Momma Findings | Houston Mom Blog

Summer Fun: Springfree Trampoline Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Mon, 28 May 2012 04:01:00 +0000

My kids are BEGGING me for a trampoline for the backyard. I'm, seriously, considering it since I discovered the safe trampolines from Springfree. Imagine their surprise if I had one sitting in the backyard for them on their last day of school!?

Summer is just around the corner, and that means plenty of outdoor fun for kids of all ages. To celebrate, I've teamed up with a group of fantastic bloggers to give one very lucky USA or Canadian reader a Large Square Trampoline valued at $1,899.00 from Springfree Trampoline! Did you know that Springfree Trampoline is the safest trampoline in the world? Its revolutionary design will allow your kids to have all the fun, with none of the injuries!

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5 Changes You'll See at Momma Findings {Totally Good Stuff}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Sun, 27 May 2012 15:58:00 +0000

This isn't your regular, fun, uplifting, Momma Findings kinda post. There is no giveaway, or contest, or review, or the latest family event here in the Houston area. No. Today, I'm writing about the shear fact that I'm still alive. I'm breathing. Barely.

There's nothing dramatic going on with me. My marriage is in tact. My children are healthy. In fact, life is going pretty darn great.... and that's the scary part. Do you ever feel like life is going SO great that it's BOUND to fall to it's doom sooner than later? A few weeks ago, I accepted a position with KPRC Local 2 News as their Social Media Producer. I've spent the last 10 days analyzing their channels, drumming up ideas, and, overall, learning my way around the newsroom (yes, I finally found out where the bathroom is... YESSSSSSSS!). While I'm, absolutely, loving the job, my focus has shifted. I'm not able to put 100% into this here blog, but I have a plan..... a totally good one.

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Have Picky Eaters? Share Your Story With Boost Kid Essentials {Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Wed, 23 May 2012 04:26:00 +0000

The last few days of my life has been an utter haze of craziness. Last Wednesday, I started a new job in Houston. I keep saying I'll announce it here, but I'm trying to get used to the job FIRST, before I do that. Although, if you follow me on Twitter (@Sarann), you'll see it in my bio.

With that said, meal planning has been crazy. The first week we ate out a LOT. This week I enrolled the kids in helping me plan dinners. Each of them chose one night and the coinciding meal that would go with that night. All I had to do was shop for the ingredients, since my husband offered to cook the meals. Win/Win, right? Not so much when you're dealing with picky eaters.

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5 Frugal Summer Activities for the Whole Family

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Fri, 18 May 2012 21:35:00 +0000

As the weather gets warmer, you and your family will be eager to get out of the house to enjoy the outdoors again. Summer is a great time to explore the various activities you and your family can do together and, if you stay local, you won’t spend as much money in the process. Here are five affordable outdoor activities that you and your family can enjoy on a summer day.

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Celebrating Kids Who Make a Difference In The Community

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 17 May 2012 04:06:00 +0000

Never underestimate the giving heart of a child. Every day I'm shocked to see how giving my children really are. From collecting canned goods for food drives to gathering toys each year for the less fortunate, my children, often, teach me just what it means to make an impact on our small community. I'm definitely a proud Momma watching them grow and embrace what it means to make a difference.

This month, I'm not the only one celebrating our youth and the positive impact they make. Farm Rich, a popular lineup of frozen snacks and appetizers, is kicking off the third annual Kids Who Give contest, which celebrates young people making a positive impact in the world. Do you know a kid who goes over and beyond in their community? This contest would be PERFECT for them.

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Local Findings: H-E-B Primo Picks Bring Unique to Texas

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Tue, 15 May 2012 15:42:00 +0000

Do you ever catch yourself in the aisle of your favorite grocery store kinda bored? I'm not talking bored with grocery shopping, I'm talking bored with grocery selection. My kids get tired of the same meals, cooked with the same ingredients, with the same result. While satisfying, I think sometimes? We just need to try new things. Don't you think?

H-E-B, our favorite grocery store in Texas, had me in mind when they debuted their NEW Primo Picks line of products. These products are MEANT to get you outside of your comfort zone. With their unique flavors and outstanding quality, Primo Picks are products you may have never heard of or tried before. These products are items that H-E-B searched the world for and brought straight home to Texas to share with all of you. There are very limited quantities, so make sure you get while they're in stock. Wondering what kind of products I'm talking about?

