Little Red Wagon

I’m really excited to introduce you to a newly released DVD (available TODAY at Wal-mart!) . . .

LITTLE RED WAGON is based on the inspirational true story of eight-year-old Zach Bonner on his quest to change the world with nothing more than his beat-up red wagon and a blazing spirit of philanthropy.

When Zach sets out to help homeless children in America in the wake of Hurricane Charley, by walking from his house in Tampa, Florida to the White House, he must overcome bureaucrats and blisters, and capture the hearts of his fractured family and the entire nation.

I know that my family will enjoy this movie!  Notice that it’s from the director of Rudy and Hoosiers – those are 2 of my husband Brian’s all-time favorite movies!  As for me, I’m a sucker for movies that are inspired by actual events. 

Here’s a bit more about Zach:

Zachary Bonner was born in Searcy, Arkansas on November 17, 1997 but now calls Tampa, Florida his home. He is home schooled under the Florida Virtual School program and is in the 8th grade. Zachary started doing community service in 2004 after Hurricane Charlie hit Florida. In 2005 he formed the Little Red Wagon Foundation, a non-profit organization designed to help underprivileged kids with a focus on homeless youth. Zach believes we all the ability to make a change in the world if we just try.

Watch the trailer:

I’m always impressed with kids who see a need and take the initiative to do something about it.  This is an area where so many adults are lacking these days; so it’s refreshing to see young people doing something! 

I’m anxious to see this movie, and I’m sure that you are too!  So, how about a giveaway?  I have one copy of Little Red Wagon to give away to one lucky reader.  Enter using the Rafflecopter widget below . . .

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Operation United Hearts ~ Fundraiser & Giveaway

I think our hearts always go out to families in need, but it seems we are even more in tune to the needs of those around us during the holiday season.  We see things, such as the tragic event that took place in Connecticut yesterday, and we want to help.  We want to give.  And that’s just what we are doing now . . .

We’re teaming up with a group of bloggers to form Operation United Hearts.  “What’s that?” you ask. Well, it’s a three-fold thing . . .

First – a GIVEAWAY! We are giving one lucky winner a $140 Amazon Gift Card PLUS a copy of Magical Mouse Schoolhouse: Learn while you Play at Walt Disney World Resort by Jodi Whisenhunt!

Our giveaway starts today and ends on 12/22.  You can enter via the Rafflecopter widget below. 

Second – a CAUSE.  We have joined forces – as a group of bloggers, writers, military supporters and moms – to help a single military mom in need.  She and her young children lost their home to fire in November.  You can read more of the tragic story here and read how others are teaming up to help her here. We have donated $300, toys, books and more for the family just in time for Christmas!

Third – a FUNDRAISER!  You can help too! Anyone can mail donations directly or donate by Paypal.  (To mail payment, please e-mail for address.  To pay via Paypal, make payment to msmommyhh6@yahoo.com.)

 

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Entry is easy, using the Rafflecopter widget below.  Simply follow the instructions. I’d love to hear if you enter, so please leave me a comment! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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We’d love to have you visit our participating bloggers! 

• Live, Love & Learn with Ms. MommyHH6  (our host)
• Military Wives Saving 
• Busy Bumble Bee
• Mom-blog
• Mother Daughter Book Reviews
• The Dragyn's Lair
• Brain Foggles
• Magical Mouse Schoolhouse
• Heidi's Head (you are here)
• Pursuing the Magic
• Ask Doctor G
• Capturing Magical Memories
• Focused on the Magic
• the Crazy Nuts Mom
• DIStherapy
  

Christmas Music Already? (Giveaway)

I love music.  I love Christmas.  So, it makes perfect sense that I really love the combination of the two – Christmas Music! Each year, we try to add at least one new Christmas cd to our collection.  And, each year, I think how the Christmas music season just doesn’t last long enough! So, I’ve been known to dig out my collection early and start listening. 

Lately, we’ve been listening to some new Christmas cd’s in the  van.  I’d like to tell you about them (then, offer a giveaway, so that you can enjoy them as well!)

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GRAMMY-nominated and BEC Recordings’ artist Jeremy Camp has released a Christmas project this holiday season titled Christmas: God With Us. This is Camp’s first full-length Christmas project in his 10-year career. The album is produced by Brown Bannister and Ben Shive along with Camp. Camp’s Christmas album is filled with holiday classics as well as the original title track “God With Us.” Fans will hear favorites such as “Jingle Bell Rock,” “Joy To The World,” and “Mary Did You Know.” Although these are traditional songs, Jeremy takes a fresh approach to the arrangements on his album.

Heidi Says . . . I am really enjoying this album!  Jeremy has a rich-sounding voice and gives these traditional songs a bit of a country-flair.  I don’t think there are any songs on the album that I don’t like.  I’m especially fond of “God With Us” – a song that Jeremy and his producers wrote together.  I think it’s hard to write a Christmas song that rivals the greats of old; but this one is excellent.  Its easy to pick up on and sing along with.  I’m sure this album will be a family favorite.

