STAY AT HOME MOM

Giveaways Ending Soon

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Sat, 18 May 2013 06:26:00 PDT

Hi, just a reminder - two of my giveaways are ending soon.

Need some labels for your child's summer camp experience? Then enter my Lovable Labels - Ultimate Camp Pack- Giveaway (5/18) Ends Tonight!

Also need some new sunglasses? Enter my Firmoo Sunglasses Giveaway - 7 winners (5/20) Ends soon and low entries!

Multivitamin Nutrition: Salads, Supplements, and Summer

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Thu, 16 May 2013 20:59:00 PDT

Photo Source

Summer is the perfect time to take a look at your diet and make some positive changes. Since summer foods are typically lighter and contain fresh fruits and vegetables, take some time this spring to evaluate and set goals for the changes you’d like to make. Eating healthy will affect every part of your life and your kids’ lives -- it’s a foundational element to living the best life you can live. Train your kids to enjoy healthy foods while they’re still young. Creating a great salad doesn’t have to be difficult, just like getting the vitamins your body needs doesn’t need to be difficult.

Multivitamins
The easiest way to consistently give your body the nutrition it needs is to invest in some good, high-quality multivitamins and take them on a daily basis. Seven Seas offers great supplements that can help you achieve your goals. You’ll still want to be sure that the foods you are eating provide the vitamins your body needs, but it’s difficult to get all the nutrition your body needs only through eating. Taking a multivitamin may help increase your energy, productivity, and overall health.

Spinach Salads
Spinach salads are fantastic, because spinach has high iron content, and this leafy green vegetable tastes great with a variety of toppings. Keep your salad simple, so the ingredients have a chance to sing. Lay out a bed of a few cups of raw spinach leaves, and drop cubes of a lean, white meat on top of it, such as chicken or turkey. If you’re a vegetarian, consider a tofu option instead. Add something that will give a bit of a crunchy texture, such as sunflower seeds, pecans, walnuts, or even wonton strips. If you’d like to give the salad a salty zing, add some bacon bits. A bit of crumbled cheese will finish it off, along with a light, vinaigrette dressing. Eat your salad with a whole wheat roll and a glass of your favorite white wine.

BBQ Salads
If you’re looking for a heartier salad option that still offers the same nutritional elements, consider a BBQ chicken salad. You might even be able to get your husband to eat it. Black beans are a low-calorie, high-nutrient source of vitamins. Be sure to add some into your salad. Cold sweet corn gives the salad a sweet crunch. You can use any type of lettuce you’d like for this salad, but in order to ensure it has a high nutritional content, go for a lettuce that is dark green and not full of water. Add some sunflower seeds, a few tortilla strips, and either chicken or a cooked salmon filet to complete the salad. For dressing, choose an avocado vinaigrette and add a dab of barbeque sauce to finish it.

Paige One writes about a variety of topics, from fashion to fitness – to even health!

Disclosure: sponsored post from Paige One. See my Disclosure Policy.

WW "Dance Recital - Spread Your Wings"

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Wed, 15 May 2013 11:22:00 PDT

From Monday through Saturday, last week my daughter and I were very busy with the dance recital. Practices Mon-Wed., then the dress rehearsal on Thurs., then Fri-Sat was the recital.

Needless to say, after all that we were both exhausted. But the recital was really great, and my daughter did fantastic in it!

The main Title of the recital was "Spread Your Wings." And she did that. It seems 8 yrs of dance is finally paying off. (ha-ha)

Backstage before ballet (which is actually in a classroom at the high school)

before Hip/Hop:

At home after 1st show with bouquet of roses:

After 2nd show with brother:

With Dad:

All 3 together:

Ginkgo Biloba and Other Natural Defenses for the Symptoms of Depression

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Wed, 15 May 2013 08:02:00 PDT

Photo Source

Depression can be scary for both you and your family, but it’s difficult to heal. Everyone experiences depression differently, based on their unique brain chemistry, past, and personality. Sometimes prescription medication, therapy, natural remedies, or all three are the right answer. If you struggle with depression or are supporting someone who does, talk to your doctor or therapist about solutions that might be right. No one should have to live under the shadow of depression. If you’re looking for natural remedies, here are a few great ones that have helped many people manage the symptoms.

Ginkgo Biloba
Nature’s Best offers ginkgo biloba supplements that have been shown in many case studies to improve blood flow to the brain. It can also help reduce stressinduced brain damage. Ginkgo biloba can be taken as a beverage or in capsules, and studies suggest that taking 40 to 80 mg three times a day can relieve symptoms of depression. Ask your doctor to find out what dosage is right for you.The antidepressant qualities of ginkgo biloba have been studied since it was noted that when people with insufficient blood flow to the brain used ginkgo biloba, their mood also improved.

