Check out these giveaways....Aug 30-Sept 5

Mission Mommy-win a gift basket full of Avery Dennison school and office supplies, including: Hi-Liters, labels, GlueStics, binders, dividers, sheet protectors, Marks-a-Lot permanent markers, and t-shirt transfers. (Retail value of supplies is over $50.)9/15


The Suburban Jungle-Win a $25 Sams Club giftcard and free 1 day membership 9/14

Three (3) lucky Beauty by Jinxy readers will each win their own set of REVLON® Fantasy Lengths™ Maximum Wear eyelashes 9/15

My Red Apron-Win $10 Target GC

Kiddies Corner Deals- Sweetly You Pomegranate Lotion Combination Gift Set! 9/16

My Four Monkeys-Dr. DooRiddles from The Critical Thinking Company (ends 9/9)


Frugality in the Making-Big Bday giveaway coupon binder

Saavy Housewife-National Geographic Kids Almanac Giveaway



Mom Central Week 1: September 1-13

Win a set of Mommy and Me necklaces (Open to US)
Win a Lunchbox Simplicity Sampler from Revolution Foods (Open to US)
Win a set of Toddler Snacks from Plum Organics (Open to US)
Win Plum Organics Baby Food (Open to US)
Win a Jeep 2-in-1 Booster Seat (Open to US and Canada)
Win an All-in-One Printer from Lexmark (Open to US and Canada)
Win a $75 Gift Card to The Children's Place (Open to US and Canada)
Win a Baby G Watch from Casio (Open to US and Canada)
Win Muddy Pigs Bath Toys from Munchkin (Open to US)
Win Fruitabu Organic Fruit Snacks (Open to US)
Win Green Works Glass Cleaner (Open to US)
Win Green Works Laundry Detergent and Stain Remover (Open to US)
Win $1000 for You and $1000 for Your Favorite Charity with the Dole Bowl-a-Day Giveaway



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Shopaholic Mommy Birthday Bash-The giveaways include shoes, clothes, watches, an Amazon gift card and more!


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Eau Flirt Review and Giveaway***CLOSED***

The only perfume clinically proven to make men flirt with women. Eau Flirt is allergy tested, but never tested on animals, and contains no artificial colorings. Eau Flirt can be purchased online at www.harveyprince.com, www.fragrancex.com and specialty stores/high end perfumeries nationwide. U.S. prices are as follows: Eau de toilette spray, 3.4 oz. $98, 1.7 oz $66, and 1 oz. purse size $36. Mini roll-ons – perfect for touch ups – are $19.

Ok now where my single ladies at? I have been a single mother for 10 years now. Where was this perfume when i needed it in my single days, it could have helped me. Well, I'm not single anymore but I can tell you this scent will get you noticed. You will have people talking and asking, What are you wearing? Going out to hit the clubs, or is it date night with your hubby, well spice up the night with Eau Flirt. Don't leave home with a spray or two and remember we are not responsible for the attention you get. Remember to use responsibly. Eau Flirt may be seductive!

Want to win a bottle of Eau Flirt, a value of $98? Thanks to Light Years Ahead and www.harveyprince.com, for providing me with a bottle of Eau Flirt. Here is how you can win your own bottle:

Mandatory-
1) Follow Harvey Prince on twitter, please leave twitter name. (1 entry)
2) Become a fan on facebook of Ageless Fantasy. (1 entry)

Bonus entries:
3) Tweet this giveaway, please include #ageless, come back and leave link with twitter name. (1 daily entry)
4) Follow my blog on blogger (1 entry)

Giveaway ends September 8, 2009 at 7 am. Leave a comment with a valid email address for each entry. Winner will be chosen by random using random.org. I was given the opportunity to review this product because of my membership at The Product Review Place. Good luck

Ageless Anti-Age Perfume Review and Giveaway ***CLOSED***

Ageless is the only perfume clinically proven to make women smell 8 – 12 year younger to men.

Thanks to Light Years Ahead and Harvey Princefor providing me with a sample bottle of Ageless. I like Ageless. It is so soft smelling. Not overpowering. It is a scent to get you noticed but it is subtle. I hate when people come into a room and they are so overpowered by the scent they are wearing or by the scent they leave behind. I sprayed in the morning and in the evening I still smelled good. It is great to wear to the office, out on the town, or just cause.

Want to win a bottle of Ageless valued at $98? Here is how you can win:

Mandatory-
1) Follow Harvey Prince on twitter, please leave twitter name. (1 entry)
2) Become a fan on facebook of Ageless Fantasy. (1 entry)

Bonus entries:
3) Tweet this giveaway, please include #ageless, come back and leave link with twitter name. (1 daily entry)
4) Follow my blog on blogger (1 entry)

Giveaway ends September 8, 2009 at 7 am. Leave a comment with a valid email address for each entry. Winner will be chosen by random using random.org. I was given the opportunity to review this product because of my membership at The Product Review Place. Good luck.

