMN!

2011-12-05T08:46:00.001-05:00

Ring in the New Year by reaching moms across the nation!

Women make more than 80 percent of all purchasing decisions and control two thirds of the nation’s disposable income. And moms may have the greatest buying power. What mom doesn’t share the latest trends or personal experiences with a business that has provided products or services for her family or herself?

To help you start the New Year with a bang, The Mommies Network is offering the following:
With all new/renewed sponsorship agreements, your business will receive a complimentary blog feature (advertorial to include logo/product image and 500 words). Prepaid agreements receive a 5 percent discount and a complimentary two months on one sponsorship listing. Sponsors also receive 20 percent off event sponsorships. Offer expires Jan. 31, 2012.

The Mommies Network can help your business reach moms across the nation or in your community. We are a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide a safe, secure, free place for mothers to find support and encouragement from other mothers and to empower them to be better women, parents, and community leaders. Through our online forums, our chapters connect local mothers, enabling them to ask questions, seek support, offer encouragement, find volunteer opportunities, and grow as leaders as they volunteer their time with our site. Our organization provides a valuable service to a portion of the population that is nearly always overlooked, overworked, and taken for granted: moms!

For more details on how your business can ring in the New Year with moms across the nation, please contact Jessica Van Dyke at Jessica.VanDyke@TheMommiesNetwork.org.

How are you reaching the greatest buying power in our nation?

2011-11-29T16:57:00.006-05:00

More than 80,000 people are expected to visit the Galt House this Holiday season and I wanted to make sure we were part of them! My family and I went to KaLightoscope this past weekend to kick-off our Christmas Festivities! This is the second year the attraction has been offered downtown and more attractions have been added!

Parking was easy and affordable in the Galt House Garage. It was nice to not have to park and walk in the cold. We went up the elevator to the lobby and followed the signs to the attractions! First we entered Santa’s Village. A gingerbread house takes up one entire wall and along another you see your first glimpse of the multi-million dollar KaLightoscope exhibit tying the KY Derby into the experience by having race horses carrying Santa and gifts on their backs! Santa wasn’t there the day we visited, but it was very early in the season. Free Santa visits occur almost every Saturday and Sunday in December, check the website for times. For Breakfast with Santa Tickets, or Santa's Story time, you can call 1- 800-843-4258 to make reservations!

Next you enter the world of the elves! An adorable elf-size village fills an entire room where the kids can run and play! They could open little doors to look into the buildings! We took photos with them next to the little buildings! The WDRB Snow Fox also has a home there! He was very friendly and stopped for photos with our family! As you go around the corner, you come upon the Snow Fairy’s Castle! It has is an elaborate entrance into the Snow Fairy’s room where children can meet and talk with her. You can view her snow globes and her beautiful wardrobe! Don’t forget your camera, you won’t want to miss a picture with her! We ended our time in the Elf Village by viewing the Gingerbread Houses display and letting the kids sign their names on the wall!

We next moved on to the Learning Center, a new feature this year that tells you about the Chinese artisans from Zigong, China. You get to see hand- crafting a sculpture by hand. The sculptures are made of sheer, painted fabrics, enhanced by glowing light & color. After learning about this historical art form, you enter into the massive room that encompasses KaLightoscope itself! You instantly feel like you have been transported to another land, possibly the North Pole! It is so magical and filled with the Holiday Spirit! There are 11 themed areas and you want to walk slowly and just keep looking! Every detail is carefully thought out and the colors are so vibrant! At one spot you can add your name to the Naughty or Nice list! From Frosty’s Fun Faces to the moving Nativity Scene, the scenes were just fabulous! The children thoroughly enjoyed climbing into the huge train and up onto the drum! My favorite were the larger than life nutcrackers!

As you exit you can go through the Mistletoe MarketPlace and enjoy a cookie and some hot chocolate while browsing the fun Christmas shop! Everyone working was so nice and friendly! We could not have asked for a better start to our Holiday Season! I highly recommend KaLightoscope for all! You can visit any day except for Christmas Day until Jan. 2, 2012. Mon. – Sat. they are open from 10:00 am – 8:00 pm and Sun. and holidays from 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Children 4 and under are free and Tuesday is Family Day, where you can get 4 tickets for $40! Call 502-584-7777 or visit www.christmasatthegalthouse.com for more information.

Don't Forget: Santa Letters!

2011-11-25T10:04:00.001-05:00

The elves are busy coordinating delivery of Santa letters to boys and girls across the United States. Is your letter in the bunch? If you haven't yet ordered your letter(s), don't delay! Place your order by Nov. 30 to ensure delivery before Christmas.