Routine
Be gentle with yourself, but know when to also set some structure for yourself. When you’re depressed, one day can melt into another, and before you know it, your life will feel much more out-of-control than it actually is. Having a routine, even if it’s as simple as showering each morning, blow-drying your hair, and preparing a refreshing breakfast, will help you maintain a sense of accomplishment or control when other important things in your life feel overwhelming or off. It may be easy to let daily tasks slide -- they may not seem as important as the feelings or grief you’re experiencing. Humans need a sense of order and accomplishment to feel alive, so even if you only fold a few shirts or wipe down a counter, be sure to do things that help maintain a sense of order in your life.

Exercise
Going for a 30-minute walk every day will help you gain perspective and increase brain activity. You don’t have to push yourself hard -- and if you’d rather not be surrounded by strangers, take a quiet neighborhood walk rather than going to the gym or another highly populated area. If you’d rather have a peaceful setting, walk with a close friend or spouse at dusk when the world feels more peaceful. Nighttime is also a great time to walk with a friend if you are in a safe area. Give yourself the space and distance you need for a time, but don’t compromise your own health and your need to be part of community and the world. Isolation may feel like it’s the best therapy for depression, but it’s really not.

Paige One writes about a variety of topics, from fashion to fitness – to even health!

Disclosure: The above is a sponsored guest post.

Schwinn Windwood Women's Cruiser Bike Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Tue, 14 May 2013 10:59:00 PDT

Here is a cool giveaway for you guys. It opens tonight at midnight (5/15) so please be sure to stop by later to enter this. And enter it often. Please read details below, and enter via Rafflecopter.

starts tonight 5/15 12:01 am ends 5/30 12:59 pm

open to USA only

Sponsored by: Mom Blog Society | She Informed | My Dairy Free Gluten Free Life | Frantic Mommy

Co-Hosted by: Jackie's Reviews | Geeky Gamer Mom | Swank Savings

The classic Schwinn Windwood women's 26-Inch cruiser evokes the simple style and grace of traditional bicycles, making it a great choice for cruising to the store, the beach, or around town. Designed for easy, relaxed riding, the Windwood boasts a sturdy steel frame with a low stand-over height, making it easy to get on and off the bike. The rustproof 26-hole alloy rims and rear coaster brakes, meanwhile, allow you to stop on a dime. And riders will love the classic chrome fenders and rear storage rack. Other details include a comfortable wide-spring saddle, a single-speed design, pneumatic tires, and curved back handlebars.

About Schwinn
Founded in 1895, Schwinn is an American icon that's long been synonymous with quality and innovation. The company has built some of the best-known and best-loved bikes of multiple generations, including the Aerocycle, Paramount, Phantom, Varsity, Sting-Ray, Krate, and Homegrown. Today, Schwinn continues to innovate with such releases as the redesigned Sting-Ray, Rocket mountain bikes, and Fastback road bikes. With a continued dedication to quality forever synonymous with the Schwinn name, America's most famous bicycle brand looks forward to providing another century of innovation, freedom, and performance to people of all ages.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I am not receiving any compensation for this post. Just a link to one of my social media sites, to share this RC giveaway. Sponsors are responsible for awarding and picking prize winners.

Stay Stress Free – Learn to Breathe Correctly and Focus on Your Breath

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Sun, 12 May 2013 18:24:00 PDT

Photo Source

Sometimes when you are in a stressful situation and you try to tell yourself to

take deep breaths it may be easier said than done. You don’t want to get anxious

from concentrating on your breathing too much, but you do want to focus on your

breathing enough to calm yourself down and realize that the stressful situation

will pass or there is nothing you can do about it at the moment. As a mother

your children will make you very frustrated at times, so it’s up to you on how you

handle it. Breathing correctly, exercising, and taking your vitamins on a daily

basis play a big part in staying stress free, because after you implement certain

techniques your stress level will go down and the smile on your face will return.

Are You Breathing Correctly?

You may have never taken the time to ask yourself if you’re breathing correctly,

because breathing is just as easy as walking (it’s just something that you do

without thinking about). However, there is a certain way to breathe when you are

in a high stress situation. First figure out where your breath is coming from. To

do this place one hand on your belly and the other on your chest. Singers are

trained to sing from their diaphragm, but in reality that’s also where you should

be focused on breathing from too, especially if you get anxious or stressed out in

intense situations. Inhale, allow your belly to come out, and exhale and the belly

will go back in. It’s okay to let your belly stick out during this exercise – only you

will know what you’re doing to help you relax. Focus on this technique until you

get it down; it will help you breathe correctly!

