Parenting Resources and Family Lifestyle Tips by a Latina Blogger - MamiofMultiples.com

BalanceLogic Selects Mami Innovative Media for Strategic Partnership

2012-02-16T00:17:00.001-05:00

We are pleased to announce our newest strategic partnership with BalanceLogic, a leading provider of a broad array of back-office services and solutions to the commercial and government markets including small businesses. We are looking forward to offer these services to our clients and audience of MamiofMultiples.com.

WALDORF, MARYLAND - February 1, 2012 - In an effort to achieve the company’s mission to provide a full spectrum of back office support services, BalanceLogic has selected Mami Innovative Media as a strategic partner in the areas of communications, digital marketing and social media services.

Mami Innovative Media, a leading communications and digital marketing company, will partner with BalanceLogic to offer communication strategies, digital marketing implementation, and social media management services. Combining Mami Innovative Media’s capabilities with BalanceLogic’s wide array of business support services will allow BalanceLogic to continue to solidify its position as a leading provider of back-office services and solutions to the commercial and government markets.

“Mami Innovative Media has direct experience with federal government agencies so we are pleased to be partner with BalanceLogic, one of the industry’s leading back-office support providers.” said Joscelyn Ramos Campbell, Owner of Mami Innovative Media. “Our clients will benefit from the high quality support services offered by the BalanceLogic team.”

Mami Innovative Media has a proven track record of creating and implementing successful communication, event management, online marketing, public relations and social media programs. They have partnered and collaborated with some of the most well-known brands and companies including recently with Disney, Dyson, General Mills, Johnson’s Baby, Lifetime Movie Network, Nestle, Procter & Gamble, Target, State Farm, and T.J.Maxx/Marshalls.

“BalanceLogic has recognized the depth of Mami Innovative Media’s capabilities which will be of a great value to our clients,” said Bill Campbell, CEO of BalanceLogic. “We are looking forward to working with Mami Innovative Media to integrate our capabilities in a way that will efficiently maximize our digital and communication services.”

About BalanceLogic, LLC
Founded in 2004, BalanceLogic, LLC, is a leading provider of a broad array of back-office services and solutions to the commercial and government markets. Our focus is to provide our clients with high quality services that result in cost savings and business process efficiency. BalanceLogic offers the widest range of business support services by any single company including bookkeeping, IT support, web & graphics design, and administrative services.

About Mami Innovative Media, LLC
Mami Innovative Media, LLC, owned by Joscelyn Ramos Campbell of MamiofMultiples.com, Orlando Examiner, and Chicas Chatting Blog Talk Radio Show, launched in August 2010. Mami Innovative Media provides communications and digital marketing services to brands, corporations, individual clients, non-profits and small businesses. Mami Innovative Media have partnered and collaborated with some of the most well-known brands and companies, including recently with Disney, Dyson, General Mills, Johnson's Baby, Lifetime Movie Network, Nestle, Procter & Gamble, Target, State Farm, T.J.Maxx/Marshalls.

Media Contact:
Bill Campbell
CEO
BalanceLogic, LLC
(301) 396-8455
bcampbell@balancelogic.com
www.balancelogic.com

Little Angels Prescreening Classroom Party

2012-02-15T10:37:00.001-05:00

Valentine's Day was the launch and DVD release of Little Angels and we were able to participate in the fun by having a prescreening party at one of our twins' classrooms.

From executive producer Roma Downey, who many will recognize from the hit show "Touched by an Angel", Little Angels is created exclusively for preschool-aged children to teach not only practical learning skills, like ABCs and numbers, but also to introduce them to spiritual, moral, and ethical principles in a fun and entertaining way.

The following is picture slideshow recap of our Valentine's Day Little Angels Prescreening Classroom Party:

The preschool children in the class really enjoyed the movie and the visually appealing storyline captured their attention. The coloring pages, activity sheets, and V-Day cards helped to create a full educational segment that was incorporated with the prescreening viewing of the DVDs. Adults present appreciated the creative method of teaching educational concepts (i.e. ABCs, numbers) through association of everyday items that children interact with throughout the day and via catchy melodies and song. The moral and faith-based values portrayed were a definite positive aspect to the adults and the children did recognize many of the values that were being shown.

Happy Viewing 'Little Angels'!

Roma Downey's Little Angels DVD Release

2012-02-10T16:49:00.002-05:00

Being a mother to a teen and toddler identical twins, I am always searching for family-friendly content for them to read and watch. As a social media mom, I know that the internet can be wonderful and extremely helpful but also hold a great danger for children. Television and other media outlets constantly show inapporiate images so I try to be vigilant in what my children watch. I was glad to learn about new inspiring and educational series called Little Angels.

From executive producer Roma Downey, who many will recognize from the hit show "Touched by an Angel", Little Angels is created exclusively for preschool-aged children to teach not only practical learning skills, like ABCs and numbers, but also to introduce them to spiritual, moral, and ethical principles in a fun and entertaining way.

One of the many aspects I enjoy about Little Angels is that the series is centered around preschool twins! Having preschool twins at home, a storyline with twins really impacted me. My twins boys would be able to see themselves reflected in the series, in addition to watching a fun, educational, and morally positive series.

Preschool twins Alex and Zoe are blessed to have eight Little Angels watching over them – literally! These Little Angels live on the ceiling of their bedroom, painted there so they are the first things the kids see when they wake up in the morning and the last thing they see before they fall asleep at night. The angels come to life when the children need them most, helping guide them through the challenges of their young lives

The Little Angels DVD series offers interactive DVD extras, including music videos, downloadable activity sheets, plus a downloadable bonus digital copy of each lesson for 'mobile' learning. Other products are CDs, books, apparel and even an Little Angels App on iTunes.

Since every great film needs to have a premiere and screening party, we are excited to be having a Little Angels screening party on Valentine's Day! We will be having a V-Day themed party complete with V-Day snacks, cards, crafts, and of course watching Little Angels in the twins' preschool classroom. (Little Angels will be released on Valentine's Day, 2/14/12). Look for an 'after-party' post about our Little Angels screening Valentine's Day party next week.

Parents can download activity sheets, Valentine's Day cards, and more at http://www.littleangels.com/play

For more information about this terrific series, visit http://www.littleangels.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/romaslittleangels
Twitter: http://twitter.com/@RealRomaDowney

Happy Watching!

Chatman (Internet Safety for Parents and Kids)

2012-02-07T17:01:00.000-05:00

As parents we worry about our children all the time - whether they are in our home or outside. The internet is used daily by adults and parents alike and its integral in our daily online and offline interactions. However, as wonderful and useful the internet can be, it also poses a danger to children.

According to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children, 93% of teens (12-17) go online; children (0-5) who use the internet, 80% use it at least once a week; 1 in 3 teens (12-17) have experienced online harassment (cyberbullying); 97% of teens (12-17) play computer, web, portable, or console games; 27% of teens (12-17) play games with people they don’t know online; predators seek youths vulnerable to seduction, including those with histories of sexual or physical abuse, those who post sexually provocative photos/video, and those who talk about sex with unknown people online.

Parents need to be vigilant in protecting their children and instructing their children how to be safe online. Chatman is an 'internet safety buddy' - a child’s smart and funny friend for everything they do online, providing safety, homework help, social skills and fun. He gives parents peace of mind because he works with and filters your child’s online conversations on Facebook, Skype and MSN Messenger. He alerts when inappropriate chat is exchanged on social networks and when inappropriate web searches are attempted. He is not a stand-alone chat platform so there is no stranger danger.

His eyes, arms and antennae move, and his mouth is made up of LED lights that move when he talks and can change expressions based on the mood your child selects for him – happy, sad, excited, frustrated, etc. Chatman understands and expresses emotions like a real friend.

He helps with homework! Ask him a question and he will either answer or will help your child browse for the answer online (filtering out inappropriate content.) With Chatman, a child can access more than 1,000 games, cool videos and more – all pre-filtered for kids. Chatman keeps kids organized by settting reminders and alarms for birthdays, tests, sports practices and Chatman will alert them so they don’t forget.

Check out our video review of Chatman:

Chatman can be found on toysrus.com, bestbuy.com, hsn.com, target,com and on mychatman.com and its suitable for children between the ages of 6 - 14 with a recommend retail price of $69.95 - $74.95

Find more information visit www.mychatman.com

Facebook:www.facebook.com/mychatmanfriend

Twitter:www.twitter.com/chatmanfriend

YouTube: www.youtube.com/chatmanfriend

Keep Your Children Happy and Safe Online!

