Blankz Review!

Thanks to The Pitch List, I am able to bring you a review of a product that I think is just AWESOME!

My daughter is so creative, and LOVES drawing and coloring.  We spend a TON of money on coloring books, construction paper, and more, so this product is awesome for us, because it's something that she can (has, and will continue to) color it over and over again.

It's basically  a plain white stuffed animal with watercolor markers.  You color it, and make it your own customized toy.  Then, whenever that creative streak comes along, it is just washed and dried in the laundry, and able to be used again!

My daughter saw this as soon as we received it, and I literally had no time to take a picture of the product before she began making it her own, so here's a picture from their website.




We got the Bare Hare, but they also have the "bare" (bear), "Bloink" (pig), "Ele-Faint" (elephant), "No Bully" (bull), "Un-Sealed" (seal) and the "White Hound" (dog).

The markers, if drawn on too heavily, will take a long time to dry, and when not dry, the marker will rub off on your finger.  So coloring lighter will help with that.

If marker does get on your fingers, some have said that they had trouble washing it off, but that toothpaste and mouthwash actually helped with it.  My daughter is someone who ALWAYS gets markers all over herself whenever she colors (she's 3, crayons are something she's been using for a while, but markers are still somewhat new, so I knew what to expect) , so I expected it, and gave her a bath after she used them.  Regular soap washed marker off really easily for us.

Here are her first "creations" with our Blankz toy!




Ignore the poor photography, and the incorrect time stamps.  The battery died and camera reset itself before I was taking the pictures.

She had such a great time doing this I absolutely LOVED watching her do it!  We have worked on it together too, it's a lot of fun! I love doing creative things together!

These retail for $14.99 on their site, and I think this is a good price for this mainly because, I know that for us, this will save a lot of money on other coloring things, because of the fact that this is reusable.

I absolutely love this product, and if you decide to try it, you will to!

Starting tonight at midnight, Blankz and The Pitch List, are going to be doing a great giveaway! Every day, for a week, one Blankz toy a day will be awarded! Check back for that post!



 Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

I've got some awesome things to share with you!

This is a little bit of a teaser for you,but I have a LOT of exciting things that I'm getting ready to share with you!  I'm bringing you a few giveaways in addition to what I've already got going, and some reviews, on some really great products, including something called the Conscious box!  You simply will not believe all that comes with this, and tomorrow, I will be sharing it with you!  I will also be sharing a lot of other neat products with you!  I just wanted to let you know that we have some exciting things for you to keep your eyes out for! 

As always, please comment if there's anything else that you'd like to read about! I write for you, so I want to write what you want to read!!


Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

A review that I didn't really want to post right now.

 
I am writing this review, purely and simply because I keep getting emails from Tomoson saying that my account is in jeopardy if I don't complete it.  I had been in contact with the company, letting them know that I really wanted at least an extension on the review, or maybe to just purchase the product instead of writing a review on it.

The reason why, is because it's for a t-shirt that I got a while ago for my husband from a website selling gun t-shirts.  My husband enjoys shooting and, being in the military, and then working in law enforcement, has been shooting at ranges and carrying a weapon for work the entirety of our marriage.  He enjoys shooting and is good at it.

However, after the awful and tragic shooting in Colorado happened, in an effort to be sensitive to victims of this shooting, (the t-shirt that we got says "bullets make me happy" and I can see how that might be offensive and perhaps saddening to some in light of this event.) I contacted the company because my review was coming due, and I just really no longer felt comfortable writing it at this time.  The shirt is comfortable and well made, so the shirt itself, is good. (though my husband has taken a break from wearing it for a while, also in an effort to be sensitive)

I wrote to the company in an effort to help them see my point of view, and perhaps let them see that the timing for this review just isn't a good decision on either of our parts.  I explained that I genuinely just wanted to be understanding of those who may be reading this, and their sensitivities to what it represents during this time.

Here's what I initially wrote to the T-Shirt company:

"I know that my review is coming due, and I know that it needs to be done, however, I feel that in light of the recent shooting in Colorado, I'd like to request an extension on this."

The response from the T-shirt company:

"I advise just doing it and not mentioning Aurora at all. You cant walk on eggshells all of the time when you're dealing with a mass audience. Just put the product out there and review it. You aren't promoting mass killings...just a shirt with a gun on it."

I responded telling him that I truly didn't feel comfortable doing this right now, but if given a 30-60 day extension, and letting some time pass, the timing would be better.  I also let him know at this time, that if he didn't feel comfortable with the extension, that I would be more than happy to just pay the full purchase price for the shirt.

T-shirt company's response:
"Dude, do what you need to do! Do the 30 day wait, though, okay?"


Now, 30 days have not passed, yet, I am needing to write a review, as I am receiving emails from Tomoson (which is a company that brings companies and blogging reviewers together) saying that my account is going to be in jeopardy if I wait.

That being said.  The shirt was nice, comfortable and well made.  The company has been miserable to work with, insensitive and unprofessional.

Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.


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.

Almondina Giveaway!

Well, the time has come!  Last night, you read my Almondia Review, (if you haven't, go here to read it now!) and now it's time for you to try to win some also!!

One lucky winner will win the same sampler pack that I received to do my review.  With such a great variety of flavors, you surely won't be disappointed, and you might even find a flavor to please each member of the family!  What a better way to find out!

This giveaway will last one week.  It begins today (July 30th) and ends on August 6th at Midnight.

This giveaway is only open to US residents.  

Good luck!



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Almondina Review

I am someone who has a MAJOR sweet tooth. It is one of my biggest downfalls when it comes to trying to lose weight.

I am fond of cookies and snacks, but I really do want to control my snacking. This is part of the reason that I was really excited to hear about a company called Almondina, which makes delicious cookies, that have no added fat, low salt and low calories.  I also feel that it's worth mentioning, that these cookies are all natural as well, which is an added bonus! Have I mentioned yet, that they're delicious?!