Remember, Your first custom letter is only $6. If you purchase more than one, you will receive a 10 percent discount on the entire order. Use coupon code SANTA at checkout to receive 10 percent off the total.

You will be asked a few questions about your child during the ordering process. Your answers will assist Santa in creating a unique letter for your child. Letters will be printed on Santa's special stationery, signed by the jolly fellow himself, and with the help of a special elf, shipped in bulk to North Pole, Alaska, in time for your little one to receive a special letter before the holidays.

Reserve your letter(s) before Nov. 30 to ensure delivery before Christmas. We hope you'll take advantage of this terrific treat from the North Pole. Place your order now! http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/santa.html

The proceeds of this fundraiser will support The Mommies Network and your local chapter. Please mention your chapter's name to ensure they receive credit for your purchase.

2011-11-21T15:51:00.003-05:00

I had the opportunity to stay at the Drury Inn last weekend for a mini-retreat and I was truly impressed with how great the experience was! They made me feel like I was on a true vacation, even though I was less than 10 minutes away from my own home! I loved that there was gated parking.

Upon arrival, the kids and I went straight to their indoor, heated pool so they could swim! My 5 year old was in heaven since he hasn’t been to the pool since August! While we were there waiting for our room to be made available, the manager hand delivered our keys and told us he had given us a complimentary upgrade to a mini suite!

Before heading up to the room, we stopped off in the Lobby for complimentary fresh-popped popcorn & sodas! Upon entering our room, we were impressed with the clean, sleek, modern feel! We had a 2 room suite! The bedroom had a King Size bed and the living room had a pull out full size Sofa bed and a mini kitchenette. Our room also included a 37" LCD television with premium channels, a microwave, refrigerator, iron and ironing board, hairdryer, alarm clock and coffee service. Free local and long distance calls, voicemail and free wireless Internet access are all included as well!

After getting changed into dry clothes, we headed downstairs at 5:30 for their free “Kickback” which included all sorts of yummy hot and cold items and beverages. We made nachos, while the kids snacked on hot dogs and Macaroni and Cheese. I made a small salad too! We had originally planned on ordering in a pizza, but there was so much free food during their Kickback event that we didn’t even feel the need to get more later. Kickback occurs every night at 5:30 and is free to hotel guests.

I will say when we went downstairs for this event, I was a little worried because it seemed as though the hotel must be at capacity that evening. There were a lot of people and some sort of show in town, so I have a feeling they were sold out. I envisioned listening to kids running up and down the hallway all night, or loud noises coming from the parking lot, etc. To my pleasant surprise though, we never heard a thing! With all concrete walls, our room was nice and quiet and relaxing! Once the kids were in bed, I went down to enjoy some time in the hot tub! I saw that they had a very nice 24 hour fitness center but personally wasn’t interested in working out on my weekend away! At this point in the evening, I enjoyed the two free complimentary drinks they provide you with when you check in. It was nice, I only had to pay the $.53 tax on them!

When I got back to the room, I realized we could use some extra pillows. The Front desk immediately sent someone up with extra pillows! I settled in after that for a good night’s rest and that is exactly what I got.

I woke up the next morning feeling refreshed and went down to enjoy the complimentary hot breakfast! Waffles, French toast, scrambled eggs, bacon, and more!

I would highly recommend the Drury Inn to anyone local just looking for a fun, affordable get-away, or for anyone traveling into Louisville! With rates starting at just $64.99 a night, you can’t beat the value of all that you get! I was given the best customer service and received friendly smiles from everyone who worked there! I will return again for sure!

Do You Have A Stressful Morning Routine?

2011-11-18T08:13:00.003-05:00

Why not bring a new calm to your daily household experiences by offering your children both a loving childcare provider and a cultural experience all in one?

AuPairCare brings cultural experiences to local families while helping them with the challenges of scheduling in this hectic day and age! AuPairCare has a presence in many communities, including right here in Kentuckiana. There are currently 10 international au pairs living with Kentuckiana-area host families.

You can choose from hundreds of carefully screened Au pairs from over 40 + countries to find the right placement for your family! Au pairs are 18-26-year-olds who live with families and provide live-in child care. Au pairs work flexible hours (up to 45 hours per week), have extensive child care experience and speak conversational English. The AuPairCare program offers affordable child care at an equivalent of $7.50 per hour, plus room and board, regardless of the number of children.

AuPairCare was created and is run by working parents and has a solid 20 year + reputation! Because they understand that each family is individual in their needs, the AuPairCare program offers additional programs such as Infant Specialized Au pairs, Male Au pairs, Extension Au pairs and even those with backgrounds in working with special needs children.

Au pairs often times become true members of the families they live with. They care for your children like no one else can! Why not consider making an Au pair part of your everyday routine?