View Disclosure Policy: HERE

Discovery Familia 'Listen To Your Heart' (Escucha tu Corazon)

2012-02-07T10:34:00.000-05:00

In the midst of the all the love and romance of Valentine's Day, another important aspect of the heart is featured in February...American Heart Month.

According to the CDC, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States; one in every three deaths is from heart disease and stroke, equal to 2,200 deaths per day. We have discussed how heart disease has affected our own family and the multi-cultural community.

Discovery Familia, the only Spanish language channel solely dedicated to Latina Moms will join the fight against heart disease in February for National Heart Month. The "Escucha tu Corazon" (Listen To Your Heart) campaign amis to raise awareness and educate Hispanic women about heart disease, including their risk factors. The national initiative includes special on air programming, Public Service Announcements (PSAs), a microsite specifically created to provide information on the subject, and a special collaboration with the The Heart Truth^®, a national campaign for women about heart disease sponsored by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI).

As part of the collaboration with The Heart Truth^®campaign, Discovery Familia created PSAs that will feature Jeannette Torres-Álvarez, the official ambassador for Discovery Familia. The PSAs include information on risk factors such as being overweight and diabetes, and ways to prevent heart disease. They will be broadcast during the network’s nighttime programming, beginning February 6.

“Heart disease is the primary cause of death among Latinas in the United States. Any one of us could have a predisposition to heart disease. That is why we need to become informed, get our medical check-ups, be willing to change our lifestyles and always listen to our hearts,” stated Jeannette Torres-Álvarez, Discovery Familia’s ambassador.

As the network's ambassador and representing Hispanic women, Jeannette has also been invited to participate in the The Heart Truth’s Red Dress Collection 2012 Fashion Show scheduled for February 8 at 7 PM ET in New York City. This annual event during New York Fashion Week brings together more than 20 celebrities walking the runway in fashions created by some of America’s top designers. The main aim is to raise awareness of the #1 killer of women and prompt women to take action to lower their risk for heart disease. The event can be watched live on the Discovery Familia website, www.discoveryfamilia.com.

Discovery Familia will also broadcast special programming during its "Sábados médicos" (Medical Saturdays) at 10 PM E/P every Saturday during the month of Februarym including, Cardiovascular Disease programs, (2/11); the documentary The First Heart Transplant, (2/18) hosted by renowned surgeon Dr. Mehmet Oz, which describes the first heart transplant done in 1967; and new episodes of the series, Surgery Saved My Life, (2/25).

For more information, the network has also created a microsite at www.discoveryfamilia.com, which will provide women with helpful tools and specific information on cardiovascular disease, prevention tips, facts, videos, as well as a direct link to The Heart Truth^®campaign at www.hearttruth.gov.

Learn the Facts and Stay Healthy!
Aprender Para Mantenerse Saludable!

Disclosure: I wrote this post while participating in a compensated campaign with Discovery Familia and Latina Mom Bloggers. However, all opinions expressed are my own.

Lady and the Tramp Diamond Edition Release

2012-02-06T14:53:00.000-05:00

Open

One of the most classical and beloved stories in film animation is Disney's Lady and the Tramp. As a Valentine's treat, the Diamond Edition of Lady and the Tramp will be released on February 7, 2012.

Fall in love with Disney's Beloved Classic, Lady And The Tramp — now unleashed in glorious high definition for the first time ever on Blu-ray! Experience like never before the thrilling adventures of Lady, a lovingly pampered cocker spaniel, and Tramp, a freewheeling mutt with a heart of gold. This heartwarming tale now charms a new generation of families and fans with its exquisite animation, unforgettable songs, and immersive bonus that reveals the extraordinary making-of process behind one of the greatest love stories of all time. This is the night to share a special bella notte with your family and introduce them to the film Janet Maslin of the New York Times News Service hails as "one of Disney's most enduring classics" — now more beautiful than ever through the magic of Blu-ray high definition!

The Diamond Edition of Lady and the Tramp is a 2 Disc Combo Pack that features the following:

Disc 1 (Blu-Ray Feature Film + Bonus)

Never-Before-Seen Deleted Scenes
Never-Before-Seen Deleted Song
Inside Walt's Story Meetings
Diane Disney Miller: Remembering Dad
Lady's Pedigree: The Making of Lady and the Tramp
The Siamese Cat Song: Finding A Voice For The Cats
Puppypedia: Going to the Dogs...and more

Disc 2 (DVD Feature Film + Bonus)

Diane Disney Miller: Remembering Dad
Puppypedia: Going to the Dogs

Click on the widget (at the top of this post) to view the an interactive Lady and the Tramp digital book with a series of Spanish language recipes and activity pages. For an English version, click HERE.

As a life-long Disney fan, I was delighted to share the love story of Lady and the Tramp with my children. My teen son is very well acquainted with Disney classical films as I have been showing him my own childhood collection since he was an infant. Now, with the Blu-Ray high definition technology, I am able to enjoy the all of the Disney classical all over again with my toddler twins in beautiful sound and picture.

For more information visit http://disney.go.com/disneyvideos/animatedfilms/lady-and-the-tramp/index.html.

Share in the 'love' with your family and the Lady and the Tramp Diamond Edition available in retail stores and online nationwide on 2/7/12 (tomorrow)!

Enjoy!

I Heart Minnie DVD and Digital Copy Release

2012-02-06T13:40:00.001-05:00

Just in time for Valentine's Day is The Walt Disney Studios DVD release of Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: I Heart Minnie DVD with digital copy on February 7, 2012!

I HEART MINNIE has been packaged to include five, fun-filled episodes - each underlining the themes of friendship, teamwork, sharing and problem solving – and an all new bonus feature “You’re Invited to Minnie’s Birthday Party,” that includes two complimentary Best Friend Necklaces to keep as mementos and/or to share with a very special someone.

Join Minnie, Daisy, and all your Clubhouse pals for a mousekemagical celebration of friendship and fun. Today is Minnie's birthday, and you're invited! But can Mickey and the gang get everything ready and keep the party under wraps until it's time to shout "Surprise!"? Only if you can help them pick the right Mouseketools. Next, jump up on your feet and dance with Daisy in the big talent show at Mickey Park. Then journey to the end of the rainbow to find Leprechaun Pete's pot of gold! Overflowing with music, laughter, and delightful never-been-seen adventure, I Heart Minnie is the perfect way to say "I love you!"

The DVD (available with digital copy) includes the following five episodes:

Minnie & Daisy's Flower Shower (never been seen episode)
Daisy's Dance
Daisy's Pet Project
Minnie's Rainbow
Minnie's Birthday (bonus feature)

My toddler identical twins love Disney Junior and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. They were excited to see that Mickey, Minnie, Daisy, Donald, Goofy, and even Pluto were all featured in I HEART Minnie. Happily they sang their favorite Mickey Mouse Clubhouse songs and were eager to see the new episode...truly family entertainment for both boys and girls alike.

I HEART Minnie DVD would be a fun activity to any Valentine's Day party or a Minnie Mouse birthday party! Looking for an easy and fun educational bilingual project to share with your little ones? Check out the following printable Valentine's cookies recipe and Valentine's cards in Spanish :

The 5 episode DVD with digital copy (download copy for computers and portable devices) and two Best Friends Necklaces are available for the affordable of price of $19.99.

For more information visit http://disneydvd.disney.go.com/disney-mickey-mouse-clubhouse-i-heart-minnie.html.

Don't forget the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: I Heart Minnie DVD with digital copy release is available in retail stores and online nationwide on 2/7/12 (tomorrow)!

Enjoy!

View Disclosure Policy: HERE

Game Day...Super Bowl XLVI

2012-02-02T09:48:00.005-05:00

In a home full of men, sports is part of my daily life. With a husband from Philadelphia and myself from New York, we are always supporting our own hometeams. The Bugs Bunny saying "...of course, you know, this means war..," is very true when it comes to rubbing it in when our team is victorious over the other. Football attire, uniform colors, victory dances, pointing, shouting, and generally a smug attitude takes over us when our team wins.