This Christmas, our friends from down under, Hillsong, bring us an album full of inspiring and festive songs soon to become Christmas classics. The seasons may be flipped with December falling in the middle of summer for Australia and there may not be snow, sleigh rides or “chestnuts roasting by an open fire”, but there is a common love for a baby born in a manger over 2,000 years ago. God incarnate. God amongst us. The greatest reason to sing this year and every year – sun or snow.  The first Christmas album from Hillsong in over 7 years features last year’s popular radio single “Born Is The King”, new arrangements to classic Christmas hymns as well as brand new songs to help keep our minds and hearts focused on the true reason for the season.

Heidi Says . . . Of the 3 albums that I received, I expected this one to be my least favorite, but I honestly don’t have a least favorite – I like them all for very different reasons.  I really enjoy listening to the voices of Hillsong on this album.  “Born Is The King” is a particular favorite, and I know I’ll like it even more when I’ve committed it to memory and can sing along.  I haven’t had this album as long, but I know we’ll all enjoy listening to it throughout the holiday season!

Rising singer/songwriter Josh Wilson releases his first full length Christmas album, “Noel”, this October as a follow up to last year’s hugely successful Christmas tour (Noel: A Unique Christmas Experience) and the #1 Christmas single of 2011, “Jesus is Alive”. Known for being one of the top songwriters and multi-instrumentalists in the industry, Wilson has been hailed as “the future of Christian pop” by media and his albums are regularly named to Year-End Top Ten Album lists. He has released numerous No. 1 hits including “Savior Please” and the powerful track “Before the Morning,” which landed the No. 4 spot on Billboard’s Year-End Christian Songs chart.

Heidi Says . . . I’ve been a fan of Josh Wilson since I heard “Before the Morning” several years ago.  The message behind that song really met me where I was at the time.  Immediately upon popping Noel into the cd player, you can tell that it’s classic Josh Wilson.  He has a very distinct sound, which I love!  His voice is so friendly and makes me feel like I’d like him just as much in person!  The 2 instrumental works on this album are great.  There are also 2 duets – one with Mandisa that is a lot of fun! 

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Now for the giveaway . . .

I have one of each of the above albums to give away.  And because I’m in the Christmas spirit, we’re going to make this as simple as possible . . .

All you have to do is leave me ONE COMMENT.  In the comment, tell me about your favorite Christmas song or cd and why it is your favorite. 

Then, also tell me which cd listed above that you would most like to win.  Listing your 2nd and 3rd choice will make your chance of winning a little bit better!

Next Saturday, November 10th, I will randomly select THREE winners, who will each receive one of these great cd’s to enjoy! GOOD LUCK!

 

NOTE: I received the cd’s mentioned above for free, in the hopes that I would share about them on my blog.  I only share things that I personally use and think would be a good fit for my readers.

The Sparkle Box Review & Giveaway

For the past several years, I have really been convicted by how commercialized we have made Christmas.  It makes me sad to think of Jesus’s very humble beginnings – being born in a stable – and how we have turned that into a time when we shower our kids with gifts that they definitely don’t need.  I mean, where did the whole gift-giving aspect of Christmas come from anyway? I’ve tried to cut back on the amount of money that we spend; but then I still feel stupid for buying cheaper things that we don’t need – and likely didn’t even want – just for the sake of having wrapped gifts under the tree.

So, when the opportunity to review a book with a tagline that reads “a gift with the power to change Christmas” came my way, I jumped at the chance.  Because, quite frankly, I’m ready for a real change! And I was curious to see what such a book would suggest.

Here is a bit about the book from inside the book jacket:

Sam can’t wait for Christmas! He’s excited about the parties, the food, and, of course, the presents. One gift has him especially curious – a sparkling silver box on the mantel. Sam’s parents will only tell him that the Sparkle Box is a special gift they will open together, but that they need to fill it first. Meanwhile, as Sam and his family give to people in need throughout the season, he starts to see how fortunate he really is.  And on Christmas morning, when Sam finally opens the mysterious Sparkle Box, what he finds inside sheds light on the true meaning of Christmas.

Author Jill Hardie and her family began placing a gift for Jesus under their Christmas tree as a way of bringing more meaning to the holiday.  The first time they opened His gift, the commercialism of the season melted away and they felt a profound joy and peace.  Jill hopes that The Sparkle Box will spark a new Christmas tradition, bringing light into thousands of lives.

At a very early age, Christine Kornacki developed a love for painting and bringing stories to life.  After receiving a BFA in illustration from the University of Hartford, her dreams of illustrating children's books began to take shape.  She spends her days painting in her studio, which adjoins a charming cafe in New Haven, Connecticut. 