Learning to breathe this way will help you not only use your diaphragm if you’re

a singer, but it will help you focus on your breathing if you’re a busy mother too.

Being mindful of your breathing will help you focus on the flow of your breath

(yoga is a good place to do this too!) and will also hopefully allow you to meditate

and feel less focused on the stressful situation at hand. Give it a try and watch

the world around you quiet down. Soon enough you’ll be a breathing pro.

Maintain a Healthy Regimen

Having a healthy regimen is easier said than done, but staying healthy also

affects your stress level. If you’re eating the correct foods, taking the right

vitamins and exercising daily, this will also help you manage your stress.

Visit here at Sidepon.com to find Puritan’s Pride coupons so that you can stock up

your vitamins if you haven’t been taking any recently.

You can also practice your breathing during great fitness classes such as Yoga,

Pilates, and other classes that help you focus on your breathing. It’s okay to

take a break from being a stay-at-home mom and its okay to take a break after

working all day! Whatever the case may be, stick to a schedule that helps you

stay sane and soon enough you’ll be able to cope with most of the uncomfortable

or stressful situations that come your way with ease.

Sierra occasionally suffers from anxiety but thanks to breathing techniques and

the proper diet has learned how to manage her stress level. Learn more about

Sierra at her Ocean Dreams blog.

Disclosure: This is a sponsored guest post.

Get Firmoo 2013 May New Arrivals for Free

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Thu, 09 May 2013 08:22:00 PDT

Hi guys, I have another great blog post for you about Firmoo. And id is just in time for their new arrivals. And you by now may know how much I love my Firmoo sunglasses. In fact lately I just wear them on top of my head too, so I won't forget them. Also if you haven't already please go and enter my awesome Firmoo Sunglasses Giveaway (http://www.sahmsue.com/2013/05/firmoo-sunglasses-giveaway-7-winners.html)

Is it awesome when you own fabulous dress or pants but your outfit is never ready without accessories? Wanna change up your style a little bit, or need/want a new pair of glasses? Firmoo will make it easy for you! They have launched their First-Pair-Free program to people worldwide, new arrivals for May are included, and you only need to pay shipping. Hurry up to begin your selection.

Here below are a small number of new arrivals for May:

Wanna be the leader of fashion and taste like them?

Photo Source: http://plus.firmoo.com/fashion/nickie-s-world-of-style-leopard-glasses--42/

Photo Source: http://plus.firmoo.com/fashion/the-fashion-cavern-firmoo-glasses--593/

Isn't that wonderful? Be sure to take your time and get your free glasses at: Firmoo Free Glasses

About Firmoo
Firmoo - www.firmoo.com is the World's Most Popular Online Eyeglasses Store. We have always been committed ourselves to offering customers the best quality products at the most affordable prices which start at 8 dollars. For this reason, we have gained a solid reputation and trust from 580,000+ fans on Facebook & cooperated with 10,000+ bloggers worldwide.

Disclosure: this is a sponsored post from Firmoo.com

WW "Strawberry Picking"

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Wed, 08 May 2013 11:39:00 PDT

Posting this a little later then usual for Wordless Wednesday. But I am busy this week with my daughter's dance recital. Practices everyday this week & then the recital on Friday and Saturday. I should have some pictures of that next week.

Anyway last weekend we went Strawberry picking. Last year we went literally the last day of the season and the strawberries were a little mushy. This year I think we went too early, and a lot of them weren't quite ripe. So we may go again between now and the end of the month.

We were able to get almost a bucket full of them though. Yum!

Grumpy face:

over silly face:

Whatever face:

Overly dramatizing:

in the strawberry fields searching:

our bounty:

all pictures (c) +STAY AT HOME MOM

NECTRESSE Sweetener - Review - I received from Influenster

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Tue, 07 May 2013 05:33:00 PDT

I want to tell you guys about the NECTRESSE sample I received awhile ago.

About This Product

NECTRESSE™ Sweetener has a rich sugar-like taste and is naturally zero calories per serving. How? We started with the deliciously sweet extract of monk fruit and combined it with the perfect blend of other natural sweeteners. It's 100% natural with nothing artificial. You're going to love the way it tastes. In our search to create the perfect sweetener, we turned to the place that does sweetness best: nature. We found our inspiration in the monk fruit. Hand-picked in remote mountain regions, monk fruit has been cultivated for hundreds of years and only recently re-discovered as a source of natural sweetness.

