Mama to 4 Blessings - Our Homeschool Blog

FALLING ASLEEP AT THE Wii - WORDLESS WEDNESDAY W/ LINKY

2012-01-31T16:07:00.001-05:00

This is my 4 year old son, he fell asleep playing the Wii with his older brother. Guess it wore him out! With controllers in hand and all!

What's your Wordless Wednesday? Link up with Frugal Plus & Mama to 4 Blessings every week and share your Wordless Wednesday! PLEASE do not link up your giveaways on this linky. You can add them every Saturday to my Super Saturday linky.

VALENTINE'S ~ ACTIVITIES, CRAFTS, MONTESSORI

2012-01-30T08:19:00.000-05:00

Here are some fun Valentine's activities / crafts we did last week.

My 4 and 6 year old boys did this craft:

I printed off a heart coloring page, taped it to the outside of the glass sliding door with the heart facing inside, gave the boys puffy paint and had them trace hearts on our glass door. They loved this! It comes off easy with a bit of Windex and razor blade.

We have a big tree in our backyard, my kids looked for "heart" shaped leaves that fell from the tree.

Last year I had saved candy heart shaped chocolate boxes, I used them for my daughter. You can see it HERE. This year I used them in a different way, using similar foam shape manipulative's as the shapes in the chocolate boxes, I had my 2 year old use tongs and place them in the matching shape and close the lids on the boxes.

Stay tuned for more Valentine fun!

Linking up at Living Montessori, 1plus1plus1equals1, Homeschool Creations and Weird Unsocialized Homeschoolers this week!

BERTOLLI WEEKNIGHT MEAL SPECIAL CHALLENGE (BERTOLLI MEAL SOUPS)

2012-01-30T05:00:00.000-05:00

We love Bertolli in our home. We are a busy family always on the go with activities in the evening whether it be soccer practice or karate. We need something quick and easy at times for meals. My husband and I were pleasantly surprised how great the Meal Soups.

Fresh tasting, hearty meal soups available in the freezer aisle and ready to enjoy at home in minutes.

Coming in 4 flavors:

Chicken Minestrone

Roasted Chicken and Rotini Pasta

Tomato Florentine and Tortellini with Chicken

Tuscan-Style Beef and Vegetables

I had a hard time choosing which flavor to get, my husband doesn't like tomato so I decided to go with Roasted Chicken and Rotini Chicken. Glad I did, we loved it! As I cooked it the house smelled like an Italian Bistro! The savory smells of basil filled our home. It definitely tasted as good as it smelled! I was skeptical at first, I thought it would taste like canned soup but I was wrong. It was fresh! With typically only a short time to make dinner because with 4 children ages 6 and under it's hectic. So it has to be fast, easy and good to eat! Meal Soups fufilled all of that and then some!

With in moments we had a delicious dinner! Typically dinner for us is eating fast to be some place. I do not like to cook because I am not good at it. I am glad to that these Meal Soups are so good. They are perfect for our family! My husband and I had the soup with quesadilla's on the side and then we were out the door for soccer practice for my son. It was nice not to eat chicken nuggets or something fast. We felt like we were more relaxed and enjoyed our meal!

Look for Bertolli Meal Soups in the freezer aisle of your grocery store. To find a location near you and for more info check out the Bertolli website. Connect with Bertolli on Facebook and Twitter too.

I was compensated by Bertolli to participate in the Weeknight Meal Special Challenge. All opinions are my own.

ROBBY WASH LAUNDRY BALL REVIEW + GIVEAWAY

2012-01-29T22:00:00.003-05:00

Oransi has a passion towards all things clean they offer best in class products and cleaning tips in order to help people, the community and our environment.

One of environmental products Oransi offers is the:

The Robby Wash fuchsia laundry ball pack is formulated to clean colored items and is for use in cooler water temperatures (up to 86F) for 12 months on average. It does not require any additional detergent to clean clothes or odor removal detergents to get your laundry smelling fresh. The pack includes the fuchsia washing ball, a stain stick and three extra packets of macro-molecule pellets.

Simple to use - just put it in the wash. The Robby wash ball is an ultra high efficiency laundry solution with no need to add any detergent. Makes doing the laundry very easy and saves you the hassle of lugging home large containers of laundry detergent and cleaning up if you spill when adding detergent to your washer. Refill ball when level of maco-molecule pellets is less than 75% full. For over-sized washing machines we recommend using two washing balls.

The Robby Wash ball uses a unique and patented worldwide technology to clean your laundry even better than the powder laundry detergents it was independently tested against. Its activated macromolecules are gradually released through the wash, dissolving dried-in stains by generating ions which activate the water molecules. This increase in the pH enables the activated molecules to penetrate deep into the fabrics and attach themselves to the stains. As the motion of the drum agitates the clothes, the stains come away easily from the fabric and dissolve in the water.

As a mom with 4 younger children and cloth diapering my laundry never ends! It's a daunting task that never gets caught up! I like the Robby Wash Ball because it's so easy to use! I am all about making things easier! Just toss in your wash machine and let the Robby Wash Ball go to work! It did not leave all my clothes smelling fragrant but it worked nicely leaving our clothes clean!

Benefits to using the Robby Wash Ball:

It's economical - No need to buy washing powder, a savings of up to $100+ over 200 washes.Hypoallergenic and great choice as a baby laundry detergent cleaner or for someone with sensitive skin
Cleans and protects your clothes
Guards fabrics against oxidation and discoloration caused by chlorine in the water, and maintains your clothes' bounce
Eliminates unpleasant smells thanks to its antibacterial action

Buy It: The fuchsia Robby Wash Ball sells for $32.95, The Robby Wash Ball also comes in blue and is used for water temperatures above 90F. Both Wash Balls can be purchased directly from Oransi.

Win It: Win a Robby Wash Ball fuchsia

Here's how you enter!

Please ONLY use Rafflecopter to enter this giveaway, leaving comments for entry will not be included in Random Generator for choosing of a winner. If you have any questions please let me know. Thank you!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

APOLOGIA SWIM CREATURES --- HANDS ON (SEA URCHINS)

2012-01-29T07:24:00.000-05:00

We recently had a field trip with our homeschool group to a nature center where the kids did a sea urchin lab. Everything was hands on.

The sea urchin's mouth

Pencil Sea Urchin

Share your science post at Science Sunday!

GIVEAWAY LINKY - SUPER SATURDAY LINK UP

2012-01-27T18:00:00.000-05:00

It's that time again to link up your blog giveaways to the Super Saturday Link Up! PLEASE this is a family friendly blog, please only link up "G rated" items. PLEASE ONLY ENTER GIVEAWAY'S, any others will be deleted.

Here are my current giveaways..........

Smart Snacks Hide N' Peek Chocolates Game
By Learning Resources
Ends 2/10

______________________________________________

Tea Collection $100.00 Gift Certificate Ends 2/9

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Cloth Diaper Prize Pack

Wahmies One Size Pocket Cloth Diaper + Rockin' Green Pail Freshener

Ends 1/30

_______________________________________________________

$25.00 American Express Gift Card w/ Travel Packs of Precision Tip Q-Tips

Ends 1/30

_____________________________

Smarties Candy Prize Pack

Ends 2/12

___________________________________

Christian Comic Book Prize Pack for kids
Ends 1/30

_________________________________

SnoozeShade Original (For Strollers)

Ends 1/30

______________________________________

TruKids Natural Body Products for Kids
Ends 1/31

Looking for more places to link up your giveaways daily? Click on my Blog Giveaway Daily Link List on my side bar to the right or click HERE! If you have a giveaway linky please leave me a comment and I would be happy to add you to my list!

SMARTIES (CANDY) REVIEW + SMARTIES PRIZE PACK GIVEAWAY #Cbias #IAmaSmartie

2012-01-27T08:09:00.001-05:00

Smarties Candy Company is owned and operated by three generations of the Dee family. On January 10, 1949, Edward "Eddie" Dee brought his family from England to New Jersey. Equipped with only two machines in a rented facility, he succeeded in founding Ce De Candy, Inc., makers of Smarties, America's favorite candy wafer roll.

Smarties Theater Box

A 3.5 ounce new classic! These original candy wafer rolls are packaged in a convenient and colorful theater box.

Original Smarties

In a 6 ounces bags Indulge your sweet tooth with the yummy Smarties candy wafer roll you know and love, just the way you remember it. The perfect treat anytime, anywhere. No need to worry about a mess in the heat- they won’t melt!

Tropical Smarties
In a 6 ounce bag, Smarties with a tropical twist!

Smarties in a Pouch
35 pouches per bag Smarties in a pouch are slightly larger than our original Smarties, and they come in the same fruity flavors you know and love.

Extreme Sour Smarties
In a 6 ounce bag X-treme sour Smarties are the same size as our original Smarties and feature a variety of delicious sour flavors

Smarties Candy Money
In a 6 ounce bag Smarties Candy Money rolls contain Giant sized candy coins!

Mystery Smarties Rolls
Each roll is 2.25 ounces Even larger than Giant Smarties, Mystery Smarties are mega sized and mega mysterious! The flavors range from our traditional Smarties® flavors to X-Treme Sour flavors (pucker up!) to Tropical flavors so you will get a smorgasbord of surprise Smarties.

Double Smarties Lollies

The original Smarties Pops. Each pop offers two flavors, and there are two combinations to choose from

Who doesn't love Smarties? I can remember being a kid and enjoying them, now as an adult and a mom it's fun to see my children enjoying Smarties as much as I do! They not only taste good but they are so convenient for a nice little treat for me to keep in my diaper bag for on the go. The portions are the perfect size! Smarties offers so many different kinds of yummy candies to choose from, something that everyone will enjoy!

Look at the smile Smarties brings to my son's face as he enjoys his Smarties Lollipop! Smarties bring a smile to anyone's face! They make the perfect Valentine treat too!

Win It: 1 winner will win a Smarties prize pack!

Here's how you enter!

This was not a paid post and honest opinions were used. The opinions are solely my own may vary from others. Thank you to Collective Bias and Smarties for the product who supplied this product for review and giveaway. Feel free to see Mama to 4 Blessings Disclosure Policy if you have any questions.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

FRIDAY BLOG AND GOOGLE + HOP (WITH LINKY)

2012-01-26T18:17:00.000-05:00

Thank you for joining the Friday Blog AND Google + Hop hosted by myself (Nicole) at Mama to 4 Blessings and Melissa at Home Grown Families! We invite you to join us every Friday to make more blog friends!

It's very easy to join in on the fun!

Add your main blog (PLEASE DO NOT LINK UP GIVEAWAYS) link (we ask that you please follow the hostesses in the first 2 spots (Mama to 4 Blessings & Home Grown Families.) Then leave us a quick comment letting us know you are following.

Then start blog hopping!

Please feel free to grab our Friday Blog Hop button and add it to your blog and spread the word!

We have added to our Friday Blog Hop for readers to link up their Google + pages too!

Please type in (blog after your blog name or Google + if it's a Google + link)

EX: Mama to 4 Blessings (Google Plus)

Mama to 4 Blessings (Blog)

Please only enter your MAIN blog link and please G rated links ONLY - NO CURSING please. Home Grown Families and Mama to 4 Blessings are family friendly blogs.