So, what did I think?  I loved it!  This book, with it’s simple story of a family doing random acts of kindness for those in need, filled me with ideas of what my family can do during the holiday season (and beyond).  Sam’s mom tells him that “the Sparkle Box is our gift to Jesus on Christmas Day, His birthday”.  Jesus should be the one receiving the gifts – not us – right? 

As I was reading the book to Ian, I was reminded of the words of Jesus, from Matthew 25:44-46:

⁴⁴ Then they also will answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to you?’ ⁴⁵ Then he will answer them, saying, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to me.’ ⁴⁶ And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” (ESV)

Since the book came with an included Sparkle Box, my family is ready to get started filling ours with presents for Jesus!

THE SPARKLE BOX - Official Book Trailer from Ideals Books on Vimeo.

How about you?  Would you like to win a copy of The Sparkle Box?  I have one copy to give away to one of my readers.  If you’d like to win, please follow the Rafflecopter instructions below. 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

NOTE: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

If you give a blogger a muffin (mix) . . .

I don’t know about you, but when I’m looking for good quality baking mixes, I almost always turn to Betty Crocker. I’ve used cake mixes, muffin mixes, cookie mixes, corn bread mixes, any many more!  I don’t think I’ve ever been disappointed. Betty Crocker is a brand that I’ve come to know and trust.  (I also love the Betty Crocker cookbooks!)

A few weeks ago, while Ashley and I were on our shopping run to a local grocery store chain, I saw some interesting muffin mixes on the shelf.  Not long later, I was offered the chance to review the new Betty Crocker® Cereal Muffin Mixes, inspired by Big G cereal favorites Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Cocoa Puffs, and Reese´s Puffs.  I wasn’t about to pass up the opportunity! 

I got the neatest gift package of goodies in the mail, including:

•  a box of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal muffins
•   a box of Cocoa Puffs cereal muffins
•   a box of Reese´s Puffs cereal muffins
•   a Cinnamon Toast Crunch Apron
•   a Cocoa Puffs Tumbler
•   a red Betty Crocker Spoon
•   a Reese’s Puffs Therm O Snack

At my house, when these fun surprise packages come in the mail, we all stand around with anticipation, waiting to see what’s inside.  It’s like Christmas!  Ashley grabbed the apron right away – she’s been wanting one of her own.  And everyone else ooh’d and ahh’d over the muffin mixes. 

Of the 3 varieties, we all like the Reese’s Puffs Cereal the best, so we decided to try those muffins first.  The muffins are very easy to make – with just adding a few simple ingredients that you’re sure to already have on hand.  They bake up fairly quickly and look delicious!  I must admit that we weren’t as crazy about these particular muffins as we expected to be.  I think because both Gracie and I love chocolate cake with peanut butter icing, and these weren’t that – they are most definitely a MUFFIN, not a cupcake.  The topping is crunchy. 

Next, we decided to try the Cinnamon Toast Crunch muffins.  In recent years, despite my love of cinnamon, I’ve developed a sensitivity to it; so I was anxious to see how these muffins would be for me.  “Delicious” would be a good description.  They are very much like mini coffee cakes, and would be a great thing to serve friends for brunch, with coffee.  I will most definitely be purchasing these again, as we all enjoyed them.

We have yet to try the Cocoa Puffs muffins, so I can’t speak for them.  I’m guessing they will fall somewhere in the middle of the above two, as far as our assessment of them. 

I’m so happy because I get to give away one gift pack, just like the one that I received (pictured above).  If you would like to win, simply follow the Rafflecopter entries below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Can’t wait to see if you won?  Want to try these muffins NOW?  Be sure to print out this $.80 off coupon.

Disclosure:  The product, gift pack, information, and additional sample have been provided by Betty Crocker through MyBlogSpark.

Milk Unleashed ~ and a Giveaway!

I have a little boy who absolutely loves milk!  But, milk isn’t really something that we can pack up and take with us for all our on-the-go adventures.  If you don’t keep it cold, it gets yucky fast.  And those stinky sippy cups . . . well, I don’t even want to talk about it.

So, when I heard about these new handy single-serving shelf safe milk cartons, I got just a little bit excited.  (OK, maybe a lot!)  And I just had to share with you too – because one of you will be lucky enough to win a free Milk Unleashed variety pack consisting of four shelf safe milks (white and chocolate) from: Hershey’s, LaLa, Horizon and Organic Valley, along with a cow stress ball and information on shelf safe milk!

Have fun playing with the Blog App below.  Take the Family On-The-Go Quiztacular and post your results in the comments section for a chance to win!  Be sure to leave an e-mail address where I can reach you if you win.  I’ll draw a winner next Friday, the 31st, at noon.  Winner will have 24 hours to notify me with shipping address, or a new winner will be selected.  Good luck!

