eShakiti Coupon plus $15

Alright, so not the best picture, but this was taken in the hotel room, just before my brother's rehearsal for his wedding! And it was HUMID!

So I have to tell you about this website that designs clothes to fit you, not you fitting the clothes! It is hard finding clothes that look good on you in a store, let alone ordering "blind" online. I don't know about you, but for me most of the time things look great online, but either don't fit the way they will say or don't look like you should be wearing it! But with eShakti you can get clothes that are sure to fit you! Yes that's right, you give them your measurements and height and what style of neckline and they make it and ship it out, quickly. I really like that you can pick the neckline and the fact that you can give measurements, for some of us that are a little more "top heavy" and wanting to still be modest you can! If you decide to customize by giving all your measurements for your garment, all you have to add to the price is $7.50! That is cheap for a custom outfit, size and style! All orders even special orders ship within 3 days with delivery in 7-8 days. Another great thing about eShakti, it is for every woman of every size, they service women from 0-26W. I already am filling up a wish list! I love this simple black dress, not too dressy but still classy!

If you purchase something that is currently available, like their overstock 25% off items, which is where I found the dress I bought, and it is shipped in 3-days. I really liked that idea! I was able to sample my first dress at a great price I thought, and knew that if I didn't like the fit, they stated they have a hassle free return. I wasn't disappointed, and I plan on getting some more great finds soon!

So eShakti has given me a coupon code for all of you to use as well! I promise you will not regret purchasing clothing or accessories from eShakti! Using this code for my readers only, will give you an extra 10% off your order! Plus if you register your email on their website they will give you $15 off your first order! You can't beat that!

Air O Swiss Review

Living in Michigan means having to endure the constant ups and downs of weather changes. Sometimes I joke about the weather being bi-polar! Unfortunately my family and I suffer from allergies and sometimes the weather just makes them worse.I have noticed so many differences over the past month since we started using the Air-O-Swiss Humidifier. We do not have nearly as much dust in our house and my allergies aren't going as crazy as they normally would.

Normally this time of year the weather around here is crazy it's hot and humid one day and then cool the next and I usually get sick or have more issues with allergies and asthma. I have much more energy and it is definitely because I have had a much easier time staying asleep at night, because I am able to breathe so much easier at night and during the day. The nice thing that I am loving with our new AIR-O-SWISS humidifier is that we can take it along with us on vacations and all we need is a bottle of water to use it! It's so quiet that I if it weren't for the mist coming out I wouldn't have thought it was on. We have only been using the unit for a little over a month now and I have already seen a huge difference in the family. When the humidifier is in the living room you can just just smell the clean, crisp air. I feel more refreshed and less tired than usual which is worth a lot to me!

You can buy your own humidifier to fit your needs! We will be purchasing a larger humidifier for our house, and keeping this small travel one for small trips and for my husbands office when weather hits his allergies hard.

We recently stayed in a hotel for a wedding we were attending, and instead of having a sore throat when waking up we felt rested, and not a bit of soreness! The Air-O-Swiss travel humidifier is unique, that is great for those that travel. I never knew before of a travel humidifier. This is a lightweight solution to pure air wherever you go. It will fit in a purse, or a briefcase. Just insert a bottle of water and instantly you can enjoy moist and healthy air! When my husband and I go on our cruise, we will be taking this with us!

Please check out Air-O-Swiss, they have exceptional products!

A huge thanks to Air-O-Swiss for providing this travel humidifier to review!

Yard Sale Tips!

Here are a few tips that I have used to make having a yard sale successful!

I have learned "painfully so" that it is a great idea to price everything or to have tables set at one price.....and remember people will try to get an even better deal! Baby things go fast! Kitchen items and tools/sporting goods go well too. I make sure if there is anything that has stains on it that it goes in a free box. This last sale I had, I had a couple drive up look around then take the whole free box....even the tote! Be prepared to loose some of the clothes to drive offs etc. I had someone take the paraffin wax system and I only had $2 on it! Oh well it is clutter in my house, and maybe they needed it! Just be prepared and you won't be disappointed when and if something like that happens.

Make sure you keep you keep your house locked, and the money bag inside, keep some change in your pocket but bigger bills inside. I had a friend and have heard too many times where the money has been stolen, don't set yourself up for that to happen to you. You are working hard to make that money, you should profit from it too! I don't let anyone inside to use the bathroom either, there is a gas station not far from our house, I don't need strangers in our house when I am outside doing the sale. Decide ahead of time if you are willing to allow people in your home. Oh and if you are selling appliances/something that plugs in, have an extension cord handy.

Another question someone asked was how much money I start out with. I typically start with $80 in change, especially if I have larger items to sell, (two $10 bill, four $5 bills, 25 $1 bills, 1 roll of quarters, and $5 in nickle and dimes. I sometimes don't bother with the nickles and dimes, but if I have things priced at 10 cents, then I know I need some...BUT, if you have a lot of furniture or higher priced stuff, I think I would definitely start with more money. For instance, if you have a lot of $10 items, most people will probably give you a $20 bill and you will need to make change. Some people will give you the exact amount, so it's mostly in the beginning when you need to be concerned about how much change you have on hand.

I don't think it is too profitable to list in the paper anymore. I list on craigslist and hang a few signs. In the paper it costs about $12 just to list a basic yard sale ad no specifics. Craigslist is free, you can also network on Facebook free too! I also hang up a few signs, just to draw in local traffic on a busy street! You'd be surprised at what a bright colored sign with Sharpie Marker can do to draw in people that love to find treasures!

I may be a little anal, but I take time to separate a table for housewares, tools/manly things, kids toys, and clothes. The clothes is really where I get anal, I separate the boys from the girls and try to keep things summer/winter and according to size together. When I am pricing things I will organize things how I will set it out in tubs. This way on my morning of the sale it takes no time to set up! The night before I put out all the tables, have the tubs ready by the door and my change all ready to go! When pricing items, keep in mind that "a third of what it costs new" is only a guideline. Try to look at your stuff objectively when pricing, and don't be an emotional pricer! If you have a bunch of items that are missing pieces, put it in your FREE box.

