Momma Findings | Houston Mom Blog

Looking Up to Olympic Boxer Marlen Esparza #Coke8Pack {Olympic Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Tue, 07 Aug 2012 03:11:00 +0000

Today, Marlen Esparza made history as the first U.S. woman to win Olympic boxing match. She takes to the ring again on Wednesday, but for now? We're celebrating here in the Houston area! She's a local Olympian, going to High School only 15 minutes away from our home, and has quickly become an athlete my 8-yr-old daughter looks up to.

In fact, my daughter had the chance to interview Marlen before she left for London and became extra giddy that Marlen, not only answered her questions, but also sent over a few Coca-Cola goodies signed just for her!

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I'm a Coca-Cola Olympics Ambassador Cheering on Marlen Esparza #Coke8Pack

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 05:06:00 +0000

I'm in full London Olympic countdown mode. Not only is the count down taking place at work, but at home as well! My kids and I loved watching the Olympic Trials together and have familiarized ourselves with the US athletes we plan to cheer for starting on July 27th.

Now, thanks to Coca-Cola, we'll be celebrating the summer in a very special way. I'm so excited to announce I am a Coca-Cola 2012 Olympics Ambassador cheering on Olympic Boxer, and Houston Native, Marlen Eesparza. She's an inspiration to Latinos across the globe and I'm proud to be featuring her, here on Momma Findings. I'll also be giving you guys fun opportunities to win Olympic Gear and learn more about this Latina as she goes for gold in London! Are you counting down to the 2012 London Olympics?!

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Stain Fighting With NEW Laundry Products {Houston Dynamo Ticket Giveaway!}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Tue, 10 Jul 2012 03:09:00 +0000

All baseball season long, I battled the grass stains on my son's pants. Yes, it didn't help that our uniform consisted of WHITE pants, but I thought to myself Hey.. it can't be THAT hard to keep these suckers clean, right?

WRONG. I pre-treated. I soaked. I bleached. I ran the whitest white cycle with the HOTTEST setting on my washing machine. Nothing seemed to help. All season long, I was "that" mom, the mom who's child had dirty pants. After the season ended, I threw his white pants in the wash one last time with Pinol Laundry Detergent and Cloralex Bleach. Much to my surprise ALL the stains I had been fighting throughout the baseball season were completely gone. COMPLETELY. Most would say, "A little too late." I, however, feel like we just had a MAJOR breakthrough.

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Taking Time for Summer Reading & Relaxation {Giveaway}

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 07 Jun 2012 22:38:00 +0000

Whew. Summer has, officially, started as of Wednesday. The kids are out of school and, usually my daughter and I have our reading list all planned out. Days of ice cold lemonade and laying in the hammock with a good book are upon me. One book, in particular, is first on my list.

Wife 22, written by Melanie Gideon, kinda hits home for me as I'm transforming into a whole different person since starting a job outside the home. I've taken on a new role which, in turn, has made me question my life prior to this pivotal moment. Alice Buckle, in Wife 22, seems to be questioning her own life as a wife and mom, which has me intrigued to read more. Oh and did I mention I'm giving YOU guys the chance to win a copy along with a Visa gift card? I'm, seriously, in love with Summer Reading.

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West Nile Virus Confirmed: How We're Protecting Our Family

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Wed, 06 Jun 2012 04:13:00 +0000

It is confirmed. Mosquitoes, in Harris County, have tested positive for the West Nile Virus. I shouldn't be as shocked as I am. I mean, we live on the Gulf Coast of Texas in the Houston area. We've ALWAYS fought mosquitoes since I was a child, but why does the problem seem to be worsening? Better yet. How can I protect my family?

Well, thanks to Cutter, we put a plan in place last week, before the news of West Nile hit our area. My husband and I worked through out yard making sure there were no standing water. Then, we sprayed the front and back yard with a mosquito yard treatment. What are you guys doing to fight the mosquitoes?

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My Once-In-A-Lifetime Experience at Disney's Animal Kingdom Wild Africa Trek

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 04:12:00 +0000

Every blue moon I've experienced something so amazing that it makes me feel completely and utterly grateful. It's not very often I leave from a place and think to myself The whole world should be able to do what I just did! That's how I felt after leaving Disney's Animal KingdomWild Africa Trek. It's a personal trek that takes you through the Animal Kingdom like you've NEVER seen it before. From up close encounters with the animals, to feeling like you're actually on a wild life savannah, this expedition is like nothing you've ever seen!

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5 Things You HAVE to Do at Disney World Without the Kids

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 00:54:00 +0000

Every time I've visited a theme park, as an adult, I've always had the "joy" of figuring out where to go, where to park, and the easiest ways to avoid chaos with my children in tow. I always think to myself I wish I could get a trial run BEFORE today so I can make it THAT much more enjoyable for the kids. Well, I got to do JUST that when I visited Walt Disney World in Florida last month during the #DisneyGlobalEvent.

After the Red Carpet Premiere of Chimpanzee, the bloggers were let loose among the various Walt Disney Parks and I was overwhelmed, to say the least. Where do I go? What do I do first? Thanks to good brave souls who have gone before me, I learned just where to park, where to eat, and which rides to utilize my fast track tickets. Have you ever been to Disney World sans kids? I, highly, recommend it!

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Let Them Get Dirty: 10 Fun Activities for Kids

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 31 May 2012 21:04:00 +0000

Baseball season is over and boy did I battle stains on my kids clothes. My son had WHITE baseball pants. Now tell me folks, when is that EVER ok? It didn't surprise me that the day of his first game he was filthy before he ever set foot on the baseball field. All season long I researched different laundry tips from fellow baseball parent, but could not keep those pants stain free to save my life.

Now that baseball season is over, I can breathe a little better knowing those stinkin' pants aren't taunting me and give my kids the freedom to get dirty. Yes, kids go get you some dirt time! Do you ever do that? Purposely give your kids the freedom and opportunity to just get dirty? I've found it helps us relax, especially after a long school year. So, I came up with 10 activities where kids can get dirty and it's ok with Mom.

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Follow California Strawberries from Farm to Fork

noreply@blogger.com (Sara) — Thu, 31 May 2012 11:08:00 +0000

Please welcome a new contributor, here, at MommaFindings.com. Kristi Reddell traveled to Monterrey, CA on my behalf to experience strawberries from farm to fork. You can find her at www.momsconfession.com.

A couple weeks ago seems like yesterday when I was on a flight headed to California to meet up with the California Strawberry Commission. For 2 days, we (a few bloggers and I) were immersed in all things strawberry. From the strawberry-infused meals to learning everything about how a strawberry makes it from the farm to the fork…we were in heaven!California strawberry heaven…that is!

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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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