PLAYMOBIL® Take Along Soccer Match

I don’t know about where you live, but here in central PA, soccer season is in full swing.  My little soccer player is in his second season of playing outdoor soccer with the local town league.  He’s moved up to the U8 team this year and is learning more about plays and staying in position. 

A few weeks ago, I showed him a picture of a new soccer set that is available from PLAYMOBIL® and he immediately said that he’d love to have one!  He watched the mail each day, eagerly awaiting its arrival. 

When it finally arrived, he couldn’t wait for me to open the box.  I have to admit, I was pretty excited too.  Surrounding the carrying-case style toy was this box wrapper – just the picture makes you want to dive right in and get started playing some soccer, doesn’t it?  I’m not the least bit athletic, but it looked fun even to me!

The Take Along Soccer Match comes in a self-contained briefcase-style container.  There is a little assembly required to play, but not very much.  You have to remove the handle and another connecting piece – then you’re ready to set up the soccer match.

When you lay out the two sides of the case, you end up with a 22 x 33 inch field. 

There were some stickers that I needed to put along the sides of the field.  Then we were ready to check out the players!

The figures have a leg that kicks to propel the ball forward, which helps make playtime more realistic. There are also goalie figures that connect to goal joystick, which allows kids to control the goalies’ movements from behind the goal net.  These goalies, and the goals themselves, need to be removed after play in order to close up the play set. 

The PLAYMOBIL Take Along Soccer Match is ideal for kids ages five to ten; because of small parts it is not recommended for little ones under the age of three.  Should I share here that while my 6 year old son loves the soccer match, I’ve also caught my 12 year old daughter and my 43 year old husband playing as well?

They are both pretty competitive and had fun challenging each other!

As a mother, my favorite part of the PLAYMOBIL® Take Along Soccer Match is that it is all self-contained in a small carrying case.  Not only is it mobile – for take-along fun (my son has enjoyed carrying it along to Mimi’s on a few occasions already) but it’s also very easy to store. 

GIVEAWAY!

Thanks to PLAYMOBIL®  and MyBlogSpark, I have another PLAYMOBIL® Take Along Soccer Match to give away to one lucky reader!  If you would like to win, simply enter using the Rafflecopter widget below!

Can’t wait to see if you have won?! Visit Playmobilusa.com to redeem the coupon code US72A12C for 20% off Playmobil Take Along items.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure:  The information and gift packs have been provided by PLAYMOBIL USA through MyBlogSpark.

My Well Planned Day Goes Digital! (Giveaway)

Several years ago, I co-created another well-known planner in the homeschool marketplace – a .pdf format planner that could be used entirely online, or printed out and bound to create your own personalized planner.  Because of my connection to that particular planner, I resisted the urge to check out the other planners that were out there (even though I’m a known planner/planning junkie!)  This year, though, I decided it was high time to make some changes in my life – and the lives of my children – when it comes to our homeschool planning. 

Despite my creation of said-planner, I have always created personal planning forms for my kids.  I like things to be exactly the way I want them – I know that might sound picky, but it’s just the way I roll.  This year, though, with Gracie entering the 8th grade, I really felt that it would be beneficial for her to take a more active role in her school planning.  So, I went in search of a printed planner that might work for her. 

What I ended up with was the Student Planner from The Well Planned Day.  I posted about my early experience with that planner over at Homeschool Mosaics several weeks ago.  Quite honestly, we have had a busy summer and really haven’t gotten much further into our school year – but we have used the planner to schedule in all of her music lessons and various field trips.  And, I’m continuing to really like the format for her. 

A few weeks ago, I was offered the opportunity to test (and give away!) the brand new DIGITAL VERSION of The Well Planned Day.  I wasn’t 100% sure that I really “needed” the extra planning software, but I was curious to see what all it had to offer.  And I thought it might be a good way for me to oversee ALL that is going on in our homeschool – Ian’s first grade work, our busy family schedule, etc. 

While I must admit that, with our crazy-busy summer, I haven’t had a lot of time to really dig into this software, there are definitely a few things that I’ve observed about it that I really like:

• It is fully customizable (if you click on this link you can see all the color options that are available – and, while this might seem trivial, I love things to be pretty and “me” so this is a great addition!)
• You can create separate records for individual students.  Within those accounts, you can have various file folders for different things – projects, field trips, extracurricular activities, etc.
• I’ve talked about our homeschool portfolios in the past.  While I love creating them as keepsakes for my kids, they do take up space and space is always limited.  This year, we decided to go paperless with our portfolios.  With this software, you can keep record of your children throughout their school years (in other words, this software will last you through your homeschool career – not just for one year, like a paper/print planner). 
• It’s more than just for school.  This planner gives you the option of tracking your budget, keeping your family calendar, creating chore charts, making your menu, and much more!  I love that it’s so versatile.
• And, did I mention that it’s pretty?  Yep, I think I did.