They come in a lot of different flavors, and like anything else, I obviously liked some more than others, but the ones that I like, I REALLY like!  They're really crunchy, and if you're someone like me, when you enjoy eating and sometimes do it too much.  The fact that they're so crunchy and incredibly flavorful helps me to feel much more satisfied after eating only a few of them (the serving size for most of them is 4 cookies, and after eating that many I feel like I've had a completely satisfying snack!)  I even had them for breakfast one morning because they are WONDERFUL with coffee!!

So, what are they, exactly, you're probably asking.  They're thin, wafer like cookies that come in various flavors, all containing almonds.  This company was started by a man who was simply inspired by a recipe that his grandmother left behind.  It was the recipe for these cookies, and it was something that he was able to look back on fondly as being something that his whole family enjoyed.  He took her recipe, and ran with it building a successful company, and sharing her delicious cookies, as well as her legacy. 

For review, I received the sampler pack which can be found here, but after looking at their website, I've decided that I might have to do some shopping for more, for two reasons.  One, I know that there are a few varieties that I want to try, and two, because they have some that I haven't tried yet (like chocolate dipped.  I mean, how delicious does that sound?!)

Be on the lookout tomorrow morning, because I will be offering a GIVEAWAY of the same sampler pack that I received.  You are guaranteed to find something within that you will like, so be on the lookout tomorrow morning!


Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Homemade Cake Pops! - Guest Post

I am so blessed to be a part of a wonderful group of bloggers.  As I wrote yesterday, I've been feeling really sick.  You know the drill, kids catch something, then mom gets it.  Well, not being able to think straight, but still wanting some content going into my blog, I reached out for help, and here's another guest post from a wonderful blogger who loves cooking with her children (as you can read about in this post and many others on her blog!)

Homemade Cake Pops (no fancy tools needed!)

I love coming up with new stuff to do with my kids, and we love baking and all things sweet! We were on a Jolly Rancher Sucker kick awhile back (and I blogged about it, with some great pictures before they were devoured! You can find it here: http://www.semmessavers.com/2012/04/jolly-ranchers-suckers-yummy-and-easy.html) but we recently decided we needed a different taste, so we went back to a tried and true recipe for cake pops.

Cake Pops is, quite simply, balls of cake on sticks. They sell a fancy cake pop maker, which would be nice to have but I'm cheap. So, a couple of years ago I decided to work on a way to make cake pops easier. Fair warning, this is a MESSY recipe, at least around my house, so grab your apron and kitchen towel before getting started!

Cake Pops:
Ingredients Needed:
Cake Mix (whichever you have the taste for)
Lollipop sticks (Available in cake decorating supply sections)
Tub of Buttercream Frosting (this is can be substituted for a different flavor, but I have found that Buttercream works great with almost all flavors of cake)
Large mixing bowl
Medium mixing bowl
Cake baking Pan (I use 13x9 but you can use whatever you choose)

Optional (for dipping)
Candy Melts (Available in cake decorating supply sections)

Directions:
1. Mix cake mix in medium bowl according to directions on box. Place in pan and bake according to decorations. Then allow to cool (you can leave it in the pan to cool. It doesn't matter if it sticks as you will be crumbling it in the next step)

2. Place your cooled cake in the large mixing bowl. Crumble it completely. Once you have finished crumbling the cake, add Butter cream frosting (NOTE: I generally add 1/2 the tub, mix it in, and if not moist, I add more and mix until all cake is moist and "sticky".

3. Grab small hand fulls of cake mix and pack it together in "ball" shapes. Do however large or small you wish. As you ball them together, add a stick and sit to the side.

At this point your cake pops are officially done! You can eat them like this (and they're quite tasty) or get really rich with them and dip them! To do that, first place your cake pops in the freezer for about 15-30 minutes to set up better! Then grab your candy melts and throw some in another bowl. Place in the microwave to melt. I heat mine 30 seconds at a time and then stir. When they are smooth, add a little milk to thin it out and stir again. Then dip the cake pops (use your spoon to help cover them) and sit on Wax paper to set. Voila! Yummy cake pops, no expensive equipment required!

 You can also get creative with the cake pops. I've made them with butter pecan cake mix, and mixed in crushed pecans! You really can't go wrong with these in my opinion! I hope y'all enjoy them as much as WE do!




Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Fluffer Nutters -- Guest Post

Living Frugal With Erika has brought us this fun recipe to make with our kids! 


Fluffer Nutters - Kid Friendly Snack Recipe

Every mom and caregiver is always looking for a new snack for their little ones! This recipe is loved by the adults and kids both! Super simple to make and very yummy! 

This is a favorite in our house and each person normally eats about a half of a sandwich. It is very sweet and quick to make! 

What you need:

Bread

Nutella

Marshmallow Cream

Directions:

Spread Nutella on one slice of bread

Spread Marshmallow Cream on the second slice of bread

Place slices of bread together

Slice and enjoy 

*Note - This can be made with any type of bread that your family enjoys! 

Please leave us a comment with what bread you use for yours and how your family enjoyed it! 

Happy Couponing! ~Erika

Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Sickness in my house!

I posted on Facebook earlier,  "My heart aches when my child is sick, and then the rest of me aches when I catch it from her!"

This is what's happening at my house now, and I'm making sure my husband keeps his vitamins up so he doesn't get sick as well!!

My daughter starts feeling better as I start to get sick.  Apparently, her immune system is stronger and quicker than mine, as things like this usually last for me a little bit longer, and I still need to function.  I got frustrated when she didn't want to take a nap earlier because I so desperately wanted to nap.  Now she's napping, and I am unable to focus on relaxing because I'm looking around at everything that needs to be done in my house!  It's a mess, and I've been trying to get caught up on laundry, and the list just goes on and on.  