Take the stress and worry out of being a working parent!

To learn more go to www.aupaircare.com today!

Mommies Weigh-In Challenge

2011-11-16T08:48:00.001-05:00

Are you looking to shed a few pounds? Need some help with your fitness goals? Or just searching for the right foods to eat? The Mommies Network challenges you to be the best you can be in 2012!

Join mommies across the country on their journey to be healthy for themselves and their families. Participants will be assigned to regional teams led by a TMN member and a wellness collaborator. Results, tips, and stories will be shared monthly to keep all participants motivated. This challenge is a six-month commitment, running January–June.

Email fitness@themommiesnetwork.org for more information about this program. Applications will be accepted through Nov. 23, 2011.

Easy Playhouse Review

2011-11-09T13:47:00.006-05:00

Louisville Mommies was thrilled to receive an Easy Playhouse donation for our recent Trunk or Treat! The design is so simple and easy to put together! Within minutes we had a cute, fun decorative piece to add to the festivities! The design is completely reversible, with a brown cardboard color on one side and a white cardboard color on the other. We used the brown side for our Halloween event and painted it to resemble a Haunted House! The Easy Playhouse folds flat and we were able to get it in a vehicle and transport it with no problems!

This creative art project provides hours of imaginative fun for your kids and could make a great gift too! Best of all, the Easy Playhouse is Eco-friendly and Made in the USA! The Easy Playhouse would make a great addition to your child’s playroom, bedroom, or even classroom! Thanks to Easy Playhouse, Louisville Mommies will be giving one lucky member a chance to win one for their child! Be sure to check out the Mommy Forum for complete details on how to enter!

Dimensions: 34″ x 27″ x 48″
Wave cut for child safety

Like Easy Playhouse on Facebook today!
http://easyplayhouse.com/
As a Special offer for Louisville Mommies members, you can purchase at 25% off! Use promo code - EP25OFF. AS an added bonus, Free Shipping is included when you buy 2 or more!

for child safety

The Mommies Network Presents Santa Letters

2011-11-04T10:24:00.001-04:00

TMN presents Santa Letters!

Have your kids begun making their Christmas wish lists? The Mommies Network and Santa Claus have teamed up to send your little one a letter straight from the North Pole!

Your first custom letter is only $6. If you purchase more than one, you will receive a 10 percent discount on the entire order. Use coupon code SANTA at checkout to receive 10 percent off the total.

You will be asked a few questions about your child during the ordering process. Your answers will assist Santa in creating a unique letter for your child. Letters will be printed on Santa's special stationery, signed by the jolly fellow himself, and with the help of a special elf, shipped in bulk to North Pole, Alaska, in time for your little one to receive a special letter before the holidays.

Reserve your letter(s) before Nov. 30 to ensure delivery before Christmas. We hope you'll take advantage of this terrific treat from the North Pole. Place your order now! http://www.themommiesnetwork.org/santa.html
Please mention our area chapter name to ensure we receive credit for your purchase.

The proceeds of this fundraiser will support The Mommies Network and your local chapter.

ABC Fun Pads Review

2011-11-03T08:21:00.005-04:00

My 9 month old has recently started pulling up on everything, including our coffee table, so I was excited to get my Elmo ABC Fun Pad in the mail!

With the soft padding and the fun designs, my child is having fun and learning while not taking the risk of hurting himself! Colin liked to chew on the corners of the table, so now he can chew on the cloth! My table isn’t ruined and he is just as happy!

The Pad comes down on each side and is long enough that it stays put. It has wonderful elastic around the edges that prevents Colin from being able to pull it off. I chose the Elmo theme pad, but they offer their Fun Pads in several various patterns, including a fun one with roads to play cars on! An added benefit is that the opposite side is plain beige. So, if we are having company or I just want a “less childish” look for a day, I can flip it over! The pad is safe to be thrown in the washing machine too!

A coffee table can be a dangerous thing to have in a living room with a crawling baby or a toddler still learning to walk! But, with an ABC Fun Pad, you can rest easily knowing they are protected!

This pad fits tables from 20" X 48" to 40" x 68"

http://www.abcfunpads.com

Baby Brezza Review

2011-11-02T16:14:00.005-04:00

I was so excited to receive my Baby Brezza in the mail 2 weeks ago! I am not a cook and rarely have time to make baby food, so knowing that this product was going to make this working mom’s life even easier was a thrill!

I started off trying out the Baby Brezza with peaches and went wild after that! It truly is a multi-functional machine! Veggies, Fruits, meats, and even fish are all really easy to make! When ready to use the machine, you simply fill the water opening at the top to the indicator line. You chop up the ingredients you want to make and place into the blending bowl. Choose the Steam and Blend option so the machine knows to steam it and blend into Baby Food. Select the desired amount of time (based on the baby food recipe booklet included) and hit Start! The machine knows how long to steam and then it will automatically blend into a puree.

