Six in The Nest

Switch Those Tires #springsavings

2013-05-22T10:05:00.001-04:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Cooper Tires for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Tires are one of those things that just doesn't come to mind very often unless you need them. Here in Michigan, the snow tires are just coming off the cars... and we will need something to replace them with!

Maybe last years all weather tires aren't looking the best? Well, now is a great time to replace them.

Right now you can take advantage of savings on select Cooper Tires during Cooper Tire Spring Savings Event May 1 to June 30!

Consumers are eligible to receive up to an $80 Visa® prepaid card when purchasing a new set of four qualifying Cooper tires through participating dealers in the U.S., Canada, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.

Spring Savings Event eligible products include:
-CS4 Touring
-Discoverer CTS
-Cooper Zeon RS3-S and RS3-A
-Discoverer H/T
-Discoverer HTP (Available only at select U.S. retailers.)
-Discoverer LSX and LSX Plus (Available only at select U.S. retailers.)

Those snow tires are ready to come off and it's time to get something new on your car. Now is a great time to get a new set of tires, because Cooper Tires is having a great event that rewards you for choosing some great new tires! You can get up to an $80 Visa Gift Card, just for buying something you already need! Choose four new tires by June 30th, and then fill out the form on the Cooper Tire Spring Savings Event site (see link above).

What tires would you choose to get?

Checking out the #Mombo!

2013-05-20T21:26:00.005-04:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Comfort and Harmony for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Introducing the mombo™, the nursing pillow with more to love! Mombo has a unique shape and a two-sided design called Firm2Soft™, with each side offering a different experience. The firm side gives essential support for mommy and her nursing baby. The soft side is extra cozy—an inviting place for lounging or tummy time. And mombo is the only nursing pillow with a vibration feature, to give baby the ultimate soothing experience while lounging. Look for mombo’s assortment of pillow styles and slipcover fashions. Select your style from Standard, Deluxe or Nude™. Then choose multiple slipcover fashions so you'll always have a spare!

Speaking of those slipcovers, I need to find one! We have an 11 month old baby boy, and another baby boy due in July. While the Mombo we received for review is BEAUTIFUL, it's definitely not what my husband wants his sons to be using.

I definitely wish we would have had this pillow when Annabelle was little, it would be so perfect for her!

Anyway, until we get a slip cover... we tried it out as is, in pink mode.

Luke was pretty facinated with the tag... and much preferred the soft side of the pillow to the firmer side.

I did find that the pillow was a bit difficult to fit around my plus-size pregnant tummy... but it still fit enough not to rip or tear. The plushness was perfect, though, and lifted Luke up the right amount to interact with him well. While we are not nursing currently, it is still nice to be comfortable when he's having a bottle.

I loved the softness of the fabric, if you're looking around Babies R Us you can have a chance to feel the fabric because it has a fabric swatch on the package. It's really nice.

Be sure to check out Comfort & Harmony on Facebook and Comfort & Harmony on Twitter (Comfort & Harmony makes the Mombo!)

So Much Fun with Wummelbox!

2013-05-19T11:34:00.000-04:00

We received a Wummelbox for the purpose of this review, no monetary compensation was received. All opinions are my own.

We recently received a Wummelbox to review... and I am in LOVE. The Wummelbox is a monthly box that is delivered to your door and contains three amazing projects for you child (3-8 years old) and you to create!

The Wummelbox, a European-style arts & crafts subscription service for kids, is designed to inspire creativity and exploration. Wummelbox provides families with all the materials needed for hours of hands-on fun all in one box. Each box is based on a particular theme (such as Nutrition, Music, or Color and Light) and includes everything you need, plus instructions!

Each project promotes creativity and supports a range of developmental skills such as feelings, senses, language, thinking and movement/motor skills and all activities are designed and tested by early childhood educators designers and parents. Plus all the Wummelbox materials meet the highest European and U.S. standards for toys. Wummelbox not only focuses on high wuality materials, it also takes the extra step to be eco-friendly when possible!

We received the Time Travel Wummelbox for review. At first, I thought the box was rather small... how did it fit 3-4 projects in it? Well, no worries, it did...and I was amazed!

Sure enough, nicely wrapped individually in tissue paper, there were three projects. We got to travel back to the stone age and have some fun by creating our own cave paintings! There is also a hunter and gatherer game to create, and we will build our own time machine!

The Wummelbox subscriptions are available in three lengths. For one month subscription (great if you just want to try this out) it is $34.95. For a three month subscription you can subscribe at $24.95 a month...or if you are a big fan and want a whole year each box will only cost $19.95!

I am definitely saving some money to get an entire year subscription, I was so impressed with the quality of the Wummelbox contents (and the fun that we had) that we will be purchasing more!

Annabelle loves Olivia from Springfield Dolls #Giveaway

2013-05-18T10:45:00.000-04:00

I received a Springfield Doll and outfit for the purpose of this review. No monetary compensation was received and all opinions are my own.

Every little girl needs a friend... and Springfield Dolls are a great friend to have! The Springfield Dolls are a collection of five great girl dolls, each with their own look and story, that will be your little girl's newest friend!

We received the Olivia doll to review, along with an extra outfit for her to wear!

Annabelle was so thrilled to see Olivia!

The first thing we did was change her dress, she now wears her pretty blue party dress!

Annabelle talking with Olivia

We also received a pair of silver Ballet Flats, but a pesky brother took the bows off the shoes so they are on a shelf for repair.