Solavie® Eco-Global Skin/Hair Care System Review and Giveaway ***CLOSED***

Have you ever heard that aloe vera is good for many things? Well there are many things that are natural that can be great for us to use but do we? No, we choose to buy products with words we cannot pronounce and chemicals that are not only harmful to us but to our enviroment. Let me introduce you to Solavie Desert Enviro-type products.
Face Wash: highly concentrated, pH-balanced cleansing gel with all-natural, multi-fruit AHA’s. Lifts impurities from deep in the pores and follicles, leaving skin balanced, clean and toned without feeling dry. Can also be used as a shaving gel or luxurious shampoo. $24
Face Nourish: Loaded with minerals, trace elements, phyto-nutrients and anti-oxidants, this rich cream soothes redness, super-hydrates, and plumps skin. PH-balanced and perfect for even the most sensitive skin. Can also be used as a soothing after-shave. $38
Body Nourish: A lighter, less concentrated version of Face Nourish, this nutrient-packed lotion penetrates the skin quickly and leaves it soft, smooth and residue-free. Can also be used on the face for those who prefer a lighter lotion, or for babies and children. $18
Hair & Body Wash: A gentle yet effective pH-balanced shampoo that is safe for color and chemically treated hair. A hair and body cleanser in one that can also be used (sparingly – one tablespoon is enough) as an indulgent bubble bath. Leaves hair soft, silky and shiny, and skin clean and refreshed. $10
Hair Nourish & Style: A super-concentrated, thick, rich gel conditioner that detangles, softens, and adds natural shine. Can be used as a rinse-out or leave-in conditioner, or in styling dry hair, for extra firm hold or for a slicked back, sleek wet look. $16

Each of the five products is packaged in a completely recyclable 3.4 oz. bottle that snaps together in a sturdy “yin-yang” configuration. This not only saves space, but eliminates the need for outer packaging, thus conserving the earth’s forests. Solavie Eco-Global Skin/Hair Care System strives to be the most socially responsible, innovative personal care company serving the global marketplace. Nearly 100% of Solavie profits are invested in Solavie Second Nature Foundation with a mission to fund projects that promote sustainable business practices and the cultivation of talent in children around the world.

Thanks to Light Years Ahead, and Solavie. I received a sample of a duo pack, Solavie Desert Hair Care duo-pack. I like the convenient package. You can just grab and go. They are travel friendly. They have different systems to pick from. The shampoo and body wash lather well. It does everything it says it will. I know when using this product that I am not harming my hair or body. No harsh chemicals for me.



Want to win a duo-pack of Solavie facial care and hair care? Here is how to enter?

main entry (mandatory)
1) Go to www.solavie.com and tell me which one of the 6 systems you would like to try and why? (1 entry)

Bonus entries:
2) Follow me on blogger. (1 entry)
3) Follow me on twitter, please leave you twitter name in comment. (1 entry)
4) Tweet, please leave link in comment. (1 daily entry)

Giveaway ends September 8, 2009 @ 7 am. Leave a comment with a valid email address for each entry. Winner will be chosen by random using random.org. I was given the opportunity to review this product because of my membership at The Product Review Place.

Kenmore "Crazy Cleaning Confessions" Blog Tour

As an on-the-go Mom, even moving a mile a minute to fit everything in doesn't ensure that my to-do list gets done. This means I sometimes leave dishes in the sink, errands remain un-run, and I forget to pre-treat the paint, dirt, and snack stains on my daughter's favorite tops and jeans. Of course, I pay for it later as I try to scrape dried food off the dinner plates and rid clothing of stains with multiple washings and bleach. Clearly, Kenmore had Moms like me in mind when they created their powerful new time - and energy - saving appliances and launched the "Crazy Cleaning Confessions" contest.

From now until September 6, Kenmore wants to know the off-beat things you do when tackling the dishes or piles of laundry. The crazier the confession, the better! My confession? I hate ironing, so I throw a wet towel in the dryer with my clothes to smooth out wrinkles! My husband calls me crazy but it simplifies my life and takes the anxiety out of leaving that pile of laundry unfolded.

Kenmore would like my readers to share your nutty habits by submitting a video to YouTube.com/Kenmore, describing your extreme cleaning measures, and enter-to-win a new washer/dryer or dishwasher from Kenmore! Finalists will be selected from September 7-10 and beginning September 11, fans can vote for their favorite confession and help three lucky finalists win brand new appliances. Not only that, but Kenmore will donate $5.00 for each video submission and $.50 for each vote cast to the Jane Goodall Institute's Roots & Shoots program, which aims to make positive change happen — for our communities, for animals and for the environment. With tens of thousands of young people in almost 100 countries, the Roots & Shoots network branches out across the globe, connecting youth of all ages who share a common desire to help make the world a better place. So, even if you don't submit a video, mark your calendars and start voting on September 11th so you can help a great cause (and, watch some fun videos).




“I wrote this post while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Kenmore and received a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.”