Someone asked me how I pick out when I am picking a date for a yard sale, I try to do it around the first weekend of the month, I also try to never do it on a holiday. By doing these few things I have had very successful yard sales. I always want to give the impression that I care about the yard sale and my items. I make sure all the items are cleaned before taking them out. If you have a big jumbled mess - that gives me the impression that you don't care about your things and probably didn't take good care of it when you used it!

Lastly: Enjoy your yard sale! Have a blast and it will be worth it all in the end!
Go make some money!!!!

Menu Planning Monday!

Wow, yes I did get your emails and yes I have truly intended on doing my menu planning...but alas I have been working almost everyday third shift and as that isn't a wonderful excuse~ Sorry for those of you that like to get ideas and recipes. But let me tell you: I am going to be starting a new schedule soon! I am really excited about this and what it will mean for our family and my sanity! So for this week, I will be catching up on a few posts, I will have two reviews for you, along with some random posts about our summer~

This weeks menu is VERY easy!

Lunches are simple salads or sandwiches for the kids or something simple on the grill like hot dogs, etc! Along with a lot of fruit!

DINNER:

Monday: Taco Salad Night
Tuesday: Grilled Sausage with potatoes/peppers/onions and Corn on the cob!
Wednesday: Kids night with the sitter, and Chip and I out for the evening~
Thursday: Baked Tilapia with Rice and Broccoli
Friday: Quick Marinated Chicken with broccoli and mushrooms
Saturday: My brother's wedding, no cooking this day for me!
Sunday: Roast with Potatoes and Carrots

I'm BAA-CK!

I am really sorry about how long it has been since my last post~ No excuses, well, maybe some little ones called LIFE and WORK, but I have my obtainable goals set for blogging, and I don't plan to take on anymore than I can handle. I do have two reviews coming up, so keep your eyes peeled!

So what has been going on? Well besides normal everyday life adventures, we have been beach bums during the day before I head out to work. Brooklynn is in Tennis and Swimming Lessons, and about to start Soccer with Andrew! They are doing so well this summer and so excited for school to start. Can you believe we have only a month before we are going to bed earlier (well the kids anyway!) packing lunches, and doing homework! I am going to miss not living by a schedule and hanging out at the park or the beach with the kids. Brooklynn told me the other day, "mom, I love our life" made me feel so good about what we were able to do together.

All the stores are gearing up their back to school shelves. I love the smell of new crayons, and crisp paper. I am sad but excited that both of my babies will be in school this year. Andrew is so excited, he is more pumped to go to pre-school than I am to send him. It's a new chapter in our life, now both will be in school, and this will be our life planning around school schedules.

We had a yard sale a couple weeks ago now, and my let me tell you, I purged a lot of things! I was able to put the profits towards a new grill, a big boy bike for Andrew, a dinner date to Chuckie Cheese, a trip to Sam's with lots of goodies, and a few other miscellaneous things! If you are having a yard sale or want tips on how to do one, I have had a few and don't mind lending out tips/plans! This last sale went down like a science and we made out pretty well for what I took out! Two boxes left over went to goodwill!

What else has gone on? Oh yes, we had a couple look at our house, and yes we are working with a realtor. (No I don't think it is a house for them, as they have to sell one too) Now is when I really need to de-clutter and get rid of all the little keepsakes. Get rid of kids clothes and remember all the fun memories that I had with the kids, not the clothes~ I am making strides people! I am in no way a hoarder, but I have trouble getting rid of my babies coming home outfits, some of Brooklynn's dresses....two of them are still hard for me, one was worn to my Grandma's funeral, and the other one was worn to my Uncle's funeral. Neither event does my daughter remember, but I do, I remember thinking I should be here in Elder Beerman buying these dresses. I have been thinking about them a lot these last couple of weeks. It definitely comes in waves, missing and thinking about those we love that are now living in Heaven. So yes, back to the clutter, I have a goal for getting that out of the way too, maybe I need a coach to talk me through all of it...lol!!! So the realtor didn't need to tell me our house was consumed with kids things....not necessarily her words, but she laughed with me and said I know you know you need to go through things.....umm yes, we have a three and five year old. They have taken over the house exactly five years ago! :) But I love it!

Oh Chip and I have started trying to eat better and "diet". Chip has cut out sodas and watching his, portions, and has lost 26lbs in about three weeks (AWESOME!)I haven't lost 26lbs, wouldn't that be amazing, but I have lost seven. Seems so small compared to what he has lost! For me life is settling down now and I'm ready to re-start my weight loss adventure... and maintain it this time! For good. I'm done having children and I'm ready to start the next phase of my life: the healthy, fit, and energetic mom and wife! I'll keep you up to date on this new journey too!

Other than just hanging out and doing crafts and playing games this has been our summer! Brooklynn is a Bronze Babe, and Andrew is slightly tan (I really lather him up!) I have been burnt badly only once, yes this is an ongoing battle with me getting burnt, and we have had a blast! This week I am packing for my brother's wedding, and the plan is to start packing for our vacation (the last week of August)! I have my lists made out and I am getting SO excited!

Hope you all are having a wonderful summer! I will be posting more this week!

Mommy Pads Winner!

Using Random.org the winner of the Mommy Pads & More, is Daun Family!

I will be contacting you by email, if I don't hear from you in 24 hours I will do another drawing for a new winner.

If you didn't win, please remember to go on over an check out more items that Susie has to offer!

As an extra incentive Susie is offering my readers a 15% off code to use at your checkout: MOMMY

Have a wonderful day! And again, thank you to Susie for providing a product for me to review and giveaway!

Mommy Pads and More! Review and Giveaway!

Today I get to introduce to you a wonderful website! Susie is the owner of Mommy Pads & More she started by helping a friend out with her custom stamp business and then she got the itch to do her own thing too! Susie offers fun and stylish designs, ranging from notepads, stationary, stamps, and necklaces!
Any of these would be a great for teacher appreciation gifts, for that new mom in your life, a hostess or housewarming gift, the list could go on! I had the opportunity to get one of their mommy pads to review. One thing I love is cute stationary! I am addicted to making lists and it is so much better and motivating on stylish paper! Anyone else thrive on the addiction of making lists? When I was given the opportunity to choose what design I wanted, I had a hard time picking just one! I loved so many, so I decided on two and let Susie pick!

