That Mama is a Grouch and That Baby Woke Me Up, AGAIN! Book Reviews

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That Mama is a Grouch by Sherry Ellis is a delightful book that surprised me at first as I thought it was written by my children about me!  I suppose many moms can relate to this cute story but it has a great message for children to learn and it shows them that it's not just their mom that might appear to be grouchy from time to time.  I thoroughly enjoyed reading it to them and liked watching their reaction when they realized what they could do to help their mom more.  The situations that children could relate to are common enough in that it hits home with them.  They are able to understand that if they create the same situations such as making messes without cleaning up, their mom won't be too happy and for a good
reason.


The finale of having the discussion about feelings was brilliant in helping children understand where us moms (or dads) are coming from.  It might even be an eye opener to some that explaining feelings and emotions might just go further than yelling.  I loved the book and can't wait to see more from Ms. Ellis.  The illustrations by Don Berry were eye catching and "cutsy" to catch the little one's attention.  We're getting close to moving to a new state but I'm not packing this one away until the very end.

I would recommend this book to any family as it has a great lesson to learn.

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That Baby Woke Me Up, AGAIN! also written by Sherry Ellis and illustrated by Don Berry is another wonderful book introducing a chapter from life to our children.  Many children understand how a new addition can affect their lives but I think the most memorable one for me was being waken up through the night.  The story of interrupted dreams, frustrations and missed sleep is narrated by a big sister and how she tries to cope.  It's a great book to show that the sleepless nights are just temporary and that it's a normal situation when a child has a new brother or sister.

I also enjoyed how Ms. Ellis used rhyming versus as for me, it's catchy and my children tend to be more entertained.   We have a baby in our house but they are lucky in that they don't have their sleep interrupted.  If they had, this would have been the ideal book to show they aren't alone and that it's just a passing phase.

Great places to stay up to date with Ms. Ellis:

• Click here to learn more about Ms. Ellis.
• Click here for her blog.
• Click here for her Facebook page.
• Click here for her Facebook fan page.
• Click here for her Twitter page.

That Baby Woke Me Up, AGAIN and That Mama is a Grouch can be purchased at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Baker and Taylor, Ingram, Books a Million and Blue Manatee Bookstore (Cincinati).

I would recommend this book especially to parents with new babies and older siblings.


*Disclosure:  These reviews of Sherry Ellis' books are part of the Stories For Children World of Ink book tour.  I received complimentary copies for the purposes of this review.

bareMinerals Purely Nourishing Moisturizer & Deep Cleansing Foam (2 Product) Giveaway 3/30

My cross country road trip to locate a new home for our next Army move threw me off as I picked this winner from the hotel and neglected to pick the second winner.  An e-mail has been sent to Gina P. and she has 48 hours to respond.

 Gina P said...

Like you on FB
Gina P
@ ginasweepsit
Ginasweepsit at aol dot com

March 30, 2011 1:20 PM

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

CindyWindy2003 said...

http://twitter.com/#!/carafferty/status/52778239088791552
carawling(at)hotmail(Dot)com

March 29, 2011 1:06 PM 

An e-mail has been sent to Cindy and she has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected via random.org.  Thanks to all those who entered!

Looking for that one product or two that delivers?   I am always on the hunt to find a great cleanser and moisturizer that gives me what I need without breaking out my face or making my complexion look shiny or red.  Bare Escentuals is a company led by a brilliant woman who not only provides products to look better but I truly believe she has that special extra detail to her customers.  She's always looking out for us women in a manner that shows she listens to what we want and delivers.  Now Bare Escentuals introduces bareMinerals Skincare as a "transformative new way of caring for your skin that's simple, super-effective and incredibly easy to use."



The bareMinerals Purely Nourishing Moisturizer for Combination Skin comes in a 1.7 ounce bottle and hydrates skin with a lightweight moisturizer that is not sticky or greasy.  Since it is lightweight, it doesn't leave a heavy feel and has a really light fragrance.  It's formulated with their 100% pure RareMinerals ActiveSoil Complex that has a unique electrolyte delivery system.  The potent antioxidants helps to protect against the wind, sun and other environmental stressors.

They report 'extraordinary skin-renewing benefits including faster cell turnover and proven brighter, smoother, younger-looking skin.'