__________________________________________________

OTHER GREAT THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU LINK UP.....

Do you host giveaways? Feel freet o come back tomorrow (Saturday) and link them up here at Super Saturday Link Up!

I am also looking for 3 co-hostess to host Thursday Stumble Over every Thursday for the month of February. This would be a linky for bloggers to link up links they want Stumbled and then we can exchange Stumbles. Co-hostesses would be required to post every Thursday linky - I will supply the button and linky each week. For more information and sign up go to the FORM.

LETTER OF THE WEEK --- LETTER A

2012-01-26T17:50:00.001-05:00

We are using All About Reading Pre-1 for learning ABC's and Rhyming.

We are loving it!

The top printable comes directly from All About Reading Pre-1 curriculum and the alligator cut out craft I printed off Make Learning Fun. He colored, glued and pasted it together.

We are also using Handwriting Without Tears for Handwriting.

I took all the magnetic A's we had along with a few other letter magnets we had , mixed them together and gave him a magnetic board, he had to find all the A's and then put them on the magnetic board.

Stay tuned each week and see all our letter fun!

Linking this homeschool post up to Homeschool Creations and Weird Unsocialized Homeschoolers this week!

Thank your Flower Girl on your Wedding Day

2012-01-26T14:00:00.000-05:00

Thank your Flower Girl on your Wedding Day-

On your wedding day, the wedding party is hard at work to ensure that the splendid event goes off without a hitch. Often the youngest members of the wedding party are the ones that take their job most seriously. It is traditional around the world to reward the Flower Girls on your wedding day with a gift. Sometimes, due to young age of the recipient appropriate and personal flower girl gifts are hard to find.

If you are looking for that unique gift, consider the ever popular Personalised Flower Girl Teddy Bear. This cuddly creature has been known to comfort and bring a smile to many children’s faces. The bear can be personalised with a special message of your choice or the name of the recipient.

A stunning Engraved Hearts Jewelry box can be a wonderful gift for any young lady. The box is covered mirror with a beaded edge and has 3 fabric compartments which are perfect for hiding life’s treasures. Best of all, the jewelry box can be personalised with any message up to 75 characters. Additionally you can give a delicate gift which can begin to fill the jewelry box. A great idea is a Personalised Pearl Necklace made of chunky fresh water pears and finished with a sterling silver heard charm. The charm can be customized with the flower girl’s initials showing her how truly special she is in your eyes.

If the little flowers girl sweetheart has a sweet tooth as well consider one of many personalised sweetie jars such as the Personalised My Cool Cola Bottles Sweetie Jar packed with 1kg of Delicious Cola Bottle sweets. You can personalise any sweetie jar with any Name, Occasion and personal message. There is enough candy inside to have one a day for over a year-ensuring that you will stay in her heart for a long time.

Another great idea for flower girl gifts is a personalised glass engraved or painted to mark her participation in your wedding day. In fact many fun and elegant glasses in various styles are available to choose from. A young age appropriate choice is a Personalised Fabulous Juice Glass that your flower girl is sure to adore. You can personalise this juice glass with wedding role on the left and any name on the right. The Juice glass comes decorated with a pretty girl in a pink wedding dress and makes unique keepsake idea

Personalised flower girl gifts are a unique and thoughtful way to say thank you for all her hard work during your special day. There is no better time to buy that special gift to show that you care. Don’t forget to take advantage of the lifetime 10% discount with the code NLTR10.

Thank you to Stretching the One Income Dollar for this guest post!

SMART SNACKS HIDE N' PEEK CHOCOLATES GAME BY LEARNING RESOURCES REVIEW + GIVEAWAY

2012-01-25T12:50:00.001-05:00

Learning Resources is a leading manufacturer of innovative, hands-on educational materials for classrooms and learning toys for the home. For more than 25 years, the company has been a trusted source for educators and parents for quality, award-winning educational products. The Company’s diverse product line of over 1300 proprietary products serves children and their families, kindergarten, primary, and middle school markets focused in the areas of mathematics, science, early childhood, reading, Spanish language, English language learning and teacher resources.

Learning Resources has a fun game for children to learn their colors, shapes hand and eye coordination learning. Smart Snacks Hide n' Peek Chocolates which is perfect for Valentine's Day! Why spend money on chocolates or candy? Smart Snacks Hide n' Peek Chocolates is fun for Valentine's Day and all year long! Add it to your homeschooling, play or on the go!

My littler ones really enjoyed playing with this game. The chocolate pieces are nice and chunky - perfect for little hands and brightly colored which make them inviting to play with! Almost good enough to want to eat them! This game has alot to offer from matching the chocolate pieces into the matching shapes in the heart shaped candy box to the matching shape tops of the bottoms of the chocolates. As my 2 year old played I asked her the colors and shapes of the chocolates, she didn't even realize she was learning while playing!

Product Features:

~ Features 2-piece chocolates that come in 6 different shapes and filling colors

~ Encourages children to match chocolate shell shapes to filling shapes

~ Challenges kids to remember which color filling is inside which shell shape

~ Washable plastic chocolates include 2 each of 6 shapes presented in a classic, heart-shaped storage box

~ Ages 2-5

~ Sells for $17.99

Win It: Win Smart Snacks Hide n' Peek Chocolates!

Here's how you enter!

This was not a paid post and honest opinions were used. The opinions are solely my own may vary from others. Thank you to Learning Resources for the product who supplied this product for review and giveaway. Feel free to see Mama to 4 Blessings Disclosure Policy if you have any questions.

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I-SPY UP IN THE TREE..... WORDLESS WEDNESDAY W/ LINKY

2012-01-24T17:01:00.001-05:00

Some friends of ours, my children and I went to the zoo last week, as we sat and waited for one of the animal shows to start, my son spotted this spider web high up in the tree. I think spiders are creepy but their webs are so intricate and amazing. I couldn't resist taking a picture. I am surprised it turned out - it was really high up in the trees.

FINDING NEMO RETURNS TO THE BIG SCREEN IN 3D!

2012-01-24T16:39:00.000-05:00

Academy Award®-winning Best Animated Feature “Finding Nemo” returns to the big screen for the first time ever in thrilling Disney Digital 3D™. In this stunning underwater adventure, with memorable characters, humor and heartfelt emotion, “Finding Nemo” follows the comedic and momentous journey of an overly protective clownfish named Marlin (voice by Albert Brooks) and his son Nemo (voice by Alexander Gould)––who become separated in the Great Barrier Reef when Nemo is unexpectedly taken far from his ocean home and dumped into a fish tank in a dentist’s office. Buoyed by the companionship of Dory (voice by Ellen DeGeneres), a friendly-but-forgetful Pacific regal blue tang, Marlin embarks on a dangerous trek and finds himself the unlikely hero of an epic effort to rescue his son––who hatches a few daring plans of his own to return safely home.

FINDING NEMO returns to theatres for the first time in 3D September 14th, 2012!

DEEP FRIED WHAT? THAT CAN BE DEEP FRIED?

2012-01-24T08:09:00.002-05:00

Our county fair is here, we have been twice so far (it ends later this week). Our county fair is a big deal here. We look forward to it all year long. I have taken a ton of pictures of things I have enjoyed so stay tuned!

Everything is fried these days! I am amazed what they are able to fry and sell. Here are somethings they fry at our fair. Do these things really taste good? Years ago we tried friend Oreo's and Twinkies but fried Kool Aid? Really?

What sounds good to you? Any of them? The smells and the aroma's of the fair are awesome! Food I definitely wouldn't eat daily. It's a nice treat!

MONTESSORI SCHOOL - WEEKLY WRAP UP

2012-01-22T08:09:00.004-05:00

I gave her marbles, with a small spoon she poured marbles into a bottle.

I printed off what goes to together cards from the free downloads from Montessori is for Everyone.

Plus she participated in my 6 year old's sea urchin lab on a homeschool field trip.

And then she sang for all us mom's at our Community Bible Study. She was a ham!

TRUKID NATURAL BODY CARE PRODUCTS REVIEW + GIVEAWAY

2012-01-21T12:53:00.014-05:00

TruKids offers wonderful safe products for children whether it be for bath time, fun in the sun and they even adult products! All their products are BPA and Phthalate free! We make safe products that families can feel good about; our certified organic and natural ingredients are always SLS, paraben, 1-4 Dioxane and Gluten-free!

I am big on trying to use as many safe products for my children especially sunscreen and bath products. I love Trukids products for several reasons, with 4 children, 2 of which take showers the hand pump makes it easier for them to get the perfect amount each time and when I bathe my 2 little ones it's easier for me to use a hand pump especially when I have a little one who likes to stand in the tub so one hand trying to keep him from falling while the other can get the soap and shampoo. Most importantly is that these products are safe. With no chemicals that could harm them in the long run. my kids love how these products smell - that's a bonus!

TruKids Silly Shampoo is a mild, safe cleanser for kids' sensitive skin and hair that effectively removes surface oil, and dirt without stripping natural oils. Lightly scented with TruKids essential oil blend, there are no parabens, SLS, artificial colors or fragrances in this biodegradable formula. 8oz. bottle. Light citrus scent. Sells for $8.99 each (also sold in 32 oz. refill container)

TruKids Bubbly Body Wash has an uplifting aroma in a mild coconut derived cleanser. This is a mild, safe cleanser for skin that effectively removes surface oil, and dirt without stripping or drying sensitive skin. Bubble your way through the end of the day! 8oz. bottle. Light citrus scent. Sells for $8.99 each (also sold in 32 oz. refill container)

1 Winner will receive a 8 oz bottle of TruKids Bubbly Body Wash AND a 8 oz. bottle of Trukids Silly Shampoo.

Please use below Rafflecopter form to enter for a chance to win this awesome giveaway! Please let me know if you have any questions!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

GIVEAWAY LINKY - SUPER SATURDAY LINK UP

2012-01-20T18:07:00.000-05:00

Here are my current giveaways..........

$100.00 CASH Giveaway -- WORLDWIDE
Ends 1/22

Tea Collection $100.00 Gift Certificate
Ends 2/9

Cloth Diaper Prize Pack

Wahmies One Size Pocket Cloth Diaper + Rockin' Green Pail Freshener

Ends 1/30

$25.00 American Express Gift Card w/ Travel Packs of Precision Tip Q-Tips

Ends 1/30

Alpha Catch by Educational Insights
Ends 1/25

Snuggy Baby (Baby Sling/Wraps), Wetbags + more ($75.00 GC)
Ends 1/26

Christian Comic Book Prize Pack for kids
Ends 1/30

Growums Salad Garden Kits for Kids
Ends 1/22

SnoozeShade Original (For Strollers)
Ends 1/29

Looking for more places to link up your giveaways daily? Click on my Blog Giveaway Daily Link List on my side bar to the right or click HERE! If you have a giveaway linky please leave me a comment and I would be happy to add you to my list!

WEIGHT WATCHERS ICE CREAM BARS - SATISFIES THAT SWEET TOOTH!

2012-01-20T16:23:00.003-05:00

I have always been a big fan of Weight Watchers and they products. I love the points system and how satisfying you feel once you have eaten their perfect size portions. One of my New Years Resolutions was to try to eat better but my sweet tooth seems to get in my way! My husband and I are big ice cream lovers and we found Weight Watchers Ice Cream Bars were delicious and the portion sizes were not only satisfying but they squenched my sweet tooth need!