Great Giveaways Aug 23-29

Sheilacakes-PUR Flavor Options Giveaway 8/30

APFOB - PUR Flavor Options Pitcher (08/27)

Frudal Creativity-Fancy Fortune Cookies (ends 9/8)

Presents for a Purpose - Personalize Backpack - ends 8/28

Pouchee Purse Organizer Giveaway - ends 9/2

Onthegomommy-Yoplait Fiber One Giveaway! 9/4

onthegommomy-Your Zone Room Makeover 9/9

Barefoot Mommies-win a pair of undies 8/26

The Art of Random Willy-Nillyness
-Dove NutriumMoisture Body Wash-2 winners ~ Ends 9/4

Consumer Queen-Complete the Cycle and Win!8/28

4 Fabulous Families-Kewt Bandana Bibs give away!2 winners 8/31

4 Fabulous Families-MyPacifiers giveaway 8/31

mamasmoneysavers-pur flavor options pitcher giveaway 9/11

GoGo squeeZ Review

ok, ok. Listen to this. You are packing snacks for a picnic, traveling, and/or a day at the park. Have you ever tried packing applesauce? I have bought the single serving applesauces but if your son/daughter doesn't finish it all, what happens then? Do you throw the rest of it in the trash? Do you carry a container for it, or a resealable bag? Stop asking what to do.
Go Go SqueeZ is applesauce made for on the go. It is resealable. It is kid-friendly. It taste good. It is 100% fruit, and no sugar. If you are like me you are wondering, is this for real? 1 pouch is equal to 1 serving. It is all natural, no artificial flavors or preservatives, gluten and dairy free, and Kosher certified. I am not an organic, health junky but in case you are, it is a brand you might consider trying.
There are many flavors of GoGo squeeZ to choose from, appleapple, applebanana, applepeach, applestrawberry, and applecinnamon. My favorites were appleapple and applebanana. My son's favorites were appleapple, applecinnamon, and applepeach. Applebanana tasted like baby food to us. My son said the GoGo Squeez is like a drink. He loved it.
GoGo squeeZ 4-packs are available for MSRP $2.99. GoGo squeeZ single pouches are available for MSRP 99 cents. Consumers can purchase GoGo squeeZ through Whole Foods, the natural section of supermarkets like Stop&Shop, Shaws and Jewel-Osco in select Toys ‘R Us/ Babies’ R US, and other retailers across the US.

Thank you to SS | PR and GoGo squeeZ for the free samples that were provided to our family.

One Hour Parties

Do you love planning parties? Are you the party planner in your office, kid’s school or the resident party diva in your neighborhood? Isn’t it time you got paid for making people happy and doing what you love to do? With One Hour Parties, now you can!

One Hour Parties is the most exciting and fun franchise concept on the market today. They provide easy, creative and affordable party planning solutions for corporate celebrations, kid’s parties, weddings and more. If you live in a major metropolitan area, let them train you on their unique form of party planning and how to capture your own piece of the $500 billion event planning industry worldwide.

The company has just been named Entrepreneur Magazine’s “Hot New Franchise” and the founders were just named the “Top 25 Innovators and Entrepreneurs” by Seattle Business Magazine.

Check them out online at www.onehourparties.com or link directly to their franchise page at http://onehourparties.com/index.php/franchise

This idea is so original and creative. I would love to have One Hour Parties. For those of us looking for great opportunities, let this one knock you off your feet.

Matt goes back to school

 

Here is my son, Matt leaving the house for his first day of 5th grade. Yes, 5th grade. I remember when he was going to enter school for the first time. This day brought me so many flashbacks. Matt's school has decided they will be wearing uniforms this year. He has not worn uniforms since he was in Pre-K and Kindergarden. So it is so crazy to look at this picture because not so long ago he stood in front of me with the same colors on, leaving for his first day of school.

First days are so scary. Even to us as parents, they can be scary. I fear for the unknown of what is to come. I want to shelter and protect him, don't tell him I said that. But Matt, he didn't and doesn't show me any fear. He was and is always ready to go.

Good luck to all of you on your first day and have a wonderful school year!

WAT-AAH! Review & giveaway***CLOSED***

Hydration is one thing that everyone needs to be concerned about, especially with Houston's Hot 100 degree weather. But us as adults don't hydrate as we should, do we think our kids do? It is hard to get our kids to drink water, eat their veggies, and take their vitamins. But now there is a water that can help with all of this.
Pack them in your kids lunches, stick them in your cooler, and stock up the refrigerator. Your kids will not know the WAT-AAH they are drinking is actually good for them. Parents will be glad to know, as I was, that there is no sugar, artificial flavors, colors or unnatural additives, only the right amount of essential ingredients such as magnesium, electrolytes and oxygen to help maintain children's health. We tasted WAT-AAH and it tasted like water. None of us could tell the difference which was great. There are 4 different kinds Brain, Bones, Body, and Energy.

Would you like your kids to try WAT-AAH?



Win a WAT-AAH! Backpack filled w/ fun back-to-school goodies (pencils, erasers, stickers etc...) Along w/ WAT-AAH! samples as well.

Here is how to enter:
Mandatory-
1) Become a friend of WAA-TAH on twitter, leave your twitter name in comment (2 entries)
2) Follow their blog WAA-TAH.blogspot.com. (2 entries)

extra entries....(leave 1 comment for each thing you do)
blog about this giveaway, tweet, follow me on twitter, email a friend, enter another giveaway and tell me which one you enter in comment.

Contest ends August 31, 2009 at 7 am. Winners will have 24 hours to claim their prize. Good Luck.

Thank you to WAT-AAH for the samples provided to my son, Matt.

