Complete and Utter Chaos....

Milkshake - Review and Giveaway!

2009-01-27T11:46:00.003-05:00

As some of you may remember, all that my son Brendan wanted for Christmas this past year was a guitar. Music is his "thing". He gets it. He loves it. If you ride in my car, you will more than likely be listening to some sort of childrens CD. We have a variety to choose from, from the Little People Nursery Rhymes to the Doodlebops. I knew that when I was asked to review the Milkshake Band's CD and DVD, that Brendan would be thrilled to see this come in the mail! From the minute I hit play, the music captivated my boys. Milkshake sings about things that children can relate to. It catches their attention and the lyrics are catchy! By the time I heard the songs for the second time, I couldn't help but sing along! ... "We got a band yah yah... singing na na na na na na hey hey hey".

A little bit about Milkshake:

Milkshake is a band on a mission: to create great rock music for kids. Led by singer Lisa Mathews and guitarist Mikel Gehl, whose songs for grown-ups have been featured in movies and prime-time television, and whose indie rock group Love Riot garnered critical praise during its 10-year run, Milkshake has won over preschoolers without compromising songcraft, stagecraft or their authentic rock&roll spirit.

Milkshake's new CD, Play has 12 wonderfully playful songs on it! You'll be sure to love their style. You can even sample their music on their website, which is a wonderful feature!

WE GOT A BAND

IMAGINATION NATION

PIRATES

SUPERHERO

BOWLING WITH YOU

HOME ON THE RANGE

GO WILD

PLANT A GARDEN

PARADE

BASEBALL

MAGIC RIDE

PLAY

Their DVD, Screen Play, is fun on a whole other level! My boys love to dance around to the music in the living room and play their instruments just like the band does. The silliness just does not stop as long as the music is playing!

The first DVD from Milkshake! Featuring live action videos, animations and backstage interviews with the band. Bonus tracks include two videos created for PBS KIDS, and in-concert footage of the Noggin hit "Bottle of Sunshine."

Get your copy of the CD Play!, DVD Screen Play, or any of their other fun stuff today by going online and ordering through Milkshake's online store. For a limited time, you could receive a FREE Milkshake Beachball Baseball with your order!

How would you like to WIN a copy of both the CD Play! and the DVD Screen Play?!?

To enter, first go to Milkshake's website and come back here and tell me either one of the band member's names, or if there is a show playing soon in your area (date and location).

After you have your initial entry, you can do the following to earn extra entries (please post a seperate comment for each entry):

Tweet about this (1 entry per day)
Blog about this (3 entries)
Follow my blog (1 entry)

Make sure that your email address is either in your profile (Blog owners) or included in your comment.

This contest will end on February 13, 2009 and the winner will be randomly chosen.

The Importance of Fiber

2009-01-22T12:14:00.004-05:00

With my new weight loss goals, I want to learn more about healthy eating habits so that I don't end up re-gaining the weight that I lose again like I have in the past. I'm trying to create a good balance of foods for me; something that I can stick to and not feel deprived. I know that fiber is a very important ingrediant to any healthy diet and I have found a delicious way to help me reach my daily fiber goal!

Have you all tried the Fiber One products lately? One word - YUMMY!! My favorite are the Fiber One Oats & Chocolate Bars. They each have a whopping 9 grams of fiber in them, which is 35% of the recommended daily fiber. They are so chewy and chocolatey that I was sure that they were absolutely sinful when I first tried them. After I checked the nutritional values on the back I was stunned! How can something that tastes so good, be good for you? That was a breakthrough moment for me in my new venture! I realized that healthy choices doesn't necessary mean eating bland and boring food. Check these out the next time you go to the grocery store, you definitely won't be disappointed! Oh, and for all you Weight Watchers gals (and guys), they're only 2 Points! What a great option to keep in your cupboard for when you crave something sweet.

In addition to the Granola Bars, Fiber One offers a variety of wonderful, high fiber products including:

Cereal

Yogurt

Ready to eat muffins

Toaster Pastries

Pancake Mix

and More!

Don't Make Me Do It!

2009-01-19T13:23:00.002-05:00

One of my New Year Resolutions this year (and every year it seems) is to lose weight. I finally stepped on the scale yesterday. It's time to be accountable for the un-healthy choices that I've made. I'll spare you the number, but it wasn't pretty :( Be sure to stay tuned for posts about my weight loss journey. I'm going to shed 50-60 lbs this year and get healthy and fit! I'll need all the support and motivation that I can get to help me through this as well. Anyone want to be a cheerleader?

I REALLY want a new flat iron!

2009-01-19T12:38:00.003-05:00

I have what I call "high maintenance" hair. It's thick, naturally wavy and requires some sort of attention daily. I can't just get out of bed and go. I can't just pull it back in a pony tail either, because it's too short to do that now. My cousin does wonders with it at the salon, but I'm on my own every other day of the month. If only I could take her home with me to be available to me each morning as I roll out of bed. There I go dreaming again! LOL! I think that one thing that would help me is getting better products. I just upgraded my blow dryer (Thanks MOM! for the wonderful Christmas present) and now the one thing I covet is a new flat iron. I need one that gets much hotter than the one that I already have. My current iron only gets up to 395 degrees, and my hair needs 450 degrees to get that nice smooth consistency that I desire.

MomDot is hosting a giveaway through Misikko for a new Hana Elite Flat Iron and I want it soooo bad! Check this bad girl out! It's got everything a girl could want and more. Seriously. I NEED this flat iron! Here is a list of it's features:

100% Solid Ceramic Plates Never Peel or Degrade
Large Integrated Ceramic Heaters with Full Plate Coverage for the Most Consistent, Conditioning Far Infrared Heat Possible
Ceramic is naturally hygienic, protects color & retards fading
Unique black ceramic plates won't discolor with use of products or hair dyes
1.5" plates make it easier and faster to straighten & style longer, thicker and unruly hair types
Adjustable Temperature Dial - 5 Settings from 140-450° F for All Hair Types
Flash Heats in Seconds with Instant Compensation for Heat Loss
Safe to use on Damp to Dry Hair
Beveled Edges mean Easy Curled, Flipped, Spiked or Straight Styles
Ergonomic Handle Design with No-Slip Grip
Smooth Grooves Keep Hair Strands Separate and Snag-Free
Sleek luxury matte finish
Tangle-Free Salon Quality Cord Swivels 360°; Convenient Hanging Loop
Energy Efficient at 38 Watts
Independent On/Off Switch
Includes Luxe Heat Proof Storage Pouch, Heat Proof Silicone Mat, & Special Edition Tin Case
Made in Korea
Two Year Warranty

Dreaming...

2009-01-18T17:58:00.005-05:00

As I sit here watching my two boys throw pieces of their dinner onto the carpet, I dream about being chosen by MomDot to be a Dyson Domestic Diva! I'm in dire need of a new vacuum cleaner, but can't seem to convince my husband that the Dyson is worth the money that they cost. I would LOVE to be able to test out the Dyson Animal so that I can show my skeptical hubby how wonderful and magical these machines are. I'm of course hoping that the vacuum will live up to my every expectation, as I have never actually used one. But in my dreams, the Animal is light-weight and glides across the room with little effort picking up every piece of dirt, food and lord only knows what else off of my floor. In my dreams, the Animal is fearless, taking on any job large or small. In my dreams, this vacuum can actually keep up with the continuous mess that my children make, and makes the dirt and grass that my husband brings in on the bottom of his work boots disappear in the blink of an eye! Oh Dyson Animal.... please make my dreams come true!

Are my expectations too high? My husband thinks so. I would LOVE the chance to prove him wrong (insert sinister laugh here)!

Bloggers Give!

2009-01-17T21:40:00.006-05:00

Have you all heard of the wonderful charity that MomDot has set up called Bloggers Give? Wow! What a way to give back to the community! I applaud them and all of their sponsors in their efforts!

As a review blogger, how can you help? This is simple!

For every product that you request to review or get offered for review, ask the company to send you a second product and tell them that it will be donated to Bloggers Give. Trisha Haas, the owner of Bloggers Give and MomDot, has even derived a letter for you to send to sponsors, after you've made the initial contact with them. She's worked with so many different sponsors and realize that it may be hard or awkward to ask for additional items for review. But, when the sponsors hear about what a great program Bloggers Give is, they'll definitely want to get involved!

Every time Bloggers Give receives a product donation on behalf of your blog’s giveaway or review, we will do the following:

Promote the giveaway on your site of participating product in a post we run once a week
Promote the review on your site of participating products in a post we run once a week
A list under our Blog Listings that is permanent
The blogger who donates the most product throughout the month will receive our Blogger of the Month award and be permanently listed on our sidebars the rest of the year
The blogger who donates the most product at the end of the year will be awarded a $100 gift certificate to any store of their choosing

As a sponsor, how can you help?

Contact Trisha Haas through the Bloggers Give site and let her know that you would like to participate in this wonderful cause!
I would love to offer a review of your product. If you are interested, send me two items and I will do a full review on my blog of the item and send the second item to Trisha personally.

The companies that dropship an extra product to Bloggers Give will
receive:

A link listing permanently under our donating companies
A 125/125 banner on the sidebar (if sent to us) for the month they donate
The Companies that donate the most product via a blogger per month will recieve a banner ad that rotates throughout the 4 Bloggers Give blogger sites (Mom
Generations, Simbaco Lifestyle, MomDot and Accideintal Mommies)

Free Parents Magazine Subscription!