Now, all that being said, this is just a planner software – it’s not your brain.  Therefore, there is a learning curve involved.  I still haven’t figured out all the features.  (But, then again, I really haven’t had the time.)  I look forward to investigating it further over the weeks to come. 

So, what do you think?  Have you looked into this program at all for your homeschool?  Are you maybe sitting on the fence, not quite sure if you’re ready to invest the $65 to try it out?  If so, then I think you’ll be pleased with this ---
Just for reading this post on Heidi’s Head, you are entitled to purchase My Well Planned Day Software for $15 off!  Just enter this code at checkout: 05wpdblog12 (the code is case sensitive, contains no spaces, and expires on October 1, 2012).

I also have ONE COPY of the software to give away to one of my readers.  If you would like to win, simply follow the Rafflecopter instructions in the widget below.  (Please note that due to international sweepstakes laws, this giveaway is for US entries only.) 

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

NOTE: This giveaway is not connected to any social media site. I received a free access code for the software, in the hopes that I would try it out in my home and share my thoughts on it.  I only ever share things that I feel will be beneficial to my readers.  This giveaway is sponsored by Home Educating Family.

Bindi Wildlife Adventures Giveaway!

Recently, I had opportunity to review a book called Bindi Wildlife Adventures – Croc Capers.  This book is the 7th in a series of Juvenile Fiction books (recommended for ages 7 & up).  This series of books was inspired and co-created by Bindi Irwin, daughter of the iconic wildlife expert, Steve Irwin. Publishers Weekly applauds the series,  “young wildlife conservationist and media darling Bindi Irwin…is as exuberant on the pages of this peppy early reader as she is on-screen… briskly paced and delivers its message with Bindi-worthy verve.”

I started reading the book to Ian, but he seemed to lose interest pretty quickly.  He’s only 6, and some of the talk seemed a bit beyond him.  The books are definitely written from the perspective of a young person; which I think would be very appealing to kids in the 8-10 year old range.  The covers are bright and colorful and each one features a picture of Bindi (who is just too cute!) with an animal.  In addition the the actual story, there are several pages of “Animal Fact Files” in the back.  The book I read contained information about Crocodiles (obviously), the Palm Cockatoo, and the Goanna. 

The story I read was focused on Bindi and her brother Robert.  While preparing to help a team of researchers hunt down some crocs for tagging, they encounter a father and daughter who are camping in the area.  The father – Doug – is there to do some research into the possibility of mining in the area.  Bindi and her brother – and Doug’s daughter, Alice – are all opposed to this.  When one of the researchers gets hurt and can’t help with the mission, Doug is called in to help and soon discovers the real value of the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve.  Everyone is relieved when he announces that there will be no mining taking place there! 

Here’s a bit more about Bindi and the books:

About the Author:
Bindi Sue Irwin is only 14 years old and is already an international award-winning celebrity. Born to wildlife conservationists Steve and Terri Irwin, Bindi was just 3 years old when she made her television debut on The Crocodile Hunter. She and her brother Robert continue their dad's legacy at Australia Zoo in Queensland.
About the Series:
A unique blend of action, travel, and global conservation, the Bindi Wildlife Adventures series will charm and engage new readers as well as encourage budding young naturalists. Each book is a new adventure for Wildlife Warrior Bindi Irwin and a chance for children to experience new places and new ideas and to learn more about how to help animals all over the world.

Teachers and homeschool parents will be especially excited by the accompanying study guide that goes along with these books. 

Now is your chance to win this entire series!
(7 books total)

		Bindi Wildlife Adventures VIEW SLIDE SHOW DOWNLOAD ALL

If you would like to win, simply follow the directions on the Rafflecopter widget below.  Entry is simple!  (Sorry, this giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada only.)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

NOTE: I received the book mentioned above for free in exchange for my posting about it on my blog. I was not required to write a positive review.  I only share items that I think will be of interest and benefit to my readers.

Win a Mickey Mouse Greenhouse!

Earlier this year, I posted about our Princess Castle Greenhouse and the great experience that the kids and I had with growing our flowers in it.  Now, I’ve got a great opportunity for you to enjoy a Disney greenhouse of your own!

I’m teaming up with Miracle-Gro Kids to offer one lucky reader a Mickey Mouse Greenhouse.

The Disney Mickey Mouse Greenhouse boasts the iconic shape of the most famous mouse in the world!  Alongside Mickey Mouse and his pals, kids will enjoy the fun of growing a bountiful vegetable garden with the Miracle-Gro® Gro-Pod™ system.  Adult supervision recommended.

This greenhouse has a retail value of $12.99 and is available at Peachtree Playthings.  However, you can win one simply by following the Rafflecopter directions below to enter! 