If you're a mom, with kids, how do you get past this? How do you just take the rest that you need?  My daughter stopped fighting her nap because I told her that I needed to rest so I could start to feel better.  I don't have the energy to do anything, yet I can't find rest.  Now I'm kind of just wishing that my daughter would wake up!  

Do you ever wish you could just go somewhere else to be sick?  



Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Grocery Delivery from Mygofer.com!

Have you ever dreaded the thought of grocery shopping? Having to get all of the kids in the car, bring them to the store, and scour the aisles for the products and prices that you're looking for? I know I have.

Do you have a child away at college? Does it make you cringe to think that they might possibly be living on Ramen Noodles and take out?

Do you have an older parent, a sick relative or friend who might be in need of groceries, but unable to go get some by themselves?
 

Recently, a website was brought to my attention that can alleviate each and every single one of these stresses!  As moms, we have enough stress, and things to worry about, right?  It's a site called mygofer.com and they offer everything from grocery delivery to pet supplies and more in between!

With moms, and really, women in general, being so busy today, this is really a great service for the modern woman!

I have used services from grocery stores that offer grocery delivery, but this is so much different.  When using this service, you are not limited to just one store, and their products. When you place an order for delivery (which can be same day delivery with convenient hourly windows, as late as 9 pm and even on weekends!) an actual person is handpicking exactly what you are looking for, and then it is either made available for you to pick up (they have partnered with Kmart, so that if you need your order even faster, they will do the shopping for you, and you pull into one of their designated Kmart stores, to their curbside pickup location, and a mygofer will bring your order right to you!) or will be delivered within hours to your home!

For those of us who love saving money, they also have ways to do that, such as clearance sales, and a rewards program called Shop Your Way Rewards!

I also mentioned before, about how this is a great service for moms who want to help their college students with groceries (I know my mom would have absolutely LOVED to be able to do this when I was in school!)  Below, I'm posting what they say on their blog about this very subject!




Campus Delivery


Disclaimer: I received compensation from mygofer.com for the above post.  My opinions are always my own. The Mom Show is not responsible for any service provided by mygofer.com.

Buy Costume Review and Giveaway!

Through The Pitch List, I was given the opportunity to review an absolutely adorable costume from Buy Costumes!  They offer a wide selection of men's, women's, children's, toddler's and infants' costumes.

I chose to review a costume for my daughter.  I got the Wild West Cutie Toddler/Child Costume.

  

 

The costume came with everything above except the boots (though those are also available on their website for sale.).  The Wild West Cutie Costume sells for only $24.99.  This website is really reasonably priced.  It is also comfortable with thin fabric.  The one thing that we didn't like about it, was the hat.  It comes completely straight with no lip at the bottom and we had a really hard time trying to bend it to create a lip the way it is pictured above.  We kind of got it, but it still doesn't look as good.  Other than that, the rest of this costume is really great!  It's a perfect combination of girly, and "cowgirl" and my daughter loved it!

Thanks to BuyCostumes.com, and The Pitch List, as a group, we are able to give away costumes ($45 or less) to seven lucky winners!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Check out other Buy Costume Reviews!

Blogger Opp - Paid Post from mygofer.com

Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Lehigh Valley Dairy Farms

I received the opportunity to do a review for Lehigh Valley Dairy Farms. The makers of TruMoo Chocolate Milk! This is the product that I've chosen to focus most of my review on, but this company actually does SO much more.  They sell your typical milks (whole, reduced fat, low fat and fat free), as well as their TruMoo flavored milks (chocolate and strawberry, both delicious, low fat and good for you!). They sell what they call "Over the Moon" milks that contain additional calcium, vitamin D and protein as well in fat free, lowfat, and chocolate flavored.  Their brand carries juices, teas, single serve milk bottles and milkshakes as well!

Now, back to TruMoo.  My daughter absolutely LOVES this chocolate milk.  That is not even the best part.  These milks have no high fructose corn syrup, and are made with low fat milk.  They add natural cocoa and just enough natural sugar to make it an appealing chocolate milk for children!

Not only that, but, I LOVE putting it into my coffee in the morning! It adds sweetening and chocolate flavor, I love it!

Right now, if you visit their Facebook page, you can enter to win a $100 gift card!  You can do that by clicking here!









Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Entertain Like a Texas Gentleman - Cookbook review!

This afternoon, I am reviewing a book called  Entertain Like A Texas Gentleman for you all.

This cookbook, while not what I expected to receive after reading the title, was still a very interesting cookbook.  I was really expecting (and I truly apologize if this sounds in any way stereotypical, I really don't mean for it to, but this was just my honest expectation) a book with recipes for rubs, barbecues, good burgers, steaks, and things like that.  Things that I picture more men cooking.

When I made that assumption, I was really not taking into account, however, that this was a book for entertaining, and while barbecues are entertaining (I mean, that's one of our favorite ways to entertain here in my house, or, should I say, yard), this book takes me in a different direction with recipes for things like appetizers, cocktails, desserts, salads and entrees.  A lot of them are fancier than anything I have ever tried to cook, and, to be really honest, are things that my husband would never attempt (I guess hence the reason that barbecuing is our favorite way to invite someone over for dinner).

One thing that this book did for me, was it gave me some great ideas for next time we do want to have someone over for dinner.  The writer of this book, David Harap, is a professional chef, and he has taken some American cuisine and combined it with foods you might enjoy if you were to travel internationally with recipes like "miniature crab corn cakes with chive caper sauce".