2009-01-16T20:16:00.002-05:00

If you're anything like me, you love a great parenting resource. I've had a subscription to Parents magazine since I was pregnant with my first son. The articles and advice in this magazine is always helpful!

How would you like a free 2 year subscription to Parents magazine? Click here for details. Hurry, this offer won't last long!

What's for Dinner?

2009-01-16T15:24:00.002-05:00

Have you ever been stumped about what to make for dinner? I have found myself completely bored with the recipes that I know and make all of the time. I'm dying to try some new things, but don't have a lot of time in the evenings to spend on elaborate meals. If you have found yourself in the same situation as I am in, then you have to check out Kraft's website for easy recipes using the items that you already have in your kitchen!

They have so many options on this website and so many ways to search for recipes that I can always find what I'm looking for! With easy, step-by-step instructions, reviews and beautiful pictures I can easily re-create any dish that is listed.

Sign up for their weekly emails! I look forward to my email each week, which helps me plan my menu for the following week!

Kraft First Taste

2009-01-16T15:16:00.002-05:00

Have you signed up for Kraft First Taste? In my house, there are several Kraft products that are staples in my cupboards and refridgerater. From salad dressings to desserts, Kraft is a brand that I trust! Now, you can be the first to try their new products and you can try them for free! Just sign up for Kraft First Taste and they'll send you offers periodically via email and you can choose to have the product (or a coupon for the product) to your home! It's that easy! I just received a couple of samples of the Jello single serve chocolate pudding packets that I can't wait to try out. My boys and I will be trying those out after dinner tonight!

What are you waiting for? Get over to Kraft First Taste and try it out!

My Fruit Rollups - Review and Giveaway!

2009-01-15T10:36:00.005-05:00

I was recently offered the opportunity to try out My Fruit Rollups. What great timing as I had my son's 3rd birthday party approaching and knew these would be a great favor for the kids' goodie bags! Creating my personalized Fruit Roll-up was super easy and the product came quickly. With 30 Fruit Roll-Ups in the box, there were plenty for me to pass out at Brendan's birthday party and still had leftovers to eat at home.

Here is the image of Brendan that I used:

My son's reaction to seeing his face on the Fruit Roll-Up was PRICELESS!! He was so shocked and excited as he exclaimed "That's me!"

My Fruit Roll-Ups are perfect for all sorts of occasions:

Birthday Parties
Valentines Day
Sports Teams
Christmas Parties
Halloween Parties
Graduations

Check out My Fruit Roll-Ups for design examples or to create your own!

How would you like to enter to win your own box of personalized My Fruit Roll-Ups?

To Win, check out the My Fruit Roll-Ups website and come back here and comment telling me how you would design yours!

Please make sure to include your email address in your comment, unless you are a blog owner and your contact info is in your profile.
Winner will be chosen at random
One winner will be chosen
Winner will be notified via email. If no response in 2 days, another winner will be chosen.

This contest will end at 11:59 p.m. EST on 1/31/09

Potty training?

2009-01-15T09:04:00.002-05:00

Pull-Ups is offering a free potty training DVD while supplies last! I just ordered my copy as I will soon begin to potty train my youngest son. Since no two kids are alike, I'm sure that I will have to tailor my approach with Keegan from what I did with Brendan. I'm hoping that this DVD will give me some useful tips!

Have you been looking for a way to make potty training easier?
Finally there's a potty training approach that's flexible and fun. You can tailor it to fit the way your child learns best, so you can keep your Big Kid® engaged from start to finish.
No matter what your child’s phase of training, you’ll love the Pull-Ups® Big Kid® Central Potty Training Success DVD. You’ll discover techniques, tips, songs and games to help you and your child succeed. Order your free copy today.
Available while supplies last.

Stride Rite - Review

2009-01-14T12:10:00.000-05:00

The other day I came home to a wonderful surprise box waiting for me. Two beautiful pairs of shoes from Stride Rite! I opened the box with my 3 year old beside me, curious to see what was inside. He loves new shoes almost as much as I do, so he was anxious to get his pair on his feet and run around in them! My boys have been wearing their new shoes for 3 days now and absolutely LOVE them, and so do I. They are so stylish and go with just about everything that is in their closets, which makes them extremely versitile! My younger son, Keegan, has a wide feet which can make it complicated to get shoes on his feet. His new shoes slid right on, just like butter. Ahhh, no more fighting him to get shoes on his feet!

For Brendan, we received these shoes in the color shown in a medium width. He has slightly narrow feet, and these shoes fit him perfectly!

For Keegan, we received these shoes in the color shown in a wide width. I feel awful because not having dealt with wide feet with my first son, I never knew the signs of shoes not fitting a toddler properly. Keegan used to stumble quite a bit and I thought he was just clumsy and new on his feet. I never thought that it was because his shoes weren't fit just right. Since he's been wearing these I can't say that he hasn't fallen at all (he's 18 months), but he certainly isn't as clumsy as I once thought he was! Poor guy!

Baskin-Robbims BRight Choices

2009-01-06T06:22:00.004-05:00

With the New Year under way, I know many people resolve to be healthier. I am definitely one of those people! My weakness though is ice cream, especially Baskin Robbins! There is a location right by my work and every once in a while I like to stop in for a special treat. Now, I can stop in and have a treat and not feel bad about it! Baskin Robbins just introduced a new line called BRight Choices! They have different flavors to choose from and you can even choose to create a cake, shake, or sundae out of their BRight Choices, making your options even more appealing!

Their new Premium Churned Light Ice Cream has 50% less fat and 20% fewer calories than the regular ice cream. So, with only 130 or 140 calories and 4.5 grams of fat you can indulge in a scoop of their vanilla, chocolate or raspberry chip ice cream without feeling an ounce of guilt!

Is sugar a no-no in your diet? Then try their Premium Churned Reduced Fat Ice Cream with No Added Sugar! Wow! My dad is a diabetic, so he'll be super excited to hear about this! I think I'll take him out this weekend for a nice scoop of Butter Almond Crunch Ice Cream.

How about Frozen Yogurt? I love frozen yogurt, it's definitely a healthier option and just as tasty as ice cream. Their Fat-Free Vanilla Frozen Yogurt only has 90 calories per serving!

If you want a Fat Free & Dairy Free option, then the Strawberry Sorbet is the way to go. This yummy treat only has 80 calories per serving.

"Diets" are always daunting. But changing my lifestyle and the choices I make when it comes to eating will be much easier with this delicious treat as a guilt free option!

Best Bathroom Cleaner EVER!

2009-01-03T21:23:00.004-05:00

I have to tell you all about a product that I've been raving about for almost a month now. Arm & Hammer's Scrub Free Bathroom Cleaner with Oxy Foaming Action is the best bathroom cleaner I have ever used! As I was perusing the cleanser isle one day I saw this item and I was skeptical, to say the least. I've used other supposed "scrub-free" cleansers that are definitely NOT scrub-free, but this one actually is. It truely makes the job of cleaning the soap scum off of the shower walls and tub a cinch! I'm amazed by it every time I use it.

Product Details:

Arm & Hammer® - The Standard of PurityCuts through soap scum on contact!
Cuts through soap scum on contact
Cleans and deodorizes
No scrubbing, no scratching
Premium performance - premium value
Arm & Hammer® Scrub Free® Bathroom Cleaner quickly cuts through soap scum, hard water stains and dulling film. Recommended for use on ceramic tile, shower doors, fixtures, plastic, chrome and on porcelain, acrylic and fiberglass tubs and sinks. The unique non-abrasive formula won't scratch as it cleans, shines and deodorizes. And it gives you the premium performance you desire - at a premium value

Warnings
Keep out of reach of children.
Contains sulfamic acid. Do not mix with bleach, mildew removers or other household cleaners, as toxic fumes may result.
Eye irritant. May be harmful if swallowed.
If swallowed: Immediately rinse mouth with water. Have person sip a glass of water if able to swallow. Call poison control center or doctor for treatment advice. Do not induce vomiting unless told to do so by poison control center or doctor. Do not give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.
If in eyes: Hold eye open and rinse slowly and gently with water for 15-20 minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present, after the first 5 minutes, then continue rinsing eye. Call poison control center or doctor for treatment advice.
If on skin: Rinse skin immediately with plenty of water. Seek medical attention if irritation develops.

Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion + Sunscreen SPF 15

2009-01-02T20:47:00.004-05:00

I'm a natural red-head, and as with most red-heads I have extremely fair and sensitive skin that requires a lot of maintenance. I'm always in search of a better skin-care product, so when I was approached to try Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion with Sunscreen SPF 15 I was thrilled! I found it is a wonderfully light lotion with a very mild scent. It's so light that I actually apply a little to my face each morning (yes, you read that right, I apply it to my face!). I usually have dry red patches on my cheeks and this lotion has really reduced those patches. Even though the lotion is lightweight, it still provides enough moisture to take care of the rough skin that this cold, dry weather has left on my hands and elbows. The added plus is that it's protecting me from the sun, which is extremely important to me and my fair skin. This product has definitely made it's way into my daily skin-care regimine!

