Momma Findings | Houston Mom Blog

4 Easy Ways to Switch to Whole Grain Foods {Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 19:23:00 +0000

Some of you guys might roll your eyes at this post, but I have seriously been changing my eating habits. I've found that by giving up soda and controlling my portion sizes has made a HUGE impact on my waistline. I also feel SO much better throughout the day.

These eating habits have also made an impact on my children. Instead of reaching for sugary soda and greasy potato chips (which I always kept around), they want yogurt with granola, or fruit kabobs, and even a nice bowl of whole grain cereal. As a Mom, I've found it hard to distinguish which cereal is healthy and which is not, but thanks to the white check on General Mills cereal boxes I can rest assured it has more whole grain than any other single ingredient. So, do you want to know which cereals are packed with whole grain? Better yet, want to win FIVE boxes of them?

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Pin of the Week: Easy Cheesy Zucchini Bake Recipe

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:22:00 +0000

Source: KalynsKitchen.com

I've, seriously, enjoyed my "Pin of the Week" segment. It's been such a change in my lifestyle since I became a Pinterest user. That sounds silly, but I've found REALLY easy recipes that have little ingredients and are low-cost. I've EVEN been making healthy snacks and lunches thanks to all the recipes I've found. It's like we're a whole new family. No joke.

So, what's on tap for this week? Well, I love me some squash and zucchini. My children, however, do not. At all. I started searching for recipes that include these vegetables, but provide more taste the kids will love. That's when I found this Cheesy Zucchini Bake recipe. Oh my sweet tastebuds. It was so easy to make AND the kids enjoyed it too. Score!

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6 Things You Should Know Before You Shop at Joe V's

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:36:00 +0000

If you guys follow me on Twitter or Facebook, you may or may not have seen how geeky-nerdy-excited I was about the new Joe V's Smart Shop opening, here, in Baytown. The Grand Opening was yesterday and I was there, in the rain and everything.

I've totally missed my H-E-B the last few weeks and have been forced to shop at other grocery stores, in which I will not name. A friend of mine picked me up and we headed out to our new grocery store. I've never been in a Joe V's Smart Shop before, so I really had no idea what to expect. I knew it would look like a Costco and would have insane low prices, but that's about it. I went. I shopped. I, quickly, realized that if you're a newbie to Joe V's Smart Shop, there's a few things you need to know before arriving.

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Marriage Matters: We're Living on Two Different Planets

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:15:00 +0000

Within a marriage, there lies a big ball of compromise, from the color of your sheets to what kind of bread to buy. He likes white. I love my wheat. Decisions are made, jointly, on a variety of topics and one just learns to compromise.

The first five, okay... wait.. no... the first eight years, it seemed as if I was the one to give in. Ok. You want hunter green walls in the bathroom? I can live with that. You want to move us 900 miles away from home? Ok. I'm sad, but uh... well... ok. In the last two years of a marriage, I finally felt comfortable saying No. That's not ok. No. I don't think it will benefit our family. The fact is, I think, I've always felt if I disagreed with him, it would start an argument (everyone knows I'm not good at confrontation), and we'll be well on our way to divorce. Little did I know that I was dealing with a creature from a different planet. How stupid of me.

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A Healthy Souper You with Progresso Soup {Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 23:04:00 +0000

This morning I talked to you guys about little changes I made in my diet in order to manage my weight loss. I, completely, gave up soda of any shape and form. Yup. No more Diet Coke. No more Dr. Pepper. I do have, an occasional glass of Ginger Ale, but that's few and far between.

Another thing I'm doing? Portion control and lighter lunches with Progresso Soups. I'm just BEYOND determined to have a new look for 2012. Are you ready for a new look this New Year too? Progresso® is excited to announce the return of their Souper You® Contest giving you the chance to win an incredible makeover! I don't know about you guys, but I'd LOVE to have a make-over. Oh, and I ALSO have your chance to win a few of those tasty soups and the Biggest Loser Workout DVD to jump start your commitment.

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Tropicana Trop50 Review {$50 Spa Card Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 13:22:00 +0000

Okay guys. So, it's the end of January and by now, most of us know, if we're REALLY serious about our New Year's Resolution to stay fit and eat healthy. I'll be honest. That's not my resolution, however, I am being more aware of what I'm putting into my body. For instance, I'm going on 10 days with no soda. That's a BIG deal. Usually I hit 2:00pm and the caffeine headache sets in. That's when I reach for diet coke or a cup of coffee. Now? I'm digging the water. Who knew this decision would give me more energy and a few inches off my waist (already!).

I've also limited my coffee intake to one cup in the morning and Tropicana Trop50 juice throughout the day. Did you know that it has 50 percent less sugar and calories, and no artificial sweeteners? I can actually feel better about keeping this juice around while I try to lose a few pant sizes. Oh, and in true Momma Findings fashion, I want YOU guys to try it too!