I was very happy with my personalized mommy pad! I chose to have all of our names listed at the bottom of the pad, and they are in coordinating colors! I have been using it non-stop! I am getting excited to order more! I am pleased with the quality of the paper (24lb), and how easy it is to tear off. Each of the notepads consists of 50 sheets.

Guess What? Mommy Pads & More is offering one of my LUCKY readers a personalized stamp or notepad of their choice (retail value up to $32).

Ways to Enter:

You must be a public follower

Go to Mommy Pads & More and tell me what you would like to win !

(1 entry-Mandatory, please leave your email so I can contact you if you win!)

Follow Mommy Pads & More on Facebook-

(2-entries- leave a comment on their fb page so I can check!)

Blog about this giveaway! (3-entries)

The winner will be chosen on June 9th, 2010 at 10PM. I will use random.org and will contact the winner via email.

Thank you Susie, for allowing me to do this review and giveaway!

Winners!

Using Random.org the winners are:

(drum roll)

The winner of the Trading Phrases giveaway is Cari~ Congrats!!!

The winner of the Seventh Generation giveaway is Laura~ Congrats!!!

I will be contacting you ladies by email, if I don't hear from you in 24 hours, I will do another drawing for a new winner~

Remember if you didn't win, please go and check out their products! I am sure you will not be disappointed in either of these companies! Have a wonderful day!

Another special thanks to Trading Phrases and Seventh Generation for giving me the products to sample and giveaway!

Blessings

Seventh Generation Review and Giveaway!

I have been interested in finding great products that are environmentally safe, I have recently found Seventh Generation. I had been hearing some buzz about them online, but didn't know how they would do compared to my other products! Let's just say I am happy! Meghan from Seventh Generation let me pick out a kit to review and giveaway, I decided to try their Healthy Home Kit. I love spring cleaning, and I love a fresh cleaned smell that comes with this time of year! I also love that I can feel so much better knowing that I am using products that are safe for the environment and for my family! Not only are they safe but they are just as effective too!

Healthy Home Starter Kit
Disinfecting Multi-Surface (Lemongrass & Thyme)
Disinfecting Bathroom (Lemongrass & Thyme)
Disinfecting Wipes - 35 ct. (Lemongrass and Thyme)
All-Purpose - Free & Clear
Glass - Free & Clear
Shower - Green Mandarin & Leaf
Toilet - Emerald Cypress & Fir
Tub & Tile - Emerald Cypress & Fir

Natural Paper Towels
Seventh Gen Recycled Bag

All of Seventh Generation's products are non-toxic and biodegradable, hypo-allergenic, they aren't tested on animals, and they are also kosher-certified. Seventh Generation discloses all of their product ingredients on their website, and all of their paper products are comprised of 100% recycled paper.

I have been using the Seventh Generation cleaning products for the past two weeks and already I'm thoroughly impressed. The products pack a serious cleaning punch, while not leaving our home laden with the typical chemical-heavy post-cleaning smells. I don't have to worry if Andrew has followed me into the bathroom as I am cleaning, and I have discovered that Chip and I like certain scents, they are all great but I love the Green Mandarin & Leaf and the Emerald Cypress & Fir. To put it simply: I'm a believer, and I think you will be too as soon as you try some of their products.
I love the disinfecting multi-surface cleaner! I have used it on my floors, my refrigerator, to clean the sink (my quick swipe-Fly Lady), and to wipe down walls (removed crayon!). So, I have been able to test it out daily all over my home and I haven't been disappointed! I even used it to clean up red juice that was spilled on my white kitchen counter top and it cleaned right up with no staining, I normally use bleach to get those stains up on my counter top.
The only thing out of the kit that I am not sure I would purchase in bulk would be the natural paper towels. I don't use a lot of paper towels because I use towels, but when testing out the paper towels I noticed that they didn't last as long a roll I normally buy. Although the ones I buy are not eco-friendly. I was still happy with the product, but that is the only negative thing I noticed about the paper towels.

GIVEAWAY:

Seventh Generation is giving you the same kit I received!
To Enter: Tell me what you do to be more green! (Please leave your email on this post)

Additional Entries:
(Leave separate comments, please)
Follow: Follow my Blog Publicly (3-entries)
Post: Post a Blog about this giveaway (3-entries)
Button: Add my button to your page (Leave me a link to your site) (2-Entries)
Facebook: Become a Fan of Seventh Generation (1 Entry)

The giveaway will end 5/24 at 10pm. I will email and announce the winner. The winner will have 24 hours to respond back to me, or I will have to use random.org to pick another winner. Seventh Generation will send your product directly to you!
Good Luck and I trust you will enjoy their product as much as I have!
A special thank you to Seventh Generation for providing the Home Starter Kit for me to review and giveaway!

Trading Phrases Review and Giveaway!

I have to be honest I have a new addiction! I am in love with wall art. I like the idea that I am not putting holes in the wall and I can be in complete control of the size and colors of the art that I choose. I was given the opportunity to review some art from Trading Phrases, I decided to choose the Laughter sparkles like a splash of water in sunlight, I chose it in white because I wanted to put it on a yellow background. I also decided to try this not on the wall but a painted canvas. I had not heard if it was possible to do this, and wasn’t sure what the results would be but I am pleased to say that if you don’t want to put it on your walls or want something with more dimensions then you can put it on other materials. I started with a blank canvas, and then painted it sunshine yellow, after allowing it to dry I then applied a portion of the wall art. It went on seamlessly!

“Trading Phrases is a family-owned company located in Columbus, Ohio which specializes in creating beautiful vinyl lettering designs for your home or business.
The name Trading Phrases was inspired by one of our favorite television shows, Trading Spaces, which aired for eight years on TLC. The “trading” aspect of our name fits perfectly as our designs make special gifts for weddings, new babies, or anniversaries. Consider purchasing one of our designs as a gift for your child’s first college apartment or dorm room, a housewarming party, or to commemorate any of life’s other milestones. “Phrases” is our name’s counterpart because our vinyl lettering creates beautiful designs using words, phrases, sayings, and memorable quotations. We also offer custom designs where we can turn your special saying or memory into extraordinary artwork.
Whether you are purchasing one of our designs for your home or the home of someone you love, Trading Phrases can help you turn an ordinary wall into a unique work of art. We take pride in offering only the finest products to our customers.”

