Sunshine Praises

BeeSavy Gaining National Attention! Sign Up Today & Save

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Fri, 24 Feb 2012 14:44:00 +0000

BeeSavy Getting National Attention on Fox Business

If you follow this blog regularly, you know I've been telling you about an innovative new cash back site called BeeSavy for a few months now. Well, it looks like the mainstream media is catching on as BeeSavy was just featured in an article on Fox Business. You can read the Fox article here. And remember, you heard it here first!

If you’re not using BeeSavy yet for all of your online shopping, you’re missing out on valuable cash back. Even better, BeeSavy is the only cash back site that lets you actually earn money every time your friends shop online! Start earning money today by signing up at BeeSavy.com. And remember to refer your friends before they refer you!

Disclaimer: I am a BeeSavy affiliate. Regardless, I only post my honest opinions. This blog is in no way affiliated with Twitter, Facebook or any other social network.

Columbus Local Giveaway: Eversave Sugardaddy's $18 Voucher

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 20:46:00 +0000

Oh boy! Do I have something great for my local Columbus readers today! Eversave is giving one of you an $18 voucher to spend on gourmet brownies at any Sugardaddy's Columbus location! There are three locations to choose from:

Polaris 1329 Cameron Ave @ Polaris Parkway
Downtown 11 East Gay Street
Easton 111 Easton Tower Center

This giveaway ends in ONLY 3 DAYS!!! So make sure you enter today!

Just want to go ahead and buy one so you are sure you don't miss out? Click on the image below to take you today's save! $9.00 for an $18.00 Voucher!

Don't have an Eversave account? Sign up today!

Sugardaddy's

Today's Save:$9 for $18 worth of buzzed-about couture brownies from Sugardaddy's — three locations!

a Rafflecopter giveaway Disclosure: I am an afflilate with Eversave. All opinions are my own. The blog is in no way affliated with any social networks.

Praise & Giveaway: Colortime Crafts & Markers

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 03:13:00 +0000

I have dreams of being crafty. I want to take sewing lessons, learn what it means to mod podge and teach my kids how to use their imaginations to be creative. I have a crafty streak in me, but I am a perfectionist and most of the time, those two things don't work well together. Needless to say, when I have the opportunity to "be crafty" - I always get excited and reviewing the tote bag from Colortime was a perfect way for Eph and I to express our crafty side.

Colortime sent us their Recycle Market Bag and three of their specialty markers for this review. At first Eph was a little disappointed that he could only use three colors on his "project" but once I showed him how he could combine his colors to make other colors, he was super excited.

He and I spread out the markers and he wanted me to help him with the intricate parts. Being a lefty makes coloring certain things difficult for him. It took us several sessions to complete the tote bag but we were both really pleased with the completed project. We had so much fun working on this project together.

Colortime Crafts and Markers offers a whole variety of fantastic products to choose from, including pillowcases, t-shirts, backpacks and bandannas. They also offer specialty items for churches, camps and holidays. Plus all their items are reasonably priced with most costing only $5.95 per item.

Looking for something fun today at your next birthday party, sleepover, vacation bible school or girl scout event? Check out all the great products that Colortime offers. From now until March 4th you can use this coupon to save 15% off their online retail store. Plus you can get free shipping on any online order over $60 by using the code FRSH11W at check out.

Colortime is generously giving away a tote bag and marker set to one of my readers! I just know you and your kids will love it! Just enter below on the Rafflecopter form. Plus if you like them on Facebook they have a weekly giveaway for their fans. Click HERE for all the details!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: I received compensation in exchange for this post. Regardless, I only post my honest opinions. This blog is in no way affiliated with Twitter, Facebook or any other social network.

Local Love! Today's Share the Save from Eversave

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 12:49:00 +0000

Looking to take your family or friends on a quick get away? Check out today's "save" from Eversave!

American Heartland Cabins

Today's Save:Up to $150 towards a stay at American Heartland Cabins

Disclaimer: I am part of the Eversave affiliate program. Regardless, I only post my honest opinions. This blog is in no way affiliated with Twitter, Facebook or any other social network.