Springfield Dolls make great friends for American Girl dolls (or a much more affordable option to an American Girl doll, if you are a more frugal buyer). Springfield's clothes, accessories & furniture fit American Girl dolls!

The 18" dolls sell for around $21.99, and the Springfield outfits are very affordable starting at $8.99. Springfield Dolls are sold in most major craft stores (Michael's, JoAnn Fabrics, AC Moore etc.) From now until May 27th check out the Memorial Day Sale online to save 20% on select items, too!

We have really enjoyed having Olivia around, Annabelle loves taking her places and she really interacts with Olivia...it's so neat to see her imagination at work. The only thing I have a hard time with is the doll's hair. It definitely can be hard to care for, and it's much more frizzy then when we first got Olivia... likely because of how much the hairs have been stretched out while I brush the hair.

Once you get your Springfield doll, be sure to register her on the SF Style Club site! You can get coupons in the mail, and your daughter can have fun dressing up her virtual doll! With your purchases you will earn points for special rewards!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Bath Time with Caillou! #Giveaway!

2013-05-17T09:59:00.000-04:00

Caillou is one Nolyn's favorite characters, and Annabelle loves his bald little head (she calls him her baby). We received a new Caillou toy to check out, and of course, the kids had a fun time with the familiar television character.

Little ones will love bath time even more with this fun Bath Time With You activity set. Send the Caillou figure (included) down the slippery slide. Use the larger Caillou's hat to scoop up water and pour it in his head. Turn the swim ring and move the green fish back and forth to hear a sound. Use the net to fish the smaller Caillou figure from the water. Attach the playset to the wall with suction cups (included) for easy drying between uses.

The kids liked the toy, but unfortunately the toy didn't stick to our shower walls (which is textured), nor did it stick well to our bathtub- this feature is to help with drying, but I think it would help with playing, too. The kids didn't seem to mind, though, and still enjoyed playing with the toy. Annabelle loved putting water in Caillou's head and watching it come out his mouth, she thought it was SO funny!

Discovery, learning, growing. In Caillou’s world, these things are paramount. Being 4 years old means life is full of little challenges – and sometimes BIG ones too! Caillou meets these challenges eagerly; exploring his world, discovering new things, and often learning from his mistakes. With a focus on healthy nutrition, exercise, safety, and the environment, each “Caillou” episode is grounded in an everyday experience – one that inspires children to grow emotionally as they explore the world around them. As Caillou overcomes life’s obstacles and makes healthy choices, children are inspired to do the same – making him an everyday hero!

All-new episodes of Caillou are now airing on PBS and Sprout.

Suggested for ages 12 months-4 years. Suggested price is $19.99.

Like Caillou on Facebook

Check out the Caillou toy line available at ToysRUs.com

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Nighttime Struggle.... #Giveaway

2013-05-15T15:00:00.000-04:00

After potty training your children, you hope that you no longer have to worry about soiled clothing and accidents... unfortunately this isn't always the case. I do have to say, so far I feel pretty luck- we've only had two children with issues staying dry at night.... but they also have really struggled with this.

I know I'm not alone, and neither are my kids. Night time accidents are definitely still an issue for many kids. According to About.com 15% of children still wet the bed at age 5, 7-10% of children still wet the bed at age 7, and about 3% of children still wet the bed at age 10.

So, what can you do about it? For a lot of kids it's something they have to grow out of, but there are helpful methods out there to improve the night time experience. I was sent one of those products a few months ago to try out on our two boys who were still struggling with staying dry through the night.

We were sent the Dry-Me Bedwetting Alarm to try out and tell you all about.

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The alarm is small, and easy to use. It is meant for children age 5 and older who still have difficulty staying dry through the night. The alarm has a sensor that clips on the child's underpants:

stock image

The alarm is small and lightweight and features a plastic clip molded directly on the back of the alarm unit, which clips comfortably at the shoulder area or collar of the child’s pajamas. The alarm’s small moisture sensor is threaded under your child’s shirt and is clipped to the outside of close fitting underwear where wetness would first occur. This bedwetting alarm is well made and designed to go off at the first sign of moisture.

Our son who has the most accidents often does not even wake when he wets the bed... he only notices when he wakes up the next morning. He is a deep sleeper, so the alarm and vibration would be helpful to wake him from that deep sleep. The alarm has customization settings to suit your child's needs. You can choose the alert tone, add vibration, or select only a vibrating alert.

So, how did it work? Well, I have to say that we never experienced the actual alert. Both our boys (both of whom had different trial periods with the product) were so nervous about the alarm that they must have slept light enough to wake up and use the bathroom before the alarm needed to do it's job. For this reason, I would love to see a "try" button of some sort for the Dry-Me alarm, so that the kids could get an idea of what the vibrating alert would feel like (the boys thought it would shock them, while the product will definitely NOT shock the child- it's hard to explain this to a child unless they can experience it). BUT- we still had dry nights. That was the ultimate goal, and it seems to have worked! We've probably saved a lot of money just in the laundry we've not had to do in the last few months (really, washing bed sheets and blankets nearly every day can be expensive)!

The Dry-Me Bedwetting Alarm retails for $49.95 currently, or you can buy the starter kit- which includes the alarm, two washable waterproof bed overlays, and the book Seven Steps to Nighttime Dryness (price varies from $79.95 to $95.95 depending on bed size).

I have been given the chance to help one of my readers overcome nighttime bedwetting by giving away a Dry-Me Bedwetting Alarm and the book, Seven Steps to Nighttime Dryness sponsored by Bedwetting Store. Enter by using Giveaway Tools below!