• 100% of users felt their skin texture was noticeably improved
• 98% saw an improvement in firmness and elasticity
• 90% saw a reduction in the appearance of facial lines and wrinkles

*Based on independent study

Use twice daily after cleansing both morning and evening for best results.  I have not used the product long enough to see results yet but I do like how it feels on my skin and that the fragrance is light and non-greasy.   Priced at $28 it's a reasonable price for the size of bottle.  To see a list of ingredients, click here and it has great reviews on the site.



bareMinerals Deep Cleansing Foam is also powered by their 100% pure RareMinerals ActiveSoil Complex and provides deep cleansing by lifting impurities and leaving skin feeling soft.  It comes in a 4.2 ounce bottle with a light fragrance and delivers a rich lather.  In an independent study, women said:

• 84% saw an overall improvement in the skin's appearance
• 90% thought their skin was softer and smoother
• 72% felt their pores looked smaller and more refined

It's easy to use with a small pearl size amount in the palm of your hands.  Massage in with luke warm water and work into a rich foam.  Using circular motions, it's non-abrasive and leaves your skin feeling clean.  To be used both morning and night.  I have not had the product long enough to experience all the benefits yet but I do feel my skin is softer, smoother and feels great after using both the Moisturizer and Cleanser.  My daughter has been using the Moisturizer and has enjoyed the effects.  She has sensitive skin and many products cause breakouts but the Moisturizer has not.  

You can see the ingredients and view additional reviews here.

_________________________________________________

The Giveaway:

Two readers will win a bottle of bareMinerals Purely Nourishing Moisturizer and bareMinerals Deep Cleansing Foam!

To Enter:

Follow my blog and tell me if you have tried and/or currently use bareMinerals or BareEscentuals.

Extra Entries:

• Like BareEscentuals on Facebook
• Follow BareEscentuals on Twitter
• Subscribe to my blog
• Follow me on Twitter
• Like me on Facebook
• Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily for two entries)
• Blog about this giveaway (can be done twice at least 7 days apart for five entries)
• Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries)

Giveaway ends 3/30 at midnight (EST) - Winners will have 24 hours to claim products via e-mail.  

US Only Please

I received complimentary bottles of bareMinerals Purely Nourishing Moisturizer and Deep Cleansing Foam for this review and giveaway.

Blogmania April 2011 - Sponsors Needed

Ready for Blogmania 2011?  It's running April 9 - 11th with many blogs participating and thousands of dollars of giveaways.  There is new management for Blogmania 2011 with a team of dedicated people ready to promote your product and/or business with the power of bloggers using not only their blogs but also social media such as Facebook and Twitter.

The past year was a success and I heard from many sponsors that the hits and sales to their sites went up with the exposure of Blogmania.

Want to participate?   Send me an e-mail at youthfultips@yahoo.com.

Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion Review and Giveaway 4/11 (US/Canada) - Winner Closed

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

Kristyn said...

Daily tweet

http://twitter.com/#!/KristynAnn77/status/53633841901998080

Kristyn_Ann(at)hotmail.com

March 31, 2011 9:45 PM 

An e-mail has been sent and Kristyn has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected via random.org. Thanks to all those who entered!

With all the news horror stories of the various products recalled due to hazardous materials within the product, I'm downright scared to buy products especially for my children.  I'm taking more of a stance of only purchasing those products that are deemed "natural."  This is why I'm a new fan of Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion.  It has a new proprietary blend of "super" humectants six times more effective than the industry standard of glycerin.  In case you were wondering, humectants is an ingredient that draws moisture from the air and allows moisture to be maintained within the body.


The ingredients in Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion are a blend of natural ingredients coupled with recent scientific advances to hydrate and heal without leaving a greasy residue, annoying fragrances or other toxic chemicals.  There is nothing worse than a lotion that leaves a lingering unpleasant odor.  I do like how it feels on application and it doesn't leave a residue like many other lotions do.  The fact there is nothing toxic is the most important when it comes to my children.  Skin MD Natural and Skin MD Natural + SPF 15 are manufactured in the US using 100% solar power, free of animal products and testing.  Not seeing the "made in China" statement assures me I'm getting a quality product that is manufactured by a company that cares about animals and the environment.