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Experience Adventure and Ziplining at Florida EcoSafaris

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Mon, 14 May 2012 20:26:00 +0000

Earlier today I let you in on a MUST HAVE service if you're going on a road trip with the kids this Summer. Make sure to check out how you can easily transfer your favorite DVDS to digital copies so you can have handy when you go on a Summer Vacation. Speaking of which, are you still looking for something to do that the whole family can enjoy? Well, last month, during the #DisneyGlobalEvent, I had the chance to go on a thrilling zipline adventure at Florida EcoSafaris at Forever Florida.

There's something for the WHOLE family! From nature, to animals, and all the way to the adventure of ziplining through some of the most beautiful scenery, Florida EcoSafaris is your one stop shop for Summer Vacation fun. Nestled on a 4,700 Eco-Ranch and wildlife conservation in Kissimmeee, FL this destination is definitely something worth checking out. I, for one, got the chance to ride the Rattlesnake Zipline Roller Coaster (the first of it's kind by the way), and am DYING to go back to do it again.

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Movies on the Go With Walmart's Disc-to-Digital Service {$50 Gift Card Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Mon, 14 May 2012 15:05:00 +0000

Summer is almost here.. wait. Who am I kidding? Summer starts in January here in Houston. What I MEANT to say is Summer VACATION time is almost here. Families everywhere will be gearing up for fun in the sun. Road trips will be planned. Hotels will be booked and we're left with the every looming cries of the kids in the backseat yelling, "Are we there yet?!"

Now with Walmart's NEW Disc-to-Digital service, you can take ALL your favorite movies with you on-the-go. This new service turns your physical movie library into digital movie and allows you to watch your favorite movies on any internet-connected device, including your laptop, Smartphone, tablet or gaming console – wherever you are! For just $2 per disc, Walmart will convert a standard DVD or Blu-ray movie to a digital copy. You can also upgrade a standard DVD to an HD digital copy for $5. Who's ready to try it?!

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May Beauty Pick: Clear Scalp and Hair Beauty Therapy {Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 10 May 2012 14:58:00 +0000

As Summer peeks out from behind the walls of Spring, our hair may be cringing at the thought of the heat, humidity, and even the chlorine from swimming pools. My hair takes a beating during the Summer months with split ends, breakage, and overall lack of moisture. It doesn't take much to have a bad hair day in the Houston area. One day it's raining, the next day it's 100 degrees with 90% humidity. It doesn't help that my hair is super long, super coarse, and super curly. To say I need hair protection would be an understatement.

That's why I'm SO excited to let you guys in on our May Beauty Pick of the Month. The search for strong, beautiful, healthy hair is finally over. Clear Scalp and Hair Beauty therapy is a new line of shampoos and conditioners that treats the scalp, rather than the ends of your hair, creating a strong foundation for healthy growth of hair. I got the chance to test it out and two of YOU guys will too!

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Toy Review: Mega Bloks Steer-Me Steve Dump Truck {Ultimate Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Wed, 09 May 2012 15:07:00 +0000

If there's one thing my little man likes, it's dirt and toy trucks. I've mentioned before, my youngest son, who's 5-yrs-old, is the epitome of the male species. He also loves buildings blocks. We can, literally, build for hours on the coffee table with our Mega Bloks collection. He sets a timer on my phone and we go as fast as we can to build the tallest sky scraper in 2 minutes.

These memories are what I'll take with me as he heads off to Kindergarten next year and I'm happy that these classic toys will never go out of style in my home. In fact, Mega Bloks is constantly releasing new toys like the Steer-Me Steve Dump Truck that allows children to use their imagination as they discover the world around them. Today, I'll give you a peek inside our home when we met Steer-Me Steve and you'll have a chance at winning an ultimate Mega Bloks Giveaway

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2012 Honda Odyssey Review: 5 Features This Mom Loves

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Tue, 08 May 2012 19:40:00 +0000

Last month, I found myself flying into Florida for 5 days. We'd enjoy the sights and attractions of Kissimmee, FL, but how would I get around AFTER I landed? Thanks to my friends at Honda, I got to drive the 2012 Honda Odyssey and if I hadn't? Let's just say I would have been in a world panic had I not had a GPS to guide me.