Entry -Form

I was sent the product in exchange for my honest opinions and this post on the product. I received no monetary compensation and all opinions are my own.

More Than You'd Expect

2013-05-13T21:58:00.003-04:00

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Aflac. I received a promotional item as a thank you for participating.

How much does an illness or injury cost you? Well, if you've never had the unfortunate experience of a serious illness or injury, then you may not realize that insurance doesn't always cover every expense that is incurred due to that injury or illness.

So what costs could you be left with?

Well, we've learned the hard way...several times. Let's just say my husband is a tad bit accident prone. He's broke his arm, cut open his leg, and he's had two back surgeries He's not the only one with medical costs, though... I've had major kidney issues for the last three years and hospitalized numerous times. And of course, Luke was in the NICU for 12 days last year. All of these incidents have left surprise bills for us.

A major cost factor is loss of work. Normal health insurance won't cover your rent or mortgage.... and how about food? I mean, you'll have to eat that month, too. There's also co-pays and travel costs. It all adds up, and you'd be amazed by how much.

The Aflac Real Cost calculator can help you see how much it could cost you. I checked out the calculator and had it estimate how much it would cost if I were to have a heart attack. The results were astonishing.

Over $27,000! Wow. When I clicked "How Aflac Can Help" I saw that Aflac could possibly save me $13,000.

The data presented in these images and the Aflac Real Cost calculator is for illustrative purposes only. The Aflac policy payout values are averages; and are not guarantees of an amount to be paid for the listed conditions. Aflac payout data shown is based on historical claims over a 10-year period, across all product plans in force at the time. The values represent the average amount of claims paid to a policyholder with the condition over the time frame (2000-2010). Aflac policies are not available in all states and may vary by state and plan level. Benefits payable are determined at time of claim.

I personally think the shot-term disability would be the biggest difference for my family. That is where we would struggle the most, and the quickest. Payment plans can usually be made with hospital bills...but mortgage bills, fuel for follow up visits, and groceries can't be put off.

Try the Real Cost Calculator and let me know if anything surprises you!

Have you ever had a major medical issue? Did you find that there were costs involved that you didn't expect?

Movie Magic with Magisto! #MagistoMoms

2013-05-12T13:57:00.000-04:00

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Magisto. I received a promotional code for premium features to facilitate my review and a promotional item as a thank you for participating

I love sharing photos and videos with my family and friends... my smartphone is nearly always with me, and I have found that it really chronicles my daily happenings and that of my children.

My videos are always rough... I hate editing them. I dislike it because I'm not really all that good at it, honestly. Magisto is a smartphone app (available on iPhones and Android systems), that uses artificial intelligence to create the perfect video.

I have to say, I was was doubtful when I started the process. I picked 5 photos and 3 videos (you can pick up to 5 photos and 16 videos or 25 minutes of video play), picked my theme and music...then Magisto did the rest. It took a while for them to compile the video (I'd say about 15 minutes, maybe a little less), but I received an email when it was ready. Here's my video!

I love how it turned out... the only thing I didn't like was the shadow that was on Nolyn's eye. It wasn't like that in the original video, and the Magisto video made him look like he had an eye patch! But overall, it was amazing to see everything put together so nicely.

You can get the Magisto app:

iPhone app: http://bit.ly/RzXtcp

Android app: http://bit.ly/On2nGz

Web: http://magisto.com

Magisto is also offering some awesome prizes for those who make a video and enter the video by using the #MagistoMoms hashtag in their video's title. Keep reading for more info (and a special promotional code for free downloads further down)!

Magisto has teamed up with multi-platinum selling recording artist and seven-time Grammy nominee Joan Osborne to celebrate Mother’s Day with a new form of music discovery that brings together powerful user-generated video production technology and musical artistry. Joan’s new song “Born To See You Through”, which celebrates her role as a mother, will be featured as a musical selection in the Mother’s Day challenge when participants create their movies that tell “Why I love being a Mom” or “Why I love my Mom.”

From now until May 13, 2013, all Magisto-created movies that include the hashtag #MagistoMoms in their title will be entered to win special prizes! Videos will be shared and available for viewing on a Mother’s Day-themed social scrapbook that will be hosted on the Magisto website. The users whose Movies get the most Likes on Magisto will win the following prizes:

Grand Prize: Samsung Galaxy Note Tablet
Second Place: Joan Osborne's new CD + handwritten lyrics to 'Born to See You Through'
Runners up: 50 runners up will receive 1-year Magisto Pro upgrades

Magisto's Mother's Day challenge coincides with the first annual Mother's Day benefit concert hosted by Osborne with special guests Ollabelle and Elizabeth Mitchell at NYC's City Winery on May 12th. This concert will help benefit these two charities: Somaly Mam Foundation and Save the Children.

The Magisto team will be at the concert to create and share videos of the special evening and the company will make a donation to the two charities. Osborne’s song will be available for listening on the Magisto site and available for digital sale at www.joanosborne.com with proceeds going to both charitable organizations. You can watch the Magisto Joan Osborne created here: http://www.magisto.com/video/agZCZwJSS2IKDUBl

So, I dare you to try it... see what Magisto's magic can do for your video! Use the code: MomsRule to receive 3 free downloads. This code is good until the end of May (2013) so be sure to get working on those videos now!

I'd love to see your videos... if you are willing to share, leave a comment with a link to yours!