Everyday skin care routine should provide complete protection and hydration to the skin. To achieve this goal, harsh environmental irritants along with excessive sun radiation should be kept away from the skin so that it remains youthful and healthy.We would like to introduce the unique product that combines the most beneficial features of shielding and sunscreen lotions - Skin MD Natural + SPF15.This product helps prevent loss of natural oils and moisture, doesn't allow irritating substances to penetrate the skin and absorbs the part of UV spectrum that contributes to premature skin ageing and development of skin cancer.

Check out Skin MD Natural's website for information on where to purchase this wonderful product, user rave reviews, before and after pictures and much more!

Wow, it's been a long time!

2009-01-02T11:59:00.002-05:00

Since I've posted! The holidays were more hectic than ever this year with office parties, after hour meetings, family parties, hubby's birthday and then the New Year. Whew! I had a great time and a wonderful holiday but it feels good to have things back to normal again. The tree and Christmas decorations are down, and the mess that Santa left is just about cleaned up. Next week is my older son's 3rd birthday, so now I am preparing for his party and another load of stuff to find room for. I have a few reviews to get done, so you'll be hearing from me plenty in the next few days!

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday and here's to a very prosperous 2009!!

Princess Bride Video Game - Review!

2008-12-17T22:00:00.007-05:00

I recently got the opportunity to review a PC video game called "The Princess Bride". I'm telling you now that if you have an adolescent or pre-teen daughter, this is a must have! I have to admit that I will probably continue playing this game, even though it's meant for someone.. errr younger than I am.

As soon as I popped the CD in my laptop and started the game, the music and graphics had me extremely captivated! There are so many different facets to this game that it keeps you wanting more. Below are a few screen shots from the game. I wanted to be able to show you just how great the graphics are!

On the main menu screen, you can choose which type of game that you want to play. You can choose a trivia game, a puzzle solving game, a time management game, or a seek & find game. Each of these games reveal another part of the story after the level is completed, which keeps you wanting to play more so you can find out if the story has a happy ending!

In the first Episode, As You Wish, you need to manage to complete a variety of tasks in the time alotted. You are given a specific set of goals for each level and you need to figure out which order to do them in to be able to get them all done in time!

The second episode, Battle of the Wits, has your brain really working to solve a variety of trivia type questions.

The third episode, you have to figure out how to get your characters safely through the obstacles from one end to the other.

In the fourth episode, one of the tasks is to find objects from a list hidden in a room. There is another component to this level that really gets your brain working! I'll leave that one as a surprise for the player!

And finally, the fifth episode. This is the final episode to the story and I have yet to find out the ending. I am really looking forward to completing this game and hearing the ending to the story that I am now so invested in!

PC & Mac requirements for this game:

PC- Windows XP/Vista, PC 1.5 GHz or faster, 512 MB RAM, 100 MB available hard disk space, Integrated Sound, Integrated 3D Graphics with 64 MB or higher RAM, (Direct X Compatible).

Mac - Mac 05 X 10.4+, 1.5 GHz or faster, 512 MB RAM, 100 MB available hard disk space, Integrated 3D Graphics with 64 MB or higher RAM, (OpenGL Compatible).

The Princess Bride Game is rated E for everyone!

Are you done shopping?

2008-12-17T12:53:00.002-05:00

I think that tonight I will finally finish up my Christmas shopping for the season. Then, all I will have to do is make cookies. Sounds simple when you say it out loud... I just have to make cookies. Ya right! I have to make 30 dozen (at least) and 5 or 6 different kinds of cookies! My big idea this year was to buy various cookie jars and platters and to make cookies and give those as gifts. I think it will turn out to be a great gift, but I also think that it would have been easier to just buy a different gift! LOL! My lovely mother (bless her soul!) offered to help me make the cookies this weekend. I quickly accepted her offer and asked if we could make the mess at HER house! Now, I just have to narrow the pile of recipes that I have down to 5 or 6 and get all of the ingredients. Stay tuned for pics of the masses of cookies and the recipes of the cookies that I decided to bake!

Who still has shopping or baking to do?

Wordless Wednesday!

2008-12-17T11:48:00.001-05:00

Giveaway! Don't Miss Out!!

2008-12-16T11:49:00.002-05:00

Don't forget to enter my giveaway for a $25 Visa Gift Card!

Also, if you are a non-blogger or have a private blogger profile, make sure you give me your email address so that I can contact you if you win!

Good luck!

Two Little Monkeys..

2008-12-16T09:09:00.002-05:00

jumping on the bed! Luckily, neither fell off and bumped their head. Can you see the third little monkey wishing he could jump too? LOL! We had to get some pictures before we asked them to stop jumping cause they were just too cute!

Love at First Sight!

2008-12-16T08:58:00.002-05:00

This past Sunday, my friends and I and our kids had our Christmas party where we exchanged gifts, ate pizza and just had fun! Little Miss Lanie (14 months) set her sights on my Keegan and it was love. Like most boys, he was oblivious to her charm and beauty... that is, until the kiss! He was gaga over her afterward! I see wedding bells in the future!

Fun with Secret Santa!

2008-12-14T19:53:00.003-05:00

I am proud to be part of an online forum that is made up with several mommies, most of us having had babies that were born in June of 2007 (some earlier, some later). This is a wonderful group of women to share with, vent to, rejoice with, and get advice from! We have made it a tradition to put the babies in a secret santa exchange for those who want to participate and Keegan was in it this year! Tomorrow, the 15th, is the reveal on our board but since I leave for work so early in the morning and have a hair appointment right after work tomorrow, I let Keegan open his gift a little early. Thanks so much Cassie and Aiden for the wonderful gift! For those of you wondering what it is, it is the Discovery Learning Sounds Projecter. Keegan and Brendan were both laying in Brendan's bed for a long while watching it on the wall right after we opened it. I will be getting Keegan some more slides for it to put in his stocking for Christmas!

Cookies anyone?

2008-12-12T10:34:00.004-05:00

Who is going to be making (or already has made) cookies for Christmas this year? I plan to make a bunch on the weekend before Christmas as I have bought as gifts two beautiful cookie jars that I need to fill up, along with my usual platter for work and platter for our family holiday party. Oh, and we can't forget to put some on a plate for Santa!

I'd love to hear what kinds of cookies that you'll be making this year! So far I will be making these:

Nestle Tollhouse Chocolate Chip, cause who doesn't just love a good ole' chocolate chip cookie right?

Decorated sugar cookies that my boys can help with

Oreo Truffles - YUMMY!

Give me some more ideas! I need lots!

$25 Visa Giftcard!

2008-12-11T13:07:00.002-05:00

Who doesn't like Visa giftcards? I personally think that they are the best gift. You always know that you're going to get EXACTLY what you want with it since almost everyone takes accepts Visa! I'm giving away a Visa Giftcard worth $25. This contest will run from today until December 21st. The winner will be drawn on December 22nd.

Here is how you can enter!

Leave a comment on my blog telling me what you would buy with this gift card.

For extra entries (leave a seperate comment for each entry)

1. Blog about this giveaway and leave a link to the post in your comment.

2. Follow my blog

3. Put my button on your sidebar (must leave the button up for at least 30 days)

At home with a sick baby

2008-12-11T13:02:00.002-05:00

Today I am home with a sick baby :( Keegan started running a fever yesterday and is still sick today. He has no other sypmptoms, so I'm thinking that it might be his teeth, but am unsure. Poor guy! He's been laying around and sleeping on and off all day. I finally was just able to put him down after holding him from 4am till about 12:30 pm today. Whew! He's laying on the couch right next to me though and when I try and get up he whines. I will be here for him though with no complaints. I definitely know what it's like to just want your momma when you're sick! I hope he's feeling better soon!

Craft Time! - Magic Reindeer Food

2008-12-09T21:24:00.002-05:00

This is a great project to make with your little ones! Magic Reindeer Food lays a glittering path to guide Santa's Reindeer to your house on Christmas Eve.

Combine the following ingredients in a mixing bowl:

1/2 cup oatmeal

1/2 cup sugar

1/4 cup red and green sugar crystals (for cake decorating)

Attach (or read) the following poem:

Be sure to take this magic food, and sprinkle on the lawn. On Christmas, Santa's reindeer travel miles before the dawn. The smell of oats and sparkling path will guide them on their way. And you'll wake up to Santa's gifts next morn on Christmas Day!

You can also package some of the mixture in ziploc bags and tie them with a ribbon with the poem attached to give out as small gifts.

This is a really cute way to get your child(ren) excited for Santa to come on Christmas Eve!

Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree..

2008-12-09T20:55:00.005-05:00

In the spirit of the tree lighting festival that we went to, I decided that it was time to get our tree and decorations up as well. I've been worried about how Keegan would be with it, but he's been surprisingly good! He's only pulled the bulbs off a few hundred times in two days....

Our Christmas lights

2008-12-09T20:51:00.004-05:00

We've done a lot of work on our little house over the past couple of years and this past year the outside underwent a total transformation. My wonderful husband put up the Christmas lights outside this past Saturday and as we pulled up from our outing I just sat and stared with tears in my eyes. I know it might not look much to anyone else, but to me it's so beautiful it takes my breath away.

Happy Holidays everyone!

Tree Lighting!

