Six in The Nest

VISIT FLORIDA

2013-06-08T22:28:00.003-04:00

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

Ponce de Leon first explored Florida in 1513 paving the way for 500 years of exploring the Sunshine State by billions of visitors from all around the world. What better way to celebrate 500 years, than to give away a trip every week in 2013?

Florida’s 500 Years of Adventure Sweepstakes launched on January 14 and runs throughout the year. VISIT FLORIDA is showcasing why Florida has been the world’s destination of choice for 500 years. From our beautiful beaches and world class spas to fabulous fishing and Old Florida Charm, there’s more than enough adventures here for another 500 years.

Enter the Florida’s 500 Years of Adventure Sweepstakes for a chance to win a new Florida adventure every week! Each week we’ll be giving away exciting Florida adventure packages that include rental car, hotel accommodations, and other exciting “what to do about town” activities!

I have never been to Florida, but I would love to VISIT FLORIDA! While summer is finally starting to warm up here in Michigan, I know I will be longing for the wonderful warmth of Florida when it is snowy and cold up here in Michigan.

Oh, the daydreams I have in the winter of the warmth and sunshine that Florida offers! Where in Florida do you day dream about? Daytona Beach sounds nice...or how about Key West? Yeah, that sounds good, too!

I entered to win this week, it was very simple! A form to fill out, then a couple clicks!

Here's a screenshot of part of the process... the best thing is that once you've entered your info, all you have to do is log in and click enter to enter future sweepstakes!

And, SUBMIT! Entered!

You can enter, too! (I highly recommend... I mean, who wouldn't want to win a wonderful trip to Florida?!)

Be sure to follow @VISITFLORIDA on Twitter to keep up with the latest Florida adventures.

Man of Steel - See it first! #SeeSteelFirst #ad.

2013-06-07T15:35:00.000-04:00

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Warner Bros.

What are you doing this Father’s Day?

I know that my husband will be going to see Man of Steel with his dad next weekend!

With all these little boys, we have a TON of Superman fans, but dad is going to be given the extra special treat of seeing the newest Superman movie FIRST!

RJ was our biggest Superman fan... he wore his Superman costume for nearly 2 weeks straight!

We will definitely be watching Man of Steel as a family when it is available on Blu-ray!

But until then...

For the first time ever, tickets to the EXCLUSIVE pre-screening of Man of Steel [PG-13] on June 13th are available only at Walmart! The pre-screening will be shown at specified theatres at 7PM – making it the perfect family event for Father’s Day or to kick off the summer.

That's right! If you want to see Man of Steel first, Walmart is providing the opportunity for movie go-ers to purchase tickets to the Man of Steel premiere showing at 7 PM on June 13th, 2013 in every Walmart Electronics department across the country. Buy your Man of Steel tickets at Walmart and you will get to see the movie before it debuts nationwide. This is a groundbreaking offer that is the first of its kind!
Tickets can be purchased at any Walmart in the Electronics Department. With the purchase of your ticket you also get an exclusive digital comic book written by David S. Goyer, the author of Man of Steel, in addition to an exclusive opportunity to pre-order an HD digital download or Blu-Ray copy of the film.

Purchase tickets to the exclusive pre-screening of Man of Steel [PG-13] on June 13th, 2013 at 7 PM at your local Walmart! Tickets can be purchased in the Electronics Department and include an exclusive digital comic book written by David S. Goyer, author of “Man of Steel”, as well as an exclusive opportunity to pre-order an HD digital download or Blu-Ray copy of the film.

Go to your local WalmartVisit the electronics departmentPurchase your EXCLUSIVE Man of Steel prescreening tickets (available in 2D or 3D)

Take your family to the theater location noted on your ticket and watch the EXCLUSIVE 7 p.m. premiere of Man of Steel on June 13th!

Learn more here!

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Warner Bros.

DEEP!DEEP! and yuuuummmmmy @LittleCaesars #Giveaway

2013-06-05T21:51:00.002-04:00

I received promotional items and gift certificates for the purpose of this review.

Yum. Little Caesars. I know, I know, definitely not a nightly treat, but when you're on the run with the family and need a fast meal (or a yummy treat), Little Caesars is one of my favorite places to eat.

My personal favorite item on their menu is the Italian Cheese Bread. I remember when I was pregnant with my first it was one of the things I craved the most. Well, Little Caesars has a new item on the menu...and of course, it's tasty, too!

^ See! It's new, and it's at your local Little Caesars!

It's the Little Caesars new DEEP!DEEP! Dish pizza featuring 8 caramelized corner slices that delivers a

crispy, crunch in every bite! That's a large, DEEP!DEEP! Dish pizza, HOT-N-READY everyday
between 4 & 8 p.m. and only $8 at Little Caesars!