My thoughts:

Of course when you think about a sweetener you probably automatically just think about adding it to your coffee or tea.

But NECTRESSE can be used in a lot of different recipes. I went to their website and saw some recipes. One I tried was the Strawberry/Banana shake.

My kids love smoothies like this and they make a great after school snack. These were very easy to make and the recipe along with others can be found on the NECTRESSE website. I want to try some more of these recipes!

For more information - please visit these links:

NECTRESSE website
NECTRESSE Influenster review page

Disclosure: I received this product complimentary from Influenster,

Spa Basket Giveaway from All About Gifts & Baskets

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Mon, 06 May 2013 18:36:00 PDT

Hi guys. I have another exciting giveaway for you. It is being sponsored by All About Gifts & Baskets. The giveaway is going on now and ends on May 19, 2013.

There will be 2 giveaway winners, who will each win a Spa Basket. And these are valued at $80 each. Winners will be able to pick their favorite, and there are over 40 different designs!

This is hosted on the All About Gifts & Baskets blog. Which you can see more details on this there if you want to view that. But you can enter this giveaway right here on my blog!

This is a great giveaway, and I'm sure you want to enter now! Just use the Rafflecopter form right here to enter!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I am not receiving any compensation for this post, just a link(s) in the giveaway. Sponsor is responsible for awarding the giveaway winners' prizes.

Intex Family Size Round Metal Frame Pool Set Size: 12-Foot by 30-Inch Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Sun, 05 May 2013 15:57:00 PDT

Intex Family Size Round Metal Frame Pool Set Size: 12-Foot by 30-Inch Giveaway!

Sponsored by: Mom Blog Society | She Informed | Pitch Coaching | My Vegan Gluten Free Life

Hey guys. I am joining in on this giveaway sponsored by Mom Blog Society. The event dates are: 5/6- 5/16 Open to USA Value $150.00. This is an exciting giveaway and I'm sure you would love to win this. So go ahead and read more info. on it and enter today!

12' x 30" Family Size Metal Frame Pool Set (with Filter Pump and DVD) - No one builds a metal frame pool like Intex. With the Super-tough liners and our high quality, incredibly strong metal frames, you will enjoy a pool that is easy to assemble, beautiful to look at, and certain to provide years of fun!

Nobody builds a metal frame pool like Intex
With our SUPER-TOUGH liners and our high quality, incredibly strong metal frames
Filter Pump and instructional DVD included.
Ready for water in 30 minutes
Room for the whole family
You will enjoy a pool that is easy to assemble, beautiful to look at, and certain to provide years of fun

1 lucky winner will win this fabulous pool! For your chance to win simply enter via the Rafflecopter below! Good luck!

Must be 18 year of age or older. Open to US residents only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

to share this giveaway on your site here is link RC SHARE LINK

Disclosure: I am not receiving any compensation for this post, just a link in the giveaway. Sponsor is responsible for awarding the giveaway winners' prizes.

Firmoo Sunglasses Giveaway - 7 Winners

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Sat, 04 May 2013 07:46:00 PDT

Hey guys I have an exciting giveaway for you all! It is from Firmoo.com You know how much I love my Firmoo Sunglasses.

Here is some information on Firmoo:

we're the World's Most Popular Online Eyeglasses Store with 580K+ fans on Face book. Our mission is to offer varieties of unbelievable cheap yet fashionable prescription & Plano eyewear to the consuming public. All of our eyewear is directly from affiliate factory, so our price is 85%~90% lower than that in the traditional brick-and-mortar stores.

Here a couple of Firmoo Sunglasses that I really like:

#OTO3549

#OTO3537

Here is a stylish pair of tinted sunglasses:

If you would like to have Prescription Sunglasses, choose a pair of eyeglasses frame on http://www.firmoo.com/all-products.html, and tint the lenses into sunglasses lenses. You may visit http://www.firmoo.com/prescription-sunglasses.html to know how to make Prescription Sunglasses.

All the contestants have to be located in the area Firmoo.com delivers to. Please visit http://www.firmoo.com/help-c-10.shtml to get the countries we ship to and details of the postage.