My three old who is has chronic allergies and asthma also has dry skin.  Skin MD treats her dry skins and knees and restored them to the natural smooth skin she was suppose to have.  She had no reactions to the lotion.  I also used it for my arms, hands and legs and said bye-bye to my alligator leg skin at last!  The lotion is wonderful and I do recommend it mostly because of the natural ingredients as for me, that is vital.

Other benefits:

• 100% money back guarantee
• Order online
• Multiple bottle discount
• Samples to purchase to try before you buy
• Treats multiple skin problems and conditions
• Lists all ingredients online so no guessing, MSDS sheet, testing and more

Overall, I would recommend Skin MD Natural as it's a great safe product and priced well.

__________________________________________

The Giveaway:

One full size, four ounce bottle of Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion.

To Enter:

Follow my blog and visit http://www.skinmdnatural.com and tell me something you learned about skin care, shielding lotions or natural ingredients.

Extra Entries:

• Like Skin MD Natural on Facebook
• Follow Skin MD Natural on Twitter
• Subscribe to my blog
• Follow me on Twitter
• Like me on Facebook
• Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily for two entries)
• Blog about this giveaway (can be done twice at least 7 days apart for five entries)
• Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries)

Giveaway ends 4/11 at midnight (EST) - Winner chosen via random.org

Open to US and Canada

*Disclosure:  I did receive a complimentary product.  I was not required to write a post but chose to do so.

Why Customer Service is Important

I buy a lot of stuff both inexpensive and expensive.  There are no limits to what I buy, within reason, for myself and family.  If I believe in a product, I will be loyal.  If I like a product, I will go out of my way to spread the word.  I not only have the ability to inform others via my offline circle but also my online circle by means of my blog, Facebook and Twitter.  When I am happy with a product, I let others know.  When I don't, unless it's a sponsored review, I don't say much.  However, when I do get bad service for a product that I paid for and try with good faith to get assistance, I will make noise.

Businesses should understand what they can get from being good customer service oriented partners with their consumers.  Not only do they have a chance to influence the consumer's own purchasing choices but those of others.  For those consumers who do go outside the realm of their offline circle, this can equate to free advertising and unsolicited product review endorsements.  For me, that means a lot when I research a product and see a person's opinion.  Take Huggies for example.  Before I became a Mom's Ambassador, I wrote and preached how much I loved Huggies products.  I went out of my way to endorse this product in an unsolicited manner.  I received no compensation or product for my posts because I am brand loyal and I don't mind spreading the word on a good product.  This holds true for Arnold Bread as I love that product too.

On the flip side are the bad customer service experiences I have received.  I just spent $150 (discounted price from a sample site) on an expensive trike for my grand daughter.  The company did not know that I purchased their product via a sample site and for all they knew, I paid full price which was over $200.  Upon receipt from The Foundary (great sample site by the way), we started to build the trike and immediately were hit with four missing KEY parts.  The four screw-type parts were missed in the QA/QC process of this particular company.  When I contacted the company for replacement parts, I was told they needed:

1. Digital picture of the problem
2. Digital picture of the receipt
3. Trike model number and color (fair enough)
4. Number stamped on the bottom of the box
5. Name and address

Fair enough on items 3 and 5 but a year ago, when I ordered from Little Tykes and received my package, the booth seating on the diner was identical to the left side so I needed a right side.  What did Little Tykes do when I phoned them?  They apologized and sent me the right piece immediately with no questions asked and no requirements.  

After repeat e-mails with the customer service agent, I still sit, two weeks later with an unusable expensive trike because she had to order the part and informed me she would notify me when it ships.  What???  This is the worse customer service I have experienced in some time and I was all ready to tell the "world" about this super cool new trike I bought for my grand daughter on my blog, on other mommy sites, on Facebook and Twitter.

What ashame that businesses don't realize the power of what good customer service can bring for free if they do the right thing.

The Millionaire Matchmaker Answers Your Questions on Love & Friendship

Have you heard of the movie Something Borrowed by Warner Brothers?  It stars Kate Hudson who I enjoy watching and Gennifer Goodwin along with others.  Rachel, played by Goodwin, in a single attorney at a top notch law office and is still single.  Her best friend, Darcy played by Kate Hudson, is engaged and reminds Rachel often of her single status.  Then one night while celebrating her 30th birthday, Rachel unexpectedly ends up in bed with her old law school crush who just happens to be Darcy's fiance.  You might be able to see the plot now with the thin line of friendship and love as the story continues.