That's our lovely, cheesy, hot, DEEP!DEEP! Pizza! I like extra sauce, so we got some sauce to dip with, too. :)

It was definitely a yummy treat on busy day for us. The kids enjoyed it, but they did say it was thicker than they preferred...perfect for me, though!

ENTER!ENTER! For the chance to win FREE DEEP!DEEP! Dish pizza for a year.

DEEP!DEEP!-Stakes!

https://www.facebook.com/LittleCaesars/app_200480830075835

Annnd, ENTER!ENTER! Our great giveaway, too!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

When Hair Starts to Thin....

2013-06-05T18:19:00.000-04:00

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

My husband's hair has been thinning since I met him (over 10 years ago). It's been a gradual process, and I really don't notice his hair loss much. While it doesn't bother me, I know that it is something he is self conscious about.

My Husband, Raymond, first noticed that his hair was thinning when he was about 19. When he went to boot camp, and they shaved his head, he said that he noticed it never grew back quite as thick. As a teen, he had long chin-length hair... once it was cut he noticed the difference.

While he is balding, he says that "it is what it is", but if he had the chance he'd try products to help improve the look of his hair, or regrow his hair.

He's not alone. Statistics show that one in two men will experience hair loss at some point in their lives.

Viviscal® has a couple of new products that can help men who are experiencing hairloss.

Viviscal® Man is scientifically formulated to nourish thinning hair and promote existing hair grownfrom within. Along with the exclusive AminoMar™, Biotin, Zinc, Vitamin C and Horsetailextract, Viviscal Man supplements also contain Flax Seed.

While waiting for Viviscal® Man supplements, Viviscal® has another product that may help:

The newly launched Viviscal® Hair Filler Fibers are the perfect solution for last minute touch ups while waiting for your Viviscal supplements to arrive. These fillers contain microscopic, electrostatically charged fibers, which stick to the hair and create a volumizing appearance while instantly making thinning hair look thicker and fuller.

Viviscal® is the leading brand of dietary supplements in the US* for the nourishment of thinning hair and promotes existing hair growth for both men and women. Originally developed in Scandinavia, Viviscal uses a proprietary marine complex called AminoMar™, identified by a Scandinavian professor in the 1990s. The Viviscal hair growth program is supported by six worldwide scientific studies, including researchers from the Swedish Alopecia Association, Helsinki Research Center, Finland’s Department for Dermatological Research and Dermatological Clinic in Leverkusen, Germany. Viviscal is owned by Lifes2good, whose U.S. headquarters are in Chicago, Illinois.

I can offer my readers a 10% discount on Viviscal Man and Viviscal Hair Filler Fibers on Walgreens.com. To take advantage of this discount enter the promo code “VIVISCALMAN” at checkout. This offer runs through the month of July!

Celebrate EPIC with a #Giveaway #EpicTheMovie

2013-05-31T09:26:00.000-04:00

I've been given the chance to host this giveaway from EPIC and Ecos! I will be receiving the same prize pack for my time. Read more below to find out how to win!

About the film

EPIC has it all – Samurai-like action and warriors, incredible aerial battles, laugh out loud humor and an adventure that will transport you to a hidden, rich and beautiful world, unlike any you’ve seen before.

The 3D CG adventure comedy is now in theaters everywhere! From the creators of ICE AGE and RIO, EPIC tells the story of an ongoing battle between the forces of good, who keep the natural world alive, and the forces of evil, who wish to destroy it. When a teenage girl finds herself magically transported into this secret universe, she teams up with an elite band of warriors and a crew of comical, larger-than-life figures, to save their world…and ours.

EPIC features an incredible cast including: BEYONCÉ KNOWLES, COLIN FARRELL AMANDA SEYFRIED, AZIZ ANSARI, PITBULL, STEVEN TYLER, JOSH HUTCHERSON, CHRIS O’DOWD, CHRISTOPH WALTZ and JASON SUDEIKIS.

Because Ecos products are natural and plant-based, they're like leaf men - defenders of the forest and mother nature!

Ecos Pods are a free & clear edition that reduces mess, measuring and surprisingly, cost-per-load, while cleaning laundry beautifully and safely.

Ecos Laundry Detergent is currently the top-selling natural laundry detergent world-wide. It's available coast to coast, in stores ranging from Whole Foods to Wal Mart to Costco and just about everywhere in between. Ecos is created in centers running on 100% green energy, and Earth Friendly Products, the company that makes ECOS, has literally walls of awards, partnerships and certifications: California's GEELA Award, EPA's Design for the Environment, USDA Biopreferred, Healthy Child Healthy World, the Silent Spring Institute and, well, the list just goes on!

Play the Ecos Epic game & win prizes! It's a matching game, and once all the Epic characters and Ecos products are matched, players can enter into a sweepstakes for chances to win movie tickets & product. Play here www.ecos.com/epic.