Praise: Enjoy Life Foods Chewy Bars

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 15:54:00 +0000

You might already know this, but one of my families favorite organic, healthy and most importantly allergy free brands is Enjoy Life Foods. They offer a whole variety of healthy, non GMO foods that are made in allergy free facilities.

Recently, I was provided samples of their newly improved Chewy Bars to try. These cereal/snack bars are great. I have been using them in our "emergency" car snack stash, as an addition to Eph's lunch box as well as an after school snack. Of course, my kids prefer the Coco Loco variety the most. It's great that I can give them this chocolate treat knowing that it is all natural and chock full of all sorts of natural yummy goodness.

Personally, I really liked the Sunbutter Crunch flavor. I am not a huge chocolate fan and the sunbutter variety really matched my tastes. I would toss 1 or 2 in my work bag and have them when my energy was feeling zapped at work. These are a much better alternative to the snack machine.

What Enjoy Life Foods says about their Chewy Bars:

Soft and chewy, our bars are a perfectly delicious and wholesome breakfast, midday snack, lunch box treat, or late day pick-me-up. There are four great-tasting flavors to satisfy everyone's cravings and they are packed full of essential vitamins and minerals for added health benefits. Our portion control, 1 oz bars are sure to make everyone smile with delight! Look for them in our bright new packaging in the gluten-free or cereal bar section of your favorite store.

Need to know where to purchase any of the fantastic Enjoy Life Products? Please visit their website where you can find your local stores as well as a host of other information like allergy free recipes and downloadable coupons. You can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

Disclaimer: I received compensation or free product in exchange for this post. Regardless, I only post my honest opinions. This blog is in no way affiliated with Twitter, Facebook or any other social network.

Praise: Bissell Perfect Sweep Turbo

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Fri, 17 Feb 2012 01:19:00 +0000

Do you know what is worse than spilled milk? Spilled pink sugar sprinkles all over your kitchen floor. Atleast it used to be, now I just do a quick sweep with my broom, then bust out my Bissell Perfect Sweep Turbo and the mess is gone in a matter of seconds. Honestly it is that easy. Trust me!

I am going to let you in on a little family secret, we shed ALOT of hair in our home. With an extra furry dog and cat, not to mention a short haired dog, trying to keep up with the dust bunnies is not a pleasant task. I hate sweeping and always put it off (which is a bad decision). Then when it is time to sweep and mop the floors I have extra work in front of me.

Ever since I received the Bissell Perfect Sweep Turbo, keeping my floors clean of dog hair, normal dust and dirt, the occasional pink sprinkle fiasco and tiny Lego's that you can't even see has been a cinch. The sweeper has the perfect amount of suction allowing it to pick up teeny tiny items all the way to larger items like leaves and paper. Not to mention, that the kids can safely use the sweeper and I am not afraid of them hurting themselves. Or anything else for that matter.

I don't normally put two videos in the same review but these were so darn cute, I just couldn't resist.

Here is Cinderella helping me with our chores:

And we can't forget the prince:

The other great thing about the Bissell Perfect Sweep Turbo is that it is cordless and fully rechargeable. We have only recharged it 2x in about 6 weeks and it still runs great. It is also easy to empty and has a clear dirt cup to sort out anything that might have accidentally gotten swept up in the machine. Plus it works great on carpet, rugs and floors.

I am not sure how I survived this long without this time saving device. I honestly can't imagine not having it. I am completely sold on the Bissell Perfect Sweep Turbo. If I were you, I would run out get one today! Especially before spring returns and all the dirt that comes with it!

Bissell is offering each of you $5.00 off their amazing Perfect Sweep Turbo sweeper. Just use the code: perfectsweep at check out!

Find Bissell sweepers online:

www.bissell.com/sweepers
www.facebook.com/bissell
@Bissellclean on Twitter #sweepers

Disclaimer: I received compensation in exchange for this post. Regardless, I only post my honest opinions. This blog is in no way affiliated with Twitter, Facebook or any other social network.