Patti Stanger, The Millionaire Matchmaker, dishes out relationship advice to the characters in the movie.   She is also offering answers to your questions on love and relationships.  If you have questions, you can leave me a comment, send me a message on FB or on Twitter and if chosen, your question and answer will be part of a video from Patti.

Purple Day March 26: Wear Purple and Show Your Support

Tomorrow is Purple Day which is a day to raise awareness and support all the people with epilepsy both alive and passed on.  Purple Day is significant in that people are asked to wear purple .. isn't that easy?  There are many events going on throughout the world in celebration of this day.  Epilepsy is a disease that afflicts more people than you probably realize.  I never knew until my then five year old was diagnosed with it two, almost three year's ago.  It's a terrifying disease in that one has seizures which can be controlled and in many cases, not controlled.  Epilepsy even kills which is an even lesser known fact about it.  Seizures are the culprit but they really don't know why it happens but SUDEP is real and many children and adults have lost their lives to it.

This Saturday, please join in and wear purple and tell someone about why you are wearing purple.  My seven year old daughter, founder of Angels4Epilepsy.org, is delivering purple Pillow Pets to the local children's hospitals for any child currently hospitalized but mostly to support any child enduring testing or other procedure related to epilepsy.  We are also delivering small bags to drop off at the Ronald McDonald House for parents who are enduring a hospitalized child.

Check out the Anita Kaufman Foundation and learn more about epilepsy and Purple Day.

Tyndale's New Book Club eNewsletter & 30 Day Giveaway

Tyndale House Publishing is having 30 days of giveaway and it's easy to enter some really great books.  As part of Tyndale's new book club eNewsletter, you can click here and check out the latest giveaways and enter.  You can enter one, two or all that you want.

  

Today's books are:

1. Fireflies in December
2. The Boy Who Came Back from Heaven

It's a great way to learn about new books, win some great books and make some friends when you spread the word about the giveaway and newsletter.  

You can become a fan of Tyndale on Facebook here.

Smarty Had a Party Plastic Square Tumblers Review

When you spend time organizing and planning a party, you want every detail to be perfect.  Everything down to the napkins and plastic cups have to be part of the theme and sometimes, the cups can be difficult to match a theme.  I was having the same problem organizing my daughter's Taylor Swift theme until I received a complimentary set of Smarty Had a Party Plastic Tumblers and I think they are perfect!   Smarty Had a Party is an online store full of elegant disposable dinnerware.

As you can see by the picture above, they look elegant as they are but with a little imagination, they can serve another purpose by matching a hard to get theme such as a Taylor party.  I still have to work on my cutting a perfect oval but this is how it looks and keep in mind, it's my first attempt:

I love how great the sticker paper looks on the plastic tumbler.  The plastic tumbler has a nice etched design on two sides adding to the appeal and appearance.  They are a hard plastic and not flimsy or easy to crush.  They probably could be washed and reused at least for one more party if you like to stay frugal.  Overall, I think they are a great addition to a party or get together and I'll definitely be using them for all my future parties.

They come with 14 in a package for the Elegant Disposable 9 Ounce Square Rock Glasses and 12  for the Elegant Disposable 12 Ounce Square Tumblers.  I received both packages and can't wait to use them for our parties.  Smarty Had a Party has an array of products for your parties as well as recipes, an event gallery, worse dates and best marriage proposals.  

There are so many products to choose from.  Here is just a sample:

• Chair Covers
• Cocktail Glasses
• Dishes
• Napkin Rings
• Table Linens

Other great benefits to Smarty Had a Party include:

• Biodegradable products
• Search by color - makes themes so much easier
• Search by brand
• Free shipping on orders over $275 in 48 US states
• Blog to get new ideas and more information
• Return policy
• BBB Accreditation 

Overall, I would recommend Smarty Had a Party for your party needs.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. 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 Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure. I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

POST WITH A PURPOSE – Support Save The Children’s Effort In Japan

Feeling that desire or need to help out Japan but afraid of getting ripped off?  I know many are and I know that the people of Japan need our help more than ever.  Over at Party Blueprints, they have a new post where you can join Social Media Moms and Partyblueprints to raise awareness and money to support the work being done by "Save the Children" in Japan.