Trading Phrases has an endless selection of wall lettering, quotes, and graphics that you can choose from. They not only provide quality items, they provide very easy and clear instructions for applying the vinyl wall lettering. I was able to apply the quote to my canvas alone, and it looks as if someone professional had applied it! The nice thing about all vinyl lettering is that it is removable and will not damage your walls. So if you are in an apartment or planning on moving you do not need to worry about it being a lifetime commitment, it is a breeze to remove.

To Buy: You can order directly from Trading Phrases

To Win: Trading Phrases is giving one of my readers: Don't Spend Your Life, in Yellow Green, size 5.5x24

To Enter: Head over to the Trading Phrases website and tell me what some of your other favorite designs are. (Please leave your email on this post)

Additional Entries:

(Leave separate comments, please)
Follow: Follow my Blog Publicly (3-entries)
Post: Post a Blog about this giveaway (3-entries)
Button: Add my button to your page (Leave me a link to your site) (2-Entries)
Facebook: Become a Fan of Trading Phrases (1 Entry)

The giveaway will end 5/24 at 10pm. I will email and announce the winner. The winner will have 24 hours to respond back to me, or I will have to use random.org to pick another winner. Trading Phrases will send your product directly to you!

Good Luck and I trust you will enjoy their product as much as I have!

A special thank you to Trading Phrases for providing a product for me to review and giveaway!

Menu Planning Monday~

Wow, I know I haven't done this for a little bit now, sorry, but working thirds is proving to be really busy! Instead of sitting and writing or answering emails I am finding myself playing with my kids and trying, and I do mean "trying", to keep the house as orderly as possible! So as I sit here and type this out, I have a basket full of socks to sort, and my list of to do's today is growing! But while Andrew is watching Dinosaur Train I am typing fervently! I am going to get this written and then start my post for giveaways this week! Keep your eyes open for this!

So this week is very busy as well, I am working M-W nights, off Thursday and then working F-Sat! All 12 hour shifts....yes did I tell you I am busy???

With working so much this week I am going to be cooking a lot this afternoon and prepping for this week, in order to make it easier for Chip! You will also see more crock pot meals this week too~ just makes it super easy for dinner for Chip!

Breakfasts:

Cereal, Eggs/Toast, Muffins, Breakfast Cookies, Homemade Granola Bars

Lunches:

Mac&Cheese, Soup, PB&J, Leftovers, Quesadillas, Salad

Dinners: (In no order)

Baked Chicken and Rice and Broccoli Casserole (easy to mix up ahead and then stick in the oven!)

Meatloaf with potatoes and carrots

Lemon Pepper Tilapia with Rice and Green Beans

Pot Roast with potatoes and carrots (Crock pot!)

Crock pot Santa Fe Chicken with Rice

Chicken Alfredo with green beans

Pancakes/French Toast with bacon

Snacks:

Celery with PB, Homemade Granola Bars, Applesauce, Carrots with Ranch, Smoothies!

Okay! So this is our week, check out Laura's page to see other's weekly menus! I have my tasks for the week and yes I will be posting more regularly! I am trying to find a happy medium of working, being a mom, and a blogger! Hope you all have a great week and I hope your Mother's Day was filled with special moments and memories!!!

Kidorable Umbrella Winner!

Using Random.org, the winner is #2 Karen.

Congrats!!! Have a wonderful evening, and Tanya from Kidorable will be sending you your Dinosaur umbrella!!!

If you didn't happen to win, go and check out Kidorable! Their products are adorable and I am sure your kids will love them!


Thank you again to Tanya for giving Brooklynn the Ladybug Rain Set to review!

ListPlanIt Winner!

Using Random.org, #20, Kristi is the winner!

Congrats!!! Have a wonderful evening, and Jennifer from ListPlanIt will be emailing you with your membership information!!!

If you didn't happen to win, and lists are right up your alley, go to ListPlanIt.com and sign up for your own year membership!

Thank you again to Jennifer for giving me a promotional membership for the review!

Kidorable Review and Giveaway!

Spring time is extra fun with kids! I have to tell you how much fun we are having planning our garden, discovering how things are growing, and discovering nature in general! I love that my kids enjoy the outdoors sooo much and that they love to discover and have adventures outside! With that being said, I want my kids to have fun being kids! I have found a company that will allow my kids to have fun with appropriate accessories! I have found a wonderful company that allows kids to have a blast outside, while saving their clothes too! We were sent the most adorable Kidorable Rain Gear to review! Brooklynn was able to do her FIRST review for the blog! She was very excited to be sent items for her to test out! Brooklynn was sent the ladybug rain coat, umbrella, and rain boots! Here is Brooklynn opening her packages!
(Don't forget to pause the music on the sidebar!)

Now granted Brooklynn has no trouble dressing herself, we knew this from an early age, but the boots are very easy to put on. I am sure that Andrew would be able to do it all by himself, and I do plan on buying some for Andrew too!

The rain coat is very detailed, and appears to be very durable. The rain coat is very easy for Brooklynn to put on and snap, and the two pockets on the front are zippered. I like the length of the coat, it is longer than most rain coats she has tried on, which protects more of her clothing, a huge plus in my book!

The umbrella is very detailed as well, and makes the rest of the ensemble come together! I like that it is very easy for Brooklynn to manipulate, she has done it many times since and still hasn't caught her fingers or had any mishaps.

Kidorable has a lot of styles to choose from, both for boys and girls. Andrew has his eyes on a couple of designs, once he finalizes what he would like we are putting in his order!
Kidorable has way more than just Rain Gear though, you can deck your little ones out in just about any outdoor accessory that you could ever want. Sun hats and towels for hot days on the beach, scarves and gloves for snowy winter fun. Kidorable has every season, every temperature covered.

Kidorable is giving one of my readers an umbrella of your choice!