My favorites are Chocolate Dipped Strawberry Ice Cream Bars, they are only 3 Points! Low-fat strawberry ice cream swirled with strawberry dipped in creamy milk chocolate and my other absolute favorite is Dark Chocolate Dulce de Leche Ice Cream Bars they are also only 3 Points! The low-fat, creamy dulce de leche ice cream is swirled with caramel and dipped in rich, dark chocolate coating. My husband's favorite was the Dark Chocolate Raspberry Ice Cream Bars, they are only 2 Points! Made of rich, dark chocolate flavored coating on the outside and cool, low-fat raspberry ice cream on the inside. Do you like simple, just chocolate? Then you have got to try Snack Size Chocolate Fudge Bars. They are only 1 Point! Wow! The mini version of a cool classic. The same rich, rewarding chocolate taste as our popular ChefsBest giant-size bars, but only 45 calories!

I am amazed how great these ice cream bars taste and have little calories. I have had other brands that offer similar low calories but their ice cream doesn't taste as scrumptious as these Weight Watcher Ice Cream Bars do! Start your New Year on the right foot and try stocking some up in your freezer to satisfy your sweet tooth needs!

I received free Weight Watcher Ice Cream Bars to review, Weight Watchers did not influence my opinions expressed here as a result. Thank you to Weight Watchers and PR Company for this opportunity!

FRIDAY BLOG AND GOOGLE + HOP (WITH LINKY)

2012-01-19T19:02:00.002-05:00

It's very easy to join in on the fun!

Then start blog hopping!

Please feel free to grab our Friday Blog Hop button and add it to your blog and spread the word!

We have added to our Friday Blog Hop for readers to link up their Google + pages too!

Please type in (blog after your blog name or Google + if it's a Google + link)

EX: Mama to 4 Blessings (Google+)

Mama to 4 Blessings (Blog)

OTHER GREAT THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU LINK UP.....

Do you host giveaways? Feel freet o come back tomorrow (Saturday) and link them up here at Super Saturday Link Up!

Also while your here link up to The Valentine's Day Giveaway Hop! For more information go HERE
It's FREE!

I am also looking for 3 co-hostess to host Thursday Stumble Over every Thursday for the month of February. This would be a linky for bloggers to link up links they want Stumbled and then we can exchange Stumbles. Co-hostesses would be required to post every Thursday linky - I will supply the button and linky each week. For more information and sign up go to the FORM.

TEA COLLECTION (CLOTHING) REVIEW & $100.00 GIFT CERTIFICATE GIVEAWAY

2012-01-19T17:25:00.001-05:00

Tea Collection designs distinctive fashion collections inspired by the beauty they discover in their travels around the world. From the iconic art and architecture of Barcelona to the graphic boldness of Brazilian street graffiti, Tea interprets their discoveries into beautiful, dynamic styles for children, ages 0-12.

I love how fashionable and high quality Tea's clothing line is. I found unlike most other brands their shirts to be made of better quality fabrics. Also their prices are great for what you get, in my opinion these cloths belong in a high end clothing store.

Chapultepec Polo Shirt

Chapultepec is the park in Mexico City that houses the Museum of Anthropology. You would love exploring its magnifico and magical treasures. Go exploring in this soft slub jersey printed polo. Imported. Select colors (Cement or Moss colors) on sale. 100% Cotton Machine Washable

Sells for $19.50

Also available in Chapultepec Romper

Available is XXS and XS Comes in Cement Color. 100% Cotton Machine Washable

Sells for $19.50

Perfect if you have more than one boy - you can have them match!

Escarabat Graphic Tee

The huge beetle of Catalonia on the Escarabat Graphic Tee will stand out in a crowd. Imported. 100% cotton, machine washable. Available in sizes Small, Medium, Large and 3T. Comes in Gravel color Sells for $9.50

Tigre Graphic Tee

Look out for broken tile tigers hiding in the corners of Barcelona. Wear your tee and you'll be protected. Imported. 100% cotton, machine washable Comes in Ecru color. Sells for $9.50

Tea offers beautiful clothing for babies, girls, boys and for women! For all special occassions and for everyday wear!

Tea offers FREE shipping for orders over $150.00 or just $7.00 for orders under minimum.

Win a $100.00 Gift Certificate to Tea!

Please use below Rafflecopter form to enter for a chance to win this awesome giveaway! Please let me know if you have any questions!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

APOLOGIA SWIM CREATURES LESSON 4

2012-01-18T13:57:00.002-05:00

Sorry I haven't posted any Apologia 5th Day Swimming Creatures posts lately. We got behind in lesson 4. Christmas and New Years we were a bit more relaxed, finally we have completed lesson 4 -- Aquatic Herps!

We went to a local turtle rehabilitation to get more of a hands on experience.

This Loggerhead Sea Turtle was eating conch

These next 2 pictures are of baby sea turtles that were found on the beach

This sea turtle is hooked up to medication (the yellow box) due to an injury.

We ended our lesson with one of the experiments. To understand how a frog's skin can absorb oxygen.

Materials needed:

vanilla

balloon

box

We dropped 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla in the balloon, tied it and then put it in a food storage container for 30 minutes. The result was that originally the balloon just smelled like latex but after the 30 minutes was over you could smell the vanilla that absorbed from the balloon.

Link up at Weekly Wrap Up!

LITTLE ANGELS NEW DVD RELEASE 2/14

2012-01-18T12:31:00.002-05:00

Stay tuned to read about my up and coming DVD screening / Valentine's Day party! We will be celebrating the upcoming release of Fox Home Entertainment's Little Angels, a new childrens’ DVD produced by Roma Downey (“Touched by an Angel”), which releases on February 14th.

What are Little Angels DVD's? LITTLE ANGELS is an animated DVD series created exclusively for preschool-aged children to teach not only practical learning skills, like ABCs and 1,2,3s, but also to introduce them to the spiritual, moral and ethical principles of the Bible.

At our party we will be watching the new release of Little Angels DVD accompanied by several fun crafts! Making angel wings, halo's as well as other fun crafts. And then to top it off we will have a yummy fun lunch! I will make sandwiches shaped like hearts along with other yummy treats!

Little Angels has learn ABC's and Animals on DVD as well as sing along CD's. Plus they now offer Apps for your iphone or ipad! This App includes daily prayer, music and games for children!

For updates on these awesome products to grow our children in The Lord feel free to like them on Facebook.

I WANT TO PLAY TOO! WORDLESS WEDNESDAY W/ LINKY

2012-01-17T16:59:00.000-05:00

My boys got Beyblades for Christmas, they left it out on the livingroom floor and the baby decided to crawl inside the arena and sit and hold the game pieces as if he was going to play!

ABBOTT NUTRITION SNACK PACKS, HELPING CHILDREN IN NEED #Cbias #AbbottCFK

2012-01-17T16:38:00.005-05:00

Recently did a post that my family will be making Abbott Nutrition Snack Pack Basket. We went to Walmart and picked up some of our items to donate to our church were a family in need really could use these products.

At Walmart I had my children get involved by helping me choose the products to add to our baskets.

Everyday in our community we see people on the streets holding up signs that they are hungry or looking for work. My children ask me either what their signs say or ask me how we can help. Several times we have helped. It's heartbreaking to see this and even more so heartbreaking that children are hungry or are not getting the proper nutrition. I choose to donate our Abbott Nutrition Snack Pack Basket to our church because it's close to my heart. My family is so blessed that we do not have to go to bed at night hungry but knowing that there is someone in our church who's children are hungry makes me sad and want to help and yet thankful for God's blessings for our family. The items we are giving will be a blessing to a family in need and provide nourishment for their children.

After reading the statics that there are 16 million children under the age of eighteen in the United States are food insecure—unable to consistently access adequate amounts of nutritious food necessary for a healthy life. Even more heartbreaking is the fact that more than three million children under the age of five are food insecure.

After participating in this campaign my children and I will be helping more and passing on the blessings to those in need. I have used this campaign to teach my children how blessed we really are. Not to take a meal for granted.

If you want to get involved with a SIMPLE service project, just go to Champions For Kids for more information. Also, join us for the Abbott/Champions for Kids Twitter party on January 19^th at 9:00 pm EST, using the hashtag #AbbottCFK.

To see more of my Walmart shopping experience and pictures go to my documentation on Google Shop #Abbott CFK .

Disclaimer: “This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias. Opinions are my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

WHAT DO YOU HAVE? I PICK THE TRUTH!

2012-01-17T06:09:00.001-05:00

Over the weekend a friend of mine had this up on her Facebook page. It immediately grabbed my attention because of the title " Why I hate religion but love Jesus". So I watched it in complete agreement. This man is talented but the words he speaks are true. So my questions to you is, do you have religion or do you have Jesus? Religion doesn't save, religion doesn't forgive, religion doesn't give you hope and freedom only Jesus does. I am not judging, just asking a question. Click on the YouTube video and give it some thought.

SOCIAL MEDIA SPOTLIGHT "FACEBOOK" $125.00 CASH GIVEAWAY

2012-01-16T00:02:00.007-05:00

Hostessed by Mama to 4 Blessings and Home Grown Families with the help of several other fantastic group of bloggers we bring you Social Media Sportlight "Facebook"! This giveaway runs from 12:01 AM on Monday 1/16 and will run until Monday, 1/22 at 11:59 PM (all Eastern times). One winner will receive $125.00 Cash into their paypal! OPEN WORLDWIDE!

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GO GREEN BABY CO. WAHMIES ONE SIZE CLOTH DIAPER REVIEW, WAHMIES ONE SIZE CLOTH DIAPER + ROCKIN' GREEN PAIL FRESHENER GIVEAWAY (GREEN RESOLUTIONS)

2012-01-16T00:01:00.001-05:00

Welcome to the Green Resolutions Giveaway Hop, hosted by Happy Mothering, Mama Chocolate and Purposeful Homemaking! In addition to my green giveaway, there are an additional 40 blogs featuring eco-friendly prize packages. After you're done entering my giveaway, please visit the other blogs, which you'll find listed below the Rafflecopter form.

Go Green Baby Company is a reflection of their passion for sustainability, and desire to share their experience with those who want to live green while raising a family. Go Green Baby Company's goal is to provide families with information and support, offer a way to connect with like-minded parents, and serve as a resource for fun, affordable, top quality green products for kids. Most importantly, we want to educate people about the cost savings, positive environmental impact and health benefits of using cloth diapers

I had the opportunity to work with Go Green Baby Company and review one of their fantastic cloth diapers.

Wahmies is a One Size diaper one that fits from birth to potty training, but it sets no limits on what size of a baby it will fit. With a eyelet closure system because we had never used it in a diaper before.

Product Features:

~ Extremely easy to use. It has an opening in the back for effortless insert stuffing.

~ Nice and soft velour against the baby’s skin to wick away moisture. Plus, it stays as good as new, wash after wash!

~ This innovative one size diaper features gentle waist elastic to help ensure a secure fit from the newborn to toddler stages.

~ Has FOUR rise settings providing the perfect rise for a diaper at any age and any weight.