Our twins dressed in their New York Giants and Philadelphia Eagles uniforms

Much to the unhappiness of my spouse and to my own personal joy, Super Bowl XLVI will feature the best team in the NFL, New York Giants (YEA!)....oh...yeah...and that other sorry team..New England Patriots (BOO!).

No Super Bowl party would be complete without food and some $ money $ to help organize a great bash. Hormel Foods Recipes Facebook page is running a Super Bowl promotion called "Go Big for the Big Game Sweepstakes!"

Fill out the simple entry form that can be found HERE and you will be entered to win a $500 gift card! The promotion ends tomorrow (2/3/12) at 12 PM CST.

Looking for some Super Bowl recipes?

Check out this easy to make Game Day Potato Skins recipe.

Gluten Free: Yes

Total Time: 1 Hour
Preparation Time: Under 15 minutes
Servings: 16

Ingredients

8 small baking potatoes, baked and cooled slightly
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1/4 cup Hormel® Real Bacon Bits

Directions

Heat oven to 425ºF.
Cut baked potatoes in half lengthwise. Scoop out potato flesh, leaving 1/4-inch shells. Place potato shells on baking sheet. Top each half with cheese and bacon bits.
Bake potato skins 5 to 10 minutes or until heated thoroughly. Serve with sour cream, if desired.

See more Super Bowl/Game Day ideas via the following video

Hormel Foods Recipes > How-To Video: Big Game Snackers

Get weeknight meal suggestions at

http://www.hormelfoodsrecipes.com

Happy Super Bowl!

May the best team...New York Giants...WIN!

Chicas Chatting Blog Talk Radio Show ReVamp

2012-01-30T10:19:00.000-05:00

Jennifer from Mami 2 Mommy and I have been pleased to co-host the Chicas Chatting Blog Talk Radio Show where we discuss parenting, social media, entertainment and everything in between for the past one 1/2 years. We have had opportunities to interview and feature well-known brands and organizations from Sears to Go Red for Women and charitable organizations from I Heart Haiti and Ronald McDonald House Charities, to name a few. Our audience reaches not only the internet radio user but those downloading the shows and listening via podcast in the U.S., Latin America, China, Spain, Russia and other global countries. We have truly been delighted not only by the popularity of the show but its engaging audience.

In effort to continually provide quality content, Chicas Chatting is getting a 'revamp'. We will continue to feature brands and companies that are making a difference in the worlds of parenting, social media, and the Latino community but will also be highlighting and featuring the following:

Bloggers - There are so many wonderful bloggers that focus on the universal themes of parenting, fashion, food, health, politics, social media etc. We want to feature some of the best bloggers in the medium but also shine on some lesser known bloggers, who equally provide a wealth of knowledge and expertise.
Guest Co-Hosts - We really enjoy sharing the co-host seats with fellow digital influencers, bloggers, and brand representatives. We are giving prominence to our guest co-hosts, their work, and offer the opportunity to be part of the Chicas Chatting show.
Live Shows - Social media conferences and events occur throughout the year and we will be conducting some shows live to bring you the latest news directly as they are happening.
Social Good - A wave of change has overcome the digital and social media landscape the last few years - social good. Using social media, influencers and bloggers have been giving back to their communities, helping their fellow neighbor, and raising awareness of global issues and concerns. We want to continue to share and report the good that is occurring worldwide by bloggers and social media influencers.

New shows will commence in February 2012 and normally occur at 1PM EST on Fridays on a bi-monthly or weekly schedule. (Due to the schedule of live shows and availability of guests, shows are subject to change and can occur on a different date and time).

Listeners will be able to continue to connect with show by any of the following methods:

Calling-in at (347) 637-1132, when the show is on-air
Logging into the chat room during showtimes at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/chicaschatting
Connect on Facebook at www.facebook.com/chicaschatting
Connect on Twitter at www.twitter.com/chicaschatting

Interested in being featured or highlighted?

Contact Joscelyn at joscelyn@mamiofmultiples.com

Twitter: @JoscelynRC

Contact Jennifer at jennifer@mami2mommy.com

Twitter: @Mami2Mommy

Thank you to all who have listened and have joined in the past. We are looking forward to our new format and continue to 'chat' with you!

Grocery Shopping Tips with Hormel Foods

2012-01-26T20:48:00.000-05:00

Honestly speaking grocery shopping can be challenging. Ever go to the store for just a gallon of milk and walk out with 20 products you didn't plan on buying or even worse...you didn't even really need? As a wife, mother to a teen son and identical toddler twin boys, and a small business owner, I try to accomplish a lot in one day like most people do. I learned that it was not always beneficial to take my young children grocery shopping with me. Though the teen is a great source of help, the twins can be a different story. As toddlers, they are naturally curious and want to discuss, touch, or feel EVERYTHING in a grocery story. They love to help and "shop" by pulling items off of grocery shelves that are at their eye level. Needless to say if I'm not careful my shopping cart will be filled with 18 boxes of Goldfish Crackers.

Flying solo at the grocery store is certainly useful and less distracting but another issue can arise...the shopping list. I have many times shopped without a grocery list and usually end up with double of things (items I forgot I already had at home or that didn't need replacing at that moment) or 'Get In My Belly' food shopping (shopping on an empty stomach and all of sudden all items in the store look good enough to devour). Either way results of shopping without a grocery list are usually not positive for me and causes me to purchase more 'junk food' then I had originally intended.

In the past 2 years I have trying to plan out recipes for weeknight meals and purchase ingredients necessary for those meals. It has helped me organize kitchen duties and feel more prepared to answer one of the most commonly asked questions, "What's for Dinner?"

Helpful suggestions:

Take Inventory of Kitchen and Pantry - It is very helpful to take stock of what you already have in your kitchen so you are not purchasing groceries you already have in your home.
Use Cookbooks or Online Recipe Sites - Not everybody is Julia Child or Rachael Ray or my Mother. I am one that can use suggestions, tips, or advice in the kitchen. I like finding new recipes to get out of the weekly meal rut.
Buy What is Needed - Its easy to go off course when shopping at the grocery store so I like to make a list beforehand. I usually center it around ingredients that are for meals.

With 4 men in my home, we tend to go through a lot of the 'staples'...milk, bread, juice, fruit, ground meat, etc. However, if I don't write down exactly what we need even for our weekly staple run, I will end up buying more than I had wanted to. Creating shopping lists has really helped us financially to stay within our grocery budget and make more healthy choices.

Sample of a Quick Weekly Grocery Run

Tried any of the new Hormel Foods products lately?

If not, then check out the many products at http://www.hormelfoods.com.

Is part of your New Year's resolutions to try to eat more healthy? Have any grocery shopping tips?

Share and leave a comment below.

Happy Shopping!

Multiplicity Magazine Inaugural Debut

2012-01-18T08:59:00.001-05:00

Open

On behalf of Twiniversity, #1 online resource for moms of multiples, we are pleased to share the debut of Multiplicity Magazine. Created based upon the expansive needs of mothers of multiples, Multiplicity Magazine will be a quarterly electronic magazine offering resources and advice on an array of parenting and lifestyle topics directly related to families of multiples.

Executively managing production of Multiplicity are Natalie Diaz, Founder, Twiniversity & Multiciplity and Group Publisher; Joscelyn Ramos Campbell, Executive Editor (& Founder of Mami of Multiples and Mami Innovative Media) ; and Talitha A. McGuinness, Creative Director. Also, see "Meet the Multiplicity Mom Squad."

The inaugural issue features helpful, insightful, humorous, and touching articles from contributing writers consisting of bloggers, journalists, professionals, and parents. One of the wonderful contributions is from our very own Mami of Multiples' contributing writer Gabrielle Morel!

The inaugural issue is free to the public and can be viewed at http://www.twiniversity.com/multiplicity/

Want to subscribe to Multiplicity? All Twiniversity forum (Big Tent) members will receive a free subscription for 2012. Not a member? Join today, membership to Twiniversity is free.

Interested in advertising? View our Multiplicity Media Kit today.

Happy Reading!

Save in the New Year with the Western Union mun2 Reloadable Prepaid MasterCard

2012-01-16T13:31:00.000-05:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Western Union. All opinions are 100% mine.

After the joyous and festive holiday season, the new year rings in with newly minted resolutions and declarations. Among the all the health resolutions for 2012 are new financial goals and planning. Trying to establish and prepare a budget for the new year on a strong financial footing is especially important during these difficult economy times. The Western Union mun2 Reloadable Prepaid MasterCard is an easy economical solution.