Another thing that I really enjoy about this book is the fact that there's such a wide variety of recipes, and a lot of different chapters including everything from "romantic dinners" to "it's too d__n hot to cook".  There's also a chapter called "Cooking with Kiddos", which I haven't been able to really try, because my daughter's not yet four, and I felt that the recipes were just a little advanced for her age, but this would make for a great father, child project for slightly older children, with recipes like "super crunchy fish sticks" and "mac and cheese".

I do recommend the book to those who are interested in some of the recipes and chapters that I mentioned above.  There really is more to the book also, but I obviously don't want to give too much away.

Please check out his site here, to find out more about this chef and his book!


Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Sunburnt After Sun Gel Product Review

Treatment For Sunburns with Sunburnt

If you're not somewhere where it is just too hot to spend a lot of time outside, there's a good chance that you're spending a lot of time outside! Often times, this can come with an unpleasant side effect of sunburns!

Sunburns, sustained on exposed skin after spending too much time in the sun, particularly without protection, can be damaging and also really painful! This is why, it's always recommended to protect your skin from the sun as much as you can, however, sometimes, we all make mistakes, and yes, even with sunscreen, it is possible for your skin to burn.

What do you do to ease the pain of your sun burns? I have found a new product that helps to literally cool your skin (thus releasing the heat trapped in your skin from the sunburn!), ease the pain and even reduces skin peeling as it heals!

This product is called SunBurnt After Sun Gel, and it is awesome! When you first put it on, you can really feel your skin cooling. Not in a menthol - like stinging way, your skin just literally feels cooler. I tried this out on a hot and humid day, when I didn't actually have a sun burn. I rubbed a little bit on my arm, and my skin in that spot began to feel cooler. Another thing that I really like about this product, is that it is not overly sticky or thick like some other burn creams out there. It's light and easy to apply, and there's not a huge rush to get it off of your fingers afterward. There was also almost NO scent to it, which is another wonderful thing about this particular item!
Another thing that a lot of you may like (I know that I did, as I truly think that it attributes to the great things that I wrote above) but this product is homeopathic and completely natural. There aren't any chemicals or anything concerning in their product. It makes sense that this would be a factor, I mean, you're rubbing it all over your skin, after all!

You can find out more about this product here! It can also be purchased at Walgreens!

 Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings

.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.

Bad Customer Service

Bad customer service, not taking care of customers, and not owning up to bad service are my biggest pet peeves by far.

It seems as I grow further into adulthood I am noticing more and more how quality customer service is becoming a thing of the past.

I will explain some of the (recent) bad experiences that I've had, without actually naming companies.

My telephone and internet are through the same provider, because, well, simply put, they have a monopoly on our neighborhood.  Our internet (not just mine, I've discussed this with my neighbors also) keeps cutting out, and they refuse to do anything about it, and can't explain it.  It comes back on it's own, but, especially since, with a blog, I spend a lot of time online, this is extremely inconvenient.  This is honestly not even the worst of experiences that I've had with this company.   When we first moved here, despite frequent calls and visits starting in the first few days of living here, it took them over two months to initially hook up our service.  Then, when they did get it hooked up, they basically had to run a cord around the entire house, with the promise that they would, indeed, come back and bury the cable.  That was five months ago, and they JUST finally sent someone to bury it last week, and that was only because I got to the point where I was calling them daily.

Recently, we've also started having problems with our trash pickup.  They are supposed to pick it up every Tuesday and Friday.  Tuesdays, there are not usually a problem, but this past Friday was the THIRD Friday in a row that they just never showed up.  I called them after the first one to complain (luckily on this day, I called them early enough in the afternoon and they sent someone to pick it up), then after the second one, I gave them the benefit of the doubt because, surely they wouldn't mess this up a second week, right?  Well, I waited until later in the day to call, and the office was already closed.  Not only that, but there was no one to answer their calls all weekend. On Monday morning, I called them, and they offered to send someone to pick it up that day.  I said that would be great, but that since Tuesday was my next scheduled pickup, it doesn't help me a whole lot, and that, instead, I'd like a credit to my account for that day.  The lady on the phone agreed.  I happened to receive my bill on this past Friday, which, incidentally, was the third Friday in a row that my trash was not picked up, and the credit was never applied. I am at the point with this company, that, unless, when I call in the morning, they can ensure me that things will be better from here on out, I will be switching companies.

These are just two large examples that I have been dealing with recently, but it's not just the big stuff.  Even something the little things.  Like, a rude cashier, incorrect food orders, the people who tell me about all of the extra stuff that I must do to my car when all I am asking for is a simple oil change, all drive me crazy!!


Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Meatloaf -- Potluck!

I make meatloaf probably once or twice a month. Each and every time, it's a little different.

I have found that I can add just about anything to meatloaf to add a different flavor and make it taste a little different, just based on what I have in my kitchen.

A few examples:

I found a recipe once for an apple meatloaf and when I made it, it came out quite nicely, so now, whenever I have apples that I don't think anyone will eat, I cut them up small and put them in my next meatloaf.  They add a sweetness, and the meatloaf is really nice.

If I don't have eggs, instead of using packaged breadcrumbs, I will soak two pieces of sandwich bread (I've used both white and wheat, they work the same and taste about the same also.) in a bowl of water for a few minutes and then put it in the meatloaf.  (I also learned this from the apple meatloaf recipe that I found.)

If I have taco seasoning, but not other stuff to make tacos, I will put taco seasoning, onions, maybe peppers etc. in my meatloaf with some shredded cheese on top and have a taco meatloaf.

sometimes I'll put some garlic, onions and Italian Seasoning inside, with some tomato sauce and mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top and then I have an Italian Meatloaf!

So I take something that I always used to think was a really boring meal, and basically make it a little different every time.


Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Schylling Toy Giveaway

The Mommy Island  

along with several other great bloggers are excited to bring this Fun Giveaway to our readers!