2008-12-09T20:27:00.003-05:00

Last weekend we went out in the midst of a winter snowstorm to the local tree lighting festival. Boy, I'm so glad that we went. It really got me in the holiday spirit! We bundled up in layers of clothing and snowsuits and pulled up to a wonderfully large bonfire waiting for us. Next, Brendan rode a pony, but not long enough for me to get a picture of him. He got scared since the saddle started to slide off of the pony and he nearly fell off! Next we listened to the high school choir sing some classic Christmas songs and as they sang "Here Comes Santa Claus" we all hurried to see Santa coming down the street in the fire truck! A beautiful little girl from the elementary school lit the tree and we finished up with some warm cider. It was a wonderful night to celebrate with family and friends and can't wait to do it again next year!

I'm not really MIA..

2008-12-04T15:14:00.002-05:00

I was on vacation from my J-O-B last week and got too used to it. Now, I'm back to the daily grind and am barely treading water to keep up with everything! Yuck! Can't I just stay at home in my jammies and laugh with my boys all day?

Anyway, stay tuned for some new posts about holiday decorating! I'll have pics too!

And the winner is......

2008-12-02T08:17:00.004-05:00

A random number has been chosen, and the winner is.... (drum roll!) Jen @ Mommay's Mayhem! I have emailed Jen. Thanks to everyone who has participated!

Stay tuned, there is another great giveaway coming soon!

I'm asking Santa for the Ceiva Digital Frame!

2008-11-29T15:20:00.005-05:00

If you haven't seen this digital frame, you HAVE to check it out! For those of you with loved ones that live far away, this frame will be invaluable to you. With the ability to receive new pictures daily via an existing phone line or computer, Ceiva is set high above the standards of your ordinary digital photo frame!

In three simple steps, you could be receiving photos instantly. First, choose the frame that is perfect for you! Second, register your frame and activate your PicturePlan membership. Third, send pictures from your camera phone or computer. It's THAT EASY! Better yet, with $100 off the original price and free shipping, you can't go wrong!

Ceiva also has a fun way for you to sit on Santa's lap without leaving the comfort of your own home and a contest you can enter to win $500 to buy whatever it is that is on the top of your wishlist this year! I chose the above picture of me and one of my best friends to sit on santa's lap for the interactive video because it's such a fun picture and one that I'd definitely want loaded into my frame! 29 randomly chosen lucky people will win this contest (one for each day of the contest). If I win, I'll definitely be getting a Ceiva digital photo frame for myself and my mother!

Go sit on Santa's Lap today and tell him what you're wishing for this year!

Got a Wish Sweeepstakes

Giveaway ends tomorrow!

2008-11-29T12:38:00.002-05:00

There's still time to enter my Giveaway for a free Miracle Set from Mary Kay! Check it out!!

My Christmas shopping is officially underway!

2008-11-29T12:04:00.004-05:00

I went out and braved the crowds yesterday and got some really great deals! Here are some of the things that I picked up for a really great price!:

Playskool's Wheel Pals Triple Track Tower for $7.99 (regular $19.29)

Doodle Pro Basic for $8.99 (regular $15.99)

First Act 30" Acoustic Guitar for $19.99 (regular $29.99)

Free Track Pack with the Purchase of GeoTrax Grand Central Station ($49.99 with $16.99 free)

Apples to Apples $11.99 (regular $24.99)

Cook's 12-cup Programmable Coffee Maker $14.88 with $10.00 mail in rebate (regular $49.99)

I also got some great childrens separates for my niece and nephew from JC Penney for $3.99 per piece that are regularly $9.99 per piece and some fleece to make some "no-sew" blankets for $2.99 per yard. I came home with LOTS of great gifts! Now I just have to get my tree and all of my decorations up. I'm really excited for Christmas and am in the holiday spirit!

Did anyone else brave the crowds yesterday? What kind of deals did you come home with?

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T09:39:00.002-05:00

I wanted to wish everyone a very Happy Thanksgiving before I head out to my parents house today to celebrate with my whole family! I have so much to be thankful for, a wonderful family, fabulous friends (in real life and online), good health, a roof over my head and food on the table. I hope everyone has a wonderful day!

Take advantage of a great deal with Pexagon!

2008-11-25T14:35:00.008-05:00

Are you looking for the perfect gift for that person that has you stumped? How about a gift for your boss, co-worker, techie type brother-in-law or friend? Pexagon is offering 20% off 4 great personalized holiday gifts personlized holiday gift ideas from now until the end of the year! You have to check this out!

Personalized Thumb Drives - available in 14 colors, up to 16GB in capacity with FREE custom laser engraving! Choose from one of their 32 exciting themes such as "#1 Teacher" or "Happy Holidays" and engrave two lines of personalization text on the reverse side! Starting at $7.99 after discount. These are perfect gifts for your co-workers and your children's teachers!

Personalized Pens - 3 unique styles, multiple colors and a FREE line of personalized laser engraved text! Starting at $1.59 after discount. What a great gift idea for your boss! Every professional likes a pen that looks nice and writes really well.

Business Card Flash Drives - It looks like a business card but the back side hides a small USB cable (huge 2GB capacity) and the front side can be engraved for FREE with 3 lines of personalization text! Starting at $15.99 after discount. These are perfect for men and women who could slide it right in and out of their wallet or breifcase for safe keeping!

Wooden USB Flash Drives - environment-friendly, wooden design with attached cap and two color choices. Available in 2GB and 4GB capacities with 2-sided custom laser engraving absolutely FREE! Starting at $15.99 after discount.

Check out these personalized holiday gifts TODAY!!

I love Zales!

2008-11-25T14:04:00.003-05:00

I have to tell you about the wonderful experience that I recently had with Zales Online. For Mother's Day last May, my wonderful husband purchased the stackable mothers rings that I had asked for in the two boys birthstones for me. Since Zales doesn't carry the specific item that I wanted in their stores, he had to purchase it online. Of course, my husband waited until the very last minute before buying these rings for me and when he completed the purchase, he realized that it would take up to two weeks for shipping! In a panic he went out and bought be a new set of golf clubs so that I would have a gift to open on Mothers Day but lo and behold, the rings arrived within 4 days and on a Saturday to boot! When I opened the box on Sunday, I was stunned. I not only didn't know that he had actually ordered them for me, but they were more beautiful in person than they were on the screen! I was extremely happy! Only one slight problem... they didn't fit. Now, to return them. I was nervous sending them back through the mail to Zales, but within a few days there was a credit posted back into our account for the full purchase price. So easy!

Finally, a few weeks ago I got back around to re-ordering them. I felt kind of guilty that hubby had spent so much money on me. I mean, after all I wanted to keep the golf clubs too! I went online and re-ordered them in the correct size and they arrived as quickly as they did the last time. I love wearing these rings! They remind me of my boys and they are a great conversation piece. Everyone is asking me where I got them from and I proudly say "check out Zales!".

My Shopping Spree today!

2008-11-24T21:32:00.002-05:00

I'm on vacation from work this week, so a friend and I decided to go shopping today. We went to an indoor outlet mall that's about 30 minutes from home and spent the day away from kids and work. What a GREAT day! I got some really good deals on clothes for the boys and some new gym shoes for myself. I'm exhausted though and still fighting a cold that has morphed into an awful cough. Tomorrow the boys and I are going to find something fun to do together. Any suggestions?

It's Play Time With Daddy!

2008-11-20T22:00:00.003-05:00

Here is how the typical play time with daddy goes every night at my house. I call him "jungle gym daddy" cause the boys climb and jump all over him!

Anyone have a good recipe?

2008-11-20T21:21:00.003-05:00

Well, I think I'm set on the menu for Sunday. I bought the bird today.. all 20 lbs. of her! I just hope I don't let her (or my guests) down!

Since there are a few people that don't like green bean casserole, I decided to make some yummy glazed carrots instead. Only problem is.... I've never made them before. LOL! Anyone have a recipe for yummy glazed carrots?

Christmas of Dreams Holiday Bash Day #5!

2008-11-18T21:19:00.003-05:00

I've taken a couple of days off from the party due to some family emergencies, but I'm back and ready to join in on the fun!

Today's sponsors are Baby Pop and Chic Covers

The question of the day is:

Today, make a blog post about what you do to give back during the holidays. Do you volunteer your time? If so, please tell us where. What do you do to teach your children the true meaning of the holidays?

This is a great topic. As the holidays approach, I realize that I have so much to be thankful for. I have my health, a wonderful family, a roof over my head, food to eat, a job to go to, clothes to wear... I could go on and on. I do realize though that there are many people that do not have the things that I do.

Every year I make sure to give back in some way, even if it's only a small amount. I've always donated at least one new toy to Toys for Tots. As my children get older, I want them to understand the importance of this as well. Brendan, I believe, will be old enough this year to understand the concept of giving and so I will start this tradition with him this year. Each year I will take the boys shopping and ask them to pick out a toy (with a value up to a certain set amount) that they really like. I will purchase that toy and have them help me wrap it up to give to a child in need. I hope that this will instill in them that although it's fun to receive gifts, it's equally rewarding to give. As I explain to them why we are giving these toys away, I hope that they will understand and grow in their hearts from the experience.

When my children are older I would love to take a day near the holidays to volunteer at a local children's hospital or nursing home. I think this would be a great way to bond as a family, while giving to our community.