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With so many Western Union Agent locations, it’s easy to add money and reload the card. My husband and I have been experiencing the inconvenience of having one of our banks being quite a distance from our home. When we moved to Florida from the Washington DC area, we found out our bank branch was going to be a 45 minute drive from our new residence. It has been a logistical hassle to try and accomplish any in-branch related services. Like most banks, using non-authorized ATMs will incur extra fees.

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As a sign-up bonus for qualified consumers, Western Union will add $10 into consumers' prepaid account after their first direct deposit onto their Western Union mun2 Prepaid MasterCard. Sign up for direct deposit within 60 days of receiving your card and receive $10 onto your card within 60 days of completion of eligible deposit. Subject to load and card account limits.

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Learn more at http://www.westernunion.com/web-inf/en/country/US/index_mun2_WU.html
Western Union mun2 Reloadable Prepaid MasterCard

Happy Saving!

Hormel Foods Extended Family Bloggers

2012-01-09T22:45:00.001-05:00

Mami of Multiples is pleased to announce that we are among the

Hormel Foods Extended Family Bloggers!

Hormel Foods Corporation is a multinational manufacturer and marketer of high-quality, brand-name food and meat products for consumers throughout the world. They offer a wide variety of products including hams, bacon, sausages, franks, canned luncheon meats, stews, chilis, hash, meat spreads, shelf-stable microwaveable entrees and salsas.

For 117 years, Hormel Foods has made their name under many well-established trademarks that include:

As part of the Hormel Foods Extended Family Preferred Blogger Program, we will be sharing an insider’s look at the official Hormel Foods test kitchen, participate in live webcasts and interactive events, learn new relevant tricks and techniques for easy meal prep, shopping, discounts, hosting giveaways, and more! (Also, the Hormel Extended Family Bloggers will be featured on a tab of the Hormel Foods Facebook page soon).

Learn more about Hormel recipes at http://www.hormelfoodsrecipes.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/HFRecipes

Twitter: http://twitter.com/HormelFoods

Stay tuned on Mami of Multiples!

2012 Chevrolet Equinox LTZ: An Affordable and Family-Friendly Vehicle

2012-01-03T18:55:00.001-05:00

With the holiday season coming to a close, the New Year is a time of making resolutions and starting to plan for the upcoming year ahead. Outlining the new year usually includes coordinating a household budget, finances and saving for purchases. Deciding on vehicle that has desirable features, amenities, mileage and gas friendly, high safety qualifications and is affordable can be a process for anyone.

As a wife, mother of a teen & toddler twins and a small business owner, I am always looking for the best value for my dollar. The choices I make to benefit my family are often budget and quality conscious.

Mami of Multiples was pleased to review the 2012 Chevrolet Equinox LTZ for a week and discover its family-friendly options and affordability.

The 2012 Chevy Equinox LTZ was the 2011 Top Safety Pick Award from The Insurance Institute For Highway Safety. The LTZ model has features that parents could certainly appreciate such as:

Rear Vision Camera System - An important feature when backing out of a driveway, especially with young children
Anti-Lock Brake System
Stability Control System with Traction Control
Remote Keyless Entry and Remote Vehicle Start - Great feature to warm or cool the vehicle automatically before even entering it
Heated Front Seats
Power Outside Heated Mirrors
Rear Parking Assist
Luggage Rack - Spacious for large packages and luggage
OnStar Directions
Turn-by-Turn Color Navaigation - Very user friendly and easy to understand
XM Radio - Many kid-friendly stations, i.e. Radio Disney
Programmable Powered Rear Liftgate - This feature is really helpful for those times when your hands are completely full
Multi-Flex Sliding Rear Seat - Easy to recline the backseats for extra storage and cargo space

The Equinox seats five comfortably (which is the size of my family) and has expansive rear-seat leg room. With an EPA-estimated 32 MPG highway, the Equinox provides a great value with the functionality of a crossover and the fuel economy of a sedan.

We test drove the Equinox not only with my family but with a variety of age groups from children to retirees. We rode long and short distances in Central Florida on highway and backroads to compare gas mileage and "how the car rides". The results were very favorable and the following are some of test group quotes:

Recently Retired Business Executive - "Smooth ride on highway and street. Quiet engine. Feels very roomy inside and not cramped."

Grandmother and Homemaker - "My grandchildren are spread out across the state so I like a vehicle that I feel comfortable driving in for long periods at a time. I enjoy the spaciousness and good cargo space. I can fit a lot of luggage and gifts in the back."

Mother of Two (2) Children Under the Age of Five (5) - "My husband and I are looking for an SUV that will fit our growing family. I need a automobile that can fit carseats, strollers, toys and my husband's computer equipment. I really like how everything fits inside the Equinox; my kids are seated comfortably in the back and my toddler has plenty of leg room. My husband can fold the rear seats for all his computer and tech gadgets. We are on a tight budget but the price is very affordable and offers features that we are looking for."

Nineteen (19) Year Old College Student - "I need a reliable vehicle that won't be a gas guzzler...I can't afford it. I have to drive about 30 minutes on the highway to my college campus so I really love the good highway mileage."

With an MSRP starting rate of $23,450, the Chevrolet Equinox is indeed affordably priced, family-friendly with great features and amenities!

To learn more about the Equinox and all of Chevy's line of vehicles,

visit www.chevrolet.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/chevrolet

Twitter: http://twitter.com/chevrolet

Happy New Year and Happy Car Shopping!

Holiday Giveaway: Simon Flash Game and Target's Top Holiday Gifts

2011-12-23T12:31:00.002-05:00

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Christmas is literally just in a few days but many are still looking for the perfect gift.

Still need to finish your holiday shopping? Check out the list below for Target's hottest holiday gifts:

Top Toys for Girls

FIJIT Friends
Barbie® Printable Hairtastic
Monster High Doll 5-pack (Target Exclusive)
Flying Fairies Doll (Target Exclusive)
Lite Sprites Wand and Sprite
Disney My First Princess Doll and Toddler Dress Gift Set (Target Exclusive)
Lalaloopsy Crumb’s Bake off- Doll with Kitchen Set (Target Exclusive)

Top Toys for Boys

Nerf Vortex Nitron Blaster
Star Wars® Ultimate FX LightSaber
Air Hogs Hyperactives RC Vehicle
Paper Jamz Pro Series Mic
Disney Cars 2 Charge Ups Charge ‘N’ Race Speedway (Target Exclusive)
Lego Millennium Falcon
Imaginext® T-Rex
Thomas and Friends Trackmaster Cranky and Flynn Save the Day

Top Toys and Games for All

Games: Scrabble, Simon and Yahtzee Flash
Disney Hedbanz (Target Exclusive)
Bop It! XT
Rock On Elmo
LeapFrog® LeapPad
Elf on the Shelf Book

Other Popular Holiday Gifts

Mercury Glass Home Décor
Cake Pop Maker
Smith & Hawken Bulb Kits
iPad 2
iPhone 4S
Kindle Fire
Elf on the Shelf
Sonia Kashuk 6-pc Brush Set
Merona Sherpa Hoodies
Dog Plush Meat and Cheese Set

Like most teens, my 13 year old is interested in anything having to do with technology, toys and games. We have been able to review one of the hottest toys of the season, the Nerf Vortex Nitron Blaster.

My son loves it long range capability and the fact that its an full-auto Nerf disc blaster - one trigger pull will shoot more than 20 Nerf discs! In addition to being fully automatic, the Nitron is also fully customizable with the Tactical Rail System that is compatible with most Vortex and N-Strike Mission Kit accessories. The Nitron is a great gift for boys, teens and men (who still love to play with toys).

As a holiday giveaway from Target, enter to win an updated version of the popular '80's game Simon Flash.