Important Links:

Firmoo.com: www.firmoo.com
Firmoo Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/FirmooGlasses
Firmoo Twitter Page: https://twitter.com/firmoo
Firmoo+ Page: http://plus.firmoo.com/
Firmoo Sunglasses Page: http://www.firmoo.com/wrap-around-rx-sunglasses.html
How to Make Your Eyeglasses into Sunglasses: http://www.firmoo.com/prescription-sunglasses.html
Help Page of How to Place an Order: http://www.firmoo.com/help-c-5.shtml
Help Page of Shipping & Tracking: http://www.firmoo.com/help-c-10.shtml

Win it:

One Grand Prize winner will win a pair of fashionable sunglasses (shipping included)

6 winners will win $20 sunglasses E-voucher each. The vouchers only can be used on Firmoo sunglasses at http://www.firmoo.com/wrap-around-rx-sunglasses.html.

*In the event that I do not reach at least 50 contestants - then the grand prize will not be given, only the 6 $20 E vouchers.

Giveaway: Please enter using the Rafflecopter form below. Contest is open Worldwide.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I did not receive any compensation for this post, monetary or otherwise. Sponsor is providing giveaway winners with products.

Lovable Labels - Ultimate Camp Pack- Review & Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Fri, 03 May 2013 11:55:00 PDT

I received a really cool product not to long ago. And it is just in time for Summer. It is from the company Lovable Labels.

Some information about the Company:

It all started with a mom that found herself in the middle of a problem! When she took her son to daycare she was asked to label all his belongings. She realized there was a need in the market for personalized labels that were tough and durable so Lovable Labels was born - starting in 2003!

Product Description

Description: Best Value! Keep your kids' things out of the lost and found bin with the

Ultimate Camp Pack! It's fast and easy to label backpacks, water bottles, clothing, shoes,

toiletries and so much more!

Price: $44.95

Colors: Available in 20 designs / Colors and 45 Icons

Features: Dishwasher and Microwave Safe, Waterproof, UV Resistant, Peel & Stick

Quantity

15 Sticker Labels

40 Slimline Labels

12 Shoe Labels

72 Press n' Stick Clothing DOTS™

2 Mini-Metal Tag (two 4” silver ball chain incld)

12 Square Labels

My Review:

When I saw that I would have the opportunity to do this review I was very excited.
And that is because my daughter is actually going to go to camp this Summer.
She is going to an overnight 4-H camp for a week. Which she is very excited about.

I haven't gotten a list from the camp yet on what we need to bring or do,
but I'm sure they will want the kids' items labeled. My daughter went to the website
and looked over the selection of the Ultimate Camp packs available.
There are labels with designs already on them, like I saw ones with owls,
or sports on them. But she wanted the "Pretty" set. Which are blank stickers
(in pink, green, purple) but then you can add one of 45 different icons. Of course
she picked the ballerina one!

Here's some pictures I took of the labels I got (and then made into a collage)

(c)stay at home mom - click image to view larger

The above photo shows the mini metal tag on one of her backpacks and I think

one would be great on her suitcase too. I'm sure she will need at least one or more

water bottles. So I stuck one on of the water bottles we have.

Also showing is some pink stickers, the square stickers, the slimline stickers,
the shoe stickers (in green and they say this shoe belongs too...) and the
Press n' Stick Clothing Dots.

I really would recommend these stickers to anyone, you really get
a lot of labels and for a great price! These are really going to come in handy
this Summer when she goes to camp. And of course you could use them for
other things, like school, daycare, sports equipment, after school activities.
And more possibilities too!

Buy it: Visit Lovable Labels to purchase and use the following coupon code:
CAMP1314

this will get you: $5 off any purchase of $25 or more (before taxes and shipping)

and is valid until June 30th, 2013.

Win it: one lucky reader will win their own Ultimate Camp Pack -
which includes what is described in the Quantity section of product description
above. In your choice of colors and personalization.

Links to connect with Lovable Labels (like on FB and follow on Twitter for
giveaway entries too)

Website
Twitter
Facebook
Blog

Giveaway: please enter using Rafflecopter below.
Giveaway is open to US & Canada

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for
free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

WW "A Good Catch"

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Wed, 01 May 2013 07:35:00 PDT

Something you may not know about me, is that I love fishing. Ha-ha. No really I do. I't something my husband and I can do together. My husband got me into it in our dating days, and I think I am more into it then him sometimes.