To enter, leave me a comment of which umbrella you would choose, this will be the umbrella you will receive should you win! (please enter your email with this comment)

Extra Entries:
Become a follower of my blog. (1 entry)
Grab my button (1-entry)
Become a Fan of Kidorable on facebook (1-entry)
Blog about this entry and link back here (2-entries)

This review will end May 3rd at 10pm. The winner will be chosen using Random.org
Thanks to Kidorable for giving us the rain gear for our review!

snackTAXI Review!

This week, and from now on, I am making an effort to make a choice that will count! I am now attempting to take action trying to be kinder to our Earth! I guess you could say I am trying to be more conscious about what we throw out, etc. I have really been interested in looking into our carbon footprint. So with this in mind I am excited to tell you about this amazing product I was given the chance to review. Erin from the Snack Taxi, sent me two samples to review! Here is a picture of what I got:

(Andrew wanted me to take a picture of the inside of the sandwich sack!)
Here are some Snack Taxi facts:

Erin from snackTAXI, started her company in 2003, when she had 3 kids in school and was packing over 500 lunches every year! I decided to Google just how many baggies are used worldwide and they are even bigger numbers than what is included on the card from snackTAXI. SnackTAXI stated that each year and estimated 500 billion to 1 trillion plastic bags are consumed worldwide (that’s over 1 million per minute). Even at these numbers I am very concerned. Worldwide, an estimated 4 billion plastic bags end up as litter each year, tied end to end, that’s enough to circle the Earth 63 times. Using these reusable bags we have the potential to eliminate an average of 1000 plastic bags over its lifetime.
SnackTAXI have 100% cotton exterior, and are lined with nylon, both of which are free of lead and phthalates. Taking care of the snackTAXI’s is easy, they can be machine washed and dried, or you can wash them with water and air dry them. They do last longer when washed by hand, like anything! I put in a peanut butter sandwich the first time I used it and noticed it was really sticky, but instead of washing in the washer I tried their tip of filling it with hot water and letting it stand in the sink, when I came back, it was incredibly easy to clean!
I like the idea of not using plastic baggies anymore, and I have to tell you at their prices it isn’t breaking the bank either. Here are their prices: snack sacks are 6.95, sandwich sacks are 8.95, lunch sacks are 13.95, and their napkins are 3.95. They do have bags for bulk produce and snacks for 5.95. When you think about how many baggies you use over the year, they will pay for themselves in a couple months!

I honestly think that this product is going to be great for our home. We have only used these for lunch and snack for school, but the plan is to buy more for all of us to use. I plan on using the snack sacks for work, and I am going to get more of the sandwich sacks to take with us to the beach this summer!

SnackTAXI is offering a 20% off coupon code in honor of Earth Day. But this is only valid now until April 23 (and can’t be used on specials). Just enter EDAY2010 at checkout!

Leave a comment and let me know what you think about this product! Have a wonderful day!
Blessings~

Thank you to snackTAXI for giving me the two samples to review!

$20 Company Store Gift Code!

I have to tell you about something that is amazing! I found this code today and when you enter it you get $20 off your order, no set amount you have to spend either to get this off, well at least $20! :)

Here it is, head on over to the Company Store

Enter coupon code: SLUMBER and enjoy a free $20~

I have already done this twice, I used it for two shirts and two shorts for Brooklynn only paying shipping $5.95 and then again for a dress that was on sale with free shipping for $9! So for $14.95 total out of pocket I have five items for Brooklynn, the clothes at regular price would normally ring up at $97 without tax and shipping....what a steal! It's like paying $2.99 an item! Check out their sale of the day to get in on these deals!

These are the pictures of one of the shirts and shorts!

Don't forget to check out my giveaway for ListPlanIt!

ListPlanIt Giveaway and Review!

Does your life seem hectic and could use a personal organizer?! Sometimes when things get so busy here I feel scattered, almost like leaves falling in disarray during the fall! You know when your leaves fall in your backyard, first it's pretty and the kids love to play in them, and you get great pictures! Then it seems annoying and like the clutter will never leave your yard! AHHH~ okay enough with that analogy, because I could go on, for example what the wind then does...okay really stopping!

Many of you know I love making lists, I have tons of them! Chip will often joke that making lists is a hobby of mine! I have great plans in mind, and boy do I ever plan to achieve each and every item on my lists! I get giddy being able to cross things off my list! Sometimes I am bummed that I have only crossed off a few items, but am overall really excited to accomplish things! Sometimes they get overwhelming because I didn't have a designated way to sort out all my ideas! Thus came my project to start a home journal/binder. I have implemented a new Home Binder all complete with lists! I have a recipe section, meal planning, house cleaning, schedules/routines, etc. I have become inspired at how easy this was to set up using ListPlanIt! Anyone can do it and I am amazed at how much more I can actually accomplish.

Okay so I have to tell you, Jennifer, of ListPlanIt, gave me a year membership to try out and navigate and review for my readers! I was a little overwhelmed as to where to start when I opened the site. I tackled some of the ideas and pages that she has available; there are over400 lists!!! With so many lists, it enables you to keep your world in order and less chaotic (remember my leaves analogy?) The lists I have hit, are family matters, home, meal planning, finances, contacts, and so much more! The lists are in a pdf format so it is incredibly easy to print and edit! Some of the lists I am not sure if I will use, but who's to say that you wouldn't use them! The lists that I will use on a regular basis will definitely help me manage our house and allow more time to focus on being a great mom and wife! Living on purpose with a plan~

Of course like everything else, you can print things up, but you have to be intentional when doing so. In order for them to be helpful for your family, you have to use them. Jennifer makes this task very easy, by being able to customize each list to your needs. Which because of the ease of this product, I will and have used it much more than I thought at first!

I love that you can choose what type of membership you want and what will work for you and your family. For me, I think the download membership will work out perfectly throughout the years. I like the ability on the download membership that you can type on the lists and then print them out. I know that I haven't even come close to looking and finding all the lists that I want to utilize, but that is the fun of the year membership!

All in all, I think as long as I revert to this way of making lists and organizing it will work! Anyone can use this and if you are interested in becoming organized this a great resource for every household!