What I'd Like for Mother's Day. #SocialBlackout sponsored:

2013-05-08T12:21:00.002-04:00

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for MetLife. I received a promotional item as a thank you for participating.

I know a lot of Moms may want flowers, or chocolate, or cards... but all I want is to spend some nice quality time with my family. This is a sponsored post... but really, this is the gift that I want most. I just want a nice day with my family. I'd love to go out as a family and do something fun. That undivided attention with my entire family is something that doesn't happen often here. Sure, it's kind of crazy to get everyone out and about and make sure that we are all in a positive mood, but when it happens- it is glorious. Those days are the days that memories are made! I'm not sure if my family has anything planned for me, yet, but I would definitely enjoy a peaceful day with them.

MetLife also realizes that all too often we do too much multitasking. Even when we are out with friends and family- you can often find people on their phones updating Facebook and Twitter. Growing up, social media and our always-connected gadgets did not exist. As children we read books, played outside and entertained ourselves until dinnertime. Now it seems we can't go anywhere without checking our social media sites. The thought of leaving home disconnected, without our smartphones, brings on a wave of panic (especially for the social media savvy)!

It's okay to stay connected...but how about giving Mom your undivided attention this Mother's Day and vow to participate in the #SocialBlackout event. It's the easiest even to join in on... just don't show up! This Mother's Day, MetLife challenges us to take part in their #SocialBlackout movement, giving us Moms everywhere the undivided attention we deserve. Rather than sharing photos on Instagram and updating Facebook, on May 12th MetLife wants everyone to log off from social media and spend quality time with Mom.

Walking with Attitude- Wordless Wednesday

2013-05-08T10:09:00.000-04:00

Miss Annabelle putting on the sass:

Spring Forward with Scotts Florida Select Mulch!

2013-05-03T23:59:00.002-04:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Scotts Miracle-Gro for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Here in Michigan it is FINALLY starting to feel like spring... although snow still threatens to be heading our way in a couple days, I know that warm weather really is coming. When the weather starts to warm I feel like getting down and dirty.... it the yard, that is. ;)

I gather up my gardening supplies such as plants, soil, a small shovel, a rake, Scott's Florida Select Mulch and a rake and get to work; sustainable gardening is made easier with Scotts.

If you are in Florida, Scott's has a great local option for you!

Florida Select Mulch is made from 100% Florida-grown Eucalyptus. Eucalyptus Mulch is a sustainable Cypress alternative, grown in Florida, for Florida!

Scotts Florida Select Natural Eucalyptus Mulch is the best option for your landscape because it is:

1. SUSTAINABLE: Sustainably-harvested and plantation grown Eucalyptus is considered a renewable resource because it re-grows up to 4-times faster than Cypress.*

2. NATURAL: Made from 100% plantation-grown Eucalyptus trees. Eucalyptus Mulch is guaranteed free from any construction, demolition, pallet, or other waste materials.

3. EFFECTIVE: Prevents weeds naturally** while helping to conserve soil moisture and moderate soil temperature.

4. LOCAL: 100% Florida-grown - helps support your local economy.

*Sustainably-harvested and plantation grown Eucalyptus is considered a renewable resource because it re-grows up to 4-times faster than Cypress.

**A three-inch layer of Eucalyptus Mulch naturally helps prevent weeds by blocking growth and access to sunlight.

I'm not in Florida, but Scotts Nature Scapes mulch is a great option, too...

My flower beds are definitely in need of some mulch this year (and a bit of work).

And here are some flowers that I'd like to put in my flower beds at some point...

Scotts® Nature Scapes® mulch comes in 3 different colors: Classic Black, Sierra Red, and Deep Forest Brown and they’re natural forest products - no waste wood and come in a variety of textures. Scotts Mulch helps to maintain moisture, prevent weeds, and create a groomed landscape all year long.

I personally love the Sierra Red color!

$100 MUPS Shoes Giveaway!

2013-05-02T00:00:00.000-04:00

MUPS Shoes is giving you the chance to win a $100 gift card to MUPS Shoes to surprise your mom with! What Mom doesn't love shoes? Well, even if she doesn't love shoes...who couldn't use a new pair?!

Enter to win on the MUPS Shoes Facebook Page. Contest ends at 12:00 A.M. on May 12, 2013.

Must be 18+ years of age to enter. Winner will be notified via email and given 48 hours to respond before a new winner is picked. Facebook is in no way affiliated with this giveaway.

I received no compensation for this post.

Octonauts... To Your Stations!

2013-04-28T21:30:00.002-04:00

Sound the Octo-Alert! For the first time ever, Octonauts fans can bring the excitement of this underwater adventure series home with a new line of Fisher Price toys! Create exciting memories at home with the new line of playsets, action figures and Octo-gear, as you and your child “Explore, Rescue and Protect” the ocean with the loveable underwater sea heroes of the hit series, Octonauts, airing on Disney Junior (check your local listings for airtimes)!

We were sent some of the great new toys available to check them out...

Octonauts follows the daily adventures of a team of eight underwater heroes that explore the world's oceans, rescue the creatures who live there and protect their habitats- above and below the waves!

The kids were thrilled, and really have been enjoying them...there is something for everyone, and even our older boys liked to join in the play.

Nolyn really liked the Octo-Compass (SRP $12.99)... although he calls it his "clock":

You hear phrases from your favorite Octonauts characters Barnacles, Kwasii, and Peso along with creature sounds and the Octo-Alert signal.