Enter here to win three awesome toys for your kids!  If you win, surely they won't be disappointed!

With special thanks to our sponsor Schylling for offering up

 3 awesome toys for one lucky winner!

 Check out Becky from The Mommy Island's review of the Scuttle Bug to see the toy in action!

One winner will receive:

1. Scuttlebug
2.  Sprig Dino Adventure Rig
3. BalloonPowered Boat

Simply Enter on the easy Rafflecopter form below!

There are no mandatory entries, but remember the more tasks you complete the better your odds, and if you complete ALL the tasks there is a Bonus! Remember all entries will be verified, so only enter on the tasks you complete.  Good Luck!

Disclaimer: The Mom Show is not responsible for prize shipment.

a Rafflecopter giveaway  

Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Colorado Tragedy

What can you say when tragedy hits others?

I can say that I'm sorry for the victims, and that my deepest sympathies are with them and their families. These things are true, but it probably doesn't mean much when there was and is so much suffering, my personal feelings seem so small when the tragedy is so great.  If you were there, or know someone who was there, or were in any way touched by this, I am sorry.  I wish that there was a way for me to personally reach out and hug you, or in some way make this better for you.  But I have and will continue to pray that God be there for each and every one of you.  I know that some of you are still in the dark as to the status of your loved ones, and I can't for one second imagine what that's like, but I hope and pray that your worry is put to rest. I have never met you and yet my heart is breaking for you. If there is anything that I can do, please feel free to contact me.

I can also say that it heightens my appreciation for police officers, emergency medical technicians, and hospital staff who were there to help with the people involved.   Not including detectives (around 50), there were between 150 and 200 police officers who were working this scene, and there are still officers investigating now.  Because there are only so many ambulances, and they can only do so much, some of these police officers actually transported the injured in their vehicles.  I believe the many injured parties were transported to six hospitals in that area. 

I want to let you know, one thing that I saw on the news, in case you're not aware, if you're in Aurora, and feel a need or want to utilize this, the Aurora Mental Health Center is going to be open 24 hours daily through the weekend, and their number is 303-617-2300

I am also amazed at the stories that I'm hearing about the civilians and their heroic acts toward other people in the theater.  It sounds as though perhaps one news station I watched was correct when they said that this event showed "one man at his worst, but many others at their best".  Again, I admire the strength of the officers, but civilians as well. 

What's going through my mind as I'm hearing all of this?  I am thinking of all of these people who were just going to the movies!  Couples, families, friends, etc were just going to what's supposed to be a fun and safe activity!  It breaks my heart, whenever something like this happens, it automatically makes me thing about numerous things.  The fact that, as I wrote about before, there were so many innocent people, who were just blindsided by this ruthless, and seemingly senseless attack.  Those innocent people had families.  That movie theater is only miles from Columbine, my heart also hurts for those possibly reopened wounds.  I wonder what happened to the shooter.  Why.  I just wonder why.

I just want to close this out, by saying, first of all, this probably will not be my last post on this subject.  I want to state one more time, that if there is anything that I can do, for anyone, please let me know. The message option on my Facebook page is available, or you can email me. 
I have gotten the information that I shared from a few news media outlets. 
My prayers are with you all.





Disclaimer: The information shared in this post was heard and read on a few different news medias. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links.

Would you like to try to win a video baby monitor?

I know that when my daughter was an infant, having a video monitor really helped to ease the anxieties that most new parents have when it's time for the baby to start sleeping in their own room.  This one is so much nicer than even the one we had, and LullabyLane is giving one away to one lucky parent.

Are you going to enter?  Because, you can't win if you don't enter!

Disclaimer: My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. Giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

ABCmouse.com Giveaway!

 Perhaps yesterday some of you read my ABCmouse.com review?  If not, you can read about it here.

 I love using it with my daughter! Now, one of you will be able to use it with your kids too, for FREE for a year!!

This will end on July 30th at Midnight!  Enter on the Rafflecopter below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Blog Feature - Whatsername Jewelry

Meghan Haskell

Whatsername Jewelry

http://www.whatsernamejewelry.com/

http://www.facebook.com/wsnj1

 

I have been the Owner/Operator of Whatsername Jewelry for 7 years. I design and create my own line of jewelry and sell my products online at www.whatsernamejewelry.com and on the worlds largest handmade marketplace, etsy.com.

Besides creating jewelry, I am a full-time blogger for Whatsername Jewelry.com. What started as a media site for promoting my own brand, Whatsername Jewelry now promotes independent handmade small businesses. My primary focus is getting locally handmade items to the forefront of the consumer market.

Prior to starting Whatsername Jewelry, I was a public school educator working with children with mental and physical disabilities.

ABCmouse.com Review!

I was given the opportunity to do a review for ABCmouse.com, which is a learning website for preschool aged children. I started seeing the commercials for it on television a while ago, and was curious about it.  As the daughter of a blogger, my daughter sees her mommy spend a LOT of time using the computer, so she jumped at the opportunity to use it with me! She is also a girl that just thirsts for knowledge and thrives when she's learning so this has been a really enjoyable website for us to use.

When we first started using it, I was so surprised to see how much this site offered!  They cover so many topics that young children need to learn including reading and letters, math, the world, art and colors, music and songs and more!  They use a lot of different mediums to do this also, we have read along to books, sang and heard songs, used their paint program, did puzzles, played games and more, and all the while, she was learning!





They have what they call a "Learning Path" Which, like a regular school environment, she did a different program every day.  Basically with every "step" they take, there are different topics from the list above, and you do five activities surrounding that topic and then you're done with that and move on to the next.  They get a little more difficult each time, and I haven't seen the same thing covered twice in a row, which is incredibly helpful for my three year old who has the attention span of, well, a three year old.