Jennifer, was kind enough to offer one of my readers a free membership as well! So here is how you enter:

First, and mandatory entry, go to ListPlanIt: come back and tell me what lists catch your eye and would be most beneficial to you and your family. (Please leave your email so I can contact you if you should win!) 1-Entry

Additional Ways to Enter:
Follow my blog (1-entry)
Follow ListPlanIt on Facebook (1-entry)
Add my button to your page (2-entries)
Post about this giveaway and link it back to my blog (3-entries)

(Please leave separate comments for each entry!)
The winner will be chosen using Random.org, and announced on Monday April 26th at 10PM!

Thank you to Jennifer with ListPlanIt for giving me a download membership to review and giving one of my readers the opportunity to win a membership of their own!

Abraham Lincoln

A friend of mine sent me this quote:

I remember my mother's prayers and they have always followed me. They have clung to me all my life. ~Abraham Lincoln

I want to be a mom that leaves a legacy in my children. What does this legacy look like to me? For me, it is that truth matters, that prayer works, and that there is POWER in HIS word! I want them to know that they don't have to be the most popular to be admirable to God. I want them to see my heart and yearn to live life out for HIM. I want them to see a woman that DIVES into the word, I want them to see me yearning for more, fervently turning the pages, finding God in every crevice of His words. I want them to "carry" my prayer life. Chip will tell you; I pray through everything, and I talk with Him, even when I am not happy, when I need Him, I cry out to my sweet Jesus, I discuss things daily with Him. I want them to see this, and not be afraid to pray, ask, and seek HIM daily. I want to be a good example of a wife and mother. I want my words and actions to be most of all edifying to God, but importantly an example of how they should live.

So what do I need to work on? Everything we do and say is a model to our children. This can be a daunting task, full of pressure? I am praying that God will use me and equip me with the ability to raise my children as He would. I lift my hands in an offering to Him to lead my children!

Right On The Walls Winner!!!

Using Random.org, comment #25 is the winner, Leigh! Leigh, I am sending an email out to you! Please respond by Wednesday at 5pm! Leigh I hope you enjoy picking out some art for your home!

Thank you all so much for entering! Stay tuned, I am putting up two more giveaways today!!!

Remember that if you didn't win, you still have the 15% off code to use: BR15DCT! So head on over and enjoy picking out something wonderful for your home!

Right On The Walls

Again, Thank you to Right On The Walls for allowing me to do this giveaway, and providing me with the product to review!

Menu Planning Monday!

Hey there! Last week went by so fast, and this week is busy with way too many tasks to tackle! I have my list to get organized, and I eager to cross many things off my list! Hey slow and steady wins the race right :) Monday is going to be a really busy day~ I have to be in GR at the hospital in the morning (work), Brooklynn is sick and will be staying home tomorrow from school....and then when I get home, I have a lot to do for the house~ Stay tuned for my new giveaway that will open tomorrow morning, because it will help with your organizing and stress! This week I will have two giveaways open, I am sure you will like both items! I have each day planned out on what I am writing about along with my work schedule!
So on the top of my list is to plan the meals for this week...(at least I can cross this off now!)

Breakfasts:

Today: Biscuits and Gravy

T-F: Cereal, Oatmeal, Eggs/Toast, Smoothies

Sat: Pancakes

Sun: Eggs/Bacon/Toast

Lunches:

Leftover Mexican, Ham and Cheese Melts, Tuna Sandwiches, Soup, Salads

Dinners:

M: Pepsi Pot Roast (New Recipe from Kristen!)

T: Meatloaf with roasted peppers/carrots/celery and potatoes

W: Crock Pot Chicken with Italian Seasoning (saving the juices for stock)

Th: Veggie Tortellini Bake

F: Using our "Free" coupon for Pizza

Sat: Homemade Mac & Cheese with veggies!

Sun: Black Eyed Pea Soup with Corn Bread

Hope you have a wonderful week planned out with your meals!

Don't forget today is the last day to enter for the Right On The Walls Giveaway!

Pampers Gift To Grow

Are you a member of Pampers Gift To Grow? If you are, I have 10 extra points for you! Here is your code to enter: getstartednow10

You can use these points to earn free things! Enjoy and if you aren't a Gift To Grow member but you buy Pampers, you are missing out, it is super easy and you can get some fun things! My favorite is the Starbucks Gift Card. (currently out right now, but I am holding out!)

IDEA!

Okay so my husband checks on my blog every so often and this is really with him in mind!
I have a wonderful idea!!!!! I want to be like this couple Marlo and Fran Cowan (married for 63 years!)! So in order to do this, I think we not only need to do our devotions, but I think it would be SO much fun to take piano lessons together! Maybe this could be our new years resolution next year! Take a look at this video, while they were at the Mayo clinic waiting for an appointment they did this for everyone! (Really a great story!)
(Remember to pause the music on the sidebar)

Menu Planning Monday!

So here is my plan for this week, I have now been going to SNAP fitness, it works for my schedule because it is open 24 hrs a day....but I should be there more often....so I figure if I write it out I will held accountable! I plan on working out every night for 1 hour(M-F). Despite recently hurting my leg, I think that I should be able to do this! On Saturday I will be cleaning someones house in the morning, and then right after since I will already be in workout clothes attire, I will head to the SNAP right by their house. On Sunday I am not going to commit to working out, if I do great if I don't I haven't failed right! Also, I will be cooking things and know what my point value will be, but I am mainly trying to cut down my portions! Going off of soda for lent was good for me, I don't crave one like I used to, I actually have only had a few, and went back to Diet Coke Caffeine Free! I would much rather have Iced Tea (unsweetened) or a PowerAde! We will see if that does anything to help me lose some of this weight!

Remember to check out the giveaway for this week!