Every year I sponsor a member or two of a needy family that is chosen by my employer. Last year my employer chose a family through a charity called Helping Hands.

Black Friday!

2008-11-18T20:58:00.002-05:00

Only 10 more days until the biggest shopping day of the year! Well, one of the biggest anyway. You're either a Black Friday lover, or a Black Friday hater. I don't think there's any in-between on this one. I've heard people either exclaim about how excited they are to go shopping at the crack of dawn (or earlier) and the others exclaim about how people are absolutely insane to go out shopping so early and with those crowds.

As an avid shopper, I LOVE Black Friday! I love the hustle and bustle. I love to see what other people are buying. I love to find a great deal. So, I'll be up in the middle of the night shopping! Has anyone taken a sneak peak at the ads yet? They're out there and there are some definite goodies! Here are some sites for you to check out the ads that are posted.

The Official Black Friday Website

Here are some online deals that are available right now!

Tell me what you'll be waiting in line for this year! I've got my eye on a Garmin GPS that's on sale at Office Max for $100 off the price that it's listed for right now. That little baby's going in Mama's stocking this year!

My first Thanksgiving in the drivers seat!

2008-11-18T18:13:00.002-05:00

So, I just volunteered myself to make Thanksgiving dinner this coming Sunday for my husband's side of the family. YIKES! I'm fairly confident that I'll be able to pull it off as I absolutely love to cook, but I've never made a turkey before! And... gravy was never one of my strong points. Does anyone have any advice to offer in that area? Please?? Also, I'm curious to hear what everyone's favorite side dish is. We're having mashed potatoes and stuffing, and I'm used to my favorite green bean casserole, but my husband hates green bean casserole and so does his sister. I figured I'd start searching now for the perfect alternative. I'm hoping that someone will have the perfect suggestion for me!

When it rains it pours!

2008-11-17T21:03:00.002-05:00

Sorry I haven't been posting as much lately. I thought it was time to let you all know why. Here are some of the events that have happened in the last week or so:

A little over a week ago, my father-in-law had a heart attack. It was a scary time for my husband and our family. I'm happy to say that he's home from the hospital finally and doing well.

The same night that my father-in-law had his heart attack, my dad was in the hospital as well for internal bleeding. It turns out that the bleeding was a result of an inflamed esophagus from his terrible bouts of acid reflux. Thank goodness it wasn't anything serious! He was able to go home the next day after some observation of his blood levels.

Last Thursday I picked the boys up from daycare to find Keegan's eye all puffy and oozing with yellow discharge. Yuck! I took him to the doctor to find out that he had periorbital cellulitis and an ear infection. He was put on an antibiotic and his eye was back to normal by Saturday evening.

The biggest scare of them all though, happened this past Friday. My mom calls me and says that my dad had called her at work and said that he had just called 911 because he couldn't breathe. She arrived at home just in time to talk to one of the EMT's and to follow them to the hospital. He was about 5 minutes from being put on a respirator and completely blue. He's had a history of emphysima and congestive heart failure. After a night of observation in the ICU, he was stable and breathing clearly again. His cardiologist did a heart cathederization this afternoon and he should be discharged tomorrow.

Now, I'm sick with a terrible cold/flu and miserable. I've been in bed for two days and am hoping that I'll wake up in the morning feeling all better.

Pray with me that this storm will be over soon!

Kristen's Custom Creations - Giveaway!

2008-11-13T12:32:00.003-05:00

Have you checked out Kristen's Custom Creations on Etsy? I hadn't until yesterday, and let me tell you, her stuff is stunning and will make fabulous gifts for some of the people on my holiday gift list! Kristen makes some of the most unique and beautiful hand-stamped jewelry and her prices are extremely reasonable. Better yet, she's extremely giving and donates a portion of her proceeds to a different charity each month!

December's charity is Toys for Tots. The primary goal of Toys for Tots is to deliver, through a shiny new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to needy youngsters that will motivate them to grow into responsible, productive, patriotic citizens and community leaders.

Kristen has a new necklace, and it's perfect for the holiday season! Stamped with "Wish" with a sterling star charm, this item is sure to be a hit! This necklace is being offered on Kristen's Etsy site for $39.90, with $5.00 from each being donated to Toys for Tots. Lets all make an effort in one way or another to help make Christmas special for a child in need. Purchasing this item from Kristen is just one way to do this!

Would you like to WIN one of these gorgeous necklaces? I know I would! Head over to Cheaper Than Therapy for your chance to enter her drawing. You'd better hurry, the contest ends on 11/19/08!

Blog Party Day #2!

2008-11-13T09:25:00.005-05:00

Today is day #2 of the blog party over at Mom Dot. If you haven't checked it out yet, head over there. There are lots of prizes to be given away and lots of fun people to party with!

Today's sponsors are: LaPlates, Lets Go Strolling and Natity's Design

Today's Question is:

Traditions, what are some of your favorite family traditions? What are some that you want to begin?

Wow, that's a great question and something that I've been thinking about a lot lately! When I was young, my mom (single mom) always bought a real tree and my sister and I would help string popcorn and cranberries, decorate cookies, and buy Sanders chocolates all to hang on the tree. At the time, I have to admit that I wasn't too thrilled about taking a giant bowl of cranberries and popcorn and stringing them onto some thread. I used to poke myself with the needle all of the time! Grrr.. but now that I think about it, those are some really great memories! My boys are still small and our family is not complete (at least I don't think so!) and I'm trying to think of traditions to create that my whole family can participate in and enjoy, creating memories in the process.

So, I will be stopping by a lot of blogs today to see what everyone's traditions are so that I can get some ideas of what other children really enjoy doing! I'd love to hear some comments as well of things that I can do now, while my boys are still very little.

Blog Party!

2008-11-12T21:13:00.005-05:00

Today is day one of the blog party over at MomDot! All my friends know that I love a good party, so I had to join in on this one! The sponsors today are LaBelle Toile and This and That by Randi.

Today's Question:

Introduce us to your family and show us Holiday pics of years past.

This is me and my boys on Christmas Day 2006. Can you tell we were all exhausted? Keegan's there, but still baking in my belly at the time.

Here is Brendan on his first Christmas Eve

Here is Keegan with Santa last year. I have a feeling the visit with Santa won't go as well this year...

This is Brendan last year. He wouldn't go near Santa. I have a feeling he won't be into it this year either. I guess I can't blame him!

Giveaway!

2008-11-10T19:45:00.000-05:00

Who doesn't want and strive to have flawless, beautiful skin? With Mary Kay's Timewise products, perfect skin is easy to achieve! I am a faithful user of MK's TimeWise Miracle Set. The Miracle Set includes 4 products that will keep your skin healthy and feeling silky smooth.

TimeWise 3-in-1 Cleanser. This product combines three essential functions all in one step - cleanse, exfoliate, and refresh. The beads in the cleanser will gently exfoliate your skin to leave it healthier and younger-looking.

TimeWise Age Fighting Moisturizer - Hydrates your skin for up to 10 hours leaving your skin firmer, smoother and with fewer lines and wrinkles.

TimeWise Day Solution Sunscreen SPF 25 - Think of this as a veil of defense. This product helps prevent fine lines and discoloration by blocking damaging UVA/UVB rays.

TimeWise Night Solution - Packed with vitamins and antioxidants combined with collagen-enhancing peptides, the microcapsules in this solution burst as they are dispensed to fight away deep lines and wrinkles.

Would you like to win your own Miracle Set? The winner will be able to choose which formula will work best for their skin type, Normal to Dry or Combination to Oily.

To enter, leave me a comment telling me what your normal skin care routine is at the moment.

For extra entries (leave a seperate comment for each entry):

1. Grab my button and place it on your sidebar

2. Blog about this giveaway and link back to me!

3. Follow my blog

This contest will end on November 30, 2008.

Stay tuned for my first giveaway!

2008-11-07T12:19:00.002-05:00

There are so many giveaways everywhere I go! It's truely overwhelming in a VERY good way!

Stay tuned here for a giveaway that you mommies will love. Some products to pamper yourself with will be given away soon!

More Bloggy Love!

2008-11-06T22:12:00.002-05:00

My second award! I'm so humbled and honored. Thanks to Just Another Stay at Home Mom for this lovely award. I think your blog is really cool too!

Here's the dealio:

1. Slap this baby up on your blog. Don’t be shy.

2. Link to the giver

3. Nominate up to seven other fab blogs.

4. Post links to those super fly blogs your nominating.

5. Leave messages for your recipients on their blogs…so they can feel as special as you do!

So here are the super-cool blogs I pass this award to!

1. Mommy Goggles

2. Following in My Shoes

3. Tip Junkie

4. Mommy Chronicles

5. Keeper of the Cheerios

6. Thoughts from the Mrs.

7. The Neurotic Mom

Peeka Stories Giveaway!

2008-11-06T12:05:00.004-05:00

I had never heard of Peeka Stories until I had gone to Mommy's Idea and read about them. Since my sons are book lovers, I was immediately interested in learning more about these books.

Peeka Stories are personalized stories that feature a child that looks just like him/her. As you flip through the pages, you'll see beautiful illustrations and read about your child in fun scenerios. You'll see your child's eyes light up as their imaginations go wild!

Each book even includes a personal dedication page for you to leave a special message to the recipient.