All it takes is a click and you can donate to help.  Click here to read all the details and help.

Facts taken from Partyblueprints site:

Japan Disaster Facts

• An estimated 100,000 children have been displaced from their homes
• Japan facing three disasters: earthquake, tsunami and nuclear radiation
• Japan is on high nuclear alert for two nuclear reactors in Fukushima
• Many tsunami-affected areas are still cut off from relief
• More than 465 roads, 43 bridges and seven railways washed away
• More than 380,000 people evacuated across the country

Due to the fact the quake and tsunami hit during the day, most children were in school or nurseries separated from their parents – fears are that many will be orphaned.

The triple horror of Japan’s earthquake, tsunami, and potential nuclear disaster has raised concerns over the long-term impact on children, some of whom are already displaying signs of trauma, from screaming nightmares to silent withdrawal.

The potential for lasting trauma is compounded by the unusual multiple nature of the event: a massive 9.0 earthquake, a devastating tsunami and a nationwide scare over a possible meltdown at a nuclear plant.

Experts say the scale of the loss and disruption for some children would have been almost inconceivable: homes destroyed, friends disappeared, one or both parents maybe killed, or siblings and other close family members missing.

Initial efforts to help them come to terms with the tragedy can only be made in extremely stressful circumstances, with families packed into ill-equipped evacuation shelters, suffering bitterly cold nights and frequent terrifying aftershocks.

“We found children in desperate conditions, huddling around kerosene lamps and wrapped in blankets,” said Save the Children spokesman Ian Woolverton, who visited a number of evacuation centres in the coastal regions of northeast Japan that bore the brunt of the March 11 tsunami.

“They told me about their anxieties, especially their fears about radiation,” Woolverton said, adding that several youngsters had mentioned the atomic attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which they know from school books.

Parents, many traumatised themselves, have struggled to keep their own fears in check as they try to soothe their children and provide them with some sense of normality and security.

Atsushi Takahashi, 36, said his two-year-old son Haruto has been terrified by the constant, sometimes powerful aftershocks.

“He’s been very scared, crying out ‘the house is shaking. I don’t like the house’,” Takahashi said, holding his son as he waited in a queue for a truck bringing fresh water to his neighbourhood.

“I always tell him that everything is okay and I hug him,” Takahashi said. “I think we just have to let time heal the wounds.”

Many children have had trouble sleeping, woken repeatedly in the night by bad dreams, while others have mentally shut down, shunning any company but their parents, whom they refuse to let out of their sight for even a moment.

Woolverton said the priority for Save The Children was to set up “child-friendly spaces” where children of a similar age could interact and start to play together again.

“I know from years of experience that if children play, it can ward off the chance of major long-term emotional trauma,” he said.

“The idea is also to relieve the stress on parents and to give them a break from childcare duties as they register for emergency assistance, try to find food, locate friends and family members and, in the longer term, jobs and housing.”

Pollen Have Mercy on Us

It's snowing yellow and green pollen so small that you can't see it until it accumulates on something or you go outside to see the supermoon and see it in the flash.   The Augusta area is number 10 on the list for worse places for allergies which is not good news for my severe asthmatic with severe allergies.  This is partly why she crashes and requires so many hospitalizations.  

I can't wait to move away from here on May 21st and hope our new location in Texas is much kinder to both of my children's conditions.  I love how they are such troopers and nothing really phases them.  My youngest who will be four at the end of June has such a great sense of humor in spite being in the NICU for a week when she was born prematurely, a near death experience down in Savannah for two weeks over two year's ago and her intermittent health woes since then.  Today, as we were watching Sponge Bob, the theme song came on and she was singing with it but changed the words to "Sponge Bob Poopy Pants."  This caused quite the laugh to come out of her and she looked at me and said, "get it Mom?  Sponge Bob Poopy Pants?" She started cracking up laughing again.  I know she's not alone in the kid department for stating that but she just has such an incredible sense of humor that I think has been key with her defying the odds and overcoming what baffles the doctors time and time again.

I just hope she continues down the road of laughter and always shines with her silliness.