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Raising Girls: She Wants to Be Like Me. Wait. What?

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 14:48:00 +0000

I may or may not have mentioned a million times here, on my blog, on Facebook, and Twitter how proud I am of my daughter. Last weekend she won first place in her school district's UIL Creative Writing competition. Heck, I think I even chatted that up with my mail man. The day she competed she came home on cloud nine. She was beaming telling me all about the story she wrote. Right then, I knew she HAD to have gotten first place, not because the content was just the most original, or because her handwriting is impeccable, but because her passion completely shined through as she told me about it. The love she has for words and her ability to evoke emotion across the paper would be the deciding factor.

Then I thought about it. She wants to be like me. Wait. What?

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Family Friendly Apps: Toy Story Showtime! {Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 02:29:00 +0000

How many of you are a "tightwad" when it comes to downloading apps? I'll admit it, I'm a bit of a nazi when my preschooler asks to download a new iPad app. He's already gotten so used to me saying no that he ONLY approaches me when he doesn't see a price next to the apps he wants. Then, he slowly walks towards me with a gentle voice, "Mom, can I download this app? There's no numbers next to it. It's totally free."

Well, the last few days, I've given in to his charm and found some REALLY cool iPad apps for kids. My two youngest children totally loved the Beauty and the Beast app that I couldn't help myself. I just HAD to download another Disney Storybook App with our favorite characters Buzz, Woody, and Jessie! Oh and the cool part? I'm gifting this app to three lucky winners. Totally worth it at the pediatrician's by the way.

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Game Day Food: Italian Black Bean Chili Recipe

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 19:44:00 +0000

I have, seriously, been experimenting with different chili recipes and, although my skills have improved, I have YET to find one I absolutely love.... until Jenn, my food contributor, sent me this. I can't WAIT to try this for Superbowl weekend. What are you guys cooking?

Whether you are having company over for a playoff game / Superbowl gathering or just want a warm, comforting meal for your family, this recipe is a great alternative to the traditional chili. It has amazing flavor and freezes well.

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Movie Talk: Big Miracle in Theaters Feb. 3rd {Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:56:00 +0000

What makes you go to the theater to see a movie? Is it because you're a "movie buff" and you ALWAYS do it? Or does something inspire you as you watch the preview? Sometimes there's a movie that completely captures your heart and makes you run out to the theater the first day to see it. However, sometimes there comes a movie that completely captures your child's heart and, for me, that makes our family run out to the theater the first day to see it.

On February 3rd, Big Miracle will debut on big screens everywhere. It's an inspirational true story about the rescue of majestic gray whales in the Arctic Circle. My two youngest children saw the preview and, with empathy in their eyes, they said, "Mom. We HAVE to see this." So, alas we countdown the days until we can learn more about these endangered animals and how they inspired the world around them.

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Pin of the Week: Bloomin Pizza Bread Recipe

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:43:00 +0000

Source: The Girl Who Ate Everything

Last week, I confessed my obsession with Pinterest. There I said it. I am addicted to this tack board of beautiful crafts, breathtaking home decor, and mouth watering recipes. If you're not on Pinterest... Go. Now. Need an invite? I'll send you one.

If you ARE on Pinterst, then you already know what kind of obsession this is. I've tried out FIVE new recipes off My Kitchen Pantry board and I'm kind of bummed that I decided to only share one pin a week with you all, but that just means, I'll never run out of cool Pinterest finds to post, right? So, this week, I'm sharing a creative pizza bread that makes for a PERFECT Super Bowl Party food.

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3 Things I Learned from My Preschooler About Faith in God

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 19:27:00 +0000

Faith is a tricky thing. The word, in itself, is defined as a firm belief in something for which there is no proof. It's a complete trust in something or someone even if you haven't seen them, like God. How can you love and trust a God without having, first, seen Him?

It's difficult for me to explain my faith to a stranger on the street much less my own young children. They have so many questions, so many wonders of this almighty King of Kings. I have faith in God because He first loved me, because I feel Him in my heart, because I've felt His spirit within me. I don't have to see him to believe. The thing is, that explanation is good enough for my children, because they are filled with an innocence where believing makes them feel safe and loved. A few weeks ago, my 4-yr-old reminded me just how sweet a child like faith can be.

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Latin Flavors Now Infused in Breakfast: Dulce De Leche Cheerios Review

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 23:32:00 +0000

Remember when I mentioned I'm not much of a cereal eater? That's probably the oddest little statement you'll ever read, but it's true. I didn't grow up eating cereal. As a Latina, my Mami and Papi fed us foods like tortillas con frijoles, migas, y arroz con leche. They were staples in my little casita. You, rarely, found us eating a cold breakfast like cereal.