From the Peeka Stories website:

Why buy Peeka?

Peeka Like Me(SM) personalized children's books are entertaining and educational gifts for babies and young children. The personalized name and custom character help make the children feel connected to reading at a whole new level. This early learning collection encourages children to learn basic concepts and words in a fun and interesting way. There is no risk, so buy today. (Money Back Guarantee)

What's your favorite store?

2008-11-06T09:01:00.002-05:00

Ok Ladies, I know that most of you LOVE to shop! I certainly do! There is one store in particular that I am unable to walk out of without spending about $100 each time I'm there. It's a sickness, and I know there are others that have it. So here goes...

Hi, my name is Jesica, and I'm a Target-aholic. Whew! It feels good to get that off my chest. Is there some sort of support group for all of us Target shoppers? I mean, seriously. I can go into Target for a tube of toothpaste and walk out with a DVD, some clothes for the boys that I found on their wonderful clearance rack, some cleaning supplies, shampoo & conditioner, toilet paper, milk, cereal and a new candle and completely forget the toothpaste. Why? Because I'm so overwhelmed when I walk into the store that I want one of everything they have! I don't know what it is... I think they're drugging us somehow through the ventilation system.

What is the point of this post? The point is that Mommy Goggles is giving away a $25 gift card to Target! OMG, I must WIN this! Why she doesn't want to use it herself is beyond me, I certainly wouldn't have the self control, but her generosity is overwhelming! Even if you don't want to win this gift (and if you don't I think you're nuts!), stop by and congratulate Mommy Goggles on her 1000th post!

Feelin' the Love!!

2008-11-04T21:51:00.002-05:00

Recently I received this wonderful award from Go Graham Go. Apparantly, she loves my blog as much as I love hers! Thank you sooo much!

Now, here are 7 blogs that I love (In no particular order)

1. Blog? What Blog?

2. Did I Just Say That?

3. Tiptoeing Through the Tulips

4. So A Blonde Walks Into A Review

5. Cheaper Than Therapy

6. The Not So Blog

7. My Insanity

Now post it on your blog with a link back to me and pass it along to 7 others!

Spaghetti Night

2008-11-01T13:47:00.002-04:00

Spaghetti nights are always messy. I captured some of the messyness the other night and thought the pictures were too cute not to share!

My Own Domain!

2008-11-01T12:52:00.002-04:00

I am now the proud owner of my own personal domain. As of today, my blog lives at http.//www.mycompletechaos.com. Yay!

Ciao Baby!

2008-11-01T12:36:00.004-04:00

I'm actually in the market at the momet for a smaller, more compact digital camera. I don't want to give up quality photos though so I rely on a good, reputable brand and reviews from my peers to make sure that I get the most value for my money. There is a wonderful website that will help with my research for products from small kitchen appliences, to video games, to cell phones and everywhere in between. Ciao is a site where you can research any product that you are interested in purchasing and get price comparisons and reviews from people that have actually used the product. They have taken all of the work out of it! Anyone can join Ciao and help out by reviewing your favorite (and not so favorite) items as well. As an added reward, you will receive $1.00 for each qualifying review.

Better yet! Ciao is giving away a Sony Cybershot Camera, and you can enter to win this camera at Mommy's Idea from now until November 20th. Good luck!

Soothie Pacifiers

2008-10-31T13:43:00.004-04:00

As you may have read, my son has recently given up his pacifiers (binkies). Since he is a "big boy" now, he no longer needs them, although mommy is still convincing him of that fact. It turns out that no "prize" will ever take the place of his binkie at bedtime... I digress. I wanted to tell you about the particular pacifiers that we used because they were such an important item in our house for so long!

Soothie Pacifiers, by The First Years, was the only pacifier that Brendan would take. We tried several other brands, shapes and sizes, but the Soothies were all that he liked. The shape of the nipple seemed much more natural to me even and the feel of the soft silicone against your mouth would be so much more comfortable than some of the others with their hard plastic exteriors.

Soothies are made with hospital grade silicone, not latex, so you'll never have to worry about your baby having a reaction to the material. They are also shaped and sized especially for baby's developing mouth.

After a few months of holding my son's pacifier in his mouth becuase he just couldn't get the proper suction to hold it in himself, I was told about the Wubbanub. I know you're thinking, the Wubba what? At least that's what I was thinking when it was recommended to me! When I googled it, I found this and instantly ordered one! The extra weight of this helped us at night time and the added "bulk" of the frog gave my baby something to hold onto when he was new to the whole grasping thing and wasn't able to hold the small pacifier himself. It was a perfect fit for me and my binky dependant son!

It's been almost three years now, and we're finally binky free in the house. We both miss them, sometimes I think I miss them more than my son does... oh the peace! but he's my "big boy" and I couldn't be more proud of him!

A Thousand Words Thursday!

2008-10-31T08:55:00.002-04:00

Peek a boo! Wanna play with me in my fort?

Thursday Thirteen

2008-10-30T20:50:00.000-04:00

Thirteen types of candy that I might find in my sons trick or treat bag tomorrow:

1. Tootsie Rolls
2. Snickers
3. 3 Muskateers
4. Reese's
5. M & M's
6. Bubble Gum
7. Dots
8. Smarties
9. Twix
10. Mounds
11. Almond Joy
12. Candy Corn
13. Laffy Taffy

Pumpkin Carving

2008-10-29T12:54:00.000-04:00

Today we went to our friend's house to carve pumpkins! The boys all had a great time cleaning the seeds out of the middle... but that is about all they had the patience for. Lisa and I did all of the actual carving. Here are some pictures of our pumpkins!

Wordless Wednesday! Like my punkin?

2008-10-29T09:01:00.000-04:00

Gotta love Giveaways!

2008-10-28T14:09:00.002-04:00

If you love giveaways like I do, then check this out!

Our trip to the Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-28T13:01:00.000-04:00

Tonight we went to our local pumpkin patch to pick out the perfect pumpkins! The boys had a riot running around looking at all of the different sized and shaped pumpkins. Keegan was getting into EVERYTHING... as usual! LOL! All in all, we had a really good time and can't wait to carve them tomorrow night! Here are some pictures:

Bye Bye Binky...

2008-10-27T20:26:00.003-04:00

My older son Brendan has been dependant on his binky since day 1. He had reflux issues as an infant and the binky helped soothe his tummy aches. Now, at almost 3 years old, he is still waking almost every night looking for his binky and waking the whole household in the process. I've been talking to him for a little while about how it's time for him to start thinking about packaging up his binkys and letting the mailman take them to the babies. I told him that if he was brave enough to do that, that I would take him shopping and let him pick out a prize. Yesterday he decided that he was ready and he knew exactly what prize he wanted too. I really think he had thought this through! (Well... almost) So, we get all of the binkys together and put them in the mailbox. Luckily, we have a special mailman that does pick-ups and deliveries on Sundays (wink wink)! Shortly after that, it was nap time. That didn't happen... he just laid in bed. After nap time, we had a birthday party to go to. After the party, we went shopping for his prize at our favorite store, Target! He picked out a set of flashlights and a new soccer ball. We came home and played with the new toys and everything was great! ..... until bedtime.

My poor baby just couldn't do it. He couldn't even lay down. He sat down on the edge of his bed and just cried. He was exhausted, but just couldn't lay down. Every other second, he was calling for me and in between those calls he was crying for binky. It was so sad. I've never felt more sorry for anyone. Finally, I told him to come lay on the couch with me and he was out like a light in less than a minute. I picked him up and carried him to his bed on my way to bed and about an hour later he was up crying again. Poor baby. He slept the rest of the night in my bed while I tossed and turned trying to get comfortable with a toddler wedged between me and my husband.

Tonight is the second night without binky and it's been 20 minutes, a cup of juice, and two M&M's since Brendan was put to bed. I've gone in to cover him twice (per his request) and I've answered about 16 calls of "Mama?". It has to get easier... for both of us. I hate to see him in so much pain over this and I'm just exhausted!

What are your children's favorite books?

2008-10-24T20:13:00.004-04:00

Do your children have a favorite book(s)? My older son, Brendan, LOVES books. He loves all kinds of books really and we have several. We have so many actually that I need to go shopping for a new bookshelf. Anyway, I thought I would share a few of our favorites!

1. If You Give A Mouse A Cookie - This is a cute story about an energetic and demanding little mouse that is sure to make your child (and you) giggle! If you enjoy that story by Laura Joffe Numeroff, check out her other silly stories like "If You Give A Pig A Pancake" or "If You Give A Moose A Muffin". We read these stories over and over in our house.

2. Goodnight Moon - Both of my sons love this bedtime story. We read this one almost every night and say goodnight to everything before bed. " Goodnight moon, goodnight room, goodnight cow jumping over the moon... "

3. Love You Forever - This book was given to me by a dear friend of mine while I was pregnant with Brendan. I read it and teared up. It is the most beautiful book about a mother's unconditional love for her son. " A mother held her new baby and very slowly rocked him back and forth, back and forth, back and forth. And while she held him she sang: I'll love you forever, I'll like you for always, As long as I'm living, My baby you'll be. "

We're always in the market for a new great book to add to our collection. I would love to know what some of your favorites are. Please comment!