I am a little late in posting this, but here is our menu for this week! If you are interested in looking at other menu's check out Laura's blog~

Breakfasts:

Eggs, Oatmeal, Cereal, Toast, Pancakes, muffins~

Lunches:

BLT's, Salad, Grilled Cheese, Left Overs, Mac&Cheese

Snacks: Fruit and Yogurt Smoothie (3 pts), Homemade Granola, Yogurt, Pudding

Dinners:

Monday: Bow tie Pasta with Broccoli and Chicken

Tuesday: Ribs, Baked Potatoes, Green Beans

Wednesday: Tilapia, Rice and Peas

Thursday: Crockpot Vegetable Soup and cornbread

Friday: Sausage Green Beans and Potatoes

Saturday: Chicken with Rice and Broccoli Casserole

Sunday: Hamburger and Hot Dog Cookout, Potato Salad, Homemade Strawberry Shortcake

Right On The Walls! GiveAway~

If you like to decorate your house or apartment and want some great ideas at a reasonable price I have an option for you! Right On The Walls is a family owned business that specializes in unique artwork. I am very pleased with the quality and plan on purchasing more items for other rooms! Right On The Walls has great customer service and has hundreds of designs to pick from and will even custom design something to fit your taste and home! I think my next purchase for my house will be for the kids! They have had a chance to go through the artwork and are in love with items for their rooms! My brother is getting married in a few months and I am sure I will be buying them some wall art too! They also have some adorable art for glass! I love this just married sticker!

Right On The Walls generously sent me "A picture is worth a thousand words..." to review. Before this I had never applied wall art before, and when the instructions said it would take less than ten minutes to apply their products I was a little nervous! I thought sure, I am doing this alone and I am positive it will take longer....well it didn't! Right On The Walls makes it easy including step by step instructions, and with the letters pre-spaced. I couldn't have messed it up! Here are a couple pictures.

Applying the vinyl art was easy and required very little effort and time on my part. The only issue I had was that in some of the areas that obviously didn't get rubbed on enough wasn't sticking to the wall. All I did was had to stop and then re-rub again, really not hard, but I was worried that it may come off after the transfer paper was removed. (Which didn't happen!) I am very impressed with my choice of art! I love to take pictures and to have that saying is perfect above our picture frames!

Right On The Walls not only has an easy application, if you are in an apartment or moving, it isn't hard to take off...and won't take off paint. You can simply go over it lightly with a hair dryer set to low, and then remove with the application tool that is included and it will lift each letter from the wall~ Perfect right!

Right On The Walls is offering one of my readers the opportunity to win a $40 Gift Certificate to put towards a purchase!

Right On The Walls ships USPS Priority Mail all over the world. Shipping is not included in the $40 coupon code prize. Shipping within the US is $5.80 and shipping outside the US is based on weight, typically $18-$25.

As an extra bonus for my readers, they have created a special discount code to use on any purchase. You can get some wall art for yourself for 15% off your purchase. Here is the code: BR15DCT. So see even if you don't win the $40 you can still get 15% off!

How to enter:

Visit Right On The Walls and choose your favorite item and then come back here and tell me about it! (Mandatory Entry please leave your email in this entry!)

Extra Ways to Enter:

Follow my Blog (2 Entries)

Become a Fan of Right On The Walls on Facebook! (1 Entry)

Blog about this Giveaway (4 Entries, leave a link!)

Give Away will end on Monday April 19th 11PM. The winner will be chosen using Random.org. I will announce and email the winner that evening! Good luck, and again a special THANK YOU to Right On The Walls for providing me with a product to review and the giveaways!

Brooklynn's Adventure~

So, Brooklynn has been begging for some skates. We decided to get her first pair of skates yesterday! Although today was really windy, we ventured out this morning and tried them out! She did good, especially since she has never been on skates prior to this! Brooklynn is such a thrill seeker, and loves adventures. Brooklynn loves to succeed at everything she does (unfortunately I think that is seeded from me), so even though she wouldn't tell anyone I could sense she was getting a little frustrated that she didn't master it the first time. I took this moment to let her know just HOW PROUD I was of her! She only fell a few times, but wouldn't allow me to take her skates off. With the wind it was a little tough not being shaky. Here are a couple pictures, I have to admit, I LOVED that Andrew was trying to hold Brooklynn's hand and help her to the steps. It is such an honor to be their parents, I am blessed to be their mom!

I have a button!

I am really excited, as much as I don't want to admit it, I had NO clue how to get a button, and when someone wanted one after I did their review, I was starting to stress out a bit....but I figured, despite looking silly, I would ask another blogger! So, I contacted Angie! She graciously helped me out, she not only designed it to look like my blog but she had the codes ready to put on my blog! THANKS so much Angie!!!! You are amazing!

Here it is!

Winner of the Ball Claw!

Using Random.org, #12 Miranda you are the winner of a Basketball Ball Claw! I hope this helps with keeping your sons basketball off the floor~ I am also sure that once you put up the claw that you will want to go back and buy the others!

Again, thank you John, and the Ball Claw for giving me the set of ball claws to review.

To get your own ball claws head on over!

Blessings!

Menu Planning Monday!

This week starts a whole new "light" but filling menu for me! I am going to be making things and have point value with each item, well most every meal! My intention is to have a responsibly healthy menu! So I will be pulling menu ideas from weight watchers, and I will be posting my own meals too!!

Also don't forget I do have a giveaway going on until April 8! Enter here to win!

Breakfasts and Lunches will primarily be the same as the weeks prior~

Dinners:

Chicken Quesadillas with Corn Salad (6 points per serving)

Corn Salad- 1 C corn, 1/2 green bell pepper, 1/2 tomato, 2 T chopped cilantro, 2t balsamic vinegar, 1/4 t salt.

Quesadillas- 1 1/2 C cooked chicken, 1 C lettuce, 1/2 C salsa, 6 flour tortillas, 1/3 C shredded cheese.

Honey-Mustard Pork Chops (5 points) with green beans (1 pt. a cup)

4 Pork chops (1-inch thick), 4t honey, 1/4 C Dijon mustard, 1t cider vinegar, 1/4 t salt, fresh ground pepper.

Grilled Chicken, broccoli, and rice

Corn and Bacon Chowder (4 points) Corn Bread (2 points)

2 slices bacon, cut, 2T+2t water, 1 onion chopped, 1/2 yellow bell pepper chopped, 2 1/2 C Basic Chicken Stock, 2 medium potatoes (cubed and peeled), 2C corn, 1/4 C light cream

Caesar Salad (1 point unless adding croutons then 3 points)

Layered Mexican Chicken (6 points)

Cheesy Hash Brown Chili

This week the kids and I are going to be having fun in the kitchen! I have some great ideas for them, and they will get to wear their aprons almost everyday! They are so excited for this week! I will be posting pictures!

WE ARE PEOPLE OF FAITH!