It’s four SIMON games in one! The WONDER-LINK technology lets the cubes know where you shuffle them, when you win and what you scored. The yellow game is SIMON Lights Off: Can you quickly line up the cubes in just the right order to turn off all the lights? The red game is SIMON Shuffle: When the cube colors scramble, can you line them up in their original order? The blue game is SIMON Secret Color: There’s only one order that will show the same color on all four cubes. How fast can you unlock the code? The green game is SIMON Classic: Stop shuffling. Start pressing! Can you remember and repeat a longer and longer sequence of colors? Challenge your friends or tune up your skills on your own!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Throughout December, guests will continue to save with Target’s everyday low prices and pricing policies including:

Target’s PriceMatch: If guests find a lower price on an identical item advertised locally by a competitor, Target will match the price during the effective date of the competitor’s advertisement.
Target’s Price Adjustment Policy: If a guest purchases an item at Target, but sees it advertised by Target at a lower price during the same week of the purchase, or the week following the purchase date, the guest can bring the original receipt to the Guest Service desk and receive a price adjustment.
Target REDCards: Guests can save an additional 5 percent on already low prices at Target and Target.com throughout the holiday season. Guests who shop with any Target REDcard (Target Visa Credit Card, Target Credit Card, and Target Debit Card) or Target Business Card experience even greater value on all holiday purchases with no minimum purchase and no membership fee.

Learn more about Target's holiday shopping at http://www.target.com/
Like' Target on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/target
'Follow' Target on Twitter at http://twitter.com/target

Happy Holidays!

Disclosure: View Disclosure Policy at http://www.mamiofmultiples.com/p/disclosure-policy.html

Holiday Giveaway: Pong Case for Smartphones and iPads

2011-12-19T09:56:00.003-05:00

Are you reading this on your iPad right now?

Are you using your smartphone to make calls
and search the internet?
Do you know by using these types of wireless products we are exposing ourselves to radiation everyday?

Pong® Research Corporation ("Pong") is an environmental health, safety, and wellness company that provides science-based solutions that protect users of cellular telephones from unnecessary exposure to electromagnetic radiation ("EMR"). EMR is a powerful form of microwave energy that phone antennae emit when they send data to, and receive it from, cell towers. Pong has created the world's only device proven to dramatically reduce EMR exposure while protecting phone performance.

Most users of cell phones are unaware that between 48% and 68% of the radiation emitted by their phones is absorbed into their heads and bodies. The absorption of this "near field" energy not only disrupts the "far field" energy necessary for the phone to communicate with a cell tower, but also underlies increasing concerns among physicians, scientists, and lawmakers who believe this exposure to be a health hazard. Laboratories certified by the Federal Communications Commission ("FCC") have confirmed that Pong's patented solution reduces the amount of EMR absorbed into the user's head by between 60% and 95%, as measured on the world-standard Specific Absorption Rate or "SAR" scale. Pong’s patented technology was developed by a team of experts out of Princeton, Harvard, UCLA and MIT with backgrounds in in plasma physics, nuclear and radiation science, cell biology, electronics engineering and behavioral science.

As a wife, mother and small business owner, I know I' am constantly connected to my smartphones and other wireless devices. However, that does not compare to the immense use of technological products from the 'my-cellphone-is-connected-to-my-hip' tweens, teens and young adults. Due to the constant and intense nature of usage from the adolescent market, they need to be protected from high levels of radiation.

- An article published last month in the scientific journal, Electromagnetic Biology and Medicine, reported that children absorb twice as much radiation from cell phones as adults do and more than FCC guidelines permit.

- Most vulnerable are a child’s brain, eyes and bone marrow, which can absorb as much as 10 times the amount of radiation an adult’s body does.

- These findings come just 4 months after the World Health Organization classified cell phone radiation as a potential carcinogen based on a large, global research study.

In May 2011, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified cell phone radiation as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.” The WHO based its findings on a large, international study coordinated by the International Agency for Research on Cancer that showed an increased risk of a certain type of brain tumor called glioma from regular use of cell phones – defined in the study as 1,640 hours or more of cumulative use. In consumer terms, that equates to slightly less than a half hour of daily use over a 10-year period. Adding to the evidence is a separate 2011 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), which found that 50 minutes of cell phone use affected brain activity in the area nearest to the phone. Concerns about SAR have led the FCC to impose strict SAR limits on cell phones and tablets and mandate that Apple, Blackberry and other cellular device makers warn consumers not to put their cell phone directly against their head or body when using it. Unbeknownst to most consumers, these warnings can be found in all cellular device manuals. Suggestions on how to limit exposure to cell phone radiation, such as texting, using the speaker, or turning the cell phone off when not in use, are not always possible or practical. In addition, the FCC warns against the use of products that claim to shield or block cell phone radiation because they can actually increase the user’s radiation exposure. Making matters worse, shields can also negatively impact a device’s performance.

Pong cases easy to put on and take off and have been designed and tested to work anywhere in the world (Pong cases are currently in use in 50 countries). Pong cases are the only solution on the market that has been proven to protect consumers from unnecessary exposure to device radiation while also protecting a device’s performance.

Pong cases costs between $49.99 and $99.99 and are available at www.pongresearch.com.

Pong’s new Holiday 2011 collection includes:

iPhone 4 and 4S cases

Black Leather Touch, $59.99

Cobalt Blue Leather Touch, $59.99

Cranberry Red Leather Touch, $59.99

iPad 2 case

Black Lexan Soft Touch, $99.99

Features patent-pending design that allows users to stand the device vertically or horizontally in positions that are optimal for movie and TV viewing, reading and typing

Has a sleep/wake function

iPad case

Black Leather Touch, $79.99

Cobalt Blue Leather Touch, $79.99

Cranberry Red Leather Touch, $79.99

BlackBerry Bold 9900/9930

Black Leather Touch, $59.99

As a special holiday giveaway, enter for a chance to win a Pong case for your smartphone or iPad.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

For more information about radiation exposure and Pong cases visit the website at www.pongresearch.com and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/pongresearch?sk=wall for news of special promotions, new product introductions and more.

Disclosure: View Disclosure Policy at http://www.mamiofmultiples.com/p/disclosure-policy.html

Holiday Giveaway: Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents DRAGONS!

2011-12-12T12:44:00.003-05:00

During the holidays and new year season, families want to partake in events and outings they can enjoy together. The holidays are indeed a special time of giving, reflection and celebration with loved ones and friends. As a wife and mother to three, I am always searching for activities that will help to create quality family time and memories.

If you are looking for a fun family outing or for a holiday gift idea, then don't miss Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey^®Presents DRAGONS! a once in a millennium event that honors The Year of the Dragon.

Since I was a little girl growing up in New York, my parents would take me to see Ringling Bros.^®and it was always such an exciting experience. I have continued the tradition with my own three boys because its an event that the entire family can enjoy.

Circus performers from the farthest reaches of the earth have assembled for Ringling Bros.^® Presents Dragons to showcase their astounding acts of bravery and astonishing athleticism. Ringling Bros. Ringmaster Johnathan Lee Iverson presides over this fantastical celebratory tournament of circus champions that brings together mystic dragon lore with authentic circus feats. DRAGONS is a never-before-seen blend of renowned spiritual and real life legends that can be found only at The Greatest Show On Earth!^®. From Shaolin Kung Fu Warriors, charging Cossack riders, magnificent Asian elephants and fierce tigers to the frenzied Globe of Steel, this is will be a phenomenal Ringling Bros.^® show.

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey^®Presents DRAGONS! is coming to cities nationwide, including to the Amway Center in Orlando, FL on January 12 - 16, 2012.

Get tickets for just $12 (plus facility and handling fees) by using promo code MOMMY at checkout on ticketmaster.com. This offer is available for all tickets except Circus Celebrity, Front Row and VIP. The offer is valid for the following performances: Friday at 7:30 pm; Saturday at 11:30 am and 7:30 pm; Sunday at 5 pm; and Monday (MLK Day) at 5 pm.

For those looking for something really special or a holiday gift idea, try the VIP Family Four Pack, which includes 4 VIP tickets, 4 small Lemonades, 4 small Popcorn Boxes, and 4 jumbo Lollipops. The package is $170 and is a savings of over $50! To get this package use promo code FAMDEAL at checkout on ticketmaster.com.

Ringling Bros. Presents DRAGONS! opens an hour before show time with an All Access Pre-show available and FREE for all ticket holders.

As a special holiday giveaway, enter for a chance to win four ticket vouchers good for any performance of DRAGONS.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

For more information on the show, visit http://www.ringling.com/,

Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RinglingBros,

Twitter at http://twitter.com/ringlingtweets.