The Octonauts Octopod Playset includes everything you need to renact your own octonauts adventures. The Octopod has over 10 play pieces. Our kids have enjoyed using this toy because they can all play together. SRP is $34.99.

If you have an Octonauts fan, you'll want to keep your eye out for these toys!

Check out all the great toys available on Amazon.com below...

Amazon.com Widgets

And don't forget to check out the Octonauts Facebook page!

The toys were provided to me as a media sample for the purpose of this review and post. No compensation was received and all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links.

Protect your pets from fleas and ticks!

2013-04-25T17:07:00.000-04:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Vectra flea &tick control for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

As many families do, we have pets. We have a bird, a snake, and a dog and cat. Our pets are very important to our family, and very much a part of it.

Our cat and dog are nearly always by me, even as I blog!

Fleas and ticks have no place on your pet... but in order to keep your pet safe from them you need to have some help. There is a loving, protective spirit that comes with a close pet relationship. You will do anything to protect your best friend. That means using Vectra 3D – long lasting, broad spectrum parasite control for dogs – flea and tick control. For your small dog or puppy, use Vectra for Dogs and Puppies. Or for your cat, use Vectra for Cats and Kittens.

It only takes one bite to potentially spread disease.

Enter Vectra’s Protect the love Facebook Sweepstakes for a $100 gift card to use at their next veterinarian visit. A gift card will be rewarded each week for the duration of the Sweepstakes.

Each entrant to the Protect the love Sweepstakes can also claim a free dose of Vectra flea & tick control. You can print out a coupon for a free dose to redeem at a Vectra veterinarian near you. All you need to do is enter the sweepstakes, then visit FirstDoseFree.com and fill out the form!

Be sure to like Vectra on Facebook and follow @VectraPet on Twitter

***Protect the love™ is the official social identity of Vectra flea & tick control. Vectra is a product of Ceva Animal Health, LLC and has multiple formulas for dogs, cats, puppies and kittens.

*DO NOT USE VECTRA 3D ON CATS*

This Mother's Day, be sure to send her a treat!

2013-04-24T20:25:00.001-04:00

Sometimes Mother's Day gifts can be hard to decide on... there's jewelry, flowers, pictures, candy- just so many options! I was given the chance to check out Shari's Berries and was provided with a gift card to pick something out that I thought would be a great gift for a mother.

There are a lot of options... so many yummy treats, and even some flowers available to go along with them as well. Well, I have to say I think I picked out a great gift. I, as a mother, sure did enjoy it!

I chose the Cheesecake Trio and Full Dozen Swizzled Strawberries.. I was happily surprised that they were shipped overnight (I was wondering how shipping would happen since they are strawberries and cheesecake...both which need refrigeration). The day before my order was scheduled to arrive I received an email letting me know the order was on it's way.

The next day... it was on my porch!

See the instructions? "INSTRUCTIONS: Close and lock door. Hide behind large piece of furniture. Quietly open box. Savor and enjoy!".

The instructions were great... but it wasn't until I opened the box that I knew why they were there!

They came packaged well with freezer packs and in between insulating foam. Nothing was melted or warm.

Don't they look DELISH!? Well... they were.

These treats were sooo yummy. The cheesecakes were my favorite, and they were absolutely divine. The strawberries were ripe and yummy, too. The only thing I wish was different is I wish they hadn't covered the stem in chocolate. While they remove the leaves, they leave the stem. I am not one to just chew up the stem and eat it, so it kind of bothered me to have to bite the chocolate off and make sure not to eat the stem. If they had left the top of the strawberry undipped I would have enjoyed them more. Maybe it's just a personal choice though, as I know a lot of chocolate covered strawberries come like this.

Now, remember I said I knew why those instructions were there? Yeah... that's because if anyone else sees these, or worse yet- tastes these, you won't be able to keep from sharing them. They are so good. Thankfully there was plenty to share.

If you're looking for a great gift for Mother's Day (May 12, 2013! It's not far off!), then I would definitely recommend checking out Shari's Berries. You can also click to see if there are coupon codes or discounts available for the items you are interested in!

I received a gift card to check out the product and purchasing process for Shari's Berries. All opinions are my own and no monetary compensation was received.

I Bump'd it!

2013-04-17T23:58:00.001-04:00

Oh, Baby! Yeppers, I am thinking about our eighth little one who will be arriving in July... We've decided on a name by the way, his name will be Orrin!

With a new little one coming soon, I like to get an idea of what I would like to get for him and what I need to get. There are many sites out there for exactly that and I have been given the chance to become an ambassador and compensated to check out and tell you about SunnyBump.

SunnyBump is geared for pregnancy and baby related items... so I've been Bump'n all my favorite wish list items for Orrin! When you join you get to make your own collections. You can make collections for pregnancy, for baby, and for an older child, too!

For Orrin by inthenest

Browse on SunnyBump →

As you can see I'm pretty interested in owl items and green gear... they happen to be a couple of my favorite things. It was fun and easy to make my collections, and I can share them easily with friends and family...and of course, all of you!

What would you put on your SunnyBump collection?

Transformers Prime Beast Hunters! #BeastHunters #spon

2013-04-12T10:58:00.000-04:00

I have had the chance to bring you this review because I have been chosen to be part of a campaign to review Transformers Prime Beast Hunter toys. I can tell you, my kids were super excited about this opportunity. I mean, most boys would be thrilled to try out a super cool Transformers toy!