~ Has your toddler figured out how to take their Velcro or snapping diaper off? Then the Wahmies One Size diaper is perfect! They will not figure out how to get this off, but you will find it amazingly easy to put on and adjust.

~Wahmies One Size fits the largest range of weights from 6.5 lbs to 40 lbs! You won’t find that in any other diaper!

~ The snug fit on the Wahmies One Size prevents wings on the diaper from drooping, providing an even better fit.

I have tried several cloth diapers over the years with my 3 children. Some have been great some horrible. The Wahmies is a awesome cloth diaper. My 13 month baby wets frequently and this diaper held up nicely. There was not any leaking what so ever. My baby is petite so at 13 months he is still wearing a small so I adjusted the diaper to the smallest setting and it fit him nice and snug. The diaper wasn't bulky and he seemed very comfortable in it. I like how I can adjust the microfiber insert by folding it into the pocket myself instead of it already one big piece, it makes for faster line drying.

The Cow Print Wahmies sells for $19.95 and can be purchased directly from Go Green Baby Company. Go Green Baby Company offers several other cloth diapering products: Pocket Diapers, Diaper Covers, Inserts, Prefolds, All-in-One Cloth Diapers, Wool Covers, Cloth Diapering Accessories, Breastfeeding Accessories, Baby Clothing and Baby Gear! A one stop shop store!

Go Green Baby is offering 1 of my readers: their choice of a Wahmies One Size Pocket Cloth Diaper AND Rockin' Green Pail Freshener!

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BUZZ BLAST $10.00 CASH GIVEAWAY

2012-01-16T00:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Buzz Blast January!

Buzz Blast is hosted by ShePromotes and the goal is to bring you a great little prize while building a little buzz! If you love to enter giveaways and discover new blogs, Buzz Blast is a great opportunity for you!

Buzz Blast January runs from Monday, January 16th through Sunday, January 22nd. This month you will have the opportunity to check out some great Facebook pages! You will also have 3 chances to win $10 cash (paid via Paypal) or a $10 Amazon gift card because we have 3 Buzz Blast giveaways going on now! What could be better than the chance to win a prize? The chance to win 3 prizes!

How to enter

It's easy to enter the Buzz Blast giveaways!

Enter the Buzz Blast Giveaway here by using the Rafflecopter form below.
At the end of the Rafflecopter form, you will find links to the other two Buzz Blast giveaways.
Enter each of those and you also earn extra entries in this giveaway!

There are 3 Buzz Blast giveaways and entrants are eligible to win more than one prize. (Yes, you could get lucky and win $30!) Sponsoring blogs are not eligible to win.

Check out some new blogs and build some buzz this month with Buzz Blast! Oh, and best of all, win some money! What are you waiting for! Enter now for your chance to win!

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THE BIG YEAR MOVIE 2012 NEW YEARS RESOLUTION CHECK LIST

2012-01-15T21:33:00.001-05:00

Comedic Icons Steve Martin, Jack Black and Owen Wilson Star in the Hilarious Outdoor Adventure Coming to Blu-ray and DVD January 31!

Let the fowl play begin! Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment presents the story of a competitive trio who quickly turn a simple quest into the ultimate competition when THE BIG YEAR spreads its wings on Blu-ray and DVD January 31.

Steve Martin, Jack Black and Owen Wilson portray three men from very different walks of life, facing a mid-life crisis, a work-life crisis and a no-life crisis. In the biggest competition of their lives, they undertake an unforgettable trek through North America, engaging in hilarious and bizarre adventures and forming friendships that will last a lifetime!

THE BIG YEAR Blu-ray is loaded with special features including the theatrical and extended editions of the film, over 40 minutes of deleted scenes and the featurette “The Big Migration.” The Blu-ray combo pack and single-disc DVD will be available for an average retail price of $29.99 and $19.99 respectively.

THE BIG YEAR Blu-ray Special Features

Extended Feature Film

“The Big Migration” featurette

Deleted Scenes

Roger Tory Peterson

Bird Behavior

Stu Late for Boat, Bird Puns with Brad & Ellie, Stu Gets Bostick’s Autograph

Longer Boat End, Dock, Pretzels & Skippy

Nozzle Theft and Other Newscasters

Longer Cars to HI

Cereal Rat with Talk

Lanky Birder Makes Time with Ellie

Stu’s Summer Montage with Fire Island Fauna

Bostick Returns Home

Long Pelagic

Bostick Goes to China

Gag Reel

Stay accountable this year, print off The Big Year Check New Years Rescoultion Check List, use it daily! (Click image to enlarge to print)

For more movie details you can view The Big Year Facebook and Twitter. Stay tuned Mama to 4 Blessings will be offering one reader a copy of The Big Year on DVD. Giveaway will be open to US and Canada.

This was not a paid post. Thank you to 20th Century Fox and Pr Company who supplied me with the post information.

PAY IT FORWARD TO A FELLOW BLOGGER - INTERNATIONAL DELIGHT ICED COFFEE #Cbias #IcedCoffee

2012-01-15T21:11:00.001-05:00

I recently shared a great new product that hits the store shelves (in your dairy cases) on today January 15th ~ International Delight Iced Coffee! The convenience of this product is wonderful! All the work is done for you, just pour some ice in your cup and then pour International Delight Iced Coffee over it and enjoy! It's like taking a mini vacation!

Along with participating in this campaign I was given the opportunity to share the same wonderful products with a fellow blogger. Heidi from The Busy Nothings is a busy blogger who enjoys cooking, DYI projects and freelancing. Like myself she enjoyed the International Delight Iced Coffee products.

Heidi notes on her blog pertaining to International Delight Iced Coffee - For the people with arched eye brows, thinking to themselves, “how does this work with your goal of healthy, all- natural living?” I say to them, “This is delicious. I’m not perfect and my old bio said ‘food hypocrite, organic as I can afford but I love me some McDonald’s fries’ because although my goal is to eat organically as possible sometimes I want to have a little bit of a treat.

International Delights Iced Coffee comes in 3 delicious flavors: Original, Mocha and Vanilla. Bring the coffeehouse to the comfort of your own home, pick up this delicious coffee today at your local Walmart!

This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias. All opinions herein are 100% mine. #CBias.

USES FOR PRECISION Q-TIPS + TRAVEL PACKS OF PRECISION Q-TIPS $25.00 AMEX GC GIVEAWAY

2012-01-14T17:21:00.001-05:00

I love Q-tips, there are so many uses for them besides gently cleaning your ears. Especially Precision Tips!

Q-tips are very inexpensive and can be used for so many different applications such as:

With 4 children my home gets messy! the Precision Tips Q-tips are great for cleaning whether it be fore your home, office or car. Q-tips are the perfect tool to clean any nooks and crannies. I like using them in my car in the small areas on the inside of my door. Even the screws get all full of dust or gunk and Q-tips are a perfect solution to getting all that gunk out.

Or use them on computer keyboards or computers or telephones. There are such tight spaces between the keys but these are products that get used frequently and they too get really dirty. Just dab a bit of water or safe cleaner on the Q-tip and, gently clean between the keys. I recommend cleaning the keyboard with your computer turned off from my past experiences!

As a homeschool mom Q-tips are perfect for our classroom tool! For my 2 year old daughter they are great for her little hands to do learning activities with. Line up blocks with holes in them and have the child place the Q-tips in the holes, or give them an bottle or jar with a narrow opening or have them drop the Q-tips in the bottle, great for hand and eye coordination! For pre-writing take yarn and make shapes on the floor and have the child place the Q-tips over the yarn for tracing.

Another tool is for arts and crafts. Instead of using paintbrushes use Q-tips for painting. No messes to clean up, use then toss! Not to mention they are good for smaller hands, paintbrushes are long for littler children and Q-tips are nice and easy to use plus you can use both ends verses with a paintbrush you can't! Also I consider myself to be a very thrifty person so when our glue sticks get low and hard to use I hate to toss them out so I give my kids Q-tips to get the last of the glue out.

How about using them for the media for art projects? They make life-like snowflakes! The white color pops on blue construction paper. You can even add a bit of color to the Q-tips if preferred. Perfect for a Christmas or winter craft!

And finally I love them for taking off eye makeup. I wear waterproof eye makeup and it's hard to come off so I like to dab a very tiny bit of eye makeup lotion remover to the Q-tip and gently rub the makeup off. Using Q-tips for taking off nail polish is another great application. Especially my 2 year old daughter who I allow her toe nails to be painted. Being little her toenails are so little that taking off nail polish with Q-tips work wonderfully!And when we are ready to take the polish off since her toe nails are so tiny Q-Tips are great to take the polish off with. I use them too to take my polish off with!

The uses for Q-tips is endless! Not only do Q-tips come in vanity packs, larger packs (500 count), New Baby Pack (250 count) but they come in Purse Packs (30 count). Perfect sizes for perfect uses! For more uses you can go to Q-tips Facebook.

Win: A Travel Size package of Precision Q-tips and a $25.00 American Express Gift Certificate.

Please use below Rafflecopter form to enter for a chance to win this awesome giveaway! Please let me know if you have any questions!

“I was provided with Q-tips cotton swabs® and information about the product by PR Company. All opinions are 100% my own.”

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GIVEAWAY LINKY - SUPER SATURDAY LINK UP

2012-01-13T21:28:00.002-05:00

Here are my current giveaways..........

Alpha Catch by Educational Insights
Ends 1/25

$25.00 Gift Certificate to Creative Toyshop
Ends 1/17

Thomas & Friends Rescue on the Rails DVD
Ends 1/19

Snuggy Baby (Baby Sling/Wraps), Wetbags + more ($75.00 GC)
Ends 1/26

Christian Comic Book Prize Pack for kids
Ends 1/30

Growums Salad Garden Kits for Kids
Ends 1/22

SnoozeShade Original (For Strollers)
Ends 1/29

SnoozeShade Original (for strollers) Review + Giveaway

2012-01-13T21:16:00.001-05:00

I recently wrote a review for The SnoozeShade For Infant Car Seat. I found this product essential living in Florida. I love how the SnoozeShade For Car Seat offers so much at once. From keeping baby away from people touching or in baby's face, keeping the baby out of the sun or rain to a black out shade. Snooze Shade offers The SnoozeShade Original as well. Which is perfect if your child is no longer in an infant carrier.

Product Features:
SnoozeShade Original is a unique blackout blind for strollers.

Made from a double layer of soft dark breathable fabric, SnoozeShade Original provides a shady and well-ventilated sleep environment by blocking 94% of light.
It's safer, lightweight and secure alternative to draping coats or blankets.
Great-on-the-go solution for babies and it's great for holidays, in restaurants or anytime you have to be out during baby’s naptime.
Its patent-pending design shuts out the world to help keep sleeping babies snoozing in their pushchairs and helps alert babies to switch off enough to allow them to fall asleep.
With UPF50+ protection, SnoozeShade Original can be used all year round.
It’s simple and easy to check on your sleeping baby using the ‘sneak-a-peek’ zip at the front.
Compact and lightweight, SnoozeShade Original is small enough to hang off stroller handles or leave in your change bag, handbag or stroller basket to use when you need it. When naptime is over, just pop it away into its storage bag. Elasticated top and sides with easy-to-attach Velcro straps ensure SnoozeShade Original fits easily to most popular prams and strollers.