See you at the The Greatest Show On Earth!^®

^Disclosure:"In exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to attend private Feld pre-Show events. Even though I receive these benefits, I always give an opinion that is 100% mine."

Holiday Coupon Codes and Return Policies

2011-12-07T09:09:00.001-05:00

With Christmas just days away the season of holiday shopping season is in full swing. Most are looking for the best deals to help stretch their holiday budget in this festive period. CouponSherpa.com has listed some of the following coupons that can be used throughout the holiday season:

Macy's
Receive free shipping plus 20% off on orders of $99 or more with coupon code PERFECT.

Coldwater Creek
Use Coldwater Creek coupon code AFLC439 to save $25 and receive free shipping on orders over $100.

Gamestop
$15 off in-stock orders of $100 or more using coupon code MERRY.

Footlocker
Use the Footlocker promo code LKS1VR37 to receive free shipping on orders over $75.

Vans
Get free shipping on any order by using coupon code OKBYME.

Neiman Marcus
Use code DECFS to receive free shipping on orders of any amount.

Finish Line
Save $20 on an order of $100 or more using the Finish Line coupon code BFCM.

Bath & Body Works
Spend $50 or more and receive free shipping with the promo code FREEGIFT50.

Crocs
Save $15 on your order of $75 or more with promo code HOLIDAY15.

Along with the joy of gift giving to family and friends comes the potential for gift returns. FreeShipping.org compiled the following list of major e-retailers and their return policies for 2011:

Ann Taylor
You've got 60 days to return Ann Taylor purchases but, if you don't have the receipt, only a store credit is issued. Gifts returned online will result in an e-gift certificate, so be sure to include your e-mail address on the return receipt. An in-store gift return yields a hardcopy gift certificate in the amount paid by the sender.

Bath & Body Works
Because Bath and Body Works believes "no sale is ever final," they don't need to extend their holiday deadline. You don't need a sales receipt or shipping invoice for gifts, but they can only be returned to brick-and-mortar Bath and Body Works stores.

Cabela's
You've got 90 days to return a Cabela's purchase, which makes everything nice and easy, until you learn you only receive a store credit or gift card when you don't have a receipt. If you need to return a gift, print a return form and send it to Cabela's customer service address or bring it in to any of their retail stores.

Coldwater Creek
There's no deadline for Coldwater Creek returns by mail or to a retail outlet. If you're sending it back and don't have a receipt or packing slip, make sure you include your name and address on a note enclosed with the package.

Best Buy
Enjoy Best Buy free shipping now through Dec. 27, and return gift purchases -- with no exclusions -- through Jan. 4. The electronics behemoth is spreading the holiday cheer even further by removing restocking fees for all products, including special orders, within this timeframe.

Costco
Costco's standard return policy is a liberal 365 days, so there's no need to extend their deadline for the holidays. In addition, Costco refunds membership fees if a customer isn't satisfied. Refunds for Internet purchases include shipping and handling charges.

endless.com
The online-only shoe merchant provides a generous 365 days for returns with guaranteed free shipping. Use the Endless online returns center for proper processing.

JCPenney
The best part of JCPenney's online returns is they pay for shipping and handling, no matter what your reason for returning the product. You have up to 90 days and, with a gift receipt, will receive a JCPenney gift card in the amount of purchase.

Kmart
You'll need an original receipt or email confirmation dated within 90 days of the original date of purchase. No exceptions, apparently.

Kohl's
Return any item, anytime, for any reason. Have your receipt? You'll get a full refund or even exchange. No receipt? No problem. Kohl's will give you a refund, an exchange or store credit.

Lands' End
For returns without an exchange, use the return label for a flat shipping fee of $6.95. You also can return your order to any Sears or Lands' End store and entirely avoid shipping costs.

L.L.Bean
The sky's the limit with L.L. Bean, which has no return deadline and doesn't require authorization before you ship your gift back to them. Just download and fill out an online form or use the form printed on the packing slip.

Macy's
The return deadline for Macy's is a generous 180 days and you don't need a receipt because they have a program that identifies products in their system. Gifts will receive a store credit or exchange. Please note the deadline for jewelry purchases is only 30 days.

Sears
Return the gift in its original packaging, with the original receipt or email confirmation, within 90 days of purchase for a refund or exchange. Alternately, you can return a purchase from Sears.com to one of their stores.

Sierra Trading Post
Sierra Trading Post makes it easy. You have up to six months and will receive instant credit plus $2.95 shipping on your next order. If you prefer, STP will give you a refund.

Toys 'R' Us and Babies 'R' Us
Online purchases returned by mail within 90 days to their online Returns Center are refunded to the original form of payment. Returns to a Toys 'R' Us or Babies 'R' Us store can be given a merchandise credit.

Victoria's Secret
Enjoy Victoria's Secret free shipping, but you've got 90 days to return for cash. After that deadline, Victoria's Secret will only provide store credit. To return gifts, check the box on the Return/Exchange Form attached to the original invoice indicating you're returning a gift and provide your shipping information. If you don't have the original invoice, use their printable return and exchange form.

Walmart
You can return or exchange most store items with a receipt within 90 days of purchase. Visit walmartstores.com to see exceptions for electronic and regulated items. You can return online purchases to any Walmart store.

Zappos
Another great shoe deal: Zappos free shipping is good both for purchases and returns. Whether you're unhappy with a purchase or simply change your mind, Zappos will provide a full refund or exchange within 365 days of purchase. You'll need the original packaging, however, to make the return.

Happy Holiday Shopping!

RSV Prevention and Preemie Awareness Day

2011-11-24T08:45:00.001-05:00

During my pregnancy with my twin boys, I was considered a high-risk pregnancy. Almost always women who are carrying twins or multiples are considered high-risk because of the complications that can be associated with carrying more than one child within the womb. Having already given birth naturally to my eldest son years earlier, I was conscious about the difference in pregnancies from carrying one to now two babies at once. Most of my pregnancy was pretty normal in terms of carrying twins and symptoms. I knew and understand that most multiples were born early and have a high rate of being born early, premature labor (preemies). Statistics show that seventy percent of multiples are born before their due date. With triplets, quadruplets and other higher order multiples, the odds are higher, nearly 100 percent.

I was prepared and scheduled for a C-section in mid-December. My husband had been on military deployment overseas for almost the entire pregnancy and I knew he would be home December to witness the birth of the twins. However, two unexpected things occurred...my husband came home in mid-November and my water broke in the early hours of Thanksgiving Day. The twins arrived at 35 weeks at on Thanksgiving Day weighing in at 4lbs and 5 oz and 4lbs and 13 oz. Although premature, thankfully, the twins were healthy and developed enough that they did not have to spend any of the time in the hospital in the NICU or inside of an incubator. However, for the more than half a million American babies born prematurely each year, this often isn’t the case. Many parents of preterm infants are unprepared for the special medical care preemies often require.

According to a March of Dimes survey, most expecting parents don’t discuss preterm birth with their doctor during prenatal care, even if they are at high risk. November 17 has been designated as World Prematurity Day to help raise awareness about preterm birth and its complications, including the risk of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Prematurity, defined as being born before 37 weeks completed gestation, disrupts a baby’s development in the womb, often stunting the growth of some of the body’s most critical organs. At birth, preemies often have difficulty with breathing, feeding and maintaining temperature. Because their immune systems haven’t had time to fully mature, preterm infants are more likely to develop infections, and because their lungs are underdeveloped, they are more susceptible to respiratory problems.

For example, nearly every baby contracts respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) by age two. In most full-term babies, symptoms are similar to those of the common cold and parents may not even know their child has the virus. However, because they don’t have the antibodies needed to fight off infection, preterm infants—even those born just a few weeks early—are at increased risk for developing an RSV-related infection, often requiring medical attention or hospitalization. Parents should speak with their pediatrician to find out if their baby is at high risk for developing severe RSV disease, and how they can prevent against RSV this winter.

RSV Quick Facts

· RSV is the leading cause of infant hospitalization, responsible for more than 125,000 hospitalizations and up to 500 infant deaths each year.

· RSV occurs in epidemics each fall through spring. The CDC has defined “RSV season” as beginning in November and lasting through March for most parts of North America.

· Certain regions have longer RSV seasons than others, with the season beginning as early as July (e.g., Florida) or ending in April.

· Despite its prevalence, one-third of mothers have never heard of RSV.