When a fearsome new faction of Beast TRANSFORMERS robots emerge on Earth, the AUTOBOTS must evolve to fight them — they must become BEAST HUNTERS!

We received the Voyager Class Optimus Prime to play with and review. This toy retails for around $20. RJ was very excited to transform his new toy... but he was a little overwhelmed at first. The box says it's for age 5+, and it's "intermediate level" for difficulty. At first, I didn't think RJ would be able to do it without help... and the first time he did needs some help, but after a couple of times transforming the toy he was a pro!

He really was excited about being able to do it (just not super excited about the picture. :p)! RJ really loves this toy, and is very proficient in transforming the toy without the instructions, which is a good thing since the instructions didn't last long around the younger kids!

These toys are the touchstone for TRANSFORMERS brand entertainment in 2013, driven by the award winning TRANSFORMERS PRIME animated series which is produced by Hasbro Studios and airs on The HUB television network in the U.S.! The lines of toys that will be available are the Transformers Prime Beast Hunters Voyager Class assortment, the KRE-O Transformers Beast Hunters line, The KRE-O Transformers Beast Hunters Ripclaw Strike Building Set, and the Transformers Prime Beast Hunters Deluxe Assortment. Check out the toys here.

Don't forget to check out @HasbroNews and the Transformers Facebook Page!

Healthing?

2013-04-07T22:39:00.000-04:00

This post is written by me and I will receive a promotional item in exchange for the following post. Any opinions are my own, and not influenced by compensation.

Healthing. A new term, coined by LYSOL. It's the idea that you use cleaners that you know will kill the germs, not just clean it.

When spring rolls around I think about spring cleaning. I just get that bug to clean the house, you know, when the sun is shining and you can open all the windows and feel the nice spring breeze. Well, LYSOL wants to take spring cleaning and turn it up a notch. Not just a clean home, a healthy home.

I don't know about you, but this winter has been SO rough on our family. It seems like we've gotten every illness that has crossed our paths, and for a good two months there was at least one person sick at all times. I am excited to see how spring helps improve our health, and I think our spring cleaning can be amped up by looking at ways to truly disinfect, not just make our home appear cleaner.

Of course, organizing and getting rid of dirt and grime are important steps, but so is actually getting rid of the bacteria and other germs hiding on those frequently visited places. LYSOL has an entire team of products there to help make sure that your home is a little better protected from those germs. A healthy family, after all, is a family that can thrive and enjoy life together. In my house, when one person is sick, it affects us all...and not just once another person catches it.

LYSOL's healthing is not only about their products. LYSOL is also teaming up with 65,000 schools to promote healthy habits and good hygiene. LYSOL's Mission For Health can tell you more about how LYSOL is reaching out to your community.

LYSOL and television personality Giuliana Rancic have partnered together to visit YMCAs in select markets across the country to demonstrate Healthing in action. At each YMCA location, LYSOL will provide attendees with hands-on education about the products and steps required to practice improved hygiene habits in their own home, while making the idea fun and relatable to kids. LYSOL will also provide educational information and disinfecting products to the local YMCAs, along with the donation of a one-year membership to a deserving family.

See how you can take part in LYSOL's Healthing Initiative:

Website:http://www.lysol.com/healthing

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

Guidebook:http://www.lysol.com/healthing/what-is-healthing

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for LYSOL^®. I received a promotional item to thank me for participating

Mom's Must-Haves Giveaway!

2013-04-07T10:34:00.000-04:00

Life as a mom can get hectic! Between school, play dates, soccer practice and dance recitals, how do you find any time for you? Johnson & Johnson Family of Consumer Companies has all the products you need to look and feel fabulous, even when life gets chaotic – and we want to give ‘em to one lucky mom! Enter below to win a “Mom Must-Haves” prize package featuring products from Johnson & Johnson Family of Consumer Companies to keep moms looking and feeling their best. The prize package is great, I especially love the dry shampoo. I received the same prize package and am able to offer one of my readers one as well!

For savings on must-have products for mom (and the whole family!), check out the Healthy Essentials™ coupon insert in local newspapers everywhere on Sunday, April 7^th (and online at www.healthyessentials.com). Saving is a cinch – just clip or download coupons for great deals on your favorite products from LISTERINE®, LUBRIDERM®, AVEENO® and more!

While you’re cheering from the sidelines, don’t forget to snap a photo using the new mobile app, Donate a Photo! For every photo shared through the free app, Johnson & Johnson will donate $1 to a cause that you choose from a rotating list. Help a newborn get medicine to thrive, protect kids against sports injuries or restore a public park! Visit healthyessentials.com/our-caring to find out how to download the Donate a Photo app.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Mom Must-Haves package includes...

· LISTERINE® Antiseptic ($3.39): Stay fresh, even with mere seconds to spare! A 30-second rinse is all it takes to kill the germs that cause bad breath, plaque and gingivitis, while reaching the 75 percent of the mouth that brushing alone misses.

· LUBRIDERM® Soothing Relief Daily Lotion ($7.99-$8.99): Keep skin healthy-looking and touchably soft, no matter where the day takes you. This breakthrough formula contains a unique Soothing Complex that delivers long-lasting comfort and a clean, non-greasy feel for smooth, nourished skin from head to toe!

· AVEENO® PURE RENEWAL^™ Dry Shampoo ($6.49-$7.49): No time to wash? Revive hair with this dry shampoo, formulated with ACTIVE NATURALS® Balancing Seaweed Extract to instantly remove excess oil and impurities for a clean, fresh ‘do.