It got me thinking, we drive a family SUV that sucks gas faster than I can pump it. When we decide to shop for a new vehicle, what would we look for? What kind of features do most families need in a vehicle? Moreover, is it stylish enough for me to drive when the kids AREN'T with me? Oh, don't say you don't think the same thing? Minivans aren't usually first on the list when it comes to "cool," but the Honda Odyssey? Well, let's just say I didn't want to give it back.

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Pretend Play in the Kitchen With GummyLump Toys {Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Mon, 07 May 2012 20:17:00 +0000

My kids have ALWAYS been great helpers in the kitchen. From helping me set the table to easy preparation of the food, they definitely do their part to help Momma out. We used to have a play kitchen in which my oldest two children would make me pretend hamburgers and host tea parties with our stuffed animals. My youngest, who's 5-yrs-old now somehow skipped that phase of imagination. He's all about extreme play outdoors, wrestling, and video games. He is the epitome of a boy.

So, once I realized his imaginative play time was limited, I turned to Melissa & Doug Toys. With their array of wooden toys and play food, I was eager to see my little chef in the kitchen with his brand new Sandwich Shop Play Food set. Oh and the Chef Role Costume? ADORABLE! Do you let your kids help in the kitchen?

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10 Goals Mom Bloggers Make and How They're Not Big Enough

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Mon, 07 May 2012 14:33:00 +0000

Last night I began making a mental list of what I need to take care of this week. I have seven days to completely conquer this list before my life changes. On May 14th there is a new beginning. I start a new job. No longer will I be a work-at-home-mom, but instead a going-into-the-office-mom who juggles work, a professional blog, family life, commitments, and time with my husband. I used to always say, "I don't know how working moms do it. I'd lose my mind having to work AND do everything at home." Yet here I sit, mentally preparing for a life altering shift in our family dynamic.

Next week I begin a job in Social Media for a big company in the Houston area. I'll announce it later, as soon as I officially step foot into my office, but it's got me thinking. If you're a professional blogger, what are your goals? Are you ACTUALLY seeing the big picture and potential there is for bloggers who are social media savvy? Or do you sit behind the computer waiting for the next free product brands want to send you? There's something bigger out there. Trust me.

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Movie Talk: Marvel's The Avengers Review

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Fri, 04 May 2012 15:05:00 +0000

Today, my 5-yr-old wakes up and the first thing on his mind? Super Heroes. His excitement has gotten the best of him, because he knows that Marvel's The Avengers debuts in theaters today. He also knows that his 9-yr-old brother has already watched the movie with me at press screening, so he's anxious to see why we can't stop talking about this movie.

Oh, in case you've been living under a rock, The Avengers debuts TODAY, May 4th! Do we have any Marvel fans out there? Coming together on one screen, to save the earth from evil villan Loki, are Black Widow, Ash, Captain America, Iron Man, Thor, The Hulk, and Nick Fury. I've never been a fan of comic books or Marvel characters, until I saw this movie. As of Today? We've caught up on every Marvel movie made and I'm DYING to see The Avengers again! I do, however, know you guys want to know if it's family friendly and whether or not YOU should take your kids. Well, we've got your scoop right here.

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Summer Reading With American Girl {Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 03 May 2012 21:10:00 +0000

We have one month to go before Summer begins. Didn't school JUST start? It seems like the school year just blasted on by, didn't it? Besides planning fun stuff like water parks, road trips, and lazy Summers filled with ice cream, my little family is all about getting ready for Summer Reading. Last year, we threw a Summer Reading party with all of their friends to celebrate the start of the season and encourage kids, in the neighborhood, to continue to read. It was a blast! This year, we're planning another reading party and coming up with fun ways to help MORE kids discover the joy of reading.