Bright coloured trim and straps are useful to give some extra visibility for you and your stroller.

With 4 children I was able to use our SnoozeShade Original on our twin stoller and on our side by side stroller.

Buy It: SnoozeShade offers several great products to keep baby safe and happy:

SnoozeShade Plus

SnoozeShade Twin

SnoozeShade For Cots

SnoozeShade For Infant Car Seats

The SnoozeShade Original sells for $34.99 and can be purchased at Amazon or you can find a retailer near you.

Win It: The SnoozeShade Original!

Please use below Rafflecopter form to enter for a chance to win this awesome giveaway! Please let me know if you have any questions!

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TYSON MINI CHICKEN SANDWICHES FOR BREAKFAST! #Cbias #Tysongoodness

2012-01-13T06:18:00.001-05:00

I am always looking for new ideas for meals. I really do not like to cook because I do not think I am that good at it. For breakfast it's typically the same thing either cereal, oatmeal or pancakes. I decided to try something new with one of our favorite products --- Tyson Mini Chicken Sandwiches. So with my 4 children in tow we headed to Walmart to pick up these yummy sandwiches.

There were a few other items I needed to pick up as well. To make these sandwiches a savory breakfast I decided to add scramble eggs, cheese and sausage to them. My first stop was to grab some turkey sausage.

Then over to the frozen cooler section for the main feature of the breakfast in which try prepare! There are so many brands out there that try to make mini chicken sandwiches but I prefer Tyson. It's a brand I can trust. We decided to get the Tyson Mini Chicken Sandwiches without cheese this time.

My children enjoy these sandwiches because they are not only yummy but they are the perfect size for them. We can tailor them any which way they want them made adding different toppings to them.

We picked up a few other items that I needed - black beans which are a staple for meals and a bleach pen that every mom should have! Then it was time to check out. My kids enjoy being my helpers, especially at the self check out. Where they take turns scanning items. I have to be careful because sometimes they scan one item too many times.

With a busy morning of homeschooling and then headed off for a co-op/playdate I wanted to make our Tyson Mini Chicken Sandwiches for breakfast with the breakfast twist on it. Gathering my ingredients: eggs, cheese, turkey sausage and Tyson Mini Chicken Sandwiches it as time to prepare a fast breakfast that looked and tasted as if it took longer than 5-7 minutes to make total!

After scrambling the eggs, cooking the turkey sausage and Tyson Mini Chicken Sandwiches in the microwave shredding up some cheese I placed all the toppings on the sandwiches - Viola! Time for breakfast! Can't get an easier and tastier than that!

Tyson is offering a FREE $5.00 gift certificate to Walmart when you purchase 2 boxes of Tyson Mini Chicken Sandwiches. For further information go to their web-site to read the details.

To see more of my Walmart shopping experience and pictures go to my documentation on Google Shop #TysonGoodness . To find a Walmart near you that carries Tyson Mini Chicken Sandwiches click on their product locations page.

Disclaimer: “This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias. Opinions are my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

FRIDAY BLOG AND GOOGLE + HOP (WITH LINKY)

2012-01-12T18:30:00.000-05:00

It's very easy to join in on the fun!

Then start blog hopping!

Please feel free to grab our Friday Blog Hop button and add it to your blog and spread the word!

We have added to our Friday Blog Hop for readers to link up their Google + pages too!

Please type in (blog after your blog name or Google + if it's a Google + link)

EX: Mama to 4 Blessings (Google+)

Mama to 4 Blessings (Blog)

Sign up's are going on now for Social Media Spotlight "Facebook" event.

$5 for your FB link. $4 towards the cash prize, and $1 for admin. fees. PayPal to psalms23and24 @yahoo (send as gift please). Giveaway runs from Dates: January 16th 12:01 AM to January 22nd 11:59

You can sign up by filling out the following form. Sign ups end 1/13/12 @ 5:00 PM

Mama to 4 Blessings and Home Grown Families have created a new Facebook Group for bloggers (Bloggin' Social - Media Chat Blog Events) This group is about everything from social media topics to great upcoming blog events! We would love for you to JOIN.

_________________________________________________________________

COUPONING, GETTING ARRESTED FOR WHAT?!

2012-01-12T12:00:00.000-05:00

I am a couponer, yes I bring my coupon binder with me everywhere. I save our big family quite a bit of money with my coupons. I am not a hoarder who buys 50 bottles of mustard. I buy things that my family uses and if it's good deal I stock up.

When I logged on my computer Yahoo news caught my eye with "New Coupon Rules That Can Get You Arrested". I clicked on the tab to find out more.

What are you serious I can get arrested for taking the coupons from my neighbors recycling bins? Why it's garbage, it's awaiting to be picked up and hey after all I am recycling by using them aren't I?

This is what the article on Yahoo said:

Dumpster and recycling-bin diving: "The CIC, for reasons of safety, strongly recommends that no one enter into dumpsters." I think it's safe to say that people willing to brave a giant trash receptacle probably aren't concerned with safety. At the same time, the CIC correctly points out that diving into a dumpster on private land can get you arrested for trespassing, and that removing recyclables can get you arrested for theft. The same goes for removing recyclables from curbside recycling bins, also known as "scavenging."

How am I trespassing with the bins are at the foot of their driveway? Give me a break! shouldn't the law be reinforcing hanus crimes instead of moms just wanted to provide for their families and save money?

Here are some I can understand being arrested for:

Photocopying coupons. This is also a type of counterfeiting.

Stealing newspapers: Taking something that isn't yours is theft.

We live in a development with over 800 homes, sometimes we will take a walk the night before and I will grab coupons in recycle bins that homeowners didn't want so how is that an action to get arrested?

That's crazy! One person's trash is another person's treasure so how is that stealing?

StumbleUpon Comment LINKY

2012-01-11T20:47:00.001-05:00

Mama to 4 Blessings and Home Grown Families are teaming up to share some StumbleUpon love!

Link up A COMMENT BELOW you would like for us to Stumble. To participate you must stumble at least 4 other links. (Please do not link up your giveaways or other social media links, link up your StumbleUpon account page only, all others will be deleted) Please leave me a comment if you stumbled mine and I will make sure to stumble/thumbs up your post back! I will come back later today and stumble/like you back!

Let's boost our StumbleUpon!

JUST A ONE PERSON PARTY

2012-01-11T17:01:00.000-05:00

Do you ever have one of those days? A day that you just want to hide underneath a rock? Today I had a party but not a good one, a pity party. Ever have a day like that? My pity party started at my Bible study, what a place to have a pity party! I started to feel sorry for myself, why? I am so blessed! God knows our hearts and our desires. I know that He loves us and He wants what's best for us. I love His mercy and how He comforts us but why do we let the enemy steal our joy? We need to be patient and wait on Him. That's what I struggle with the most, I am one of those who when I want something I am impatient. I am glad He makes me wait, it makes me dependant on Him!

Here are some Bible verses today I heard that made the pity party go away:

Psalm 62:5-8

Yes, my soul, find rest in God;
my hope comes from him.
Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
My salvation and my honor depend on God^[
he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
Trust in him at all times, you people;
pour out your hearts to him,
for God is our refuge.

I just want to remind you we have an awesome God!

PRINCESS SISTER - WORDLESS WEDNESDAY W/ LINKY

2012-01-10T16:52:00.001-05:00

I had to take a picture of this, my 6 year old gives his little sister such a hard time ALWAYS. It's a battle everyday. He told me he drew a picture of his sister on their LeapPad, he even added a tiara. I thought it was so sweet, so did she! I have to remember things like this and how much he does love her!

GROWUMS SALAD GARDEN KIT FOR KIDS REVIEW + GIVEAWAY

2012-01-10T16:36:00.001-05:00

Growums provides children with a remarkable experience to grow their own garden – along with the help of fun characters who coach them in a virtual world they can enjoy online – the kids will be attentive and successful in their real-life gardening adventures.

Each Growums Garden Kit comes with everything you need to start growing your own delicious vegetables and herbs. But your Growums experience doesn’t end there. Before you start your seeds, be sure to register your garden at Growums.com, then get ready for an interactive gardening adventure! Fun-loving Growums characters come to life in a series of animated videos that show you how to properly care for your plants, from planting the seeds to harvesting your food. (You’ll even learn tips on what to do with your garden once it’s finished for the season.) Your Growums friends will help you keep track of each stage of your garden’s progress, so you won’t get lost along the way. The more you log onto Growums.com, the more points you can earn to use later on the site. It’s a fun and educational online experience like no other, and it’s a wonderful way to grow a successful garden – one character at a time!

Salad Garden Kit Includes
~ 1 package: Romaine Lettuce seeds
~ 1 package: Carrot seeds
~ 1 package: Cucumber seeds
~ 1 package Roma Tomato seeds
~ 8 Coco Pellets
~ 8 Plant Tags (2 per veg.)
~ Directions

I like how this kit includes everything for children to make their own garden. Even someone like myself who doesn't have a green thumb couldn't mess this up! What a fun and hands on learning experience Growums offers children. Not only can you eat the yummy salad this produces but you can learn about the whole process of the growth of the vegetables!

Growums offers several other garden kits: Pizza Garden, Herb Garden, Ratatouille, Stir-Fry Garden and Taco Garden! Each garden sells for $9.99. Perfect for fundraisers, schools and organizations!

Win it: 1 winner will win a Growums Salad Garden

Use below Rafflecopter form to enter for a chance to win this awesome giveaway! Please let me know if you have any questions!

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CHRISTIAN COMIC BOOKS FOR KIDS REVIEW + GIVEAWAY

2012-01-09T15:24:00.003-05:00

Crown Junior Comics was created in the summer of 2008. By February 2009 we released our first comic book "David and Goliath". Since then we have released Noah, Moses, and a quarterly series named "Priscilla". Our main goal is to share the gospel in a fun manner to children. Crown Junior comics is distributed and marketed by Salinas Slugger Studios. All written and produced by Peter Gonzalez.

My boys love comic books but I cringe at the emptiness and the provocative outfits these characters wear. I was thrilled to come across Crown Junior Comics by Salinas Slugger Studios. Why? They are Biblical! What a awesome way to reach out to children with the Gospel using comic books! When my 6 year old and I sat down to read these comic books he was mesmerized. Sure we do our Bible teaching daily but using these action packed comic books makes it fun for children.

We had the opportunity to review quite a few of these awesome comic books

Priscilla #4

10 color pages for ages 5-10

“O come, Let Is Adore Him.” The story of Christmas is presented at a local school play. Follow Priscilla as they put on a wonderful show, with a bit of mischief from the cast mates.

Sells for $3.00

Moses

The Moses comic book is brought to life with 32 pages. The story begins with the Egyptians and Hebrews are at peace with each other but soon a new Pharaoh comes to power and enslaves the Hebrews. Follow Moses live to a tiny basket in the Nile River to leading to the Promised Land.

Sells for $5.00

Priscilla #3

8 Color pages for ages 5-10

Priscilla is playing video games with her cousins when her Dad comes home. Priscilla’s Dad soon finds she has not kept her promise by not doing her chores. The story of Abraham is featured in this comic book. Priscilla #3 teaches that unlike our promised, God’s promises have never failed.