Prevention is Key

There is no treatment for RSV, so it’s important for parents to take the following preventive steps to help protect their child:

· Wash hands, toys, bedding, and play areas frequently

· Ensure you, your family, and any visitors in your home wash their hands or use hand sanitizer

· Avoid large crowds and people who may be sick

· Never let anyone smoke near your baby

· Speak with your child’s doctor if you believe he or she may be at high risk for RSV, as a preventive therapy may be available

Be Aware of Symptoms

Contact your child’s pediatrician immediately if your child exhibits one or more of the following:

· Persistent coughing or wheezing

· Rapid, difficult, or gasping breaths

· Blue color on the lips, mouth, or under the fingernails

· High fever

· Extreme fatigue

· Difficulty feeding

With more 13 million babies worldwide affected by prematurity, all parents should be aware of this important issue. To learn more about RSV, visit www.rsvprotection.com. For more about the specialized health needs of preterm infants, visit www.preemievoices.com.

Disclosure: “I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of MedImmune and received a promotional item to thank me for taking the time to participate.”

Insights into Hispanics Understanding of Oral Health Care

2011-11-21T15:20:00.001-05:00

Last year I co-hosted an interview on the Chicas Chatting show with Dr. Victor Rodriguez, the 2010 President of the Hispanic Dental Association. Dr. Rodriguez discussed the correlation between diabetes and dental care among the Hispanic community. During the interview he answered listeners' questions about proper dental care and the importance to teach young children about oral health. Given the amount of questions that were being submitted by listeners across the country (especially by Hispanic mothers) I quickly realized that there was a need for information amongst the Hispanic community about dental care and health.

A recent national survey led by the Hispanic Dental Association (HDA) and sponsored by Crest and Oral-B found that, when compared to the general population, many Hispanics in the U.S. are facing barriers to achieving better oral health. Given that U.S. Hispanics are the fastest growing segment of the U.S. population and (although 67% of U.S. Hispanics rate their overall health as excellent or good), two-thirds have experienced at least one oral health issue in the past year. This does indicate that U.S. Hispanics have significant oral health challenges to address.

Growing up proper dental care was of great importance to my parents. I can still hear the reminders from my parents to brush my teeth in the morning, before bedtime, after meals and to floss. Part of the reason that dental care was part of my foundation was because we had easy access to dental and medical care. With my father being a union executive part of his benefits was access to a union medical center that housed physicians, specialists and dentists in one convenient location in New York. I enjoyed taking a trip to the medical center since I received a lot of attention because I was among the youngest dependents that received care at the center. The dentists would put up the names of children who had no cavities at the opening of the dental offices and would often give special treats as rewards. I recall dentists singing and making funny jokes while I was sitting in the dentist chair so I wouldn't be scared of a dental visit. Due to my parents' diligence and sweet dental care by the dentists at the medical center I have never had a cavity.

Some of the startling revelations for me from the study were the following:

Approximately 16 million Hispanics adults do not have access to dental insurance

Many Hispanics simply do not consider dental visits a priority

Hispanics have many misconceptions about oral health

Knowledge gaps (oral health literacy), high cost (access to affordable care and insurance) and language/culture differences (Hispanic/Spanish-speaking dental health professionals) represent top barriers to many Hispanics

A concept I totally relate in the survey was the findings that Hispanics rely equally on their parents (61%) and their dentist/hygienist (60%) for oral care information. More than half (52%) rely on their physician/pediatrician as well. Due to my parents instruction I try to follow in their footsteps with my children and their oral health care. My toddler twins have already been to the dentist for their 1st checkup and my teen son goes to the dentist annually.

The Hispanic Dental Association is helping to close the gap for dental care within the Hispanic community. Part of the HDA's mission statement is to promote the oral health of the Hispanic community through improved prevention, treatment and education; foster research and knowledge concerning Hispanic oral health problems; disseminate information to both Hispanic dental professionals and the community at large.

To understand about dental care and the Hispanic community see more information at www.crestcomplete.com/study. I am encouraged that this important issue is being brought to light to help raise awareness and understanding for all Hispanics.

Disclosure: I wrote this post while participating in a compensated campaign with Procter & Gamble and Latina Mom Bloggers. However, all opinions expressed are my own.

My Story and The Story CD

2011-11-15T08:57:00.001-05:00

Some of my parents' grandchildren in front of our church in Florida

When I get asked at what age did I become a Christian, my answer is "before I could even talk". I was born into a Christian family - from my maternal grandparents down to the youngest grandchild (which is me) - we we raised in the Christian faith. Being born in New York, I was the youngest of my siblings and cousins. Most were already preteens or teenagers when I was born so I was truly the baby of the family. Some of my earliest memories involve us getting ready to go to Church on Sundays. I wore some of the most beautiful colorful big skirt ruffled dresses that were either bought in Downtown New York or wear handmade by Cuban seamstresses in Miami, FL. My family believed in the motto about wearing your "Sunday Best" for the Lord to church. We were usually one of the largest families to attend church with 10 family members consisting of just teens or young adults alone. We each held various positions within the church, i.e choir director, missionary worker, prayer group leader, women's ministry leader, youth group leader, evangelism outreach coordinator, etc....the list can truly go on and on. A typical week could find us in church 3x - 4x times, including Sundays where we attended the morning and evening services. My mother had weekly women prayer and support group in our fully finished basement that had a kitchen. My parents would make meals for the ladies often who came straight from work (much like my mother did) to the group meeting. By the age of 3, I was singing and dancing (yes...I said dancing) in front of the entire church congregation (with a full choir behind me) to lively gospel songs and hymns in English and Spanish. (As most who know me can attest to, shyness is not an issue for me.) :-)

Church was not a religion for us - it was essential part our everyday lives.

Fast forward to years later and I am now a mother to my own family. No longer are my beloved, devout and faithful grandparents living on this earth and my family is spread out across the country. Yet I try my very best to hold fast to the sweet traditions and memories that "growing up in the church" can bring for my own children. Though we always look presentable and neat, we might not always be wearing our most "fanciest" clothing to church - doesn't always work out with a teen son and toddler twin boys. I volunteer and work in my church in various aspects from the women's ministry to helping to manage the church's social media efforts. I have taught my children, especially my 13 year old son, to always volunteer and help out when needed in the church. Having a servant's heart is something that I want all my children to learn.

Even with my biblical knowledge and long-time faith I hold in my heart, I readily admit that I made wrong choices in my life and have paid the consequences for youthful mistakes.

BUT

Knowing and Accepting the Lord as my Savior and Redeemer
Believing in His Grace and Mercy
Accepting that I am not Perfect (no one but the Lord is) and Knowing that I will make Mistakes
Despite my Flaws and Imperfections, I can still seek Him for Guidance, Direction and Forgiveness...Has always Put Me Back on the Right and Solid Path

I am pleased to share THE STORY, an unparalleled project from the best-known artists in Christian music. The songs on THE STORY take timeless biblical stories and provide a completely new context into how God's story of love and redemption intersects with our story of brokenness and failures resulting in a new story of hope and rescue. The CD contains 18 all-new songs written by multiple Dove Award-Winners Nichole Nordeman & Bernie Herms, produced by Brown Bannister & Bernie Herms, and a stellar line-up of artists across all major labels. (Music Inspired By) THE STORY is based on a collaboration with authors Randy Frazee (The Heart Of The Story) & Max Lucado (God's Story Your Story) as well as Zondervan's bible The Story.

THE STORY beautifully illustrates through song and worship stories from the Bible and the simple truths of Gospel sung by today's top Christian artists like Mandisa, Steven Curtis Chapman, Todd Smith, Natalie Grant, Jeremy Camp, Micheal W. Smith and more.

This musical and inspiration CD (which is also available in DVD format) can be a great Christmas or holiday gift from children to adults. THE STORY can be purchased via iTunes, Amazon, and various Christian retail stores.

For more information, visit http://www.thestorycd.com/

Share the inspirational THE STORY with your family and friends this holiday season!

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post on behalf of THE STORY CD and Momma Findings, however, the thoughts and opinions expressed here are clearly my own.