Praise! Little Angels Inspiring and Fun DVD's!

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 04:24:00 +0000

Did you know that angels leave an amazing amount of glitter in their midst? It's true, and how do I know this you ask? Well, Lu and I were blessed to host a Little Angels Valentines Day party this past Sunday afternoon and all my little angles were thrilled to wear their glitter wings and fly all over the house. This was Lu's very first Valentines Day party and oh my, did she have a fantastic time.

Before church that morning, the kids and set out all the decorations and crafts. Beaded heart necklaces, angel wings and halo's were placed on each chair. We hung the Valentines day banner and baked our yummy angel food cake. You can't have an angel party without angel food cake can you?

Our party started at 3:30 with the arrival of 4 little girls and two adorable boys. They were all so excited when they saw their angel wings and all the decorations. We started the party with our angel picture frame crafts. Each of the girls mom's helped them make the cute little frame.

Then we used stickers to put our names on our bags and used the Little Angel Valentines cards to give Valentines to each of our friends. Everyone took turns handing out Valentines to each other and then I had some special fruit snacks & candy treats to fill their bags with.

After that we had fun coloring the Little Angels color sheets:

Everyone had worked up an appetite, so before we sat down to watch the movie, we had our snacks. Fresh baked cookies with pink sprinkles (of course), angel food cake with melted chocolate, white chocolate chip filled raspberries, and the Little Angles Peanut Butter and Jelly popcorn.

After all that, the kids (and parents) were super excited to watch the Little Angels' movies. I had all the kids move over to the couch/floor and put in the video. They were instantly interested in the theme song and began dancing and spinning around. We watched the Animals video first, and the kids were intrigued with the story. They all had a lot of questions and kept talking to each other pointing out different things they liked.

The parents said they really liked the style of the video, that it was refreshing not to have a lot of flashing scenes and loud music. The parents also said how much they liked the positive message and Bible themed lessons. I loved the ABC's, because they used Bible words and stories to describe the letters. Plus they used bible imagery to highlight the video's themes. All three of the videos are packed with great lessons, that your kids will really enjoy.

The Little Angels materials including all three of their new DVD's can be purchased from the Little Angels website. Plus you can find out more about their products and keep up to date on all the Little Angels news by liking their page on Facebook.

Official Little Angels synopsis:

Discover the joy of learning and friendship with this season's most heavenly new collection! From executive producer Roma Downey (Touched by an Angel) comes the first three volumes of a fresh, fun and inspiring educational series that children and their parents (and grandparents too) can enjoy together in LITTLE ANGELS ABC’s, LITTLE ANGELS ANIMALS, and LITTLE ANGELS1,2,3’s,soaring onto DVD with Digital Copy February 14 from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment.
Little Angels is released 14th February 2012

Disclaimer: I received product and materials to host the Little Angels Valentine's Day party. Regardless, I only post my honest opinions. This blog is in no way affiliated with Twitter, Facebook or any other social network.

Happy Sunday! Giveaway Reminders & News

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 02:57:00 +0000

Are you ready for a new week? Sunday always makes me a little sad and a little happy. We had a super busy weekend but I am looking forward to the long weekend for my family.

We hosted a Little Angels Valentines party today with 5 of the cutest little angels that you have ever seen. Be on the look out for my complete review later this week.

Giveaway Reminders!

I Love Your Presence CD - Ends in 2 days!
Ocean Spray Fruit Snacks - Ends in 3 days!

Giveaway Event!

Don't for get to enter to win the Ipad 2 in the February Frenzy Giveaway!

Praises you might like to read:

Infusion Design Studio
Disney On Ice Review
Tiny Prints Business Cards

Today's Eversave Deal - Kid Friendly

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 12:24:00 +0000

There are a couple of really great, Kid Friendly Saves from Eversave Today!