We can face uncertain days BECAUSE HE LIVES!
Blessings to you on this EASTER SUNDAY, may you be filled with HIS presence today!

(Remember to pause the music on the sidebar!)

Just a twitch of the nose!

Oh the thought of the simplicity of twitching my nose and everything falling into place, organized, and looking perfect! Can you imagine! I would be so relaxed, and know where everything is at and never stress!

So you remember the show Bewitched with Samantha?

Okay, so I am not wanting to be a witch, but I remember thinking when I was young that all I needed to do was figure out how to twitch my nose! :) Of course, I knew this wasn't real, and I still sometimes think it would be fun, but obviously nothing more than a fantasy!

So how do I do it? It seems daunting some days....but I have to do it all myself, I am the one responsible, and I have to find strength! It's tough to muster sometimes, but I love cleaning, but (hate) well that is a strong word, I get frustrated that it never stops! I know that praying helps with my frustrations, and I KNOW that it is okay to just stop for a while and enjoy my kids! Breaks are needed and they love to be outside and walk/ride their bikes!

I have my basement lined with boxes of things to giveaway, sell, and then I am going to attempt a yard sale this year....despite my husbands wishes! I am pricing things right now, tons of .25 items and tons of great deals! I will be shocked if I end up with more than one box to take to goodwill afterwards! I want to get rid of things, and the kids are excited that they are going to get to spend the money!
I also have laundry that is calling my name downstairs, and it is SCREAMING~ I wish someone would tell it to speak nicely lol, or tell my family that more than one outfit a day isn't really necessary!

I also wish I could muster up enough energy to get the spring cleaning done in one day! (UNREALISTIC) I also want my walls to look clean without fingerprints and the two little holes fixed....ahhh, see here I go getting overwhelmed!

So what am I doing right now, I am making two lists, and I will be pulling tasks from these lists....one list is going to be daily, and the other is long term tasks that I am planning out. I will only take one a day and that way if I am really busy I won't feel stressed that I didn't get more than one thing crossed off my list. And if I am really over zealous that day then I get even more motivated by crossing off more than one!!! This coming week I will have one big task a day to take care of, like clean off the top of the fridge, organizing under the sink, etc! If I am not too embarrassed I will take a picture of the progress! I have some great ideas and organizing tips! I'll share those too!

I am eager to find out what keeps you motivated and what tasks you are working on!

Susan G. Komen 3 Day Walk~

I am sure when you see this post, most everyone knows or will have some connection with a loved one with cancer. Cancer is such an awful disease, and one day I know we will have a breakthrough on preventing and treatments! Susan G Komen hosts a 3 Day (60 miles) Walk. I have a blogging friend, Julie, who is going to attend this event for the first time this year! I am so proud of her for taking on this challenge! Julie is walking for her mom, aunt, and grandma. This is a very personal walk for her and I know she is more than determined to raise money for the walk. Julie has been given items to auction off on her blog to support her in this journey. Walkers will generally raise $3,000, some set higher goals as a team! Please if you have a moment head over to Julie's blog and take a look at the items she has up right now. It is really easy to bid, I have my eye on a really CUTE purse!

Remember before playing this video to pause the music on my sidebar!

~Blessings and Prayers~

Ball Claw Review and GIVEAWAY

It's Spring time here! And for our house that means we are in organization mode! I have tried many different ways to become more efficient about organizing, and some may know that I am very "OCD" about labeling and putting things where they belong. When things aren't put away or cleaned up, it isn't a comfortable living space. I have been in this declutter and organize mode for a while, and have been looking for great ideas to organize my house in a kid friendly way!(without going overboard!) So I have to share with you my newest discovery!

The Ball Claw

One of the Ball Claw's owner, John, gave our family the ball claw set to review. I have to admit, I wanted to wait for Chip to get home to hang these up, but they are so easy to install anyone can do it! He sent us the football, soccer ball, and basketball claws! Let me tell you, this summer there will be no balls rolling around on the floor or the driveway or in the yard! Literally all I have to do is push the ball into it's appropriate claw and it stays, no rolling/fussing with bulky bags for balls, etc.! This option of eliminating extra items for storage helps as we attached them to the wall!

There are other options for mounting. You can mount them in your garage, basement, or even on the walls in your house. Do you have a child that has a sports themed room?! This would be a great option in their room! Or if you have sports memorabilia it is a great way to display it while preserving the ball as well! The options are limitless. You can even mount the basketball claw to the basketball pole!

The ball claw is a quick and easy way to organize and keep your balls off the floor and rolling around your garage/kids rooms! Keep your frustrations low and stay organized with the Ball Claw, I can assure you that you won't be disappointed!

So now on to the GIVEAWAY!

John from the Ball Claw is giving one of my readers a Basketball Claw!

-High quality injection molded ABS plastic. -Holds 29.5" and 28.5" regulation basketballs. -Easy mounting with included hardware.

All you have to do to enter is, check out the ball claw, and leave me a comment about where you plan on putting your basketball claw! Please leave me your email in this post as well so I can contact you if you win! (1 entry)

For Additional Entries:

-Follow my blog (1 entry)

-Blog about this giveaway (2 entry's) leave me a link!

The Giveaway will end on April 8th, 2010 at 11 PM. The winner will be chosen by using random.org. Please leave separate comments for every eligible entry. The winner will be announced that evening! Thank you for participating and good luck!

Thank you so much John from, The Ball Claw, for giving me the opportunity to review your product!

Rachael Ray WINNER!

I used the random.org and it produced #11 out of 90.

Terri said: If I win the Bubble & Brown bakeware, I'll take yellow:) I'm following your blog Lisa!

March 25, 2010 6:52 PM
CONGRATS TERRI !!!!

Again, thanks to all that entered to win! If you didn't win, please head over to CSN for more deals! They have tons of items at free shipping! I know I have gone back and plan to continue to use CSN. They have excellent customer service and are committed to their customers happiness!

ALSO: stay tuned, because I have three more giveaways lined up (one starting Friday!), and more have been emailed to me~ so you still have a chance to win something!!!

Terri: I will be contacting you for your address, and then CSN will be sending out your new bakeware. I believe Ashley with CSN will be in contact with you!

Blessings