Binaca Review and Giveaway***CLOSED***

After lunch, are you like me, looking for something to freshen your breath? Have you had one of those o-oh moments?
In my line of work, sometimes I have to meet with customers or vendors, and gum is so unprofessional. I need something to save me in my mid-day meetings or when I am on the run after work to my after-hours events.



I know you are wondering, Binaca. These are not your Mom's Binaca drops-the ones that were shaken onto your tongue to handily counteract stale breath. They are now lipstick-sized, and pocket/small purse friendly. If you are on the go, just spray a couple of times and now you are ready to go. They are so easy to use. They don't leave a nasty after taste. The different flavors they offer are so good, our favorite was cinnamon.


Binaca Fastblast and Binaca Breath Freshner Aerosal Spray are availble at Walgreens and most major food, drug, and mass market retailers, priced from $1.00-$3.59.
Would you like to try them?
5 winners will win 4 Binaca products. Here is how to enter:
1) Tell me about a moment where you could have used Binaca. (1 entry)
2) Follow me on blogger. (1 entry)
3) Follow me on twitter, leave your twitter name in your comment (1 entry)

BONUS ENTRIES CAN BE DONE DAILY......
4) Tweet this giveaway. (1 entry daily)
5) Leave a comment at this link (1 entry daily)
6) Tweet this- Vote @independentmami #90sHair, #rockofages http://bit.ly/jKFGg Please RT (1 entry daily)

Giveaway ends August 31 at 7 am. 5 winners will be picked at random.org. You will have 24 hours to claim your prize. Please leave an email address in your comment.

Thank you to Light Years Ahead for providing review samples for my family to try. Good luck!!!

Hellmann’s® Sandwich Swap ’n’ Share

As moms, we know that no matter what lunch we prepare for our kids, they always seem to want to swap sandwiches with their friends once they get to the cafeteria at school! When it comes to the time-honored tradition of swapping sandwiches, our kids may be having all the fun. Luckily, Hellmann's® and Best Foods® Mayonnaise has teamed up with musician and actor Billy Ray Cyrus to encourage people of all ages to celebrate their favorite childhood ritual and join the virtual Sandwich Swap 'n' Share program to raise money for Feeding America®, the nation's leading domestic hunger-relief charity.

For every sandwich created as part of the virtual Sandwich Swap 'n' Share program on Facebook.com/hellmanns, Hellmann's® and Best Foods® will donate 7 lunches[1] to Feeding America®.

[1] 7 lunches equals a $1 donation Hellmann's® will make to Feeding America® to provide meals to Americans at risk of hunger. Up to 700,000 lunches.

[2] No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. Sandwich Swap 'n' Share Sweepstakes is sponsored by Conopco, Inc., d/b/a Unilever. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S. & D.C., 18 & older. Begins 12:00:01 p.m. ET on 8/19/09 & ends 11:59:59 a.m. ET on 10/30/09. For official rules, visit the Hellmann's® page at www.facebook.com/hellmanns or www.facebook.com/bestfoods.

[3] Facebook is a trademark of Facebook, Inc.

Thanks Hellmann's® and MomSelect

So what are you waiting for? Head over there and make a difference.

Cover Girl Outlast Lipstain Review

The water-based colorants of Outlast Lipstain give lips a beautiful, lightweight flush of color that won't come off, lasting for hours without the heavy look or feel of an ordinary lipstick. Its pen-like precision applicator makes it easy to define your lips-just draw on color without any hassle!

I am a BzzAgent. Thanks to them for sending me my own Cover Girl Outlast Lipstain #435 Flirty Nude. I love it. I pack it in my purse. It is so easy to use. It is like coloring your lips. It is so natural looking. It doesn't taste bad. And it definitely doesn't smell bad either. The design and concept is like a marker. Remember how much you loved to color when you were younger. Stay inside the lines and your lips will be ready for anything. They come in great colors.

Visit covergirl.com to learn more about CoverGirl products, chat with a CoverGirl Beauty Consultant, find special offers and upload your photo to try on hundreds of CoverGirl shades and create your own hot look.

Flash Back Rock of Ages Style-Here I go again

This is me. 1994. I was a sophmore in high school. My hair RAWK.

Vote for independentmami. Leave a comment at this link, once per day to vote for my pic.

Tweet this: RT @independentmami-Vote my #90sHair for #rockofages http://bit.ly/jKFGg

Giveaways...Aug 16-22

Savin Some

win a Honey Kix cereal pack

Savings Makes Cents

$30 Kroger Gift Card Giveaway (ends 8/19 @ 9pm)

Thanks Mail Carrier

Giveaway: Yoplait Whips! prize package 8/21

Leslie Loves Veggies

win a package of POND’S® WET CLEANSING TOWELETTES!! 8/22

Real Simple Saving Methods

Fiber One 50 Calorie Yogurt — 3 Winners 8/23

The Mom Reviews

Yoplait Whips! Summer Cool Down Giveaway!! 8/21

Mom Central's Summer Giveaway Bonanza 2009

FINAL WEEK OF SUMMER GIVEAWAYS
Week 7: August 17-30
Win Saving Grace Season 2 on DVD (Open to US and Canada) Enter by August 30


Win a signed Jada Pinkett Smith Poster (Open to US and Canada) Enter by August 30