Since moving we have been scouting out different fishing spots. We may have found a good one recently. My husband caught 3 catfish and 2 other ones (maybe a white bass?) The fish around here are different then what we are use to.

of course I didn't catch anything - oh well maybe this weekend. ***and don't worry - no fish were harmed in the process. All fish were returned to the water alive and safe, because we pretty much always catch and release. ♥

Refresh Your Home: What to Do With that Awkward Wall

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 04:50:00 PDT

wall image from http://greigedesign.blogspot.com.au/2012/09/weekend-wishes.html

Many homes have them, and many women struggle with the same dilemma you

have: what to do with that awkwardly placed or shaped wall in a prominent place

in your home. Perhaps it’s at an angle in a room that feels like it should be square.

Perhaps it’s an awkward length, and a full-sized couch is too long to be placed

against it, but chairs and loveseats are just too small. Perhaps it breaks up a space

that feels like it should be open and flowing. Whatever the case may be, get creative

with solutions to turn that wall from an eyesore into a prominent feature.

Consider Unique Furniture Options

Perhaps most standard furniture doesn’t fit the space quite right. If that’s the case,

look for unique items that may take a bit more hunting but will be worth the wait.

Many furniture companies now make midi sofas. Unlike other unique furniture items,

you can find midi sofas fairly easily, and they can be a great, cozy addition to your

home, perfect for curling up with the kids to read a bedtime story or snuggling with

your husband at the end of the day. You can also scour thrift stores, antique shops,

and flea markets to find unique pieces. This will take a lot more work, but it’s a great

way to get out with the family or some close girlfriends and look for items that will

enhance your home.

Turn It Into Art

If furniture fails you, or if you do find the right midi sofa and want to add some

pizzazz to your space, turn the wall into art. Custom paint a large canvas in

dimensions that fill most of the wall, or blow up a favorite photograph and have it

framed. You’ll want the art to be stunning and fill the room with something that’s just

your style.

Texturize

You could cover the entire wall in a texture that reflects the style of the rest of your

decor. Wood and weathered planks might work well in some spaces, or tightly

arranged rods of bamboo, adhered to the wall. You could even experiment with

different types of fabric, and perhaps create your own personal tapestry to hang

against the wall. Old windows are a cool option as well -- purchase several at an

antique store, and hang them in close proximity to one another to cover the whole

wall.

Paige One enjoys writing about a variety of topics, including home makeover ideas!

Disclosure: this is a sponsored guest post.

The Eight Question Meme and My SITS Day

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 21:00:00 PDT

Hey everyone. Today is my SITS Day. Welcome one and all!

I have seen this meme on a few blogs lately And thought it was a good way to introduce myself to you. I haven't done a meme in years!

1. What were you doing 10 years ago?

I'm going to change this to 5 yrs ago. because a cute picture I wanted to use, I can't because my scanner isn't working.

So 5 years ago, (2008) is around the time we took the kids to Disney World for the 1st time.

2. What 5 things are on your to-do list?

laundry
go to supermarket
watch One Live to Live & All My children online (Hulu.com) today - because today is the big premier!

enjoy your comments
and try to visit y'alls blogs back

3. What are 5 snacks you enjoy?

I am loving Chobani yogurt lately
pretzels
Peanut butter on anything
Nature Valley honey and oat bars

4. Name some things you would do if you were a millionaire:

I would love to travel more - especially to anywhere warm
I always dreamed of seeing the Grand Canyon too

5. Name some places you have lived:

Massachusetts
New Hampshire
Virginia

6. Name some bad habits you have:

I guess I can be kinda lazy sometimes
and I have left my car's gas tank practically on empty sometimes, and hubby has run out of gas while driving it a few times - oops!

7. Name some jobs you have had:

Dunkin Donuts
worked in some Nursing Homes
Insurance Agency

8. Name those you are tagging for #OSBlog:

Anyone who wants to do this on their blog - be my guest! :)

Thanks for visiting and I hope to get to know you and your blogs too. Also check out my About Me page for more info. Thanks and have a great day!

How to Keep Outdoor Fish Happy and Healthy

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 15:00:00 PDT

Summer is right around the corner, and it’s time to begin thinking about those

beautiful, lazy summer evenings where you can relax in your backyard. This year,

it’s time to build that outdoor pond or re-fill your existing one with beautiful fish.

But don’t act too quickly -- like any other living thing, fish need your care to ensure

they’re safe, healthy, and actually able to beautify your pond. There’s a lot of work

involved, but once you’re done your pond will look miraculous.

pond image from Fotolia

Supplies You’ll Need

Be sure to purchase koi pond filters, which are extremely important to support the

health of your fish. The filters keep water moving, so it doesn’t become stagnant and

the filter cleans out toxins from the water, which are harmful to your fish. The more

fish you have, the more important it is to have a filter to keep your fish clean and

healthy.