Before we get to that, though, here’s a bit more information from Miracle-Gro Kids:

Teaming up again with renowned lawn and garden care business, The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, Peachtree Playthings® continues to turn a classic hobby into a fun, interactive and easy activity for children with their Miracle-Gro® Kids gardening sets.  The 2012 product line includes innovative and Disney themed sets that are packed with the essentials, including seeds, plant care instructions and specially-formulated Gro-Mix™ that gives kids everything they need as seeds blossom into sprouts within weeks.  With non-toxic, color-changing planting mix that indicates when it is time to water, parents can rest easy as their kids learn and have fun growing plants on their own.

Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Chips are My Weakness–how about you?

Yes, ‘tis true, chips are my downfall.  When I’m looking for some good stress-eating, I head to the chip aisle at the store, grab some yummy chips and dip, and I’m good to go.  I’ll take chips any day over sweets.  My kids are all chip-lovers as well.

A few weeks ago, we received a package in the mail, containing these ===>

What are they? you ask.  Well, they are a brand-new line of chips, from Pillsbury. I must confess, I’ve always had a bit of a “thing” for the Pillsbury Doughboy.  So, when Pillsbury introduces a new product, I’m always interested.  These chips were no exception.  Because, you see, while I love chips, I try not to eat them in excess; and I try to eat the more healthy varieties of chips that are available today (such as pita chips, baked chips, veggie chips, etc.)

Looking for ways to spice up your snacking routines? Pillsbury knows just how you feel and wants to awaken your taste buds with their new Pillsbury® Baguette Chips! These hearty chips are sliced from oven baked bread and topped with savory seasonings bringing the unique and contemporary flavors of Italian Cheese & Herb and Cheddar Sun-dried Tomato to gourmet snack chips. The delicious flavors and perfect texture of these crispy chips can help you round out any recipe.

• Enjoy Pillsbury Baguette Chips for a wide range of occasions: eat them alone, add a bit more flavor to your favorite dip, spice up soup, or add some crunch to your salad!
  
  With 130 calories per serving (21 baguette chips), and 50% less fat than regular potato chips*, Pillsbury Baguette Chips are delicious snack chips that you can feel good about eating.
  
  If that’s not enough to get your mouth watering, then check out these delicious chips for yourself.  To download a printable coupon for $0.75 off one package, you and your readers can visit http://bit.ly/PBCcoupon today!

So, what did we think?  Well, my kids weren’t the least bit interested in trying them. I liked them.  My oldest daughter, 18, liked them.  She preferred the Italian Cheese & Herb flavor, while I was more taken with the Cheddar & Sundried Tomato (I think the word “tomato” turned her off!)  We ate the first two bags, shared the second two bags, and are saving the third two bags. 

Because I’m a dip person, I’d probably prefer a plain variety of these chips that wouldn’t detract from the taste of my dip of choice (which is currently hummus).  I did, however, dip some of them, and they were fine.  While we didn’t try ours on soup or salad, I think they’d make an excellent addition to either!

Now, for a giveaway . . .

I have one gift pack of Pillsbury Baguette Chips to give away to one lucky reader!

Your gift pack will contain (as pictured above):
(3) Bags of Pillsbury Baguette Chips in Italian Cheese & Herb
(3) Bags of Pillsbury Baguette Chips in Cheddar Sundried Tomato

If you would like to win, simply leave a comment below telling me why you’d like to try these chips, and which flavor you think you’ll like best.

For a second chance to win, leave another comment telling me what your favorite Pillsbury product is.

For a third chance to win, follow my blog via GFC, RSS, or on Facebook. Leave a comment, telling me that you have done so.

I will leave this contest open ‘til next Wednesday, July25th, at noon (EST), at which time I will draw (and announce) a random winner.  Good luck!

Disclosure:  The product, gift pack, information, and additional sample have been provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

CHARM IT! Review & Giveaway

When I was a little girl, one of my prized possessions was this ===>

It’s my charm bracelet (with a few extra charms that never got put on the bracelet).  My parents bought me a charm at the places we visited.  You see the gondola (Venice) and Leaning Tower (Pisa) charms from our time living in Italy. There also a Canadian leaf, a piece of granite from Vermont, and a Mt. Washington Charm.  Some local ones were from Gettysburg and Lancaster.  In the middle is a Flower Girl charm I got for being in my aunt’s wedding.  I still keep this bracelet in the back of my underwear drawer in a little bag.  It’s sentimental to me, despite the fact that it has tarnished with age. 

When I first heard about CHARM IT! products, it made me excited because it meant that my girls (at least Gracie) could have an opportunity similar to mine – to feature the things that mean the most to her on a bracelet. 

In chatting back and forth with my contact at CHARM IT!, it will come as no surprise to my readers that she suggested that we should look into their line of Disney charms!  Gracie was to select a bracelet and 3 charms. 

For the bracelet, it was a toss-up for her between the Rainbow Chain Bracelet and the Rainbow Peace Bracelet. In the end, her love of all things retro won out, and she went with the peace one (great choice!)  To go with it, she chose 3 charms from the Disney collection- Mickey and Minnie (of course!) and the Tinkerbell Heart charm. 