Family Fun

Today's Save:$6 for a one-year or $12 for a two-year subscription to FamilyFun magazine

You can also get this great deal on Sesame Street Board Books & CD Sets.
$12 for three Sesame Street board books and CD sets, plus free shipping!
Offer expires: 11:59 PM - Feb 18, 2012

Disclaimer: I received compensation in exchange for this post. Regardless, I only post my honest opinions. This blog is in no way affiliated with Twitter, Facebook or any other social network.

Praise: Disney On Ice: 100 Years of Magic

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:47:00 +0000

After weeks of anticipation, watching the Disney On Ice YouTube video a thousand times and my daughter wearing her princess gown 24/7, we gathered up our troops and headed out to Nationwide Arena to enjoy 100 Years of Magic.

Our seats from Feld Entertainment were spectacular. We were 3rd row center and with the exception of the 6'2" man sitting in front of us, we literally felt like we could reach out and touch the skaters. Having never seen a Disney On Ice show, I think I was just as excited as the kids were. The costumes, characters and numbers were breathtaking. I especially loved being able to sing along with all the familiar tunes.
Lu's favorite part was definitely the princess medley. As each new prince and princess pair took to the ice, her eyes became brighter and brighter. And when Cinderella came over the the center and waved, I thought she was just going to melt. The smile on her face went from ear to ear. She was even happy to see the Beast.

I wasn't sure that Eph, being 7, was going to enjoy the show, but from the moment that Mickey and Minnie came through the big castle doors, he was mesmerized. Because of my love for Disney, he has seen every Disney movie that was depicted. I could hear him singing along to the songs and he was fascinated by the actual ice skating. He kept saying, "wow" over and over. When I asked him his favorite part, he said it was the soldiers from Toy Story. I kind of have to agree, I thought their number was really cool too.

Overall the show is spectacular. There were bubbles, lights and fireworks. There was a scary, giant whale that was as large as the entire rink. There was a happy little fish named Nemo and some fish eating sharks with teeth scary enough to make little ones squirm in their parents laps. There were so many of my favorite Disney characters that I felt just like a kid again.

At the end of the show the entire cast comes out to the edge of the rink and they let the kids come down and shake hands or high five the characters. Eph was one of the first ones down there but Lu was more hesitant. She got close enough to wave to snow white and got a wave back. And Mickey came up pretty close. It was truly amazing.

The Disney On Ice - 100 Years of Magic show is still touring. Next up they will be at the US Airways Center in Phoenix. You can get the entire upcoming schedule for all the Disney on Ice shows by visiting their website.
Disclaimer: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to attend private Feld pre-Show events. Feld Entertainment is neither a sponsor nor endorser of this promotion.

Praise: Tiny Prints Business Cards

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 03:43:00 +0000

I have not had the luxury of being able to go to a blogger conference yet. However, I am really hoping that I will be able to attend the Bloggy Conference in Cincinnati this summer. It would be my first opportunity to really get out and meet other bloggers, PR representatives and other companies.

I had never really thought about having business cards for my blog until I went to a PR event last fall and the PR representative asked for my business card. I was a little embarrassed to admit that I didn't have any cards. Once I got home, I immediately signed on to Tiny Prints to peruse their business products. I know this is going to come as a surprise, but I actually purchased my business cards, months before I was ever offered this campaign from Tiny Prints.

Tiny Prints offers a whole variety of professional business products to make sure you are able to express yourself to your colleagues and associates. I love that you can search for your colors, themes, and sizes.

Plus they offer a custom selection that you can personalize with a photo or logo.

Here are the ones that I chose:

Do they just make you think of basking in the Sun? I loved the bright orange and simple design. The cards were very easy to personalize, very affordable, and come in very nice plastic boxes. You can choose from a variety of modern, floral, custom as well as folded, square, horizontal or vertical.

I find myself really liking this one too:

If you are looking to create some new business cards for your next blog conference or social media event, I highly encourage you to choose Tiny Prints for all your business printing needs.

Disclaimer: I received compensation in exchange for this post. Regardless, I only post my honest opinions. This blog is in no way affiliated with Twitter, Facebook or any other social network.

Put On Your Wings: We are Hosting a Little Angels Party!