Win Neutrogena Sunscreen Packs for Babies and Kids (Open to US and Canada) Enter by August 30

Win a GoPicnic Prize Pack (Open to US and Canada) Enter by August 30

Win a Diaper Dude Diaper Bag and Blanket (Open to US and Canada) Enter by August 30

Win a Classic Nickelodeon DVD Basket (Open to US and Canada) Enter by August 30

Win a Kernel Seasons Popcorn Prize Pack (Open to US and Canada) Enter by August 30

Win a Membership to bTrendie (Open to US and Canada) Enter by August 30

Win a Glacier Outdoor Combo Pack (Open to US and Canada) Enter by August 30

Win a Motorized Wagon (Open to US) Enter by August 30

Win a $50 Gift Certificate to Paper Culture (Open to US and Canada) Enter by August 30

Guessing All The Way

Win picture frames 8/31

My Red Apron

Back to School Giveaway 8/27

Potamus Prefers

win a Shred Sled 9/15

Short Pump Preppy-cards

Win a prize pack of cards to 3 lucky readers 8/31

Short Pump Preppy-watch

Win a men’s or women’s Accelerator Pulse running watch 8/31

Life in a House of Blue

win $500 giftcard from Walmart and the Your Zone 9/9

Life in a House of Blue

WIN ! A SHRED SLED!!! 9/1

Mud Bug

win Honey Kix prize pack 8/24

small town louisiana girl

Win a $30 gift card 8/21

frugal upstate

Giveaway: Back to School Lunchbox Pack 8/24

My Four Monkeys

Win a Megatron Transformers Armor and Stylus! 8/27

A Giveaway Addicted Mommy

win a PopATot (Valued at $49.99)!! 9/1

A Happy Hippy Mom

WIN $500 Walmart GC Giveaway 9/10

Got Free Cards Review

Have you ever gotten invited to a party at the last minute, or had a function to go and you just did not have time to get a card? How about a birthday coming up and you are just too busy or just can't get to the store? How about sending a free ecard? It is the easiest way to tell a loved one, Happy Birthday or just hello. There is no membership or registration you have to fill out. It doesn't cost a thing. With this economy we are all looking to save a buck or two. Cards are getting expensive. I know I am trying to cut out as many things as possible to stretch my dollar. But one thing I love to do is get my family and friends cards. I like to send them and surprise them with the cards I get. This was a great way for me to connect with them without having to ever leave my desk or my house. I didn't forget about them or their special occassions. And they are very important to me so I sent them some e-love with the help of free ecards. I have tried several of the other sites and the cute cards I like are not free. I found so many cute cards. I found perfect ones for every occasion. Check out the selection from free ecards, free birthday ecards, free printable birthday cards, free printable cards, halloween ecards, free christmas ecards. You will find a card for all your loved ones. You can even customize your cards, add a photo, or voice. Got Free cards is great. Enjoy sending your loved cards. I know I did.

Kroger Midnight Madness

Krogers in TX and LA is doubling coupons today.
SUPER DOUBLE MANUFACTURER'S COUPONS UP TO $1.00
********************TODAY ONLY*********************

So here is my journey. This week I had alot of homework to do. I clipped coupons like crazy. I got my sales ad on Monday. I studied my ad back and forth. I also went online and seeked blogger help. There were many sites that offered lists and coupons sites. I am not a seasoned couponer but i could not miss this sale. I was not ready at all for i was getting into. I called the store and verified the time they were opening and if they were participating. My store was participating and guess what? My store is a 24 hour store. Sale starts at midnight.
I was running late because i went to a jewelry show. But I was ok. I got my coupons and my ad, my printed list from one of the sites I found, and headed for the store. I arrived to find the parking lot pretty full. I really thought there was going to be a mob but it was not. I went in and grabbed my cart. I pulled out my coupons and went to find my items. There were people working in duos/pairs. It was great to see all these people shopping at midnight. The mood was great. The store played really good music while we went through the obsticle course. There were employees stocking shelves, employees bringing out cart full of merchandise, and of course, us. No-one was fighting, everyone had their own space. We were courteous to one another as we passed each other up. When we met again we would check each other's carts to see what else were we missing. So aisle after aisle I went getting the items I wanted, calculating the prices in my head, wishing someone was there to help me. I finally had had enough. I had a cart full of items, coupons everywhere, and a very, very tired body. I went to go get in line. One cashier, and one at the self register, great. The line was not that long. The cashier was very patient. She rang every item up, as i watched her ring up the lady in front of me, seem to not be caring the crazy people midnight shopping. The rest of us in line talked about our experience as we checked our cart and coupons. I saw items i looked for and did not find in the cart behind but i was too tired to go back. It was my turn. I handed her my Kroger card. She ran the items up one by one. I pulled out all my coupons and fixed them because i had shoved them in a pocket of my purse. I then had to buy my own items, the security guy helped too. Ok, so I total after coupons was $19.91. I had told my fiancee I was giving myself a $20 limit. I hit it dead on. It was a learning experience for me. Next time I really need to be more prepared. I need to go to the store and make my list. I need to go aisle by aisle in order and not from one side to the other. All in all i was very glad I did this. I may not have bought the entire store like some people did but i was content. One of my main goals was to purchse items we need, that we don't already had alot of. This one man did 3 separate trips working in sections was a really good tip. So next time there is a sale like this, I will take all i have learned and shop til i drop.