· VISINE® Tired Eye Relief ($7.99): Soothe and revive tired, overworked eyes in minutes with the exclusive, long-lasting HYDROBLEND^® Formula, which delivers up to ten hours of comfort to get eyes through even the longest days.

· STAYFREE® ($3.79): Stay dry and comfortable from breakfast to bedtime with STAYFREE® Ultra Thins. Ideal for moms with changing protection needs, the flexible layers move with your body, while Thermocontrol wicks moisture away.

· o.b.® Tampon Product Comfort Super ($6.39-$7.79): That time of the month? Make sure you stash a few o.b. tampons to protect against leaks without missing a beat. They’re designed smarter, evenly expanding all around – not just lengthwise – to custom fit the natural shape of each woman.

*Based on increased number of healthy gum sites over time

Spinlight Studios Preschool App Sale!

2013-04-06T08:54:00.000-04:00

Do you have a preschooler in your life that likes to play some fun apps? Check out the great sale below! Limited time!

#ad White Cloud GreenEarth

2013-04-05T14:52:00.002-04:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of White Cloud for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Most of us know the positive feeling of accomplishment we get when we do something to help the environment, right? Maybe we recycle empty cereal boxes and milk jugs, maybe we make a conscious decision to turn the lights off when we leave a room, maybe we purchase eco-friendly products for our homes. Regardless of how we help, we know it feels good to help and we want to do more!

White Cloud GreenEarth product line allows you to celebrate these moments of environmental responsibility and encourage everyone to keep “Living the Green.” White Cloud is a paper-product brand carried exclusively at Walmart ( Find a Store Near You! ). GreenEarth is the innovative, eco-friendly line of White Cloud products (bath tissue and paper towels), made from 100 percent recycled fibers. Check out the line at White Cloud GreenEarth products page . Now you can feel better about purchasing those paper products! With White Cloud's affordibility, being green is within reach.

With GreenEarth, there is no compromise. GreenEarth products maintain the highest standards of quality while still remaining affordable, and all GreenEarth® products maintain a Forest Stewardship Council certification.

If you are looking for more great ways to be greener, the White Cloud “Living the Green” Pinterest board is full of green living tips and ideas! Check out the White Cloud Pinterest page to see what you can do.

Our family tries to be green by keeping our water consumption to a minimum, recycling paper (and using "scrap" paper for kids coloring), and repurposing old items. We definitely enjoy thinking of new things we can do with old things instead of throwing them out- the kids all seem to enjoy that.

Are there anything specific that your family does to be green? Is there anything you'd like to work on more?

Your ideas could possibly make you a winner in the White Cloud’s Pin it to Win it “Living the Green Sweepstakes” here's how you can enter to win:

1. Follow White Cloud on Pinterest
2. Create their own “Living the Green” Pinterest board
3. Repin at least one Pin from the White Cloud “Living the Green” board to their board and include the hashtag #LivingTheGreen in the pin’s caption
4. Visit mywhitecloud.com/promotions and complete the sweepstakes entry form

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Ends 4/30/13. Click here for Official Rules.

Sweepstakes Rules and Regulations

Tyson Chicken Nuggets #TysonPickyEaters

2013-04-02T20:02:00.000-04:00

Picky eaters... oh my, we sure do have some experience with this. All of our children have been picky at at least one point in their life. Currently we are struggling with our daughter choosing to only eat dill pickles and potato chips (true story). The struggle can be difficult, as parents we worry- but kid just know what they want.

Trying new foods can be a challenge as well. We do have a trick, though. We like to get a little creative at times. Broccoli...oh no, that's not broccoli. They are trees and we are the big hungry dinosaurs ready to eat those trees! Sometimes you just have to do what you have to do to make sure those little ones are getting what they need.

Tyson chicken nuggets can be one of those foods that are fun to play with, too. Gather your favorite sauce and take them for a "swimming lesson"...but wait, oh no! The shark got them. Poor nuggets....but happy belly! Tyson also has a great plate that they are giving away (with redemption of 3 codes from Tyson Chicken Nuggets) on their Facebook page that can help kids see food as fun. There are tons of creative ways to make fun faces out of your meal and make the kids smile.

Tyson® Chicken Nuggets are a great start at a healthy plate. Learn how to get a free colorful plate to make mealtime more fun!

Now that I’ve shared how I got my picky eaters to eat balanced meals, share your success story for a chance to win a $1,000!

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Tyson Chicken Nuggets. The opinions and text are all mine. Official Sweepstakes Rules.

Finding Dory!

2013-04-02T13:57:00.002-04:00

Disney•Pixar’s “Finding Dory” to Dive into Theaters

November 25, 2015

Ellen DeGeneres, the Voice of the Beloved Blue Tang Fish in 2003’s “Finding Nemo,” Shares Plans for the All-New Big-Screen Adventure

BURBANK, Calif. (April 2, 2013) – When Dory said “just keep swimming” in 2003’s Oscar®-winning film “Finding Nemo,” she could not have imagined what was in store for her (not that she could remember). Ellen DeGeneres, voice of the friendly-but-forgetful blue tang fish, revealed details today about Disney•Pixar’s “Finding Dory”—an all-new big-screen adventure diving into theaters on Nov. 25, 2015.

“I have waited for this day for a long, long, long, long, long, long time,” said DeGeneres. “I’m not mad it took this long. I know the people at Pixar were busy creating ‘Toy Story 16.’ But the time they took was worth it. The script is fantastic. And it has everything I loved about the first one: It’s got a lot of heart, it’s really funny, and the best part is—it’s got a lot more Dory.”