Sells for $1.75

Priscilla #2

8 Color pages for ages 5-10

Priscilla is playing football with some neighborhood boys when she notices her friend Tommy hasn't been to church lately. Priscilla catches up to Tommy and tells him the story of Jonah.

You can now read this comic book on-line for FREE

Sells for $2.50

Priscilla #1

8 Color pages for ages 5-10

Priscilla meets a young boy at a neighborhood park that doesn't speak English. During their encounter they get frustrated because of their inability to understand each other. The Tower of Babel is taught in this story explaining why we have so many language differences.

Sells for $2.50

Noah

8 Color pages for ages 5-10

Priscilla and Teri are making their way home from school on a rainy day. Priscilla and Teri stop at a local diner to get out of the rain where they learn the story about Noah.

Sells for $3.75

David & Goliath

16 colorful pages for ages 5-10

The Old Testament story brought to life through artwork bringing it to life.

Sells for $3.75

These amazing comic books can be purchased directly from Crown Jr. Comics on-line store or you can find a retailer near you.

Crown Junior Comics has generously allowed me to giveaway 4 copies of Priscilla #3 and 4 (5) comic book trading cards! (4 winners will receive Priscilla (Biblical comic book and 5 Bible comic trading cards)!

Use below Rafflecopter form to enter for a chance to win this awesome giveaway! Please let me know if you have any questions!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

HELPING CHILDREN IN NEED - MAKE A SIMPLE SNACK PACK #Cbias #AbbottCFK

2012-01-09T12:47:00.002-05:00

My family has been very blessed and we stop and thank God for His abundant blessings. I couldn't imagine my children ever going to bed without having a healthy meal, I am thankful this has never happened.

There are more than 16 million children under the age of eighteen in the United States are food insecure—unable to consistently access adequate amounts of nutritious food necessary for a healthy life. Even more heartbreaking is the fact that more than three million children under the age of five are food insecure.

While having enough food is important, the nutritional quality of that food is equally important. Approximately 17% (or 12.5 million) of children and adolescents ages 2 – 19 are obese, and 1 of 7 low-income, preschool-aged children is obese.

I never knew who astounding these numbers were until after reading them on Champions For Kids. There are ways we can help, pass your blessings onto others in need. First learn about thehunger needs of children in your community by inviting a teacher, social worker, food pantry employee, or homeless shelter volunteer to talk with your family, friends, and co-workers. Then gather your friends, family, and coworkers to provide nutritious snacks for children in need. Items like Pediasure, Pediasure SideKicks, and ZonePerfect bars would be great to share! Give the Abbott Nutrition Snack Packs to an organization in your community that serves children (like a school, religious organization, or nonprofit).

Our family will be heading to Walmart this week to put together our Abbott Nutrition Snack Pack Basket and then pass it to our church who offers a homeless ministry. These wonderful products will go to a family with children.

“This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias”. You may also wish to say something along the lines of, “All opinions are my own.”

NEW LIFE COMING FROM OUR BACKYARD!

2012-01-07T23:03:00.000-05:00

We have been blessed to see 2 butterflies come out of their chrysalis. Currently we have approximately 4-5 crystalis' on our back patio. They are for Gulf Fritillary and they are absolutely beautiful. This last one came out last weekend, it's wings were still wet and it hung from it's chrysalis for awhile and I sat there watching it with my kids, mesmerized. 2 lizards tried to get it but I didn't have the heart to watch this new life be eaten in just a matter of moments. After a period of time it kept falling down and wouldn't fly away so I scooped it up and put it in our butterfly house, the next day I tried to get it to fly away but it wouldn't. I was worried, my kids and I prayed for it so the next day I took it out of the butterfly house and a few moments later it fly away! Praise God!

Of coarse I took lots of pictures of it!

What a perfect opportunity for hands-on learning!

GIVEAWAY LINKY -- SUPER SATURDAY LINK UP

2012-01-06T18:18:00.001-05:00

Here are my current giveaways..........

Alpha Catch by Educational Insights
Ends 1/25

$25.00 Gift Certificate to Creative Toyshop
Ends 1/17

Thomas & Friends Rescue on the Rails DVDEnds 1/19

Snuggy Baby (Baby Sling/Wraps), Wetbags + more ($75.00 GC)
Ends 1/26

NapBag by OC Daisy
Ends 1/9

SnoozeShade for Infant Car Seat
Ends 1/10

Natural House Probotic Cleaners (3 products)
Ends 1/12

Prefense Alchohol Free Hand Sanitizer
Ends 1/9

_____________________________________________________________

Looking for more places to link up your giveaways daily? Click on my Blog Giveaway Daily Link List on my side bar to the right or click HERE!

OTHER GREAT THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU LINK UP.....

Also while your here link up to The Valentine's Day Giveaway Hop! For more information go HERE

Sign up's are going on now for Social Media Spotlight "Facebook" event.

$5 for your FB link. $4 towards the cash prize, and $1 for admin. fees. PayPal to psalms23and24 @yahoo (send as gift please). Giveaway runs from Dates: January 16th 12:01 AM to January 22nd 11:59

You can sign up by filling out the following form. Sign ups end 1/13/12

Mama to 4 Blessings and Home Grown Families have created a new Facebook Group for bloggers (Bloggin' Social - Media Chat Blog Events) This group is about everything from social media topics to great upcoming blog events! We would love for you to JOIN.

_________________________________________________________________

EDUCATIONAL INSIGHTS LEARNING PRODUCTS (ALPHA CATCH, TEACHABLE TEXTURES, NO YELL BELL) + ALPHA CATCH GIVEAWAY

2012-01-06T15:19:00.001-05:00

Educational Insights, is the manufacturer of playful products with serious educational value, including subject-specific classroom products, teacher resources, educational toys, and games. Their products are designed by seasoned educators and parents who know that, first and foremost, learning must be fun.

As a homeschool mom I find Educational Insights products essential in our everyday learning. Yes, my children need to learn from their curriculum but I like to make our homeschool enjoyable and that's where Educational Insights products come in. Whether it be teaching math, science, spelling or history Educational Insights has products for all ages. I am currently teaching my preschooler his ABC's, my toddler and baby textures and with 4 children it gets loud so what are the products Educational Insights that work perfectly for these learning opportunities?

Alpha Catch
Alpha Catch is the fast-paced, physical way to practice letter names and sounds. Kids take turns tossing self-stick balls, catching them with the sticky catcher's mitts, and playing fun phonics games about the letters on each ball. It's a phonemic awareness home run!

Games include:
~ Letter Line Up - "What letter is that?"
~ Ace the Sound - "What sound does that letter make?"
~ Beginning Sounds Catch - "Say a word that begins with that sound!"
~ Ending Sounds Catch - "Say a word that ends with that sound!"
~ Middle Sounds Catch - "Say a word that has that sound in the middle!"
~ Word Catch - "Can you make a word with the letters you caught?"
~ Round Robin Play - "All questions above are asked as a group of kids tosses and catches the balls

Sells for $29.99

My preschooler loves baseball so using this game/activity to teach him is ABC's I found very useful and at the same time not only was he learning but he got to play while learning! I also played it with my toddler who I threw the ball to her glove and she had to name the color.

Teachable Touchables

Scratchy, slippery, silky or soft? Explore a whole bagful of textures!
~ Builds tactile discrimination skills and related vocabulary as children interact with each texture
~ Features 20 pillows and patches (10 different pairs) for hands-on activities
~ Includes Activity Guide and drawstring bag that holds all components
~ Each textured pillow or patch measures approximately 2"-3", perfect for small hands

~ Grades PreK+

Sells for $24.99

Although this product is recommended for PreK my baby enjoyed the different textures. He was fascinated by them. He likes to throw so he would hold them and enjoy the textures and them throw them crawl to them and them hold them again. My preschooler and toddler enjoyed describing the textures to me and then matching them into pairs.

No Yell Bell
Need to get your students’ attention? Save your voice and let our handy electronic bell do the work. Features 7 fun sound effects, including a bugle call, cheering crowd and -of course- a clanging bell. Requires 4 AAA batteries, not included.

Sells for $29.99

I love this No Yell Bell because our house gets loud with our big family! One of my New Years Resolutions is to try to speak more softly, the No Yell Bell helps me to do just that. It definitely gets my children's attention and is perfect for our homeschool. I like how there are different calls and I can even give them praise with the applause effect!

Right now Educational Insights is offering 25% their reduced clearance items till 1/31/12 using code SOFULL at checkout! Get your shopping done now and take advantage of this great deal!

Win Alpha Catch!

Use below Rafflecopter form to enter for a chance to win this awesome giveaway! Please let me know if you have any questions!

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TYSON MINI CHICKEN SANDWICHES FOR DINNER #Cbias #TysonGoodness

2012-01-05T23:02:00.001-05:00

With our busy family of 6 - between the kids karate, soccer and Little Contenders of the Faith classes our evenings get real hectic! Alot of times we like to have breakfast for dinner whether it be pancakes with eggs or french toast. We wanted something different! How about Tyson Mini Chicken Sandwiches for dinner with a breakfast twist?

So off to Walmart my 4 children and I went to purchase our Tyson Mini Chicken Sandwiches!

Inside we needed just a few items, our 1st stop - to grab our main ingredients - Tyson Mini Chicken Sandwiches!

These sandwiches come with or without cheese. Both perfect for anytime of the day - we picked up one's with cheese, perfect melted on the eggs we will have on the sandwiches!

My daughter the little cheerleader - cheering because she knows what's for dinner!

My 4 year old son wanted chips but as we have gone into the new year I want to make sure our family is eating healthier so down to the fruit aisle instead to pick up some mango's!

After picking up the rest of our groceries, time to head to the check out. I love the self check out, I try to use these as much as possible. This is the only Walmart in my area that I know of that has one! We purchased mango's, spinach, cups for my kids mouth rinse, bacon, Twizzlers and Tyson Mini Chicken Sandwiches.

After leaving with my little helpers in tow, time to go home and make dinner!

Only 2 ingredients! Eggs and Tyson Mini Chicken Sandwiches!

I served mine with ketchup but the rest of my family thought this was crazy! These sandwiches make a perfect snack, meal whether it be for dinner, lunch or breakfast!

Tyson is offering a FREE $5.00 gift certificate to Walmart when you purchase 2 boxes of Tyson Mini Chicken Sandwiches. For further information go to their web-site to read the details.

Disclaimer: “This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias. Opinions are my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.

FRIDAY BLOG AND GOOGLE + HOP!

2012-01-05T17:00:00.003-05:00

It's very easy to join in on the fun!

Then start blog hopping!

Please feel free to grab our Friday Blog Hop button and add it to your blog and spread the word!

We have added to our Friday Blog Hop for readers to link up their Google + pages too!

Please type in (blog after your blog name or Google + if it's a Google + link)

EX: Mama to 4 Blessings (Google+)

Mama to 4 Blessings (Blog)

Sign up's are going on now for Social Media Spotlight "Facebook" event.