Peep this....FREE MOVIES......

Ok, first let me start by saying I went to the movies 2 times last year. Yes, 2. We spent about $25 just on tickets, that did not include popcorn and a drink, which we normally share. A night at the movies will cost you an arm and a leg. With this economy I have tried to get creative about our family nights and entertainment. I read a blog a couple of months ago where a family never paid to go to the movies. I could not believe it. Free movie tickets, must be bad or dumb movies, I thought. But after I read and checked it out myself, I can tell you it is possible. Now I will share with you how my family goes to the movies for FREE.

Thanks to Film Metro we have been able to enjoy free movie screenings. You register and set up an account. Once you sign up, you can download tickets from Movie Filler for advanced screenings of upcoming movies before everyone else sees them. How does that sound? Movie tickets, admit 2, advance screenings of movies, need I say more....Here are two movies we recently were able to screen.

G.I. Joe
This movie was great. It was full of explosive moments, a great cast, and non-stop action from beginning to end. We all enjoyed watching this movie. This is a movie the whole family will enjoy. I won't ruin it for you by giving you the details. It is a must see movie. I think we have made a decision on who we are going to be for Halloween. Geeee....IIIIIII....JOE....the real American Heroes!!!!!! We give it ****

District 9
Sorry but we have a split decision on this movie, if you can call it a movie. I did not like it. I was ready to go home, thinking I drove threw a storm to get to this. I think I dosed off on some parts. But the men in my life liked it. I am not into too much Sci-Fi, story telling in movies, or like reading sub-titles all movie long. My boys liked the killings. The movie did have a few good moments but I think those are all in the movie trailer. So if you ask me, the trailer holds the best parts of this movie. My 10 yr old liked all the action. It actually kept him entertained. Note...my fiancee said this movie is dvd viewable but not worth a trip to the movies. I give it 0....my boys **1/2

See yah at the movies.

Pocketville

Welcome to Pocketville.





Voucher Code: B9GX8NUDYS

Valid for 250 Pocketville Tokens

(This offer will be available for a limited time only.)

Thanks to BSM Media/MomSelect.

Skelanimals Review

Skelanimals: Dead Animals Need Love Too Book
Art and Rhymes by Mitchell Bernal

Is a really cute book that introduces the Skelanimals to us. It is an easy book that your kids can read. I know, the title, kinda shocks you. Because trust me, IT SHOCKED me. This a children's book. But really, it is a book of small story rhymes of each animal. This book may not be for everyone, especially not for younger children because they just won't get it. Some adults just won't get it. Your pre-teen and teens they will like this book. We did. Let me introduce you to our Skelanimal-Kit.



Kit had a head bigger than her body.
The laughs she endured rang all through the lobby.
Looking at the pool she would see her reflection.
Wishful thinking for her water friend connection.
She slipped and fell as she looked nearer.
No more laughter and jokes would she hearrr.

There are many Skelanimals to take home from small collectable plush, large plush, clip-ons, themed collectables, to animal hooded plush. Suggested for 5+ ages,retail prices start from $3.99 to $ 14.99.

Thanks JAKKS Pacific for our new friend, Kit the cat and our own copy of Skelanimals: Dead Animals Need Love Too Book.

GX Racers and GX Racers Skate Review

GX Racers Turbo Launcher™ Playset

The GX Racers Turbo Launcher™ playset will allow kids to launch to even faster speeds (up to 700 scale MPH) with their GX Racers™ vehicles! Rocket your GX Racers™ vehicles to new insane speeds! This motorized launcher even connects to other track sets.

My son popped this box open immediately. Of course, boys love cars and speed. He had alot of fun launching his GX Racer. It was so easy for him to use. He loaded the GX Racer into the Turbo Launcher. He reved it up and zoom, it launched. He loved playing with the GX Racer. Even my 3 year old nephew could play. It is recommended for 5 yrs and up. And it does require 4 AA batteries that are not included. Add this one to your list if your boys love speed, and cars.
Suggested Retail $14.99

GX Racers -Skate

Ok, ok so you if your boys like speed, cars, of course they must like skateboards. GX Racers now has skateboards that you can use the Gyro to do tricks and stuns. These are cute finger skateboards that kids can't get hurt on, but still have fun with. My son loved playing with this GX Skate especially because of the tricks he could do with it. This skateboard goes over and beyond all expectations. The wheels are cute and there are 6 different styles just like real ones. There are cool accessories you can purchase separately to more insane tricks with. This one goes on your list as well.
Suggested Retail $5.99
Coming this Fall 2009.


Thanks to JAKKS Pacific for allowing us to review these two products.