Things have changed since I've become a Mom (and ironically married into the Anglo culture). My husband loves him some cereal and has passed that little morning habit onto my children who opt for a "cold breakfast" any day. So, what's a Latina Momma to do? Well, thanks to General Mills, moms everywhere can bring a beloved traditional Latin flavor to their family´s breakfast table with new Dulce de Leche Cheerios. Can we say delicioso?

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Latina Sofia Vergara Looked Fab at the Golden Globes: How You Can Get the Look

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 19:43:00 +0000

Photo Credit:
P&G COVERGIRL via Fleishman/MMC

Did you guys watch the Golden Globes? I, usually, pass on awards shows, such as this, because well.... I'm not really a TV junkie. I mean, I don't have favorite shows I like to watch and I rarely watch movies (unless they aimed towards the kids). For some reason, I tuned into the Golden Globes. I got sucked in by all the glitz and glam of the whole event.

Two of my absolute favorites that walked the red carpet were Latina actresses, Selma Hayek and Sofia Vergara. They looked absolutely stunning in their gowns, hair, and make-up. Thanks to CoverGirl, I've got some fabulous tips straight from Sofia's make-up artist on how you can get the look too. I mean... We're Moms, but that doesn't mean we can't look fabulous, right?

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We're On TV Tonight: 5 Mom Blogger Myths Busted Before You Watch

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 15:42:00 +0000

Yesterday was pretty crazy. I spent the day cleaning, doing laundry, and helping my 8-yr-old dig herself out of the mess she calls a room. As we finished organizing, I checked my email. That's when the nerves took over my entire body.

The producer at KPRC Houston, emailed to let me know they would be airing our interview on Mom Bloggers and to look for clips in between commercials as an advertisement on the story. I did this interview, MONTHS ago. I don't even remember what I said. If you're here, on my site, because you've seen the interview.. Welcome. If you're here because you usually visit? It's readers like you that make blogging worth it. If you're here because you want to make thousands and thousands of dollars being a Stay-at-Home-Mom.. Well? Let's talk about that.

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Stuff Your Mom Never Said You'd Experience in Motherhood: Getting Sick {Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 15:55:00 +0000

When I was a child, and all the way through my teenage years, I ALWAYS got the flu. Always. It was usually in November, right around Thanksgiving, or January as soon as school started for the second semester. It never failed. Cold weather and I just don't get along really well.

Back then, I had my Mother. She was the one who woke at 1am to bring me medicine and a cold washcloth for my forehead. She brought me comfort. Today? Well, today I'm the Mom who wakes at 1 am to comfort aching children. These days, I can't afford to become sick because, for some reason, I've morphed into a Superwoman without realizing it and, for some reason, my children and husband don't get up at the wee hours of the morning to comfort me. Imagine that.The truth is, Moms aren't allowed to get sick. It's in the handbook.

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Family Friendly Apps: Disney's Beauty and the Beast Storybook Deluxe

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 23:59:00 +0000

Today, Disney has released Beauty and the Beast in 3D. You'll see children all over the country hitting the theaters to experience this classic tale as old as time. This is the very first Disney movie that I fell in love with as a child. The Little Mermaid is a close second. There's just something about this Disney Princess, Belle. She's beautiful. She's intelligent. Most of all? She's loving.

I can't wait to share the experience of Beauty and the Beast with my children in a whole new way. To add to the excitement, I downloaded the Beauty and the Beast iPad app. I knew this would reel in my 4-yr-old son, who wasn't too sure he was going to like this Princess everyone keeps talking about. He's technologically addicted to iPad books and it's his favorite way to read at night with me. So, what did we think? Worth buying?

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NEW Frosted Toast Crunch Hits Store Aisles {Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 19:50:00 +0000

I'm not much of a cereal eater. I didn't really grow up eating this cold breakfast, but my husband is all about the sweet cereals and cold milk poured on top. I have to admit. It's really sweet to hear the sounds of cereal hitting the bottom of the bowl on a Saturday morning. That usually means my oldest son is making breakfast for his younger siblings and you KNOW how joyous my heart feels when THAT happens.

Today, as I browsed the cereal aisle I was reminded of the variety there is to choose from. One of our favorites, here at home, is Cinnamon Toast Crunch. Now, there's a new twist on this classic cereal... Frosted Toast Crunch. Let me just say that it disappeared VERY quickly in this house.

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Pin of the Week: Healthy Sandwich Combinations

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 14:46:00 +0000

I've been inspired people, totally and utterly inspired. While I know a LOT of you guys have been Pinterest fans for some time now, it took me awhile to give in. I kept thinking Do I REALLY need another social network? I don't have time! All of that changed once I started receiving Christmas gifts and attending parties with outstanding recipes that the hostess found on, you guessed it, Pinterest.