We were surprised by the speed of delivery. Just a few days after placing our order, the lovely package shown above showed up in our mailbox.  And, before we even opened it, we could tell we were going to love it! 

We took it out and put the charms on the bracelet (evenly spaced, of course!)  Doesn’t it look cute?  While some of the other styles of bracelets would have allowed for more charms, we really love this one with the peace signs between each charm.  It keeps the charms from overlapping too much, I think.  And the peace signs are “so Gracie” that it really works!

The real test though was this --- would it fit her?  Gracie has a TINY wrist! 

The great thing about the CHARM IT! bracelet is that it is adjustable!  You can hook it in any of the chain holes.  And those dangling peace signs as a result?  Cute! They almost look like another charm dangling down.  Another tip for bracelets that are too long – you can simply take a charm and clasp the dangling excess to the bracelet with the charm -  the charm will hold two links together.  Voila!

Gracie took the charm bracelet along on our beach vacation last week.  She wore it every day.  (NOTE: CHARM IT! products are not to be worn in the water or with sunblock!) On the morning that we went to play mini-golf, she came out sporting her bracelet on her ankle. She said that way it wouldn’t distract her or get in the way of her golf swing (LOL).  And it fit perfectly on her ankle too!  While I’m sure the anklet option won’t work for many girls Gracie’s age, this would be a great way to use the charm bracelet with a younger girl.

CHARM IT! has so many extra charms to choose from that I’m sure we’ll be adding to the collection over the years.  We even found a shop in Ocean City that sold CHARM IT! products.  All the charms are cute, unique, bright, and colorful.  Many of them have “bling” stones (acrylic) in them to make them even more shiny and appealing. 

I’m pretty sure that my retro lovin’ 12-year-old will most likely pick some of these next time:

 

And now for the Giveaway!

CHARM IT! has graciously offered to give one of my readers their choice of one CHARM IT! Gift Set.  To win, simply follow the Rafflecopter directions below. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the products mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my website.  Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Cheerios, Anyone?

There are so many new cereals on the store shelves these days. Sometimes, we’ll opt to try something new; but, most of the time, we go for the old faithfuls – like Cheerios.
A few weeks ago, I heard that Cheerios had recently released some new packaging, available at club stores everywhere – like BJ’s, Costco, and Sam’s Club.  We’re BJ’s members and often purchase the large boxes of cereal at the club; so I was anxious to check out the changes from Cheerios.
The new packaging is actually two boxes, attached to each other.   They easily pull apart.  Each box has its own bag of cereal inside.  The cool thing is that Cheerios has reduced the amount of air in each individual bag, so that these enhanced containers fit 10% more cereal than before and use less packaging.  And, if that’s not enough --- while each box contains more cereal, packaging material has been reduced by over 200,000 pounds, saving 1,000 trees and taking 130 Cheerios trucks off the road, decreasing CO2 emissions.  Environmentally friendly cereal!
Everyone in my house enjoys a bowl of Cheerios from time-to-time.  Whether it’s for breakfast with milk, or by the handful for an afternoon snacks – my kids like their Cheerios.  And, I feel good about them eating them.  They aren’t loaded with sugar and I grew up on them! 
Would you like to try the 2-box Cheerios for yourself?  Great! I have (2) 2-box Cheerios packs to give away to TWO lucky readers! If you’d like to win, please follow the Rafflecopter directions below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Please note: I received the prize pack mentioned above from General Mills through MyBlogSpark. I was not obligated to write a glowing review. I only share what I personally use and enjoy on my blog.

The Forgiven Duke by Jamie Carie

Tethered by her impulsive promise to marry Lord John Lemon - the path of least resistance - Alexandria Featherstone sets off toward Iceland in search of her parents with a leaden heart. A glimpse of her guardian, the Duke of St. Easton - the path less traveled by - on Dublin’s shore still haunts her.

Will he come after her? Will he drag her back to London, quelling her mission to rescue her treasure-seeking parents, or might he decide to throw caution to the wind and choose Foy Pour Devoir: “Faith for Duty,” the St. Easton motto. The Featherstone motto Valens et Volens: “Willing and Able,” beats in her heart and thrums through her veins. She will find her parents and find their love, no matter the cost.

The powerful yet wing-clipped Duke of St. Easton has never known the challenge that has become his life since hearing his ward’s name. Alexandria Featherstone will be the life or the death of him. Only time and God’s plan will reveal just how much this man can endure for the prize of love.

When she was six, Jamie’s parents met Jesus and soon after started a church. It changed everything.

Road trips with her dad—to and from Bible studies across Indiana—were filled with talks of things beyond earth’s bounds – creation and the fall, God and Jesus and the rapture, the earthly walk compared to the spiritual walk, and how we are born for more than what we can see or touch.