It's fun to see her progress, and get the answers right. When she gets things right, she gets really excited! My daughter has such a passion for learning, and seeing her have so much fun with it using this valuable resource has been great for me too!

There are other parts of their website too, such as a virtual farm and aquarium that are pretty neat and also offer learning experiences with some fun, which, I've learned, is pretty much the basis of their whole website, learning and having fun together!

I would highly suggest checking out their website here to find out more about this awesome website!

ABCmouse.com has also been gracious enough to allow me to give away free access to one of my readers!  Go HERE to try to win!

 Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Blog Feature -- Gluten Free for Jen

Gluten Free For Jen

About me: I am a mother of 2 who left the corporate world last year to stay home with my kids. We love to spend time outdoors, love to camp and love history so we have combined the two and do Civil War Reenacting as well. With owning 3 horses we like to go out to the farm and ride and just spend time out there. I am very big on photography and hope that some day after more lessons and learning more about the tricks of the trade I hope to open up a studio. We recently had a big life change in the fact my husband has taken on a career in Law Enforcement- so now our schedules are never set in stone with him, no set work hours and lots of humerous stories come out of the deal!

About Gluten Free for Jen- In May 2011 I found out that my daughter and I have gluten intolerance. There were so many recipes that were budget friendly that we loved and gluten free foods are expensive. So I set out to make our favorite recipes in a gluten from that still tasted great and was good on the budget. In December of 2011 while my husband was out of town training for his new career I decided to start sharing my recipes and my adventures. I created Gluten Free for Jen in hopes to spread awareness of Gluten Intolerance and Celiac (which my sister has) as well as to share our crazy adventures, recipes, and our favorite products!

  I am also on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/#!/GlutenFreeforJen  and twitter https://twitter.com/GFforjen

Something that I like about Nickelodeon

Now, as a stay at home parent, any and all television that is watched during my daughter's waking hours, is children's television.  Now, I DVR and watch other shows in the evening, but I also spend a lot of time watching Nickelodeon, Disney, and PBS. 

A little background that you may not know about me, is that I am a musician.  I studied contemporary music in college, and have always loved music.  In fact, Nickelodeon's show, Victorious, reminds me a LOT of my college experience in some ways. 

One evening, I was bored, and curious, and started doing my research.  I started researching people like Victoria Justice, Elizabeth Gilles, and other people who have performed music on Nickelodeon's shows and movies.  I was so impressed to find out that for the most part, they're doing their own singing and playing.  It sounds like something so silly, but taking actual musicians for these shows impressed me. 

Can I also say, that I actually really enjoyed the movie Rags?  My husband made fun of me a little, but I really did like that movie.  It was a really good story, and I wasn't expecting to enjoy it as much as I did.











Disclaimer: My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links.

Blog Feature -- Tots and Me

Tots and Me Blog!

My name is Karen and I blog over at Tots and Me. 

Tots and Me started almost 3 years ago as a way to share with other moms of young children. I wanted to share the crafts and activities I was doing with my young girls. I have continued sharing our home preschooling journey, adding in kid family recipes, cute sayings and sharing books we were reading. Oh, and don't forget the pictures, lots and lots of pictures. 

I am also using my blog as a record of what I am doing with the children as they grow. We have 4 young children who are featured on the blog. Tabitha is 5, Amelia is 4, Hannah is 2 and Harold is 4.5 months old. Between us, my husband and I have 11 children, but our older children are just about all grown and out of the respective houses they lived in, so they are not mentioned much.

Besides writing about our daily life/homeschool, I started sharing reviews and giveaways of products I figured my readers would also be interested in. I have just recently been accepted to review for Timberdoodle and am hoping to find other companies to become more regular in dealing with, especially companies that will bring the focus of my blog back to the homeschool area where I want it to be. That is why I decided to host the Back to Preschool Giveaway Blast. July will be filled with reviews in anticipation of this Giveaway Event in August. 

My blog is http://totsandme.blogspot.com

You can find me sharing on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tots-and-Me/133364816692760

Twitter https://twitter.com/kewkew34

and Pinterest http://pinterest.com/kewkew34/

Blog Feature -- Conversations with Carolyn!

Conversations With Carolyn


I'm a Christian stay at home wife and I'll be sharing eclectic conversations!

I have a couple of chronic illnesses that are invisible. One is FIBROMYALGIA. I will be sharing about this with all of you and sharing support material for fellow fibro's and their loved ones. I also have osteoporosis, degenerative disc disease and scoliosis. So it's difficult to write every day or really know which days will be good or bad for me for blogging.

Another is HEALTH and RECIPES. I love to cook! I'll be sharing my own recipes, the recipes of others and you can feel free to share recipes of your own.

I'll also be doing PRODUCT and BOOK REVIEWING. I might not always be able to offer a giveaway with a review but from time to time I will. Please feel free to comment on my reviews and I will do my best to offer the link of the most affordable place to find the book besides your public library.

I love sharing about God and my faith in Him! These will be discussions on my blog as well.

I'm from Southern California and live at the beach with my husband and dog. She's another captivating subject on this blog. We love our easy going life and love to share about it.

My step children (Edwin and Michael) are grown young men and live in Texas. They are both in the food and gaming industry.

Check out this awesome blog here!

Sizzling Summer Kitchen Giveaway!

I just love being able to share big giveaways like this with you!  

It sure is hot this summer! BabyCostcutters and Donna's Deals and More have teamed up to bring us this hot giveaway! This giveaway is so hot, it's sizzling, much like the weather for most of us! 

So what exactly are we giving away? I'm so glad you asked!

We're giving away a 10 piece Rachael Ray Porcelain Enamel II Nonstick Cookware Set in your choice of orange, red or blue.