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:28:00 +0000

Lu and I are so excited to be hosting a Little Angels screening party this upcomming weekend. We have been busy inviting some of our old friends and some new friends to share in an afternoon of fun and friendship. I have been scouring the internet looking for some cute ideas.

We will be having 6 of our own little angels over to the house. The party activities will include heart shape cooking decorating, making valentines frames, some yummy angel food cake & strawberry bites for dipping into melted chocolate. We will also be wearing our special angel wings and halo's. Plus, for a special surprise, a littler roll on glitter to make all the little girls have a little extra sparkle.

Little Angels is a new series from Roma Downey (“Touched by an Angel”) that promotes learning and friendship. The first three volumes will be soaring on to DVD on February 14th. These educational shows offer fun, fresh and inspiring videos on ABC's, Animals and 1,2,3's.

You can join us in our celebration by visiting the Little Angels website and learning about their new DVD's, CD's and mobile apps. You can also like them on Facebook.
Check out this super cute Valentine's Day card printable! Feel free to print and use with your littlest angel today!

Little Angels will be released 14th February 2012

Disclaimer: I received compensation in exchange for this post. Regardless, I only post my honest opinions. This blog is in no way affiliated with Twitter, Facebook or any other social network.

Chicobags Valentine's Bag on Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 03:26:00 +0000

I just wanted to let you know that Chicobags just put their Original Valentine's Day bags on sale for $3.99. They have two great designs to choose from, Recycle Heart and Conversation Heart. The perfect item to let that special someone know you care about the environment this Valentine's Day.

Head over to www.chicobag.com to take advantage of this special offer!

Movies! Movies! What Movies do your children watch?

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 03:08:00 +0000

We love to watch movies in our house. We pop some corn, grab our blankets, curl up on the couch and enjoy a recent flick from Redbox or cable. Recently, my son has become more interested in "real" movies instead of animated ones and I know there are so many good ones that I want him to see. The only problem is that I am having a hard time making a list.

This is where you come in. Can you help me come up with a great list of PG movies (some PG-13 would be ok) that we can start watching?

Here are a few movies that we have already watched (and he loved).

Star Wars (all of them)
Bedtime Stories (one of his favorites)
Ghost Busters
Real Steel (great movies)

What movies do you remember most from the past 30 years? What movies would you definitely want on your "must see list?"

Praise: Tiny Prints Invitations Are the Greatest

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 02:40:00 +0000

Ever since I first blogged for Tiny Prints, I have been a huge fan of of their products. They offer a whole array of personalized products including invitations, announcements, stationary, gifts, calendars and photobooks. Their designs range from whimsical to modern and they have something for everyone and every occasion.

I was all excited about his post, when I realized that I couldn't actually show you the exact invitations that I created because I would be giving away my home (and my friend's) addresses. Which on the internet, is not the wisest thing to do, so these are edited for public safety.

My friend Charlotte and I are hosting a Valentines Day tea party for some of our friends from church. There were so many beautiful tea party invitations to choose from but we both selected this one.

The next invitation that I chose was for Eph's 7th birthday. He was having a indoor swimming party. Again, there were so many invitations with a swimming theme but I thought the Shark Attack was just too darn cute and ironic.

If you are planning any type birthday, wedding, shower, or other event. You must check out Tiny Prints for all your personalized invitation needs. You won't be disappointed with their excellent graphics, easy to navigate website, high quality paper.

Disclaimer: I received free product or other types of compensation in exchange for this post. Regardless, I only post my honest opinions. This blog is in no way affiliated with Twitter, Facebook or any other social network.

Not So Secret Admirer

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 16:04:00 +0000

My Son is a lover. I don't encourage it. It is just what it is. From a very young age, Eph would tell me that he "loved" someone. You could see his infatuation with certain babysitters, moms, and other kids. I always make a point to tell him that he is too young to "love" anyone and he will argue his point.

He is also fairly handsome (if I do say so myself). Even young girls kind of swoon around him. There have been plenty of "Is Eph coming?" questions when we are planning outings. It's probably a good thing, because he might need his good looks to get him through life.