Filters also help with keeping the water looking clean, which will keep your pond

beautiful and display-worthy in your backyard. They are relatively inexpensive but

will add longevity to the water and the fish in your pond. Because they keep the

water moving, they add a nice appearance to the pond as well, instead of stagnant

water just sitting there, the movement is quite nice to watch on a summer evening.

Protecting Your Fish

As you might imagine, it’s difficult to ensure that your fish stay safe from outdoor

predators, such as neighborhood cats. At times you are not home or at night,

consider purchasing a heavy-duty netting to lie over the pond, so if a wayward

neighborhood cat gets into your yard, your fish will be protected. In the colder

months, you’ll want to transport them to a safe area, such as a bathtub or a kiddie

pool in a warmer room. Be sure to transport some of their habitat water with them

-- transporting them into clean, fresh water is harmful to their health, because the

change in what they’re used to can be too drastic and make them sick.

Feeding Your Fish

Be sure to purchase food that’s appropriate for the kind of fish you have, and while

kids and adults alike may want to drop a lot of bread and other food into the pond

to watch the fish eat, discourage excessive feeding like this. Keep your fish on a

healthy diet to improve their lifespan. Discouraging other types of feeding will also

help keep the water cleaner.

Paige One enjoys writing about interior design topics, including outdoor decoration

ideas!

Disclaimer: the above is a featured guest post.

Stencils Online, LLC Review

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 18:50:00 PDT

I received a cool product to review. It is from the company Stencils Online, LLC.

Here is some product info:

Design your own with text and stock graphics! Custom stencils are great for t-shirts, signs, wall sayings, etc.

Get creative in designing custom stencils that are as unique as you are with a variety of features:
-An assortment of popular fonts to choose from
-Shape, rotate, stylize text and graphics with precision controls
-Hundreds of clip art designs

Here is a picture of the stencil that I got. And the cool thing is that you can go and design your own stencil.

My daughter actually made this stencil herself. It is really easy to do. Go the the Custom Stencil Design Studio to make your own.

I had gotten her a special paint maker that can write on glass. So she put this on her bedroom window:

If you like stencils, and want to design your own then check out this website. It's great for your craft projects, etc. Because you can make your own unique stencil.

Disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Homewares, Coupons and Star Wars - The Online Rebel Alliance

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 18:58:00 PDT

I have two passions in life - cooking and geekery, particularly that of the Star Wars persuasion. Generally, these aren't two specialist areas that tend to cross over too often. Sure there's been a couple of Star Wars cook books and novelty kitchen items that have come out over the years, but none of it has been too serious. I thought that my two loves were destined to be kept apart...that was until I was introduced to Williams Sonoma.

I'm an Australian, so it was only in the last year or so that I first heard of the Williams Sonoma. Interestingly, at the time of writing this article it was only just announced that an Williams Sonoma store has been set to open in Sydney. It must be kismet!

But I digress. Much to my delight, I discovered that Williams Sonoma stocked a wide array of Star Wars kitchen goodies. Cookie cutters...that are molded for icing? They've got those. Storm Trooper spatulas? You better believe that they have those. Entire cupcake decorating kits for both the Rebel Alliance AND the Empire!? Oh be still my beating geeky heart!

I realize that Star Wars cookery is a very particular niche market, and that it’s not for everyone. And I guess that’s the point that I’m getting to. Williams Sonoma is a kitchen and cookware website that not only sells the highest quality products (most of which are free of geekery - I promise!), but they also endeavor to cater for everyone. Any old kitchenware site can sell nice things to nameless customers, but Williams Sonoma clearly cares about both quality, and personalization. In addition, they were clever enough to work out that most Star Wars fans are also highly likely to be partial to pancakes and cookies. Well played, guys.

There’s only one other thing that I love as much as kitchen goodies and geeky things, and that’s getting to save money on kitchen goodies and geeky things. That’s why I get super excited trawling through the Williams Sonoma sales tab on their website – there’s always insane bargains to be had. Let’s just say that whenever the Star Wars stuff goes on sale I almost go into cardiac arrest…and my partner is made temporarily deaf from my ecstatic screaming. Sorry sweetie!

Other ways to save money on the site, and other across the web, is by utilizing Williams Sonoma coupon code that are made available. This is where websites such as Nerd Wallet come in. Online coupon codes are becoming increasingly popular every year, and there are countless sites dedicated to them.