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Fun Finds: Fijit Friends Newbies Review

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Wed, 02 May 2012 14:34:00 +0000

Last year, one of the hottest toys for children during the Holiday Season were the new Fijit Friends. You guys remember me giving one away and talking about how my daughter just HAD to have one? Well, Santa Claus came through and my girl got her Fijit Friend. This Spring, Fijit Friends will be joined by the NEW Fijit Friends Newbies. These are pint sized little companions who are ALL about singing, telling jokes, and having fun! Plus, they are the fraction of the cost making it easier to purchase for those on a tight budget.

Today, I'll let you in on EXACTLY what we thought of these tiny little Fijit Friends Newbies. Using both my son and daughter, we had hours and hours of play time with these adorable little electronic pets and what you can expect.

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Carpet Cleaning with Stanley Steemer {$100 Gift Card Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Tue, 01 May 2012 13:51:00 +0000

It never ceases to amaze me. I can clean, clean, and clean some more, yet my carpets always seem to be dirty. Granted, I DO have three young children. That could be the culprit, right? Nevertheless, it's so difficult to keep my floors clean. Do you share my sediment? When we moved into our current home, I was so happy that our living room was hardwood. We still battle the carpet in other rooms in our house, like the media room and bedrooms, but it doesn't seem to be the constant uphill battle, but I also rely on local carpet cleaning services.

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Family Time: Mexican Chocolate Pudding Recipe #ComerJuntos {Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Sun, 29 Apr 2012 14:55:00 +0000

Today I made a stand. Today, I insisted we eat dinner together as a family. Our weekly routine has become this crazy, chaotic, hectic blur of a day. Between job schedules, homework, and t-ball it's hard for us to sit down for a meal together as family. That's been hard on my sweet little Momma heart because I think this is the one time we have a chance to talk about our day relax together.

There are so many benefits to eating meals together at the table - tighter bonds, better communication and memorable traditions for everyone, especially children. Sierra Mist Natural has teamed up with Chef Aarón Sánchez, star of Food Network’s “Chopped” and “Heat Seekers” to bring us a program that encourages families to gather around the dinner table to eat, drink and laugh while enjoying delicious Latin-inspired dishes. “Comer Juntos: Una Tradición Natural” shows parents the joy of eating together every night, and not just for special occasions.

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A New Way to Vacation: Global Resort Homes and A Chef of Your Own

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 17:50:00 +0000

When we go on vacation, it's usually filled with LOTS of eating out and lots of time in a hotel room. I have three kids. Do I NEED to say much more? Being in a hotel room, I don't care how nice, with three kids for an extended amount of time can make ANYONE go crazy. Add to the frustration is the dirty laundry, sharing a bathroom, and the lack of privacy to, simply, breathe. Vacation can get stressful.

I've discovered, over the last few days, that there's a new and easier way to vacation. It may not be all that new to you, but it is for me because I've NEVER experienced vacationing quite like I have in this Florida Vacation Home. Not only that, but you can have a Chef of Your Own to take a little bit of that stress from you and cook up a gourmet meal for the family. Uhhhh... HELLO... I have three kids. How awesome would that be to have someone ELSE cook for us in the comfort of a vacation home?

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Movie Talk: Marvel's The Avengers Hits Theaters May 4th {Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 18:43:00 +0000

This weekend we're having a Super Hero Movie Marathon! I know. I know. It's usually not "my style" to sit in front of the tv watching movies about comic book heroes, but I'm totally addicted to all that is Marvel right now. On Wednesday, my 9-yr-old son and I screened Marvel's The Avengers and now? Now I'm a complete convert. I want to know all there is to know about Iron Man, Thor, The Hulk, Captain America, and S.H.I.E.L.D.

I can't wait to share my Avengers Movie Review with you guys on May 4th, but I couldn't resist sharing my excitement over the movie. I had such a blast watching it with my son. So much so, that I'd like to give YOU guys the chance to get excited too with a cool Avengers giveaway. This will, seriously, give you brownie points with the neighborhood kids.

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3 Quick and Easy Recipes for a Hectic Week {Walmart Gift Card Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 13:51:00 +0000

We've all been there. It's 6:00pm and you STILL don't know what you're cooking for dinner. What's happened to me? Just three years ago I used to menu plan, organize shopping lists, and strategically feed my family on a strict budget. These days, I'm struggling to plan meals and dinner time sneaks up on me every single day. I need help to either A.) Balance my work schedule or B.) Find Easy Recipes for a chaotic week. I'll go with B.