Allay Menstrual Pain Therapy (No Drugs) Review

My oldest has horrible menstrual pains and I was hoping with the birth of her first child, it would help like it did with me but no luck.  Her cycles are so bad that she even passes out from time to time.  She's also a person who prefers to not opt for pain killers of any kind.  When I was presented the opportunity to review Allay Menstrual Pain Therapy, I thought it was ideal for her since it's drug free and safe.  Allay works by an innovative delivery system which emits low-level energy pulses that delivers quick relief for edema, inflammation and pain.



Benefits of Allay:

• Drug free
• 24/7 constant relief
• Easy to use
• Proven clinical trial for efficacy
• Treats pain and swelling at the source
• Sensation and heat free
• Inexpensive compared to over-the-counter pain relievers
• Choice in purchasing a single device or a 10 month supply
• Toll free customer service number

How Allay Works:

The device is small and consists of a small loop that fits into a little protective pouch.  The very small electronics and battery are housed at the top (image above) and is flat which allows comfort.  A red light will illuminate depicting the device is on and the therapeutic area is contained inside the loop.  Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) is a long established medical therapy that is proven and used by healthcare professionals around the world.  PEMF therapy has been shown in clinical studies to stop the relief of inflammatory mediators and accelerate the body's healing process.

My daughter stated it worked and it was easy to use.  She found no discomfort in wearing the device and stated she would prefer Allay over prescription or over-the-counter medications for her periods.  She would recommend Ally.

To purchase, click here or to read more about Allay in the news, click here.

Stay up to date by becoming a fan of Allay on Facebook here.

My Nutella MommyParties Fun

I had never heard of Nutella® (pronounced "new-tell-uh") until a few year's ago and never really tried it in spite of it being available in the US since the 1980's.  I never took the time to look into the ingredients but figured it was something gross.  At some point, I think during travels to Europe, I discovered hazelnuts and chocolate.  I was in love ... the birds were chirping, the sun was shining ..okay, well not quite but it is heavenly.  Then about six month's ago, I finally tried my first Nutella and I was again in love.  Nutella hazelnut spread is simply delicious and it's amazing how good it tastes and it's a great way to kick off breakfast.  My personal favorite is spreading some Nutella on some whole wheat toasts so I get some flavorful treat and something really good for me.


Nutella has a great taste and is a blend of hazelnuts, sugar, skim milk, and a hint of cocoa which is the right recipe for wonderful.  Each 13 ounce jar contains more than 50 hazelnuts.


Nutella does not contain any hydrogenated oil or trans fat and is also low in sodium compared to other nut butters.  It also does not contain any ingredient derived from gluten containing cereal:  wheat, barley, rye, oats or triticale.  It is a kosher product.  People with peanut allergies can enjoy this tasty alternative as well.  


Nutella isn't just for toast:

1. English muffins
2. Toaster waffles
3. Mini-bagels
4. Crackers

Click here for a $1 off coupon.

Nutella can be part of a wholesome, healthy breakfast when consumed in the right menu.  Nutella on two pieces of whole wheat toast, skim milk and a serving of fruit is a good, tasty and right way to start the morning for yourself or your kids.  My kids love the taste as do I.

My party consisted of 10 of my neighbors and friends and we learned about Nutella and what it has to offer.  Surprisingly, only three others had heard of Nutella and tried it.   It was a fun learning event and everyone loved the flavor.

We tried a couple of recipes I found on the net but this was our favorite:

Nutella Granola

*(compliments of http://lunchfitforakid.blogspot.com/2011/01/recipe-nutella-granola.html)
4 c rolled oats
1/2 c wheat germ
1/2 c dry milk
1/4 c ground flax seeds

1/2 c Nutella
1/2 c brown sugar
1/4 c vegetable oil

1 1/2 c dried fruit (I used raisins)

Combine dry first four ingredients in a bowl.

Heat the nutella, brown sugar, and oil in a bowl in the microwave until they can be easily stirred together (about 30 seconds).

Pour nutella mixture into dry ingredients and combine well.

Spread into large baking pans and cook at 250 F for about 45 minutes to an hour, stirring every 15 minutes.  If you don't stir it, it could burn, and there is little more tragic in the kitchen than burnt granola.  Consider yourself warned.

Once the granola is well toasted, let cool and stir in dried fruit.

Transfer to an air tight container and enjoy!

*Disclosure:  I received a complimentary MommyParties Nutella kit for the purposes of my party and this post.