I can’t wait for my little guy to get a little older so I can start to play around with fancier concoctions! I already have visions of making flavored yogurts and steaming rice! The machine is good for steaming your first ingredient, and then being able to open it back up and add additional ingredients to just blend in.

As Colin grows older, I will be able to put in several ingredients from our dinner and blend them together to a consistency that is good for him too! Each time I use the machine, I can fill up the storage containers that came with it to use in the following days so that nothing goes to waste. The blending cup easily makes 2.5 cups worth of baby food! Because the machine is so small and stylish, I leave it out on the counter. I don’t typically clutter my counter with appliances, but this one is being used regularly and I don’t mind it sitting out.

It is also very easy to clean, since I can put the blending bowl and blade in the dishwasher. This is another huge Plus for a working mom or a busy mom on the go!

This little wonder is well worth the low retail of $99.99 and truly is the One Step Baby Food maker! Now, I don’t have to spend my weekends trying to make a ton of baby food and trying to find room in the freezer to store it all! I also won‘t have to make a mess in the kitchen with various bowls and such because this simple little device is the one step, one bowl solution.

With Baby Brezza, their motto is true – Mealtime is a breeze! An added benefit is that the product is BPA/Phthalate Free!

http://www.babybrezza.com

I was so excited to receive my Baby Brezza in the mail 2 weeks ago! I am not a cook and rarely have time to make baby food, so knowing that this product was going to make this working mom’s life even easier was a thrill! I started off trying out the Baby Brezza with peaches and went wild after that! It truly is a multi-functional machine! Veggies, Fruits, meats, and even fish are all really easy to make! When ready to use the machine, you simply fill the water opening at the top to the indicator line. You chop up the ingredients you want to make and place into the blending bowl. Choose the Steam and Blend option so the machine knows to steam it and blend into Baby Food. Select the desired amount of time (based on the baby food recipe booklet included) and hit Start! The machine knows how long to steam and then it will automatically blend into a puree. I can’t wait for my little guy to get a little older so I can start to play around with fancier concoctions! I already have visions of making flavored yogurts and steaming rice! The machine is good for steaming your first ingredient, and then being able to open it back up and add additional ingredients to just blend in. As Colin grows older, I will be able to put in several ingredients from our dinner and blend them together to a consistency that is good for him too! Each time I use the machine, I can fill up the storage containers that came with it to use in the following days so that nothing goes to waste. The blending cup easily makes 2.5 cups worth of baby food! Because the machine is so small and stylish, I leave it out on the counter. I don’t typically clutter my counter with appliances, but this one is being used regularly and I don’t mind it sitting out. It is also very easy to clean, since I can put the blending bowl and blade in the dishwasher. This is another huge Plus for a working mom or a busy mom on the go! This little wonder is well worth the low retail of $99.99 and truly is the One Step Baby Food maker! Now, I don’t have to spend my weekends trying to make a ton of baby food and trying to find room in the freezer to store it all! I also won‘t have to make a mess in the kitchen with various bowls and such because this simple little device is the one step, one bowl solution. With Baby Brezza, their motto is true – Mealtime is a breeze! An added benefit is that the product is BPA/Phthalate Free!
http://www.babybrezza.com

Build a Dream Playhouse!

2011-11-01T10:27:00.004-04:00

My son tested out the Cosmic Cruiser Dream Playhouse and loved it! It was so hard to decide which one to let Jackson take for a test drive, because all of the 6 designs are so stinkin’ cute!

Jackson has been learning about planets and outer space lately though, so I knew he would enjoy his Out of this World Spaceship! Shipping was so quick, but I held onto the Cruiser until we had a cold day and needed something to stay in and do!

My husband was thrilled that it only took about 5 minutes to assemble the easily foldable cardboard pieces! The cardboard can easily be colored or painted. My son was excited to get out some cosmic color paint and his paint brushes! I honestly have never seen him sit still and do something “artsy” for so long! He was in heaven and was making up his “outer space” stories while he painted! He asked for help in adding lightening to the sides, so I helped with that part!

It has been so nice watching my son’s Imagination take flight with his new Spaceship! The second best thing is that the spaceship has handles, so he will literally pick it up while standing inside and “wear” it like a costume. It has come in handy right here at Halloween!

This item is built so well and is so sturdy that I am sure it will be around for a very long time! His baby brother has even been crawling all over it and drooling all over it and it has held up!

Take a look at their website and see which one of their Playhouses could bring out the artist in your child! Everything on the site has FREE SHIPPING!