Thursday Thirteen

2008-10-23T14:02:00.002-04:00

Thirteen Things that need to be done or bought to complete my home renovations:

1. New carpet
2. Paint the living room
3. Hang pictures
4. Backsplash in kitchen
5. New tile in kitchen
6. New tile in bathroom
7. New vanity for bathroom
8. New tub for bathroom
9. Repair the walls in the bathroom (can you tell the bathroom needs some work?)
10. Paint the master bedroom
11. Paint the hallway
12. New deck on the back
13. New mailbox

Wordless Wednesday! - I want to ride the pony too!

2008-10-22T08:30:00.001-04:00

Another Great Giveaway - Pearl Girl Tags

2008-10-21T21:44:00.003-04:00

Lets admit, most women love certain nice things. Amongst these things are jewelry, pearls, and imspiring words and phrases. If you are one of these women, you have to check out http://www.pearlgirltags.com/. I have my eye on a few of the items there (hint hint to hubby... my birthday is Friday! LOL!). These pieces are handmade, personalized, and beautiful!

http://www.momdot.com/ is hosting a giveaway for the new Circle of Motherhood necklace. This prize is valued at $120.00! Check out her website for official entry rules.

His first pony ride!

2008-10-21T21:15:00.002-04:00

Look at my big boy! We went to Yates Cider Mill this past weekend. Brendan say the ponies and right away wanted to go for a ride. We got in line and he watched and waited patiently and when it was his turn, he knew exactly which pony he wanted to ride.

I lifted him up and set him on the saddle. Then I heard it.. what every mom dreads hearing. "Mom, don't hold onto me!". It took everything I had not to keep my hand right there around his waist. I was so afraid that he would fall and hurt himself. But, he was determined to ride this pony all by himself, and so I let him. Ok... I held onto a tiny piece of his sweatshirt in the back. Don't tell him! LOL!

Has anyone started Christmas shopping?

2008-10-21T15:36:00.002-04:00

I have started looking at different items that I think my boys will like for Christmas already. I suppose it's not that early, but for me shopping before December will be a BIG improvement to my normal last minute panic! For mom's of boys, have you checked out GeoTrax trains or GeoTrax Air toys? This looks like a perfect gift for my oldest son who is really into trains and tracks and putting things together. I love that there are so many different add-on pieces so that this set can grow and grow. It really seems like something my sons will play with for years to come! Here are some of the items I plan to purchase. I would love to hear from anyone who has this product!

Potty training friend!

2008-10-20T12:03:00.003-04:00

Since my oldest son is potty training (pretty much trained now) I don't leave home without this lifesaver!

The First Years Soft Potty Seat with Handles is really a great seat for him. It stays put when placed on any toilet seat and the handles provide him with some extra stability when climbing up and sitting down. Brendan is so proud of his new accomplishment and I am extremely proud of him! We take this potty seat everywhere we go. It fits right into my diaper bag and onto any public toilet. Another plus to traveling with this is knowing that my son will never have to sit on a dirty potty seat. I HIGHLY recommend this product!

Another great giveaway! See Kai Run

2008-10-20T11:33:00.004-04:00

Tanya at http://www.mommygoggles.com/ has started another great giveaway! For all you mommies out there who love cute shoes, you have to check this out. See Kai Run offers some really great and unique styles and their shoes look really comfortable! I'm getting ready to order my first pair for my son Keegan.

A little bit about See Kai Run, from their website www.seekairun.com

"See Kai Run was inspired by the need for comfortable shoes with flexible soles for my little Kai to wear outdoors. I wanted to create a line of shoes that was as happening as Kai - bold, hip, fun, with an urban sensibility. Something entirely different than what was offered."

If you would like to try to win a pair of these fabulous shoes, head over to Tanya's blog and complete the requirements that she has listed.

Or you can just go straight to www.seekairun.com and order a pair if you don't want to wait!

I'd love to hear from people that have had experience with this product as well.

A Thousand Words Thursday!

2008-10-16T09:31:00.002-04:00

This is me and my best friend Lisa. I can't even begin to tell you how much this girl means to me! She is always there to support me and offer help when needed. I couldn't imagine not having her in my life. Thanks Lisa for being there for me!

Wordless Wednesday!

2008-10-15T10:44:00.003-04:00

Our photographer is "My Photographer"

2008-10-14T22:22:00.004-04:00

Let me tell you about my favorite local photographers. My Photographer has been my photographer for almost three years now. Ever since I took my son Brendan there for his first pictures at 3 months old, I have been a return customer. My heart just melted at the sight of those first pictures. They were truely better than I could have ever imagined them to ever turn out.

A couple of weeks ago, My Photographer called to tell me that they were offering their favorite customers a free sitting at a local park. Well, who can pass that up? So, I scheduled my two boys along with my 8 month old nephew and off to the store I went with my sister-in-law to buy the three boys new clothes for their photo-shoot! The day came around for their pictures in the park and we couldn't have asked for a more beautiful day! The sun was shining and it was about 72 degrees, and even better, the leaves were changing color which meant for some really great natural backdrops.

Today, I finally got to view and order the pictures. My Photographer never lets me down! The pictures turned out stunning! If there is a location in your area, you should definitely try them out! http://www.myphotographer.net/

Pediped Giveaway!

2008-10-14T22:06:00.002-04:00

I just entered another great giveaway! Thrifty & Chic Mom (www.thriftyandchicmom.com) is giving away 2 pairs of Pediped shoes, one from the Original line and one from the Flex line. There isn't much time left to enter though, you only have until midnight! Hurry over there and get your entry in for this great giveaway!

Pediped shoes were designed to be the "next best thing to bare feet". Pediatricians recommend that children learn to walk in their bare feet or in shoes with soft flexible soles. We know that our kids love to go bare footed, but sometimes that is just not appropriate! So, when your child is just learning to walk and still devoloping, pedipeds are GREAT!

Check out www.pediped.com to see all of the great styles that they have to offer!

Peace Love Mom Giveaway!

2008-10-14T21:43:00.007-04:00

Rachel over at http://www.followinginmyshoes.blogspot.com/ is hosting an awesome giveaway!

From the Peace Love Mom Website:

THE LANGUAGE OF PEACELOVEMOM

We believe in motherhood.

Mothers have a unique style.

We believe that motherhood does not define us, but that we define it.

Mothers are heart and soul.

We believe that motherhood is life’s most precious work.

Mothers are rewarded with the love and respect of their children.

We believe in celebrating this meaningful and challenging job.

Mothers are lucky 24/7.

We believe in our children’s future.

Mothers are passionate about that future.

We believe that our world’s future is our children.

Mothers are insightful and wise.

We believe in the bond of motherhood.

Motherhood is uniting.

We believe in communicating that bond through messages of love and happiness.

Mothers are tried and true.

We believe that motherhood is empowering.

Motherhood is inspiring.

We believe in a true collaboration and celebration of motherhood.

Mothers are proud to be mom.

Welcome to the Celebration!

Check out this clothing line at http://www.peacelovemom.com/ and you will see that these moms know what women like. From comfort to style, they've definitely hit the mark! If you would like to win one of their items, you need to head over to Rachels blog and enter! Rachel has also posted a great discount codes for free shipping in case you don't want to wait for the contest to be over and are ready to just order your favorite item today!

My favorite tee is the Black Peace Heart Mom long sleeved tee. What's yours? Good luck!

Menu Planning Monday

2008-10-13T21:24:00.001-04:00

So, I decided to start planning menus for the week, thus making my grocery shopping trips and evenings much easier. I've tried this before, but haven't stuck with it. So, wish me luck! Here is what I have planned this week:

Monday: Out to dinner - then to the grocery store!
Tuesday: Meatloaf & Mashed Potatoes
Wednesday: Roast Beef & veggies (made in the crock pot)
Thursday: leftovers
Friday: Lasagna & Garden salad
Saturday: leftovers
Sunday: Cheeseburgers & baked potato fries

I'm always getting bored with the same meals over and over again. I've started asking friends for some suggestions and have been looking online for others. One of my favorite websites for recipes is www.kraftfoods.com. They have some great and simple recipes that use items that are already in my cupboards. Whenever I am at a loss, this website will always have something quick and easy that I can put together after I get home from work.

I would love to hear some suggestions from my readers! Please post comments with your favorite "staple" recipe.

Congratulations to Hippos Toes!

2008-10-09T15:26:00.006-04:00

Today is the launch of a brand new childrens wear line called Hippos Toes! Carole has designed some really cute items! Check out her website at http://www.hippostoes.com/.

If you like Carole's stuff you need to head on over to http://www.thenotsoblog.blogspot.com/ for your chance to win a $25 gift certificate to Hippos Toes! I entered to win today! This is giveaway #9 in Bridgette's Spook-tacular Sweepstakes!

Thursday Thirteen

2008-10-09T15:06:00.003-04:00

This is my first Thursday Thirteen.. :o)

Thirteen things I love about being a mom:

1. Hearing them tell me "I love you"

2. Hugs

3. Kisses

4. The smell of a clean baby after a bath

5. The feel of their baby-soft skin

6. The fact that my kisses can heal all wounds

7. Watching their amazement as they experience new and exciting things!

8. Snuggle time :o)

9. Singing and dancing together

10. Teaching them new things

11. Being able to act silly with them!

12. Hearing them say the funniest things

13. Hearing them tell me "I love you" (You can never hear it too many times)

I will never get over how blessed I am to have two beautiful baby boys! I love being a mom more than anything in the world. Although, the job is thankless at times, it is the most rewarding position I have ever held!

thursday thirteen

Rock and.. Rattle?