Check out this week's giveaways...Aug 9-15

Energizer Bunnys Mommy Reports Back to School Carnival 2009
Day 1: All Children's Furniture (8/22)
Day 2: MJM Books (8/22)
Day 3: Wett Giggles (8/22)
Day 4: Space makeover consultation + blog feature (8/22)
Day 5: Hippos and Rhinos dvd (8/22)
Day 6: MAH Creations (8/22)
Day 7: The Card Crate (8/22)
Day 8: Name Your Tune cd (8/22)
Day 9: Zillionz Money Jar (8/29)
BONUS: Psalty CD or DVD (8/29)
Day 10: Close Encounters of the Third Grade Kind (8/29)

Mom Central's summer giveaway bonanza 2009
Week 6: August 10-23: Win Great Prizes from Evenflo!

Win an Evenflo Mimi Neo Pacifier (Open to US and Canada) Enter by August 23

Win Evenflo Comfort Select Nursing Pads (Open to US and Canada) Enter by August 23

Win an Evenflo Symphony All-in-One Car Seat (Open to US) Enter by August 23

Win an Evenflo Triumph Car Seat (Open to US) Enter by August 23

Win an Evenflo Snugli Sway Carrier (Open to US and Canada) Enter by August 23

Win an Evenflo Snugli Hug Carrier (Open to US and Canada) Enter by August 23

Win an Evenflo ExerSaucer (Open to US and Canada) Enter by August 23

My Red APron Giveaway

Win a Fiber One Yogurt Package

Consumer Queen Giveaway

Win a $500 Back to School Shopping Spree ! 8/15

Centsible Sawyer Giveaway

CentsibleSawyer is giving away a $500 Walmart Gift Card thanks to Nestle! 8/21

Common Sense with Money Giveaway

Back to School Giveaway: $50 Hanes Gift Card 8/16

Blessings Abound Giveaway

Box Tops for Education with Totino’s, Pillsbury, and Avery Giveaway! 8/26

Things Moms Like Giveaway-Libby's

Libby’s 6-ounce Jumbo Cups™ Review & Giveaway (8/24)

Things Moms Like Giveaway-Delites

Soy Delites Candle Review & Giveaway 9/1

Things Moms Like Giveaway-Snoogie

Daddy’s Design Snoogie Seat Review & Giveaway 8/31

Multiple Blessings Giveaway
win One of Five- $10 gift certificates to Starbucks 8/31

Ultimate Back-to-School Twitter Party

Back to school is in 3 weeks for us. I am feeling the time crunch already. I have to get uniforms, shoes, and of course, a new backpack for my fifth grader. Well Lands' End wants to help.

Join Lands' End for the Ultimate Back-to-School Twitter Party!



Lands' End hosts will be available to answer back-to-school shopping questions and the party will feature more than 20 product giveaways from co-hosts, 5minutesformom.com.


Date: Thursday, August 20th
Time: 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. CST
Location: #landsend


Save the date and log-on to Twitter for an evening of shopping tips, socializing and great giveaways!


Thanks to and

BlogHer 2010 in NYC

First I want to start by saying this blogger world is the best thing that has happened to me. In Oct 2008, when I began to blog I didn't know where this would take me. I love this mommy blogger world. And am very happy to be a part of it.

This is my story....In Nov 2008, I got engaged. Yes, finally after 9 yrs of separation from my little boy's dad (a very abusive relationship), I found someone who turned my frown upside down, and showed me how a real man treats his family. But things have not been easy for us. He returned from the military, MARINES, and started going to school. Since he was not working he racked up $20,000.00 worth of debt on his credit card. He stopped going to school and joined the police academy. After graduating, it was really hard for him to get hired. Five months later, he found a department willing to give a rookie a chance. This November will make a year since he found a job as a police officer but since he is still under probation is unable to get a second job or work side jobs. He is still racking up interest on his card, while this whole time I am still paying all of my bills (mortage, utilities, etc...) by myself. To make our luck even worse my son took a fall last year and had to be taken to the emergency room, now I have a $800 hospital bill because my insurance only covers after the deductible is met. Well my son is not a sickly child and only goes for regular well checks ups. With all of this going on, my mom had knee surgery and has been unable to work for 3 months, I am helping her with whatever extra I can. I cut coupons, match prices, and shop at thriftys to make ends meet. I am not sure how I am stretching the dollars but I am. Our wedding is on hold until we can actually pay for it.

This year BlogHer 2009 fell on the week of my birthday, July 24. I would of loved to have attended. I didn't know much about it or what happened at BlogHer but from reading all of the blog posts and stories I know I want to attend BlogHer 2010 in NYC. I have never been to NYC. There is so much to learn from all the bloggers out there. And I am ready to learn. So I, like many others out there are looking for a sponsor or sponsors.

Please pick me....




Pour Some Sugar On Me & Mommy PR are teaming up to send a very deserving blogger to
BlogHer 2010 in NYC!

Discovery Kids™ toys

I don't know about you but I love learning toys. I like for my son to play with toys that will pick at his brain, make him ask questions, or want to learn something new. Two weeks ago we took a trip to Moody Gardens, Houston, TX. We had a blast learning about animals, aquariums, and ecosystems. Discovery Kids toys are a perfect fit. This Fall, they will be introducing new items designed to inspire our kids to be creative and have fun while learning about animals, nature, science, and technology, just like on their Discovery Kids Network. Want a sneak peak at the new items?