$5 for your FB link. $4 towards the cash prize, and $1 for admin. fees. PayPal to psalms23and24 @yahoo (send as gift please). Giveaway runs from Dates: January 16th 12:01 AM to January 22nd 11:59

WINTER THEME SENSORY BIN

2012-01-05T14:12:00.001-05:00

My preschooler and toddler love sensory bins, so I made a winter theme sensory bin using items from around our home.

packing peanuts (I told them it was pretend snow)

white craft pom poms

polar bear game piece from Polar Bear A-B-C

a snowman cookie tin we got during Christmas

misc. cups and sorters

animals that live in the snow learning cards

snowflake foam stampers
little tongs for both kids

We love these bins, they teach creative play, imagination, sensory, motor skills and so much more. I like to make one for different themes, I will be doing a Valentine's Day one so stay tuned next month!

MONSTER JAM GIVEAWAY!

2012-01-05T13:58:00.000-05:00

Hello!!
What little boy doesn't love LOUD DIRTY HUGE MONSTER TRUCKS???

The Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam Tour is stopping in Greenville, South Carolina on January 27 & 28 at the Bi-Lo Center in celebration of the 30th anniversary of.....................

GRAVE DIGGER!!

This crowd favorite is going to make a special appearance- a 30th anniversary experience!

" The Grave Digger 30th Anniversary Experience, which will tour to all
Monster Jam events in which Grave Digger will be performing, features a
historical timeline from Grave Digger's humble beginning to its rise
in popularity, exclusive vintage attractions, limited edition
merchandise like the Grave Digger 30th Anniversary DVD, broadcasts of
thrilling moments from Monster Jam events spanning three decades, and
more!"

This is not a show to miss! Grave Digger, Batman, and Monster Mutt will be racing across the dirt at the Greenville, SC Bi-Lo center on these days:

January 27th 7:30 PM

January 28th 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM

Kids tickets are just $6 each!

WIN IT: Home Grown Families has partnered up to give away a Family 4 pack of tickets for Opening night to see the Advance Auto Parts
Monster Jam at the Bi-Lo Center! PLUS+ you will win a Mattel Grave
Digger Playset to keep the Monster truck appreciation going!

ENTER BELOW USING RAFFLECOPTER

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thank you to the following blogs for your help in promoting this event: Mama to 4 Blessings, The Three Under, Acting Balanced, I'd Rather be Changing Diapers, JDaniel4's Mom, Coupon Savings in the South,and The Mommy Times.

Disclaimer:
By entering this contest, you certify that you are 18 years old or older and that you have read and agree with the rules, our giveaway policy and disclosure:

U.S only except where prohibited by law.
No purchase necessary. Giveaway starts at the moment of the posting of
this article and will run until January 21, 2012 at 11:59PM! The prize
is a pack of 4 tickets to see Monster Jam . All prizes will be awarded. A
list of winners will be available after 7 days by writing
MomToSprouts {at} yahoo {dot} com. All prizes are awarded and forwarded
to the winner by the sponsor; in this case, Harlu Media. Please see Official Rules for more details.

We are disclosing this in accordance
with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning
the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

STUMBLE UPON LINK UP AND FOLLOW

2012-01-05T08:13:00.003-05:00

Mama to 4 Blessings and Home Grown Families are teaming up to share some StumbleUpon love!

Link up your StumbleUpon page below. (Please do not link up your giveaways or other social media links, link up your StumbleUpon account page only, all others will be deleted) The only requirement we ask is that you follow at least 4 other participants.

Come back next Thursday 1/12 and link up a blog post you want Stumbled (not a giveaway related post) and share some Stumble love!

Let's boost our StumbleUpon!

THOMAS & FRIENDS ADVENTURE ON THE TRACKS / RESCUE ON THE RAILS REVIEW + GIVEAWAY

2012-01-05T08:04:00.003-05:00

All aboard for a very special delivery with Thomas & Friends Adventure on the Tracks 6-DVD Set. Enjoy 36 of their favorite episodes with Thomas and his engine friends as they find adventures, help friends and discover new things on the Island of Sodor.

Product Information

Genre: Children/Family/Ages 2-5
Closed Captioned: English
Sells for $29.98 SRP

This 6 DVD Set includes:

Thomas and the Jet Engine: Thomas gets a surprising push from a jet engine, Percy lets his imagination run away with him, Harold makes a horse fly and Salty and Fergus prove they're useful on and off the tracks.
Bonus Features:
~ Sing Along Song: Boo! Boo! Choo Choo
~ Thomas Gallery
~ 3 Bonus DVD Games: Counting Corner, What Came First? and Memory Madness

Thomas Comes to Breakfast - Learn important lessons about good behavior when Thomas shows off a little too much, Diesel causes trouble between the other engines and Gordon finds out that sabotage can backfire.

Bonus Features:
~ Read Along Story: Thomas and the Naughty Diesel
~ Sing Along Song: Little Engines
~ DVD Bonus Game: James' Connects the Dots Fun

Steamjet vs. Diesels - See how much the Steamies and Diesels have in common when they put aside their differences and start working together to keep Sir Topham Hatt's railway running smoothly.
Bonus Features:
~ Fun and Games
~ Pick a Story

Percy's Ghostly Trick
Thomas thinks he's seen a ghost, Percy puffs into a giant pile of hay, Oliver encounters some troublesome trucks and Donald and Douglas rescue a mischievous engine.
Bonus Features:
~ Character Gallery
~ Sing-Along Song: Thomas' Anthem
~ Bonus DVD Game: Who Am I?

Rusty to the Rescue - Join in the adventure as little Rusty sets off where only big, brave diesels dare to go and Duke gets rescued and reunited with Stuart and Falcon.
Bonus Features:
~ Sing-Along Song: Gone Fishing
~ Sodor Memories
~ Game and Activity Sheets

Percy Saves the Day - Learn the importance of listening to others when Thomas ignores Percy's wobbly track warning, Rusty sets off to save a reckless Duncan and Fergus proves himself to be really useful.
Bonus Features:
~ Read Along Story: Thomas and Percy and the Dragon
~ Sing Along Song: There Once Was An Engine Who Ran Away
~ Bonus DVD Game: Pick that Sound
~ 2 DVD-Rom Games: Percy's Maze Adventure and Counting Fun

Thomas & Friends Rescue on the Rails - The Sodor Search and Rescue Team is racing to the rescue — Bertie’s stuck on Shake Shake Bridge, Gordon’s derailed and Thomas’ firebox is on fire! In these exciting episodes, your favorite engines brave the rails to rescue their friends. Discover that being heroic is more than having speed and strength; it’s about teamwork and a big heart – which puts every Really Useful Engine on the right track.

Bonus Features:

~ Who's Pulling into the Station's Game

~ Thomas, Your the Leader Karaoke Music Video

~ Featuring Activities and Fun with Driver Perkins

Product Information:

Genre: Children/Family/Ages 2-5
Closed Captioned: English
Sells for $12.98 SRP

Thomas & Friends always offers not only fun experiences for children but they offer educational, learning lessons that can shape children. They teach character building and values that are hard to find in other movies. I like how children do not even realize that they are learning while they watch! These DVD's make a perfect for anytime of the year: Birthdays, Valentine's Day, Christmas, etc.!

Win: Thomas & Friends Rescue on the Rails DVD

To enter this fantastic giveaway, fill out the below Rafflecopter form below. If you have any questions please let me know. Comments will not be included for entry. Thank you!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

SOCIAL MEDIA SPOTLIGHT "FACEBOOK" SIGN UP EVENT

2012-01-04T16:32:00.002-05:00

Mama to 4 Blessings and Home Grown Families are teaming up to bring you Social Media Spotlight! Each month we will be featuring a different social media for us to boost! For January we will be featuring our Facebook pages.

This event will take place from January 16th 12:01 AM to January 22nd

$5.00 gives you a Facebook entry on Rafflecopter, $4.00 of it goes to the giveaway and $1.00 goes to

Administration fees.

For more information and sign up go HERE

TAKE A BREAK IN YOUR DAY WITH INTERNATIONAL DELIGHT ICED COFFEE TASTE TEASER #Cbias #IcedCoffee

2012-01-04T12:22:00.002-05:00

As a mom to 4 little one's my day is hectic between homeschooling, laundary, field trips, playdates, taking care out our home, cooking, etc. I need a momment during the day where I need a small break to catch my breath. I find that enjoying a cup of International Delight Iced Coffee is just what I needed!

International Delight Iced Coffee I find refreshing! I have never been much of a coffee drinker but as I am getting older I am finding that I am enjoying coffee more and more. I had never tried iced coffee before trying International Delight Iced Coffee. I have to say after trying this I prefer it better than hot coffee plus as a busy mom, it's all ready in the carton, just simply add ice and pour into a cup. No waiting for coffee to brew and no cleaning a coffee pot! I love the convience of iced coffee! I have seen other brands of iced coffee's in the store but International Delight Iced Coffee stands out the most to me. In a simple carton package, it's very appealing!

We had the opportunity to try 3 delicious flavors: Original, Mocha and Vanilla. My husband and I enjoyed Vanilla the most. All 3 flavors were sweet (wich is satisfying to my sweet tooth), rich and creamy. Vanilla has always been my favorite when it comes to flavors so I was partial to it.

I have to say I am hooked on this coffee and will definitely be purchasing it on a regular basis!
Look for International Delight Iced Coffee on your dairy aisle shelves this month!

This shop has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for Collective Bias. All opinions herein are 100% mine. #CBias.

LISTERINE ORAL CARE CHALLENGE PART 2

2012-01-04T06:50:00.002-05:00

My family had the opportunity do a Listerine Oral Care Challenge with my family, I was sent several products to review the past few months.

Listerine Antiseptics & Total Care Zero

Reach Brand Total Care dental floss

Listerine Smart Rinse

Reach Access Flosser

Reach Toothbrushes

We have been teaching our oldest child (6 years) the importance of taking care of his teeth because many of his adult teeth are coming in. We go to the dentist for check ups and cleanings 2 times a year. Unfortunately many times at the end of the night we are tired and do not always brush our teeth. These products motivated us and gave us an opportunity to be the example to our children.

Receiving some products for children with Batman, Phineas and Ferb, Barbie on the labels is perfect for children because they want to use these products with their favorite characters on them. My son being a big Phineas & Ferb fan he has excited to use his Phineas & Ferb Reach toothbrush and Phineas & Ferb Listerine Smart Rinse.

Prior to receiving these products we had not taught our son how to floss, this was a perfect opportunity to do so. The Reach Access Flosser is perfect to use to teach a 1st time flosser. The long handle is great for little hands. I know as an adult I have never enjoyed flossing my teeth, it's one of my least favorite things to do but after using Reach Brand Total Care Floss I love to floss! This is not your typical floss, the string is made of a nylon type material that glides gently through my teeth!

I would say my boys most favorite thing about the challenge is using their Listerine Smart Rinse. I allow them to pour it into their own little cups and rinse. They ask constantly if they can do it which is great because it's great for their teeth!

Participating in the Oral Care Challenge has made us accountable, we look forward to continuing to use these products this year and continue to make sure we have healthy teeth!

You can view part 1 of this challenge here.

“I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of Listerine and received product samples to facilitate my review and a promotional item to thank me for taking the time to participate.”