The highlight of those nights was stopping at a truck stop in the middle of the night where her dad would spend a little of the offering basket on two slices of pie and a couple of Cokes. Nothing ever felt so special as a middle of the night slice of pie with her dad. And nothing could stop the writing pouring out of her.

As Jamie’s relationship with God grew, she discovered her heart was filled with songs and poetry. During high school she wrote lyrics for her brother’s band. (And she sang them too!) After college, Jamie married, had two sons and decided to stay home with them. While she homeschooled she wrote skits, poems, plays and short stories for school and church.

When her eldest son turned five she dove into the world of novels. She’d read romance novels for years, but couldn’t relate to the flawless, saintly heroines in Christian romance novels. So she decided to write her own.

Snow Angel was born on a frosty night in an old farmhouse in Fishers, Indiana, where the cold floor gave plenty of motivation for the snow scene. Jamie loves to write late at night when the house is quiet and the darkness seems alive. Elizabeth and Noah had been playacting in herhead for a long time, so the story went fast. Ten years later Snow Angel was published and won the ForeWord magazine Romance Book of the Year winner, was a National “Best Books 2007” Awards winner, and a 2008 RITA Awards® Best First Book finalist. It was the beginning of her dream career.

Jamie and her husband Tony have been married for twenty-one years and live in Indianapolis with their three sons and a giant of a dog named Leo.

If she could only say one thing to her readers it would be, “Live the dreams God has destined you for!”

Heidi Says . . . I previously reviewed the first book in this series, The Guardian Duke.  In that review, I shared that the book ended in a MAJOR cliff-hanger – with the two main characters just finally crossing paths at the very end of the book!  I was anxious for the 2nd book in the series to come out (this summer); so I was excited for the opportunity to get a sneak peek at it (by receiving the ARC to review). 

Once again, I must compliment Ms. Carie on her portrayal of these characters and their personalities.  They are so multi-dimensional in nature, that you feel as if you really know them.  I felt almost like a sideline spectator, cheering them on ‘til they finally got to the point where they met each other. Then, from there to the end of the  book, I was cheering for them to just get together already!  This book had a bit more closure at the end!  Phew!

Now, I can live ‘til Book 3 – A Duke’s Promise – comes out later this year!

You can learn more about Jamie and ALL HER BOOKS by visiting her website.

I have one copy of this book to give away to one lucky reader!  If you’d like to win, please simply leave a comment – any comment – on this post.  I’ll select a random winner this Thursday, April 26th, at noon (est). 

NOTE: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

The 5 Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman (& a giveaway)

The other week, I shared a bit of my back-story when it comes to The 5 Love Languages book by Gary Chapman.  In that post, I shared about a special new Love Languages book – just for kids – called A Perfect Pet for Peyton (and I even gave away a copy of that book to one of my wonderful readers). 
Now, I’m back with another book review and giveaway – this time for The 5 Love Languages of Children . . .

To be their best, children need to feel loved. But if you and your child speak different love languages, your affection might get lost in translation, affecting the child’s attitude, behavior, and development. Dr. Gary Chapman’s groundbreaking Five Love Languages series has helped millions of couples communicate love more clearly, and Dr. Ross Campbell M.D. has applied the innovative system to children as well. The 5 Love Languages of Children gives practical suggestions for learning how your children interpret love and creating a sense of security in which they can thrive. Now with over 1,000,000 copies sold!

While I still haven’t read through the entire thing, I’ve read enough to know that I was right with Ian’s love language – which is most definitely physical touch.  Gracie’s, though, I’m still working on.  She’s a “hard nut to crack” and has said as much.  When I first received the book, she knew right away that I’d have a hard time figuring her out.  I thought there was a chance that her love language was gifts, or possibly words of affirmation.  She said “Mom, I don’t show my emotions very well, do I?  It’s going to be hard to figure me out!” 

After reading through the chapters and still not being 100% convinced, I had her take the quiz in the back of the book.  Wouldn’t you know, she tied with 5 points each for gifts and words of affirmation, with 4 points each for acts of service and quality time.  What?!  Physical touch was way at the bottom (which I knew). 
While the verdict is still out on Gracie, I can tell you this --- once you know your child’s primary love language, it will definitely help you to better interact with (and, as a result) show love for your child.  And he/she will notice and respond in kind. 

And guess what?  If you don’t already know this, there’s the original book – The 5 Love Languages – that does the same thing for your relationship with your spouse.  It’s pretty neat!

And, if the books aren’t enough, there’s more --- the website contains a study guide to be used in conjunction with The 5 Love Languages of Children and interactive assessments for all the relationships in your life.

I’m really excited to be able to give one copy of this book away on my blog! If it sounds like something that you’d like to win and read, please sign up using the Rafflecopter gadget.  It’s easy – it’ll only take a minute of your time – and you’ll be so blessed if you win!  Trust me!