So recently, we started finding notes on our doorstep. It started with a random knock. We would open the door and see a little brown ponytail bopping down the street.

This was note #1:

Oh Eph was so embarrassed. He said, "She can't like me, she doesn't even know how to spell my name." He blushed. I giggled. He got mad. It was cute.

Then, a few days later, this adorable pup arrived at our back door:

A little pre-valentine day gift from his admirer?

There are been more notes, but he destroys them pretty quickly. He says he doesn't like Madison, he likes Emily but I can tell he likes the attention.

The hubby and I have been trying to decide whether we talk to the mother or not. I don't want their daughter to be spending her (their) money on gifts without their knowing. I think we will let it play out, see how long it continues.

I am sure there is a lesson to be learned from our Not So Secret Admirer. We just have to wait and see what that lesson is.

How would handle this puppy love?

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:18:00 +0000

Just a reminder that there are still fantastic seats left for only $10.00 per little prince or princess (and their kings and queens too) when you use the promo code: MAGIC and click HERE (Ticketmaster)!

Remaining Show Times

Thu, Feb 2 2012 7:00PM
Fri, Feb 3 2012 7:00PM
Sat, Feb 4 2012 11:00AM
Sat, Feb 4 2012 3:00PM
Sat, Feb 4 2012 7:00PM
Sun, Feb 5 2012 1:00PM
Sun, Feb 5 2012 5:00PM

Ticket Information:

$45 Rinkside/$33 VIP Seating
$16-$20 Lower Level
$13 Upper Level

**Offer Valid toward regularly-priced tickets in seating, excludes Rinkside and VIP Seats. Offer subject to ticket availability. Not Valid on Opening Night Performance. Service charges and handling fees may apply. Valid on up to four discounted tickets. Not be used in conjunction with any other discount, premium or rebate offer.

Disclaimer: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to attend private Feld pre-Show events. Feld Entertainment is neither a sponsor nor endorser of this promotion.

Praise: Infusion Design Studio

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 04:00:00 +0000

Are you looking to freshen up your blog? Thinking of an entire redo? Maybe you just need some new cute buttons, a banner or a special event logo? Then you need to check out Infusion Design Studio.

I have had the pleasure of working with Jessica over the course of a few events and have been overly pleased with the high quality of her design work. I love her eye for design, her communication and her flexibility. All I have to do is give her my basic idea and she runs with it, making it better than I had imagined.

Here are a couple of samples of the wonderful work that she has done for me:

And she just recently made these adorable buttons for my side bar:

For pricing, schedule and ideas, you can visit her website. She is also has a Facebook page where she often posts discounts and deals on various services. Nothing like a $5 deal on blog buttons but you can only get those specials by following her.

Disclaimer: I did not receive any compensation for this post. However, I only post my honest opinions. This blog is in no way affiliated with Twitter, Facebook or any other social network.

February Frenzy IPad 2 & $50 Cash Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:01:00 +0000

Welcome to the February Frenzy iPad 2 & Cash giveaway!

Bay Area Mommy and Swagbucks has teamed up with 60 wonderful bloggers to give you a chance to win the following prizes!

1st prize:

16g Wifi iPad2 with smartcover (1 winner; US/CAN)

2nd prize:

$50 cash (3 winners; WorldWide)

Like all Facebook pages here.Follow all Twitter profiles here.Remember, you can't win if you don't enter! And the more entries you "send", the more chances of winning!

Swagbucks is the online rewards community that works, rewarding people for all of the things they're already doing online - search, games, watching videos, shopping, surveys and more! The Swag Bucks earned by users have helped purchase everything from diapers to video games - it's easy, it's rewarding, and it's 100% free!