CASHIN' IN THE NEW YEAR $190.00 CASH GIVEAWAY WINNER

2012-01-04T05:30:00.002-05:00

CASHIN' IN THE NEW YEAR $190.00 CASH GIVEAWAY WINNER is Becca Peters!

If you participated in this giveaway --- thank you! Home Grown Families and Mama to 4 Blessings will be teaming up each month and host similiar events like Cashin' in the New Year! Our next one will start January 16, feel free to stop by and enter!

Thank you -- Hapy New Year!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

BIG GIRL ASLEEP IN BABY SWING (WORDLESS WEDNESDAY W/ LINKY)

2012-01-03T16:58:00.002-05:00

While mopping my kitchen floor my 2 year daughter decided she wanted to take a snooze in her baby brother's swing. She did just that, she even went as far as to turn it on for it to actually swing! It didn't bother here that her feet swept the floor as it swung back and forth. When I was done mopping I went into the livingroom and found her fast asleep! She must have been tired!

CALABOT CARDBOARD ROBOT TOY REVIEW + $25.00 GC TO CREATIVE TOYSHOP GIVEAWAY (BIRTHDAY BASH BLOG HOP)

2012-01-02T21:30:00.006-05:00

Birthday Bash Blog Hop, hosted by Saveyspender along with several other bloggers (including myself) are participating in giveaways for this celebration! Creative Toyshop offers wonderful products, read my review below accompanied by a fantastic giveaway!

Owner Martina McConnon of Creative Toyshop found a new product line on a German website that she fell in love with: CALAFANT cardboard toys. Creative, unique and hands-on toys, crafts for both boys and girls! Creative Toyshop is now the exclusive US distributor and has recently added another new line, YOUNG LEARNERS games. Always looking for items that further children's development through intelligent, creative and stimulating activities. It's so rewarding when you see your kids having fun while they express their creativity and thoughts, and to see them finding solutions on their own.

We had the opportunity to review Calabot:

This unique robot is made from recycled cardboard with a layer of white paper that makes decorating the robot easy and fun. Let your imagination fly when you decorate this robot. Use colors, paint, stickers, cable pieces and other items from your home to make it even more unique and personal. Assembly requires grown-up help. All pieces are pre-cut and pre-punched, no need for scissors or glue. A great family or father-son-project! Assembled size is approximately 21" x 16" x 9" Recommended for 5 and up.

My Review: This was a perfect family bonding time as my husband 3 older children and I gathered around and colored with crayons and markers the Calabot cardboard pieces. Then my husband and I constructed the robot. My only suggestion is that maybe the manufacturer stamp the pieces with either numbers or letters on the backs to make it a bit easier to constuct. There are several steps in making the Calabot but once it's completed the children admired their masterpiece!

Buy It: The Calabot sells for $24.99 and can be purchased directly from Creative Toyshop. Creative Toyshop also carries the same product in XXL form (More than 3 1/2 feet tall: 41" x 34" x 17"). They also carry other cardboard toys: Pirate ships, Princess Castle and much more!

Win It: Win a $25.00 Gift Certificate to Creative Toyshop!

To enter this fantastic giveaway, fill out the below Rafflecopter form below. If you have any questions please let me know. Comments will not be included for entry. Thank you!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

WHAT IS IN STORE FOR MAMA TO 4 BLESSINGS HOMESCHOOL YEAR?

2012-01-02T17:28:00.003-05:00

What's Mama to 4 Blessings doing this 2012 homeschool year?

We have been more relaxed during the Christmas holiday, we will be starting back up our homeschool Wednesday 1/4. My husband has been home on vacation and we have enjoyed the Science Museum and tomorrow we will be enjoying our local zoo.

My preschooler will be starting a new curriculum that I am SUPER excited about: All About Reading Level Pre 1

This includes:

~ Teacher's Manual (208 pages)

~ Student Packet

~ My Book of Letters and Sounds Activity Book (192 pages)

~ Picture Cards

~ Letter Sound Cards

~ Capital Letter Alphabet Chart

~ Lowercase Letter Alphabet Chart

~ The Zigzag Zebra: a rhyming alphabet hardcover book

~ Lizard Lou: a collection of rhymes old and new hardcover book

~ Divider Cards (to keep your Picture Cards and Letter Sound Cards organized)

~ "Letter Sounds A to Z" CD-ROM

~ Ziggy the Zebra puppet

~ Activity Box to hold your student's learning cards

~ All About Reading tote bag to keep your components organized

Look at the awesome SAMPLE PAGES, this curriculum is a must have! No more searching around the Internet to find activities and printables to teach - it's all right in this curriculum!

I will have a full product review coming soon and a giveaway in about a month! Stay tuned.

Also all year long we use Currclick. With hundreds of unit studies to purchase and many for free to get right from home! Available to print immediately or save on your PC. We use this curriculum all year long. The prices are fantastic, many often for free. I love this site, many times when I can't find a unit study anywhere else I can rest assure Currclick will have it!

My 6 year old son enjoys playing Big Bible Town. He loves video games, this is a great way to reach out to children about the Gospel while having fun at the same time! BIG Bible Town is a kids’ online Bible game for K-6th grade children. Kids can start playing this online game for free. It is a great educational resource that taps video game playtime to teach Bible lessons and Christian values. It is a great tool for home faith formation or homeschool curriculum or for Christian educators to use in the classroom or children’s ministry. Big Bible Town is a Christian alternative to Club Penguin or other secular online games. Third Day Games is one of a small number of companies or developers focused solely on Christian video games.

Mama to 4 Blessings - Our Homeschool Blog

FALLING ASLEEP AT THE Wii - WORDLESS WEDNESDAY W/ LINKY

VALENTINE'S ~ ACTIVITIES, CRAFTS, MONTESSORI

BERTOLLI WEEKNIGHT MEAL SPECIAL CHALLENGE (BERTOLLI MEAL SOUPS)

ROBBY WASH LAUNDRY BALL REVIEW + GIVEAWAY

APOLOGIA SWIM CREATURES --- HANDS ON (SEA URCHINS)

GIVEAWAY LINKY - SUPER SATURDAY LINK UP

SMARTIES (CANDY) REVIEW + SMARTIES PRIZE PACK GIVEAWAY #Cbias #IAmaSmartie

FRIDAY BLOG AND GOOGLE + HOP (WITH LINKY)

LETTER OF THE WEEK --- LETTER A

Thank your Flower Girl on your Wedding Day

SMART SNACKS HIDE N' PEEK CHOCOLATES GAME BY LEARNING RESOURCES REVIEW + GIVEAWAY

I-SPY UP IN THE TREE..... WORDLESS WEDNESDAY W/ LINKY

FINDING NEMO RETURNS TO THE BIG SCREEN IN 3D!

DEEP FRIED WHAT? THAT CAN BE DEEP FRIED?

MONTESSORI SCHOOL - WEEKLY WRAP UP

TRUKID NATURAL BODY CARE PRODUCTS REVIEW + GIVEAWAY

GIVEAWAY LINKY - SUPER SATURDAY LINK UP

WEIGHT WATCHERS ICE CREAM BARS - SATISFIES THAT SWEET TOOTH!

FRIDAY BLOG AND GOOGLE + HOP (WITH LINKY)

TEA COLLECTION (CLOTHING) REVIEW & $100.00 GIFT CERTIFICATE GIVEAWAY

APOLOGIA SWIM CREATURES LESSON 4

LITTLE ANGELS NEW DVD RELEASE 2/14

I WANT TO PLAY TOO! WORDLESS WEDNESDAY W/ LINKY

ABBOTT NUTRITION SNACK PACKS, HELPING CHILDREN IN NEED #Cbias #AbbottCFK

WHAT DO YOU HAVE? I PICK THE TRUTH!

SOCIAL MEDIA SPOTLIGHT "FACEBOOK" $125.00 CASH GIVEAWAY

GO GREEN BABY CO. WAHMIES ONE SIZE CLOTH DIAPER REVIEW, WAHMIES ONE SIZE CLOTH DIAPER + ROCKIN' GREEN PAIL FRESHENER GIVEAWAY (GREEN RESOLUTIONS)

BUZZ BLAST $10.00 CASH GIVEAWAY

How to enter

THE BIG YEAR MOVIE 2012 NEW YEARS RESOLUTION CHECK LIST

PAY IT FORWARD TO A FELLOW BLOGGER - INTERNATIONAL DELIGHT ICED COFFEE #Cbias #IcedCoffee

USES FOR PRECISION Q-TIPS + TRAVEL PACKS OF PRECISION Q-TIPS $25.00 AMEX GC GIVEAWAY

GIVEAWAY LINKY - SUPER SATURDAY LINK UP

SnoozeShade Original (for strollers) Review + Giveaway

TYSON MINI CHICKEN SANDWICHES FOR BREAKFAST! #Cbias #Tysongoodness

FRIDAY BLOG AND GOOGLE + HOP (WITH LINKY)

COUPONING, GETTING ARRESTED FOR WHAT?!

StumbleUpon Comment LINKY

JUST A ONE PERSON PARTY

PRINCESS SISTER - WORDLESS WEDNESDAY W/ LINKY

GROWUMS SALAD GARDEN KIT FOR KIDS REVIEW + GIVEAWAY

CHRISTIAN COMIC BOOKS FOR KIDS REVIEW + GIVEAWAY

HELPING CHILDREN IN NEED - MAKE A SIMPLE SNACK PACK #Cbias #AbbottCFK

NEW LIFE COMING FROM OUR BACKYARD!

GIVEAWAY LINKY -- SUPER SATURDAY LINK UP

EDUCATIONAL INSIGHTS LEARNING PRODUCTS (ALPHA CATCH, TEACHABLE TEXTURES, NO YELL BELL) + ALPHA CATCH GIVEAWAY

TYSON MINI CHICKEN SANDWICHES FOR DINNER #Cbias #TysonGoodness

FRIDAY BLOG AND GOOGLE + HOP!

WINTER THEME SENSORY BIN

MONSTER JAM GIVEAWAY!

STUMBLE UPON LINK UP AND FOLLOW

THOMAS & FRIENDS ADVENTURE ON THE TRACKS / RESCUE ON THE RAILS REVIEW + GIVEAWAY

Product Information:

Genre: Children/Family/Ages 2-5Closed Captioned: English Sells for $12.98 SRP

SOCIAL MEDIA SPOTLIGHT "FACEBOOK" SIGN UP EVENT

TAKE A BREAK IN YOUR DAY WITH INTERNATIONAL DELIGHT ICED COFFEE TASTE TEASER #Cbias #IcedCoffee

LISTERINE ORAL CARE CHALLENGE PART 2

CASHIN' IN THE NEW YEAR $190.00 CASH GIVEAWAY WINNER

BIG GIRL ASLEEP IN BABY SWING (WORDLESS WEDNESDAY W/ LINKY)

CALABOT CARDBOARD ROBOT TOY REVIEW + $25.00 GC TO CREATIVE TOYSHOP GIVEAWAY (BIRTHDAY BASH BLOG HOP)

WHAT IS IN STORE FOR MAMA TO 4 BLESSINGS HOMESCHOOL YEAR?

Genre: Children/Family/Ages 2-5
Closed Captioned: English
Sells for $12.98 SRP