Director and Pixar veteran Andrew Stanton takes audiences back to the extraordinary underwater world created in the original film. “There is no Dory without Ellen,” said Stanton. “She won the hearts of moviegoers all over the world—not to mention our team here at Pixar. One thing we couldn’t stop thinking about was why she was all alone in the ocean on the day she met Marlin. In ‘Finding Dory,’ she will be reunited with her loved ones, learning a few things about the meaning of family along the way.”

According to Stanton, “Finding Dory” takes place about a year after the first film, and features returning favorites Marlin, Nemo and the Tank Gang, among others. Set in part along the California coastline, the story also welcomes a host of new characters, including a few who will prove to be a very important part of Dory’s life.

“Finding Nemo” won the 2003 Academy Award® for Best Animated Feature; the film was nominated for three additional Oscars® (Best Writing, Original Screenplay; Best Music, Original Score; Best Sound Editing). It was also nominated for a Golden Globe® Award for Best Motion Picture–Comedy or Musical. In 2008, the American Film Institute named “Finding Nemo” among the top 10 greatest animated films ever made. At the time of its release, “Finding Nemo” was the highest grossing G-rated movie of all time. It’s currently the fourth highest grossing animated film worldwide. The film has more than 16 million Likes on Facebook, and Dory—with more than 24 million—is the most Liked individual character from a Disney or Disney•Pixar film.

DeGeneres’ distinctive comic voice has resonated with audiences from her first stand-up comedy appearances through her work today on television, in film and in the literary world. Her syndicated talk show, “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” is in its 10th season and has earned 38 Daytime Emmy® Awards. DeGeneres has won 12 People’s Choice Awards and the Teen Choice Award for Choice Comedian for three consecutive years. Additionally, her show won two Genesis Awards and a GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding Talk Show Episode. For her unforgettable turn as Dory, DeGeneres was nominated for an MTV Movie Award for Best Comedic Performance.

Like Finding Dory on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PixarFindingDory

Follow Disney/Pixar on Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/DisneyPixar

LYSOL No-Touch Hand Soap

2013-03-29T20:51:00.001-04:00

Kids are messy....boy, do I know that! Being that I have many little boys who are typical little boys, I have seen first hand the creativity kids can have, and the messes- and I'm sure you have, too! I've been chosen to receive samples and try out the LYSOL No-Touch Hand Soap with my family!

LYSOL No-Touch Hand Soap can help the kids, and you, save a step in the cleaning up process- and adds a fun "magic" step to the process.

This simple little contraption is magic. Well, at least my kids think so! Wave your hand in front of the sensor and *poof* you have soap in your hand ready to scrub those germs (and messes!) away! The base is refillable, so you only have to purchase it once... and it even comes with batteries to make sure you are able to open and use!

The Center for Disease Control says that handwashing is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of infection and illness. Making handwashing easier can mean a more healthy family. Since germs like to live on most surfaces, and since you generally touch a hand pump before you wash the germs off your hands, it can be a place where germs really stick around. The magic that really happens is how the No-Touch Hand Soap System helps to stop the spread of germs by eliminating the need to touch that germy soap pump.

I personally think this is a MUST HAVE in the bathroom. Since we all share one bathroom, I definitely would love to not have the kids pick up extra germs, or have the added germs on a soap pump when I go to use it!

On February 25^th LYSOL launched The Kid Who Touches Everything Contest, the grand prize is a trip to Disney! What kind of messy situations have your children gotten into? Did you happen to snap a picture of it? Well, get that picture uploaded in one of 5 messy categories for a chance to win*!

What's the messiest mess that your child has gotten into?

*No purchase necessary. Contest runs from 2/25/13- 5/25/13. Open to US residents ages 18+. Void where prohibited. Click here for official contest rules.*

I participated in a campaign on behalf of MomCentral Consulting for LYSOL^®. I received product samples to facilitate my review and a promotional item to thank me for participating. All opinions are entirely my own.

Horrid Henry- Hilarious Family Fun

2013-03-24T14:21:00.001-04:00

When Henry fails yet again to hand in his homework for the umpteenth time, he inadvertently sets off an unexpected and curious chain of events. He forms an unlikely alliance with Moody Margaret, the infuriating girl next door, wins a talent contest, and stands up to his ultimate nemesis. With each antic crazier than the last, Henry finds himself inexplicably trying to save the very school which he has always professed to hate!

With a run time of 93 minutes, the movie is rated PG for some silly humor, and features a rocking soundtrack including Katy Perry, The Saturdays and LMFAO’s Party Rick Anthem and will be sure to get everyone on their feet dancing!

I have to admit, I am not a huge fan of live-action kids movies. I like cartoons... but some of our children are outgrowing them. Our 7, 8, and 9 year old boys are really starting to enjoy the live-action kids movies...and Horrid Henry did not disappoint. What did happen, though, is I actually found myself enjoying the movie! Now, it is a bit cheezy- but that's the nature of a lot of live-action movies for children. The movie is still fun, has some great music, and didn't put me off from watching it.

We enjoyed a wonderful family movie night. The kids laughed, and that to me is priceless.

Horrid Henry is currently available at Walmart, and the kids will LOVE the fun slime pack included with the DVD!

Check out the trailer below:

I received a family movie night pack, along with a gift card to purchase items for our movie night, to facilitate this review. All opinions are entirely my own.