If you're looking to spice up your weekly dinners or sweeten your next family gathering with an extra special dessert? Bake-Off.com now has 100 new recipe creations from Pillsbury Bake-Off finalists from across the country. Whether you are in the mood for Breakfast & Brunches, Appetizers, Dinner Made Easy, or Sweet Treats, Bake-Off.com has tons of new ideas that are simple to make and sure to ease the mind of a busy Mom.

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April Beauty Pick: Fekkai Hair Care {Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 15:27:00 +0000

You guys are going to kill me aren't you? May is almost here and I haven't posted the Beauty Pick of the Month for April. I'm going to blame my chaotic travel schedule that started in March and lasts until Mid-May. Either way, that's not an excuse, it's just my way of saying I feel horrible I haven't posted yet, but I'm really excited about this month's beauty pick.

This Spring it's all about healthy hair at H-E-B. That's why our April Beauty Pick is Fekkai Hair Care products! Oh yes. We went there and we want to take all of YOU guys there for a chance to win a Fekkai Hair Care Starter Kit!

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Is Blogging Ever Too Much On Your Family?

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 13:45:00 +0000

If you're a professional blogger, you might have clicked your way onto this post. If you're not? Well, then this might sound oh so very foreign to you. Five years ago I started blogging. It started off as cute little stories about my kids, pictures of our playdates, and fun stuff we liked to do in and around Charlotte, NC. Yup. I started off as a Charlotte Mom Blogger, but it quickly turned into something bigger, something I never would have imagined.

All of a sudden I owned a website, I monetized, I conference called, I traveled, I raced alongside my peers to stay "in the game" of blogging. The fun was stripped away. Today I feel stressed, overwhelmed, pressured, not to keep up with my peers, but to keep up with my blog and my family dynamic at the same time. For once, the shift of balance has turned. I don't spend hours on the computer while my newborn naps. No. Today I spend my wheels for writing time as I keep up with two tweens who are vying for my undivided attention and a preschooler with a demanding baseball schedule. So, let me ask you guys.... Do you ever feel like blogging is too much on your family?

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Help Pfister Revitalize Homes with Rebuilding Together #PfisterHop

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 20:18:00 +0000

Whenever possible, Momma Findings strives to give back to our local community and charities we're passionate about. While most of our work concentrates on giving during the Holidays, we try our hardest to give back throughout the year. For instance, during Back-to-School, we work with brands to donate school supplies to those in need or books for schools less fortunate.

Today, I'm excited to tell you guys about a new imitative you ALL can help me with. The is an amazing charity in the New Orleans area called Rebuilding Together. This leading national non-profit works to revitalize neighborhoods by providing free home repairs for those in need. Volunteers do everything from yard work to painting and kitchen repairs to flooring! Yes, I know I don't LIVE in New Orleans, but we're passionate about the neighboring state as they've gone through so much since Hurricane Katrina. Helping is EASY and, literally, takes seconds. Can I could on you guys?

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Movie Talk: The Making and Passion Behind Disneynature's Chimpanzee

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 03:22:00 +0000

"I wanted to go to Africa when I was ten, and that was because of Tarzan," the soft spoken Jane Goodall told us in in our interview with her after the premiere of Chimpanzee. I was in the back of the room and it was hard to hear the honesty and passion she was speaking. So, I got closer. I listened harder. I sat in wonderment of how passionate she is for Chimps. After being asked how she felt about the film, she tells us, "The crew, film, sound, and the effort that Disney made....the footage that they got, is stunning. And the story that unfolded is magical. If Disney had planned it, they couldn't have planned such an extraordinary story."

That's the truth behind the film. Disney couldn't have planned such honest and truth behind Oscar and the "adoption" that took place with Freddy, the Alpha Male of the tribe. In fact, the directors tells us that when, Isha, Oscars Mother, disappeared they called Disney and said, "Sorry, guys. We spent most of your money, and you haven't got a movie." Little did they know, at that very moment, that a miracle would unfold and they'd get to share that miracle with the world.

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