Giveaway is open for entries from February 1, 12AM EST until February 21, 11:59PM EST.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: I did not receive any compensation for this post. All views and opinions expressed in this blog are purely my own. Sunshine Praises and this post is in no way endorsed, sponsored or has any connection to Twitter, Facebook or any other network. Please see my full disclosure for more information

Chaos & Disorder Slowly Being Banished

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 02:42:00 +0000

Sometime in the weeks following Christmas, my house became a disaster. There was WAY to much stuff, EVERYWHERE. Then, as my son's birthday started to approach, after holiday review items were being delivered, and we started to prepare Lu's room for a "big girl" bed, my house became overwhelming. There were too many things taking up too much space and that space began to take over my head. Chaos was taking over and accomplishing even the tiniest tasks were slowing becoming impossible.

Now here is where I need to make a confession - I have a bit of a hoarding problem. Ok, so not like real hoarding. At least not the kind you see on TV. I am not keeping rotten pumpkins from last fall, but I do have a tendency to hold on things way past the point of necessity. The items can be either sentimental in nature (like the paper "graduation" cap from Eph's preschool graduation) or the 400 paper clips from my days of having a desk. Regardless, they are taking over my home (and garage).

Recently, I became very convicted and realized that I really needed to start shedding some of the stuff taking over my life so that I could find order in the chaos. I have spent the last few days, cleaning, cleaning cleaning. I have filled boxes of items to give to friends and for donation. I have thrown bag after bag of "trash" out. I have cleaned corners and closets and it feels really good.

Letting go of tiny sticky notes and broken toys has been rejuvenating. I still have a long way to go, but there is finally light at the end of the tunnel. I am finally banishing the chaos from my home. I am lightening my load and I am feeling better.

Here are some before and after pictures from the kids rooms:

What are some items you need to rid your home of? What makes it so hard to get rid of things?

Praise & Giveaway: Vineyard Music's I Love Your Presence (Live)

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 04:11:00 +0000

It would be impossible for me to truly describe how much I love the live Vineyard Music albums. Long before I ever became a blogger, I filled my Ipod with the yearly live worship albums. There is something magical that happens, when these writers and musicians from all different Vineyard churches come together to worship our great Savior, create new music, and sing. The outcome is rarely less than breathtaking and I Love Your Presence is no exception.

This album is filled with 13 heart saving tunes that are sure to bring your down on your knees and make you rise up in celebration. I have been singing Anabeth Morgan's song Sweet Mercies for the past few days as a prayer for a fellow Christian brother "Big Dave," as he clings for life. The song has provided me such comfort. Remembering that his mercies are new everyday, knowing that we need his help, he will come.

It's our confession Lord, that we are so weak.

The female vocalists on this album are all new to me and really steal this album. Their soulful melodies and deep lyrics really rock my world. I haven't stopped listening to Kristen Ford's Love of God. The song really leads me into a deeper connection.

Oh, how great is the love of God.

I don't want to neglect the men, the lead song "I Love Your Presence" is a powerful ballad. If you are (or have ever been) a Vineyard attender, you will immediately know how amazing this song is. As a matter of fact, my sweet boy made up a dance to this one and we were both still singing "I love, I love, I love your presence." long after the song had ended.

About 'I Love Your Presence':
I LOVE YOUR PRESENCE was recorded live at the Burn Bright: Worship and The Kingdom Of God conference, hosted by Vineyard Worship. Several hundred worship leaders and worshippers gathered in the Arizona desert to explore the nature of God’s kingdom through music and teaching with some of the Vineyard’s most gifted communicators and musicians. This inspiring collection of songs recorded live at the The Vineyard Church North Phoenix will immerse listeners in the powerful worship that was the highlight of the event. LOVE OF GOD reminds us to not just think of worship as singing songs, but also laying down our lives for Him.

I am so thrilled to offer this fantastic album as a giveaway. One reader will be receiving a digital download of the entire album, "I Love Your Presence" by Vineyard Music. All you need to do is fill out the Rafflecopter form below.

Can't wait to win it? You can down load the album from Itunes today.

Enter Here

(Don't see the form? Click 'Read More')

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Praise & Giveaway: Ocean Spray Fruit Flavored Snacks

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 03:38:00 +0000

My kids love fruit snacks and because they are an easy snack to keep in our car or travel bag, I usually keep them on hand. I was excited to hear that Ocean Spray was introducing two varieties of fruit flavored snacks. These new fruit snacks are made with real fruit juices and natural colors and flavors. Plus they contain only 80 calories and 100% of the daily value of Vitamin C.