Visit the EPIC sites

Like Epic on Facebook

Follow @EpicTheMovie on Twitter #EpicTheMovie

Watch Epic videos on YouTube

Follow Epic on Instagram

EPIC now in theaters everywhere!

PRIZING

One (1) winner will receive a prize pack including:

· 12 pouches of Ecos Laundry Detergent Pods (each pouch has 20 pods)

· PLUS Blue Sky Studios DVD set (Rio and Dr. Seuss' Horton Hears A Who)

Prize packs provided by Ecos and 20^th Century Fox

Prize pack valued at $100

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Risks are everywhere...but we still enjoy the #GoodLife

2013-05-29T12:21:00.001-04:00

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

Risks.... we all take them everyday. Most of the risks we take are small risks, but still...you never know what life will throw at you. Does that mean that we all live in fear? Nope, absolutely not. We know that if we are going to live we have to accept that there are risks, but the good far outweigh the possibility of the bad.

When those bad things do happen, we also can choose to find the silver lining in the situation. Last year, our son Luke was born. Luke's lungs collapsed and he was in the NICU for 12 days. I couldn't see him, or hold hold him since I was in another hospital for the first four days...but when that moment came it was so much sweeter and precious. I was so thrilled to see him, to hold him, and to finally feel like his mother. Through this experience we also learned what a great community we live in, and how many people really were in our wonderful network. It was a hard situation, for sure, and I hope to never have to go through that again...but we still choose to grow our family! We won't let the risk keep us from living what we belive will be a good life!

Allstate also knows that we all live for the good life, and while we take risks when we drive, Allstate wants to be part of our good life, too.

Check out this great short video to really feel the meaning of Allstate Good Life,

Adorable, right? And true!

The simple things in life make things wonderful, and it's great to feel that and feel content with what we all have. We can't focus on the bad, we have to focus on all of the good we all have all around us, everyday.

What's something in your good life? Has there ever been a situation that you thought was horrible, but found that something great came from it?

What's your #SocialPower ?

2013-05-24T22:57:00.001-04:00

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

What’s a problem called before it actually becomes a problem? It’s called an issue. And a just-launched New York-based startup called Social Power is on a mission to collect and resolve important everyday issues.

The way Social Power works is simple. First, users post the most important, resolvable issues affecting them as well as others. Once a user shares that issue on the site, Social Power works to raise awareness for it within its own social network, while the issue creator does the same in his or hers.

My issue? I think that satellite companies are offering sub-par services with inflated rates because cable is not available in rural areas. I would love to see cable in more rural areas so that pressure is placed on the satellite companies to better their service. I think this would make a difference .

We will be moving to a more rural area soon... and right now we enjoy unlimited internet, at an amazing speed, as well as great reliable television- all without a contract. When we looked into satellite service for our new home we were shocked to find limited internet at a tenth of the speed we currently use, television that is not reliable, and an outragous two year contract!

What do you think? Is this an issue you would like to see worked on? Help me spread the word- support the issue, comment on the issue, and share this issue- and let's see if we can make a difference together!

Movie Time! #NetflixKids #ad

2013-05-23T19:27:00.001-04:00

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of NETFLIX.

Netflix! Oh, how I love thee. We have been Netflix users for such a long time...I kind of wish they had your member join date, simply because I don't know HOW long, but it's been years. We used to have DVD service only, but now we are a streaming only family!

I love instant access to streaming content, and with Netflix you can watch your favorite TV shows and movies anywhere, any time you want. Netflix is available on hundreds of devices, which you probably already have at home! We have it on two of our Blu-Ray players, as well as on the laptop, and my Windows Phone and Nook Tablet!

The Lorax, on Netflix!

Streaming is easier than you think. Download the free app on your iPad, click on the Netflix app on any gaming device or visit Netflix.com on your computer – and you’re in business.

Recently, Neflix added the Just For Kids dedicated kids section. This kids section has family favorites appropriate for children ages 2- 12. All content is selected with help from Common Sense Media to provide ratings, reviews and information so parents can easily make choices for their kids!

One of my favorite features is the ability for the kids to pick a character. This is especially helpful for kids who can't read or spell yet.

My kids' favorites are Oscar's Oasis, anything superhero, and Jake and the Neverland Pirates. Annabelle loves Tinker Belle, of course.

What are you watching on TV with your family? Netflix has family favorites from Disney, Disney Jr., Hasbro, Cartoon Network and Dreamworks that are available to stream anytime, anywhere.

And streaming is easier than you think! Download the free app on your iPad, click on the Netflix app on any gaming device, go to the website on your computer – and you’re in business. Check it out here!

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of NETFLIX.

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

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!

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....

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.

stock image

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!