However, it’s important to separate the trash from the treasure, and Nerd Wallet definitely fits into the latter category. I’m particularly partial to it due its versatility – it has coupons for everything. All the usual contenders are there of course – travel, restaurants, homewares, kitchenware and wine. Mommy does love a glass of shiraz. However, those are just a few of the huge range of categories, some of which are particularly specific. Military Shopping or Pet Accessories, anyone?

So if you’re looking to get some great savings, particularly from sites like Williams Sonoma that have incredible prices anyway, I highly recommend Nerd Wallet. Afterall, why pay full price when you can get a discount? There’s no longer any reason to not get a Yoda pancake mold, even if you’re on a budget.

*Disclosure: consideration was received for the editing and publishing of this article

WW "Daughter & Parks"

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 07:33:00 PDT

Even though my daughter recently turned 13 - she still likes going to the park. At least I think she does.

While visiting my Mom. We went to some of the different parks around her house.

#1

$100 Lowes Gift Card Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 10:55:00 PDT

We are giving away a $100 Lowes Gift Card this week!

It is in honor of a new book, Start, by Jon Acuff that was just released. Everyone I know who has read it, has loved it!

It is really good at showing how you stop living an ordinary life and get your passions "unstuck".

The great thing is that it could be applied to nearly ANY passion.

To enter, simply click on the "Answer a Question about START" in the box below and follow the directions.

If you have a twitter account, you can even get an extra entry into the contest each day.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Good luck!

Thanks so much to HHE for sponsoring this giveaway & post.

Creative Bioscience Final Results & Giveaway - (3 winners)

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 08:49:00 PDT

Hi, guys remember my previous posts on Creative Bioscience? If not please visit here and here to read them.

I want to tell you about my final results of my use of the African Mango 1200 that I received from Creative Bioscience.

It has actually been over the 90 days that I was assigned this challenge. But I pretty much have maintained the 6 pounds that I said I lost in my last post about this. I am happy with these results. I possibly would like to lose maybe another 5 pounds. That is my long term goal.

I would recommend the African Mango 1200 that I took, to you. This is a good product to potentially jump start your diet. Check out my other posts, and the product website via the links provided above, for more information on this and the benifits of this product.

Win it: The sponsor is letting me giveaway this product. I am giving away a 30 day supply of the African Mango 1200 to 3 winners. (*so each winner will win their own 30 day supply of this product - ARV -$32.95 each)

Please enter using Rafflecopter below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received the above product complimentary form the sponsor to review and offer in a giveaway.

WW "B Strong Boston"

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 10:08:00 PDT

If you "know" me, you'll know I grew up in a town just outside of Boston. I love The Boston Red Sox. And my husbands' and my family all still live in various towns throughout Massachusetts.

Even though I moved to Virginia almost 2 yrs ago, I still consider Massachusetts my second home. This picture was on the Red Sox Facebook Page today:

In honor of Boston and Massachusetts here are some pictures that I didn't share from last summer. While visiting my Mom, we went into "Harvard Square." We also strolled around the Harvard campus.

Kids on Bus on the way into Harvard Square in their Red Sox shirts:

One of the buildings at Harvard (this is as close as they'll get to going there - lol)

B Strong Boston!

A Great Way to Help You Save on Glasses

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 13:25:00 PDT

Hello, guys! Several days ago Firmoo contacted me to collaborate with them because they are giving out free glasses and would like me to spread the great news to you! I am so glad to share it with you here as it is a wonderful chance for those who need glasses! You can’t believe your eyes? Yes, it is totally free for you! Frame + Lenses + Shipping = $0!

I'm sure you remember some of my previous post on Firmoo. Don't you? Well I really love the sunglasses I got from them and if you need glasses I would really recommend them to you.

How long have you kept your current glasses? I can bet for most of you the last time you bought a new pair of glasses is three years ago or longer. It is highly suggested by professional ophthalmologists that you should have a yearly eye exam and replace your glasses regularly to ensure your eye health. If your prescription has changed but you still wear the old prescription eyeglasses, you are in high-risk of deteriorating your vision.

So are you thinking about getting a pair of new glasses but worried it would cost you an arm and a leg? Head over to http://www.firmoo.com/z/blogger-crazy-giveaway.html and get your free glasses now!

WW "Easter Vacation"

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Cook) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 07:16:00 PDT

Hi guys! If you recall I went on my road trip last week. My husband set the trip thing on the car and I forget what the exact miles where, but it was around 650 miles one way.

Here is some pic's of my kids I took:

My mom does an Easter egg hunt. I took this before they started hunting:

They get money in the eggs:

My daughter in her nice Easter dress:

I have more pictures to share at another time. Hope you have a nice day!