I was provided 6 boxes (3 of each flavor) for this review and I can honestly say we absolutely L-O-V-E them. Not only have the kids been begging for them, I have been tossing a pack into my work bag for a late afternoon snack.

The snacks are slightly chewy with great fruit flavors. Personally I liked the Berries and Cherries more than the assorted fruit but my kids loved them both. Eph liked them so much that he actually asked for me to have them in his birthday party bags.

Oh and did I mention that you get double Box Tops? See how much they enjoyed these delicious Ocean Spray fruit flavored snacks:

Would you like to try Ocean Spray fruit flavored snacks? They are generously giving one of my lucky readers SIX boxes (three of each flavor). All you have to do is fill out the Rafflecopter form below. As always there is an easy answer. Don't want to wait to win? Click here to download a coupon for $1.10 off two (2) boxes.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: Ocean Spray^® Fruit Flavored Snacks, information, and giveaway have been provided by Ocean Spray^® through MyBlogSpark.This blog is in no way affiliated with Twitter, Facebook or any other social network.

Just a Bit of Encouragment

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 03:23:00 +0000

It's been one of those weeks. Things have been a little crazy and I am feeling disorganized, distraught and unfocused. I will write more about all that in another post but for now, I have found some solace in this great list on What Christians Want to Know - Words of Encourgament: 30 Short Uplifting Quotes.

“When you get into a tight place and everything goes against you, till it seems as though you could not hang on a minute longer, never give up then, for that is just the place and time that the tide will turn. “ ~ Harriet Beecher Stowe, American Abolitionist

Or how about this one:

“Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.” ~ Solomon, King of Israel; Proverbs 12:25

How has your week been?

Disclaimer: I wrote this post as entry into a giveaway. Regardless, I only post my honest opinions. This blog is in no way affiliated with Twitter, Facebook or any other social network.

Disney On Ice: Nationwide Arena February 1-5th!

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:12:00 +0000

Congratulations to the winners of the Columbus Disney on Ice giveaway!

Sadie, Ariel, Christy, Garilyn and Caylin

I hope that you all enjoy the show!

If you were not one of our winners this time, remember that there are still special $10.00 seats available when you use the promo code: MAGIC and click HERE (Ticketmaster)!

Show Times:

Wed, Feb 1 2012 7:00PM
Thu, Feb 2 2012 7:00PM
Fri, Feb 3 2012 7:00PM
Sat, Feb 4 2012 11:00AM
Sat, Feb 4 2012 3:00PM
Sat, Feb 4 2012 7:00PM
Sun, Feb 5 2012 1:00PM
Sun, Feb 5 2012 5:00PM

Ticket Information:

$45 Rinkside/$33 VIP Seating
$16-$20 Lower Level
$13 Upper Level

Event: Celebrate the Chinese New Year & Win $100

noreply@blogger.com (Melanie Somnitz) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 17:02:00 +0000

Gong Xi Fa Cai! It's time to ring in another Chinese New Year. To welcome the year of the water dragon, I have teamed up with The Coffee Chic and some other awesome bloggers to bring you the Chinese New Year Cash Giveaway. Try your luck and enter the rafflecopter form to win $100 Paypal Cash or Amazon Card (Winner's Choice). Just like the Facebook pages, follow Twitter Accounts, add Google pages in your circle and Subscribe via Email for a chance to grab the prize. Winner will be randomly selected and notified via email or FB message. He or she will be given 48 hours to send a response. Otherwise, his or her winnings will be forfeited and a new participant will be chosen.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: This is a group wide event. The event hosts are responsible for fulfilling the prize. If there are any problems [which I know there won't be but the law says it is better if I say this type of stuff], I will do my best to reach out for you. As, always, I only post my honest opinions. This blog is in no way affiliated with Twitter, Facebook or any other social network.