Now, I am more than a fan. I am loving all the ideas for my home and I love sharing my finds as well. Then it dawned on me. I am now a Pinterest addict and I want you to be too! So, every Friday I'll be bringing you my "Pin of the Week." This will be one of my favorite Pinterest finds and if I have time to make it or buy it, I'll show you that too. First up? Healthy sandwich combinations, featured on My Kitchen Pantry board.

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Ocean Spray Launched NEW Line of Gluten Free Fruit Snacks {Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 21:00:00 +0000

Earlier this morning you may have read that my contributor Jennifer has decided to cut back on meat for the health of her family in the new year. I have lots of friends who are committing to a healthy all around regimen. Some are going meatless, others are going caffeine-less, and some are even going gluten free.

While I haven't taken any extreme measures in cutting back, I have slowly been researching recipes and snacks that are tasty, yet good for the kids. My friend Caryn at RockinMama.net has an awesome recipe for vegan vanilla cinnamon spice pancakes. I'm going to make those this weekend! Today, however, we're snacking on Ocean Spray's newest fruit flavored fruit snack, which just so happens to be gluten free as well. Have you tried them?

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Coca-Cola #ArcticHome Mama Bear Giveaway {$100 Value}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 16:21:00 +0000

In November, I announced that I'd be aiding the efforts of Coca-Cola to save the Polar Bears' arctic home. I am just one of twelve bloggers selected as a Coca-Cola Mama Bear and am honored to help in this initiative that raises awareness and funds for the World Wildlife Fund.

Over the last few months, I've talked about how you guys can help preserve the habitat of the Polar Bears, but I've also brought you into my life as a real Mama Bear. You've read, first hand, how I go the extra mile to parent my children and give back to others in the community. Today, I want to give back to you guys! We've got a REALLY fun Coca-Cola Polar Bear themed prize pack for one lucky reader. Could it be you?

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Going Meatless is Easy with Veggie Patch

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Even before the New Year started my husband and I were discussing reducing our meat consumption by having 2 days a week that are totally meatless. We want to do this not only for health reasons but also for budget reasons.

I was thrilled to have the opportunity to try some of the Veggie Patch products. I picked up the Meatless Meatballs, Burgers and Mini Corndogs from my local grocery store. My 8 year old son loves meatballs and even though I usually make my own, he prefers the store bought meatballs. ( Crazy..right? ) I figured he was the perfect person to test the Veggie Patch Meatless Meatballs out on and he loved them. I did not tell him at first that they were any different from regular meatballs but even after I did he did not care. They tasted good and that was all that mattered!

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Five Simple Ways You Can Help Others as a Family

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 19:58:00 +0000

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "Life's most persistent and urgent question is: 'What are you doing for others?'" It's easy for me to get caught up in family life from day to day. I mean, being a Mom to three little ones is hard enough, I'm supposed to help OTHERS too? It's too much.

But it really isn't. There are SO many ways you can help out in your area with just a little bit of your time. January 16th is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Most of us have the day off of work or school. So, why not mirror the inspiration he gave to this great nation by giving back to those around you? Not sure what you can do? Here's five simple ways to really make a difference in your community.

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Beauty Finds: CATTIVA Cosmetics Customized Lip Gloss {Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:22:00 +0000

This year I vowed to spend more time and effort on none other than myself. As a Mom to three little ones, my energy is spent taking care of their every little need, that it's hard to carve out time to get dressed up, experiment with new make-up, try new hairstyles, or shop for the latest fashions I find on Pinterest. Not anymore. No, it's a New Year and it's a new me.

My latest beauty find is from CATTIVA Cosmetics with their Il Primo Bacio Lipgloss. I've never been in love with a lip gloss as much as I have with this one. Seriously. I had to REALLY think about ditching my other lip glosses for good. Can't you tell? It comes in a variety of hues, but the really cool part? You can customize the name of your gloss. The beauty experts at CATTIVA surprised me with my very own shade of Sexy Sara. What will yours be?

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Two Baytown Teenagers are Missing: Have You Seen Them?

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 14:45:00 +0000

I don't usually post news about missing children or Amber Alerts because there are SO many cases, however, these two in particular really hit home for me because the two girls that have gone missing are from my hometown.

The news broke last night on KPRC Houston regarding missing teenager Morgan Hernandez. She was last seen on New Years Eve at Discovery Green, in downtown Houston, watching a concert, while her grandmother and younger brothers went to buy ice skating tickets. When they came back, she was gone. If anyone has seen her or has information that can lead to her whereabouts, you are urged to call the Houston Police Department at 713-731-5223 or Laura Recovery Center 281-482-5723.

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