Help a School & Vote for a Pepsi Refresh Project

I'm a big fan of the Pepsi Refresh projects especially since my daughter's non-profit for epilepsy won last year.  I think it's a great initiative for so many wonderful projects that wouldn't have a chance without the generous funding from Pepsi.  Schools are becoming the source of many budget woes and with so many projects getting cut, extra funding could make the difference in something that not only teaches but is enjoyable.  The LaSalle Public School wants to build an outdoor classroom to help and inspire and motivate children to learn about the natural environment.  They are ranked 8th and need to finish in the top two to win a grant for $25,000.

It's a great project and it's free to vote so please head over and vote daily and spread the word!  Thank you!

Click here to vote.

March Madness Basketball and Boboli Recipes

Compliments of FrankinSight.wordpress.com

Most everyone knows that Hoosiers love their basketball and don't ask what a Hoosier is because I forgot but it's a person from Indiana which is me!  I never knew how much I loved my state until I moved away but I do.  I don't know if it's so much the state or more so because my family is mostly there.  Indiana even had a basketball movie called Hoosiers named after the state so you can be sure it's a big thing.  With the basketball season comes lots of tournaments and get togethers.  Even offices get in the act with the office pools and parties trying to figure out which college team will win it all.  I don't think the Indiana teams have faired so well post the Bobby Knight days but there is always a chance!

If you read my blog regularly, there are a few brands that I'm very loyal to and Boboli is one of them.  My family loves the crust and the sauce and whenever we make pizza, it's the brand we choose.  I used to buy the dough from our local Publix but we prefer the taste of Boboli and with all the great recipes, we can make quite a feast out of it.  Whether we want healthy or just plain ol' tasty and maybe not-so-healthy, we have a choice.  Boboli has come together again with some great recipes in honor of March madness that I opted to share with you all.

Spinach & Artichoke Pizza 

Ingredients

1 12" Boboli® Whole Wheat Pizza Crust
1 c. part-skim Ricotta cheese
5 oz. frozen spinach, thawed, drained and chopped
4–5 artichoke hearts in water, drained and chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1/8 tsp. hot pepper flakes
2 tbsp. Parmesan cheese, grated

Directions

Preheat oven to 450° F.

In a small mixing bowl, combine part-skim Ricotta cheese, frozen spinach, artichoke hearts, garlic, and hot pepper flakes. Place the crust on a baking sheet. Spread the cheese mixture onto the crust, leaving a 1/2" border around the pizza. Sprinkle the top with the Parmesan cheese and bake 10 – 12 minutes until bubbly and light brown on the edges. Add 1/4 pound cooked, diced chicken breast for a heartier version.

Alternate Methods

For 8" pizza crust, use 2/3 ingredients.

Chicken Parmesan Pizza 

Ingredients

1 12" Boboli® Original Pizza Crust
1 5-oz. pkg. Boboli® Pizza Sauce
3/4 lb. skinless, boneless, chicken breasts, cut into strips
1/2 c. all-purpose flour
1 tbsp. vegetable oil
1 c. (4 oz.) part-skim mozzarella cheese, shredded
8 black olives, pitted, halved (optional)
1 tbsp. Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 tsp. dried oregano leaves

Directions

Preheat oven to 450° F.
Bake time: 8 – 10 minutes

Dredge chicken in flour and fry in 1" hot oil in skillet until golden brown. Drain. Return to pan. Add 1/2 of the pizza sauce to chicken and spread mixture on pizza crust, leaving a 1" border. Sprinkle with Mozzarella cheese, remaining pizza sauce, and olives. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and oregano. Bake 8 – 10 minutes on a baking sheet in the lower third of the oven. Cool slightly and serve.

Alternate Methods

For 8" pizza crust, use 2/3 ingredients.

Pretty Neat: The Buttoned-Up Way to Get Organized and Let Go of Perfection by Alicia Rockmore and Sarah Welch Review & Giveaway 3/20 WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

Operation Sweet Dreams said...

I'm a follower. I have trouble with my craft area that has no spilled over to random parts of my apartment (oops). Thank you for sharing The Buttoned-Up Way! I love the site and the downloads are perfect and useful!!

March 20, 2011 1:13 PM 

An e-mail has been sent and she has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected via random.org.