• Stylish two-tone gradient exterior, this cookware heats quickly and evenly, reducing -hot spots that can burn foods
• Long-lasting nonstick interior allows food to slide off and makes cleanup quick and easy
• The rubberized dual-riveted handles are comfortable and oven safe to 350 degrees.
• Tempered glass lids - watch your foods cook without having to remove the lid to keep moisture locked in, lifetime limited warranty

You'll also be receiving a Rachael Ray Bubble and Brown Set of 4 Ramekins in your choice of orange, blue, green, yellow, or chocolate.

• Includes: Four - 10 ounce Bubble & Brown Singles
• Multiple Use Stoneware - Dishwasher, microwave, freezer safe and oven safe to 500°F for convenience and versatility. The glazed interior is nonporous so foods won't interact
• Shallow sides result in crunch tops for each serving
• Flared Handles - Flared handles allow you to get a good grip from any angle.

Last but not least you will also receive Rachael Ray's Big Orange Book {paperback} with her biggest ever collection of all new 30 minute meals plus kosher meals, meals for one, veggie dinners, holiday favorites and much more! Total retail value $179.93....can I just say $180. One winner will be receiving all 3! This giveaway is open to the Continental US only and ends on July 30th at 11:59pm est. All you have to do is fill out the rafflecopter below. Good luck!

Disclosure: I received no compensation for this publication. My opinions are my own and may differ from those of your own. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway  

Disclaimer: The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Hoohobbers Giveaway!

The wonderful folks at Hoohobbers are allowing Written By Mama to giveaway a $30 gift card to purchase anything you want from them! And she's allowed me to share this giveaway with you as well!

If you haven't already, please read her Hoohobbers Rocking Chair review.

Before entering please read all the rules. By entering, you are agreeing to each and every rule – absolutely no exceptions.

You must be 18 years of age or older at the time of entry. All entries are verified before a winner is emailed. If you are the winner, you have 48 hours to respond to my email. The time starts the minute the email is sent. This giveaway is open to the US only please. To be eligible to win, you must complete the first mandatory entry on the Giveaway Tools form. The giveaway will end July 28th at 12 (noon) CST. Odds of winning depend on how many entries you do and how many people enter. Hoohobbers is responsible for shipping all prizes to the winner. GOOD LUCK!

Javascript must be enabled to enter this giveaway. Learn how to activate Javascript by clicking here.

Loading Entry-Form

Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Blog Feature -- The Steady Hand Store

My name is Aprile and I am the hands behind The Steady Hand Store & Blog. I am a SAHM to my beautiful daughter, Abby. I currently live in Fort Worth, TX with my Husband, Daughter and family dog – Scruffy.

All my products are made by me in my craft room where no one else is allowed to go…although my daughter manages to sneak in here every now and then to wrap herself with some yarn.

 Being a thrifty mom as well, I buy most of my supplies on sale and/or with coupons that way I can pass my savings to other mom’s looking for affordable items. All the items I make are made with a lot of time, patience and love. If something does not come out the way I like it, I do it again and again until I am satisfied. So you can be sure whatever you buy from me is a high quality handcrafted item.
I make many different items from hats and scarves to toddler outfits and slippers. I like to constantly try new patterns and yarns always finding ways to better my craft.
Recently, I delved into the blogging world and have also now become a blogging mama! You can find pretty much everything on my blog from posts about my life, my daughter and our experiences to posts about my crafts, free patterns and great craft sites. I also share great deals I find, post reviews of products or places that I have tried and I have giveaways of my own items or sponsored items.
My website, The Steady Hand Store, where all my items are sold and everything is ready to ship now!
Other links you can find me:
The Steady Hand Facebook Page
The Steady Hand Etsy Store
The Steady Hand on Twitter
The Steady Hand Blog

Nature's Sleep Slippers Review and Giveaway!

I got the opportunity to review Nature's Sleep slippers!  I LOVE slippers.  I love having comfy feet, so when I got the opportunity to do this review, I jumped at the opportunity.  

They offer open toed and closed toe slippers.  They are so warm and comfy.  They offer them in various colors as well.  I chose brown open toed shoes. 

When I looked at their website, I really wasn't sure that their slippers were going to be something that I'd really like.  I mean, they're a company that sells mattresses and stuff. But I was wrong.  You know the memory foam that a lot of beds have now?  Imagine walking with that under your feet.  It's just like that, well, because they actually have memory foam in them!

There are really only a couple of things that I don't like about them.  One is their sizing, there's no half size, in fact, they actually only do Small (for foot sizes five and six), Medium (for shoe sizes seven and eight), large (nine and ten) and Extra Large (11-12) This is actually fairly common, but that doesn't mean I have to like it! Since I'm an eight and a half, that means I will either have slippers that are too big or too small. The only other, is that I wish there was a slightly larger color selection.

Other than the fact that they are, indeed, too big, I really do like them.  Given this company,  and all of the things that they sell, it only seems fitting that when I'm wearing them, my feet feel like they're crawling into bed whenever I put them on. 

Despite the few things I wrote above, I would definitely recommend these slippers to someone who might have been looking for a new comfortable pair.  They're priced at only $25, which I consider to be very reasonably priced for a really good pair of slippers.

In addition to this review, the company was also gracious enough to allow me to giveaway a pair of slippers!  This giveaway will last for two weeks (until the 27th)!  Enter on the Rafflecopter below, and then share it with your friends so they can enter too!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

 Disclaimer: I received one or more products above for review purposes only. I was not required to write a positive review. My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links. The Mom Show's giveaways are not affiliated with Facebook or any other social media networks. The sponsoring company is responsible for all shipping unless otherwise stated. The Mom Show is not responsible for sponsors not upholding their promises and cannot reimburse you for items or the value of products. Should this occur, please contact The Mom Show and I will do my best to help you achieve promised winnings.