Rice Balls for Toddlers with From The Frontline's Gabrielle Morel

2011-11-11T08:42:00.001-05:00

My youngest set of twins recently turned one. This is that wonderful stage where they’re eating more adult foods but some things are still off limits. The early phase during the toddler years when they can’t really master getting the spoon to their mouth yet and 90% of their food ends up on the wall and/or floors. So you could imagine my dismay when my babies got sick last week; what could I give them to eat? I had no idea how I would ever get these babies to eat soup when I barely able to get them to eat finger foods!

Well a good friend suggested rice would help my babies with those illness induced diaper issues. I made brown rice for my babies and surprisingly they loved it! The only issue was every time I tried to feed them rice they grabbed the spoon out of my hand, which sent tiny grains of rice all over my floor. So the next day I decided I would make them rice balls, this way they could feed themselves. It is a little time consuming but it is a great idea for babies who love and are learning to feed themselves.

Rice Balls for Babies and Toddlers

Ingredients
1 cup of Rice (I used brown rice for this recipe)
1 Spoonful of Beans
1 Strip of Chicken Breast

Directions
1. Add rice, beans, and chicken breast to the food processor. Mix well until the mixture becomes a paste-like texture. (I have tried this with rice only and it didn’t work very well. I would suggest using a food processor to blend the rice with beans or peas to help the rice balls stick together.)

2. Grab a pinch full of rice mixture and roll them into tiny balls with hands. (I would suggest using ½ tablespoon of the rice mixture so it is small enough for a baby to pick up with their fingers.)

My twins enjoyed being able to pick up the rice balls

with their tiny hands and they ate it!

Announcing the Launch of Multiplicity Magazine and Contributing Writers Wanted

2011-10-30T21:39:00.000-04:00

On behalf of Twiniversity, #1 online resource for moms of multiples, we announce the launch of Multiplicity Magazine. Created based upon the expansive needs of mothers of multiples, Multiplicity Magazine will be a quarterly electronic magazine offering resources and advice on an array of parenting and lifestyle topics directly related to families of multiples.

Executively managing production of Multiplicity are Natalie Diaz, Founder, Twiniversity & Multiciplity and Group Publisher; Joscelyn Ramos Campbell, Executive Editor; and Talitha A. McGuinness, Creative Director. Collectively, the group has more than 30 years’ experience in the Marketing and Communications industries.

Successful partnerships with some of the most well-established parenting brands allows for subscribers of Multiciplity to learn about new products, medical and technological advances, educational resources, and proven methods to assist with parenting, specific to multiple birth issues.

To enhance user experience and to set itself apart from traditional print media, Multiplicity will provide interactive links throughout the publication to provide additional information and insight on articles, and advertised products and services.

Multiplicity currently has 3,000 subscribers with a reach to more than 10,000 families of multiples in 19 countries. The inaugural issue will debut free of charge to the public in January 2012.

Multiplicity is looking for contributing writers to provide content on various family-friendly subjects related to families of multiples including pregnancy, parenting, culture, education and nutrition. *Writers do not need to have multiples to write for Multiplicity.*

Compensation at a standard rate per article or a promotional social media package is available for contributing writers.

Example of promotional social media package for contributing writers:

Backlink byline and bio promoting writers' sites to thousands of magazine subscribers
Promoted on Facebook page that has over 5,000 highly engaged fans and 999,000 average post views in the past three months
Posting on Twitter and YouTube and guest interviews on Blog Talk Radio for participating writers

Able to create family-friendly content but don’t know how to make it relevant for families of multiples? Multiplicity staff members can help contributing writers include a multiples specific ‘spin’ into created content.

Interested in becoming a contributor writer, please email me at joscelyn@multiplicitymag.com.

For more information, visit http://www.twiniversity.com/multiplicity.

Celebrate Your Music with Verizon #SomosFiOS Twitter Party

2011-10-24T20:02:00.001-04:00

Growing up in Brooklyn, New York to Cuban and Puerto Rican parents, music was part of my daily life. I learned and heard various musical genres including opera, classical, salsa, merengue and folk. Music is very essential and an important aspect in most Latino households - its part of our culture and who we are.

Listen to the 'beat of your heart' and join Verizon FiOS and Latina Mom Bloggers on October 25 for the “Celebrate Our Music” Twitter Party. We'll chat about our passion for music, our favorite songs, the upcoming Latin music awards show in Las Vegas and our favorite music artists. We’re also excited to announce the launch of the Verizon FIOS “Celebrate Our Music” Facebook sweepstakes.

Verizon is committed to the Hispanic community and provides tools and services to demonstrate its pledge, such as:

www.EnciendeteFios.com

Spanish-language programming

Bilingual Facebook and Twitter sites

Hispanic Scholarship Fund partnership

Verizon FiOS is a bundled home communications (Internet, telephone, and television) service, operating over a fiber-optic communications network that is offered in some areas of the United States by Verizon Communications – 100% fiber optics right to your door and the top-rated broadband service in America with top upload and download speeds.

Verizon has received top ratings from a leading national consumer magazine among cable television and Internet service providers. With bundles available to suit your needs, FiOS TV offers over 540 channels, including more than 130 HD channels. The FiOS network of Verizon has surpassed 16.1 million premises as of midyear 2011. At the end of the third quarter, the company had a total of 4.5 million FiOS Internet customers, and 3.8 million FiOS TV customers.

Party Details:
What: Verizon FiOS “Celebrate Our Music” Twitter party
When: Tuesday, October 25, 2011 from 9 PM to 10:30 PM EST
Where: Twitter
Hashtag: #SomosFiOS

Who to Follow:
Panelists: @mamalatina @JoscelynRC @MContemporanea @BrenHerrera @ShesNachoMama
Moderators: @Eva_Smith @JollyMom @latinamomblogs @hispanicize
Brand: @SomosFiOS

Prizes:

iPod Nano Shuffle (retail value $161)

Dr. Dre Solo Headphones (retail $192)

Home Karaoke Machine (retail value $335)

iPad 2 (retail value $570)

iPad 2 (retail value $570)

RSVP:

To be eligible to win prizes, you must RSVP at Latina Mom Bloggers. Click HERE to RSVP.

See you there!

Discovery Familia Breast Cancer Awareness and Tengo Cáncer Documentary

2011-10-18T11:19:00.001-04:00

Breast cancer is a diagnosis no women and mother wants to hear. Yesterday TV reality star and host, Giuliana Rancic, (age 36)announced she had the early stages of breast cancer - detected because she was instructed, despite of her young age, to get a mammogram as part of her in vitro fertilization process. Though her baby plans are temporarily on hold, the early detection of breast cancer greatly increases her chances of having a more positive outcome.

During this year’s October Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Discovery Familia will join in the fight against breast cancer with an on air campaign that includes special programming and a series of PSAs specifically created to call on Hispanic women to become informed and take preventative measures.

As part of this initiative, Discovery Familia will premiere Tengo cáncer, an autobiographical documentary, on Saturday, October 29^th at 9 PM EST during its Sábados Médicos programming block. This coproduction, between Discovery Familia and Imagina U.S., follows the real life story of Patricia San Pedro, a successful executive with a thriving career whose life was turned upside down after being diagnosed with breast cancer, a fate her mother suffered 20 years prior. Even so, San Pedro opted for looking at her situation as an opportunity to learn. She accentuated and focused on the positive, maximizing the new opportunities and ideas that resulted from her struggle.

During this special month, the network is also collaborating with Latinas Contra Cancer, a nonprofit organization that provides information and support to women in the Hispanic community. Starting on October 15th, Discovery Familia will air a series of PSAs featuring Hispanic women’s moving testimonials about their experiences with breast cancer. These survivors share their stories with the viewers in a very personal way. The ultimate objective is to highlight the importance of prevention, early detection and family support, as well as to deliver a message of hope.

The Sábados Médicos programming block, which features Tengo cáncer and airs every Saturday at 9 PM EST, also offers a variety of shows and series on medicine and well-being including, Enigmas médicos, Dame un remedio, Cirugía plástica y Secretos de mi cuerpo.

In addition, the network will also provide useful online information for Hispanic women at www.discoveryfamilia.com/cancer on prevention, diagnostics and treatment, as well as links to important resources including Latinas Contra Cancer www.latinascontracancer.org and Patricia San Pedro’s motivational web site www.positivelypat.com.

For more information visit www.discoveryfamilia.com

Disclosure: I wrote this post while participating in a compensated campaign with Discovery Familia and Latina Mom Bloggers. However, all opinions expressed are my own.