Smart Animals Eco-systems, a new way to collect, build and play with a full set of miniature animal habitats. Each collectible Eco-Systems playset features a unique animal figure contained in a themed "hex-cubed" habitat with interchangeable accessories, and a scannable diorama card with animal information. Once you have created your miniature habitat, you can collect more and connect them in almost any direction to build your Eco-Systems world. Each of the diorama backgrounds can be scanned with the Discovery Kids Smart Animals Scanopedia (sold separately). These mini habitats include zebras, elephants, lions, and many others.
Ages 3+, suggested retail price $4.99

Discovery Kids Yuck Bugs. My son loves playing with bugs. I think it is a phase each kid goes through, it's a kid thing. So if your kids like playing with bugs this toy is perfect for them. Now they can build their own bugs. Squeeze the larva sacks to release the slimy plasma and bug parts. uuuuhhhhh, icky, sticky, but kids love them. Pick out the parts from the plasma and create a replica of a real bug or create a completely new species.
Ages 3+, suggested retail price $9.99

Discovery Kids Safari Scope. This toy takes the action outdoor and explore our world. It is an innovative telescope that uses a comfortable, binocular eyepiece to make viewing easy and fun. It also features a collapsible tripod stand and a shoulder strap so you can take it with you on your outdoor adventures.
Ages 6+, suggested retail price $49.99



Expand your animal kingdom with Smart Animals™ Figures! Collect them all and use with the Discovery Kids Scanopedia™ Electronic Talking Animal Encyclopedia (sold separately) to bring your favorite animals to life! Interactive Smart Animals figures let you hear unique animal sounds, learn fun facts and play exciting games when you use with the Scanopedia. Just touch the logo on each figure to unlock the fun with the Scanopedia Electronic Talking Animal Encyclopedia!
Discovery Kids Smart Animals and Scanopedia products were nominated for Educational Toy of the Year and named a Toy Wishes "All Star" in 2008.
Ages 3+, suggested retail price $29.99 for Scanopedia
Ages 3+, suggested retail price $4.99-$12.99 for Smart Animal figure packs sold separately



Take your Discovery adventures into the dark with these Discovery Kids™ Dual Vision Night Goggles. There’s 2 exciting ways to see in the dark: Green Glow & Flashlight!
Ages 6+, suggested retail price $14.99

Back to school is just around the corner. Let's get our kids back into the roll of things. With Discovery Kids toys our kids will learn and discover while playing. Thanks to JAKKS Pacific for sending Matt a Discovery Kids Smart Animals Eco-systems. He will be starting his collection this Fall.

Dunkadoos™ - "Magical" Growing Animals

What are Dunkadoos™? "Magical" Growing Animals, innovative plush toys that grow in water.

It was really easy. Matt took his Penguin out of the packaging. He filled the bag with water up to the line. He then dunked his Penguin in the bag filled with water. He took a small towel and dried his Penguin. Matt was amazed when the Penguin started to magically grow. This is a really fun toy for kids. It is easy for them to do on their own. The kids can really enjoy making their animal grow.

The Dunkadoos will be in stores Fall 2009. Collect them all!
Recommended Age: 5+ yrs MSRP $7.99

This will be a great stocking stuffer. I know many of us are already making our lists. Add this to yours.



Thanks to JAKKS Pacific for sending us a Dunkadoos™ for my son to play with. Meet Matt's Dunkadoos™ Penguin.

WNBA Blogger Special Offer

The WNBA is the ultimate addition to any family's live entertainment activities offering competition, team spirit and positive role models packaged in one of America's favorite sports pastimes. It's a great way to beat the August heat and head indoors for sports, entertainment, family, food and fun! SLAM DUNK! Click here to watch a short clip of what a WNBA experience offers.

One2One Network has teamed up with the Woman's National Basketball Association (WNBA) to bring you a family-friendly live entertainment experience at a great discount!

Just go to TicketMaster.com/wnba and enter the promo code WNBABLOG and experience what exciting, affordable, family-friendly entertainment the WNBA really is! Offer good through the end of the regular season (September 13).



Atlanta Dream
For the remaining regular season games (Excluding 8/23 vs LA):
Get $25 seats for $15; Get $19 seats for $12

For the game on 8/23 vs the Los Angeles Sparks
Get $25 seats for $24; Get $19 seats for $18.



Chicago Sky
Up to 34% off the regular ticket price.



Connecticut Sun
Get $18 seats for $10; $22 seats for $18; $27 seats for $23



Detroit Shock

Get $15 lower level sideline seats or $50 VIP seats.



Indiana Fever

Buy 1 ticket and get 1 ticket of equal value free.



Los Angeles Sparks

Get 15% off tickets in all sections



Minnesota Lynx

Get $8 seats.



New York Liberty

Get 33% off tickets and $10 parking.



Phoenix Mercury

Get $43 tickets for $16; $26 tickets for $10.



San Antonio Stars
Get over 50% off the gate price.



Seattle Storm

Get 50% off all Storm tickets.



Washington Mystics

Get $35 tickets for $15

WNBA Gives Back
The WNBA is deeply commited to WNBA Cares programs that improve the quality of life for all people, with a special emphasis on promoting health and fitness (Go Red), Breast Health Awareness, reading (Fast Break to Reading Program and Read to Achieve) and youth basketball programs (Jr WNBA).