Blog Feature -- emylibef

Emily is a mom, student, wife, and blogger with a full time job, a house full of three kids, two husbands (ex and current), a dog, a cat, dying plants, and a snarky mouth.

Her blog is a candid look at her life, thoughts, and observations through the eyes of a thirtysomething woman finding her way. 

Join in any time you want...there's no telling what you'll find.

Emily can be found at http://emylibef.com, on Facebook at http://facebook.com/emylibef, or on Twitter at http://twitter.com/emilysteen

Sneaking Cookies for Breakfast

Have you ever done anything like this? As a parent, I know, that it would be irresponsible parenting for me to allow my daughter to eat chocolate covered cookies for breakfast. I know and fully understand this.  My daughter would absolutely love to have eaten some of those cookies for breakfast, but the responsible thing to do, is have her wait until after she finishes a lunch or dinner, and then have a cookie for dessert, or maybe as a special treat, right? 

However, this morning, while she was eating her breakfast, I saw these cookies, they were chocolate mint cookies, and I knew those would be a good pick me up, as I was tired, didn't feel like fixing myself breakfast, and really, wasn't even that hungry.  See, last night, I had kind of a late night, and no matter what time she goes to bed, when the sun comes up, so does my child.  I was (and still am, so the cookies didn't even "pick me up" as much as I had hoped" so I grabbed myself a few cookies, walked out of the kitchen, and ate them. 

I know that this may seem like something silly to post about, but I was just thinking about the things that we do that we teach our children not to.  Despite the fact that I'm overweight (Yes, I know, the cookies are certainly not going to help that either.) I feed my daughter a healthy diet (though sometimes her breakfast does consist, at least partly, of a cereal with more sugar than it should.). 

I'm wondering how often other parents do things like this.  Do you ever sneak things that you know that you that you should teach your children to avoid? Have you ever had cookies and coffee instead of sharing your child's cereal, fruit and milk?


 Disclaimer: My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links.

Blog Feature -- Pynk Nymphette

My website is dedicated to finding the fabulous in life. I share everything I love with my readers through writing & photography.

Pynk Nymphette is a name I created as a throw back to a time when people surfed the internet with screen names. Pink is my favorite color & a Nymphet is a mischievous mythological creature, most people know them as faeries.

When I log in as Pynk Nymphette I become the fabulous Giveaway Faery! Pynk flies freebies & prizes to your mailbox. She also offers delicious recipes, networking for fellow bloggers, beauty/fashion tips & chats about entertainment.

The website design itself is also a throw back. It contains old school images & style & is all hand coded HTML. This site was lovingly scripted by my fantastic husband, who has been coding since the early 90s.

Offline time is spent creating luxury cosmetics for our small business, Lovers of Anything Fabulous. It is a job that we love to do & we use all of the products that we create! Sugar scrubs, bath bombs, candles, massage oils & wax tarts are just a few things we use on a daily basis & offer in our shop.

My other hobbies include video games, picnics, going to the beach, reading, mixology & taking care of my Robo hamster Persephone.

Recent Words of Wisdom -- Blogging Challenge

Before moving to where I live now, I attended a wonderful church with a lot of wonderful women who I still consider to be dear friends. There were a few who I spoke to often and frequently went to for advice. One of them told me something a while ago, that, as a mother of a young child, really stuck with me. I really think of this particular piece of advice often.

I can't tell you what we were talking about, because I honestly don't remember, but what she told me, is to always make sure that you start instilling ALL of your values in your children at a young age.  If they're old enough to understand what you're saying, say it to them.  Things like, obviously our religion and beliefs, but also simple things, like how conservative we want them to dress, what kind of people she should date, and things like that.  When she talks about getting married, I always make sure to tell her things like "someday, boys are going to want to date you, and when you're old enough, dating will be fun, but when you're with a boy, if he doesn't treat you as well as daddy treats you and mommy, then he won't be your prince" (she's really into princes and princesses and so we talk about those stories a lot and she talks about her "prince" and it sparks these conversations.  I also think about this when we're shopping for clothes, choosing what to buy and then what to wear.

Basically when she's older, and entering her difficult teenage years, I want certain things to already be instilled in her. She's going to know what she shouldn't be wearing, the things she can expect in a relationship; but we're also instilling in her a great self esteem, which I think it so important at a young age also.  I let her know everything that we love about her.

This is my two cents and the way that we're raising our daughter in these early beginning stages.  

 

Disclaimer:My opinions as always are my own. This post may contain affiliate links.

Blog Feature -- Miss Jackie's Views

Blog Name: Miss Jackie's Views

Check out her blog here!

Check out her Facebook Page!

I blog about beauty, fashion, homemaking, college issues and children's products.

I started my blog in February 2012 and it has grown. Things I love about blogging are all the neat products I get to review, the excitement from a follower when they win a giveaway, all the great bloggers I have met and made friendships online with. I have a special affinity for small family owned businesses, I love them and support them.

I hold memberships in Mom Central, Influenster, Loreal Consumer Testing, She Speaks Blogger Society, Bzz Agent, Johnson & Johnson, Redbook Shoppers Panel. In the short time I have been blogging I have been honored as VocalPoint Voice's February 2012 "Voice of the Month" Award and was recently selected for the Smiley Blogger Circle.

I am married and have two sons, John is 18 and a college sophomore, and Josh is three and a busy preschooler. I like to blog on a wide range of topics from  preschooler crafts to college issues/tips.

Stop by my blog for some great giveaways and articles!

Blog Feature -- MommyKnowz

My first Blog Feature is MommyKnowz!!

A place where Mommyz can come to find out about others experiences with products and general child talk. Reviews and giveaways of quality products. Kids, Family, Toddler, Preschooler, Pets, Book, Cleaning, Technology, fun, games

Check her out on Facebook!
 Follow her on Twitter!