2008-10-08T13:34:00.004-04:00

Aren't you tired of the same old baby clothing available? I mean, our little one's look adorable in pastels and sweet things, but sometimes you just want them to wear something a little edgier. In that case, you HAVE to check out www.rockandrattle.com! They have some really fun and unique shirts for your kids.

If you like their stuff, check out Tanya's blog http://www.mommygoggles.com/ for your chance to win a tee! I entered her contest because I think Keegan would look so adorable in the Argyle Boy tee! Check out her little girl while you're at her site entering, she looks really cute in hers!

Spooktacular Giveaways!

2008-10-08T12:41:00.004-04:00

Check out Bridgette's blog http://www.thenotsoblog.blogspot.com/! She is hosting a Halloween Giveaway event called the Spooktacular Sweepstakes!

I just entered to win an ADORABLE onesie for my son in her Giveaway #7 from Appledonia.

Visit Bridgette's site for your chance to win and stay tuned for more great giveaways!

Wordless Wednesday!

2008-10-08T12:27:00.002-04:00

Love at first sight!

what to do, poopsy woo?: Come Little Leaves#comments#comments

2008-10-07T12:22:00.000-04:00

what to do, poopsy woo?: Come Little Leaves#comments#comments

Check out this fall song! This is a great one to learn and sing with your little ones :o) Thanks Sarah!

Lets talk about it Tuesday!

2008-10-07T11:42:00.004-04:00

Lets talk Halloween costumes! What will you be dressing up as this year? What will your kids be dressing up as this year? I wanna see pics!

My oldest son, Brendan has chosen this for his costume this year. We purchased it at Target. It's a great quality costume, so I'm sure between him, his little brother and his little cousins, we'll get lots of use out of it! I can't wait to get pictures of him in it!

Post about your Halloween costumes on your blog and link your post by adding the URL to the post below.

Mom-preneur Shop-A-Thon

2008-10-07T09:23:00.003-04:00

Ok mom's, you all know how much you love to support other mom's so here is a GREAT opportunity for you! Laurie over at http://www.tipjunkie.blogspot.com/ has a listing of some really wonderful sites owned by mommies all over for you to browse. Why not get all of your holiday shopping done from the comfort of your own home and support other moms as well?!

Bloggers, while you are at it, add Laurie's button to your sidebar. Your help in her efforts would be greatly appreciated!

Now, get shopping!

Oh, one more thing! If you'd like to get your site listed stop by Laurie's blog. The cost is only $5.00!

Do-N-Slide!

2008-10-06T12:30:00.002-04:00

Check out this product! If you have a young child who is learning how to do chores, this item is a must have! Best of all, it's made by a fellow mom, so by buying this item you would be helping out a fellow Mom-Entreprenour! This is a win-win.

Check out http://www.do-n-slide.com/ for more information about the product, then head on over to http://www.mommysidea.com/ for a chance to win it! I definitely put in some entries for this item. Whith two toddlers in my house (and hopefully one day more!) this will be an invaluable learning tool.

Moms helping Moms!

2008-10-05T20:26:00.002-04:00

What a great team they have over at 5 Minutes for Mom! Janice and Susan have created a site where mom bloggers can go and list their blogs in a free directory and feature their giveaways and products! This will be a daily stop for me!

Don't you just love the smell?

2008-10-05T12:05:00.002-04:00

Of a nice clean baby? I know I do! And for my boys, I use Aveeno's baby bath products. Keegan has eczema, and Aveeno is gentle on his skin and keeps it moist and free of flares or rashes. Their calming lavender lotion and baby bath smells beautiful and relaxes the boys before their bedtime. They sleep so well afterward! There's nothing like clean, soft, and smooth baby skin. Why would you want to use anything but the best for your baby?

Bumkins!

2008-10-03T22:50:00.003-04:00

Tanya over at Mommy Goggles has a contest going on that is great! It is to win an art smock by Bumkins. Check out http://www.mommygoggles.com/ to check out the pictures of her sweet son in his art smock! He looks so comfortable and happy wearing it. No sloppy sleeves from daddy's big t-shirt! Check out http://www.bumkins.com/ to see some of their other great products as well. Their waterproof bibs look like they'll stand up to the test that your little one will give out.

Can't live without Huggies Diapers and Wipes!

2008-10-03T14:01:00.002-04:00

With two boys running around here, reliable diapers are important! I've tried all of the brands, and the best performance and value for us has been Huggies!

For Keegan we use the Huggies Snug & Dry during the day and Huggies Overnights at night for extra protection.

For Brendan we use the Huggies brand Pull-Ups at night time.

And when we're swimming, we use the Huggie's Little Swimmers!

I really depend on the Huggies brand and it hasn't let me down.

Can't live without my Sit 'n Stand Elite Double Stroller!

2008-10-03T13:11:00.002-04:00

Well, since we are always on the go, when the 2nd baby came we needed to get a new set of wheels! I went straight to One Step Ahead (online) to see what they had for us. They had the perfect option with a double stroller that would grow with us. We purchased the Sit 'n Stand Elite Double Stroller and love it! At first, we used the two seats, with the attachment for the infant seat. Now that the boys are older, Brendan loves to stand in the back and Keegan rides up front, just as content as can be. The stroller converted effortlessly and it just as easily folds and unfolds so I just throw it in the back of my SUV and go!

Can't live without - our Evenflo Car Seats!

2008-10-03T12:57:00.005-04:00

When it comes to car seats for my children, safety comes first! It took me a long time to choose which car seats to purchase for them, because I wanted to make sure that they were comfortable and above that I wanted to make sure that I could make the necessary adjustments to ensure that they were SAFE in case the worst happens.

I purchased the Evenflo Triumph for Keegan, which can be used either rear or forward facing and holds up to 40 lbs. I LOVE this seat and so does he! The twist knobs on the side adjust the straps easily so that no matter how much (or little) clothing he is wearing, the straps will be perfectly snug with just a few turns. He also sits up high enough to see out of the window and the base sits firmly and flat on the seat, even when it's rear facing so there is no need to worry about whether or not it is level. No towels or swim noodles needed to prop the seat up into the correct position!

For Brendan, my big boy, we purchased the Evenflo Generations Booster. This is another great and comfortable seat! He feels so grown up in it! This seat holds children from 20-100 lbs. and has a 5 point harness that is removeable for when they are old enough to use the regular auto seatbelts.

Thanks Evenflo for keeping us safe, comfortable and happy!!

Can't live without - my Hotsling!

2008-10-03T12:22:00.003-04:00

I thought I would start out by posting about some of my very favorite items. You know that we all have those certain things that we all just can't live without? As a mother, a successful working woman, a wife, a homeowner etc. I have several items that get me through my days.

The first item I would like to share is my Hotsling! I bought this item, upon recommendation from some other mommies just after my second son was born. Being a person that is always on the go and having an infant and a toddler to keep track of, this item was a LIFESAVER! 15 months later, I still never leave home without it. My Hotsling is so versatile. It can cradle a newborn right in front of you, or it will hold your toddler (up to 35 lbs!) on your hip all the while leaving your hands free to do other things! Also, they come in so many great styles that you are excited to wear it and show it off. I have gotten so many compliments on mine, everyone wants to know where I got it!

http://www.hotslings.com/

Introduction to me and my family

2008-09-15T10:17:00.000-04:00

I am Jesica, wife to Angelo and mother of two very wonderful and energetic little boys. Brendan will be 3 years old in January. He lights up my life in every way imaginable. He has a wonderful spark and such a kind heart. Keegan is 15 months and my quiet child. Don't be fooled though, he's always getting into something. I'm always finding little surprises everywhere, whether it be some q-tips in the toilet (or a shoe) or the remote in the refrigerator (or the phone). He's a blessing to our family and will win you over with his sly smile and a great big kiss! I will be 29 years old this month and work full time for an insurance company as their assistant accounts receivable manager. My husband Angelo works for the same insurance company full time as their maintenance manager and also does handyman and landscaping services on the side. We're a busy family with lots of energy. We're always on the go and looking for something fun and exciting to do!

The following pictures are from our recent visit to Blake's Apple Orchard and Cider Mill in Almont, MI. This is the best place to take the kids in the fall. They have a hayride to a pumpkin patch, a train ride to view the orchards, a large play area and petting farm, the cider mill with lots of yummy treats and more! We go every year and it's a tradition to get the boys pictures taken with the big apple yard stick to see how much they've grown each year! Visit http://www.blakefarms.com/ for more information.

A day at the splash park!

2008-07-20T21:51:00.000-04:00

Today we went to the splash park nearby with some friends and had a bbq there. The boys had so much fun playing at the park and running through the water. Here are some pics!

Happy 1st Birthday Keegan Michael!

2008-06-19T21:38:00.000-04:00

Today is my baby's first birthday. I can't believe how fast the time went by. Keegan is such a blessing to our family. His smiles warm my heart, and he has taught me things about life and love and motherhood that I would have never known.

-- My dearest Keegan, you have filled my life with so much love and happiness. Happy Birthday sweet angel. I love you so much!