Thanks to all those who entered!

The number of television programs showcasing organized homes and living spaces is everywhere.  There aren't many places you can look that doesn't have some organization desire or theme.  We are a society of perceived perfection.  One of which you either fit in or you don't and how you react to that is a personal matter.  I know that I sometimes feel bad for not being organized like Martha Stewart or that I feel less because I don't have a spotless home with a home for everything.  I would love to have a home that looks like a model home but I just can't.  I'm slowly accepting that but it's hard.  This is where Pretty neat: The Buttoned-Up Way to Get Organized and Let Go of Perfection couldn't have arrived at a better time.

I'm in the process of selling a home.  With that came a lot of responsibility of making my home look perfect per my agent.  Unfortunately, with two young children and a baby, it's a tad bit hard for me as my husband is in Kuwait and won't return until the first week of May.  We then have to move to El Paso by June 1st.  Trying to keep the mail, the homework, the school notices, the doctor appointments and referrals as I have two children with chronic medical conditions coupled with my seven year old's non-profit of helping children with epilepsy, I have struggles!  What I do like is how the authors define what is going on with our society, "org porn."  It's so true in that everywhere you look, it's there.  Organizational products, ideas, articles and so forth are pushed in our faces constantly along with that nagging lesson that if we aren't organized, we are imperfect.

The authors come up with great ways to add organization to your life that doesn't require fancy products or endless hours of driving everyone crazy to conform.  A great chapter in this book is also how to say no.  If you are like me, saying no is like giving up chocolate or Johnny Depp movies, IMPOSSIBLE.  This chapter was key in giving me the resources to start saying no.  There are an abundance of great tips and suggestions on so many facets of our daily lives.  It's more than just a book as it's a handbook to help curtail some of the chaos.  The authors present in an entertaining way that makes the book come alive as who wants to read something dull and boring?

There are even some cool and helpful free tools and downloads here.

The Giveaway:

One lucky winner will receive their very own copy of this indispensable book.

To Enter:

Follow my blog and tell me one area that you have trouble organizing.

Giveaway ends 3/20 at midnight (EST) - US only please

Winner chosen via random.org

SpellQuizzer Review: Perfect Way to Teach Spelling Words

I have just made the leap in a new homeschooling decision.  After my middle child finishes this year in a public school system, I've decided to homeschool her and her younger sister mostly because we are an Army family and we keep moving around.  I feel the disruption of moving around every three or four years is a lot to take on and with both my children having chronic medical conditions, I also want to be able to help control their absences since the schools have definite policies on it.  I don't want to have to encourage my child to go to school when she's not at her best because I'm afraid of her falling further behind or catching grief over her attendance.  As I proceed with preparation, I'm looking for tools that will help and this great online software called SpellQuizzer is perfect!

My daughter currently has weekly spelling tests and had I had this before now, it would have helped her study so much better.  SpellQuizzer is a great tool for parents in teaching their children how to spell.  With the use of a microphone and speakers, you can set up the spelling lists you need and the child can practice on their own or with your help however you choose is best for your child.  My children love computers so this is a great way to continue in their education with computer software and programs as well as learning fundamental skills like spelling that is crucial to their success.

Priced at only $29.95 with a guarantee your child will improve their test scores, you can't lose.  I've tried flashcards, memorization and repeat writing of each word.  We have struggled this whole year with trying to get 100%.  Now when she practices, SpellQuizzer will check the word as she types in from the audio recording, if incorrect, it notifies her and it will retest that word after the first pass of the spelling list.  The intro screen is easy to maneuver and if you need to add or delete a word, it's just as easy as creating the list.  You can click here to see a demonstration of the child using SpellQuizzer.

SpellQuizzer runs on any PC using Windows to include Vista and Windows 7.  I've had problems with other software using Vista and Windows 7 but had no issues.  The software loaded effortlessly and everything ran so smoothly.  The software is easy enough for a child to use which is ideal as you don't want to spend as much time teaching how to use the software as to teach the lesson.  You can even download a free trial here.

SpellQuizzer is a company that I feel is for parents in helping children achieve success.  They even have a page of resources to other educational software and more.

Overall, I love SpellQuizzer and now I want a MathQuizzer (please)!

Keep up to date with SpellQuizzer on Facebook and follow on Twitter.

If you want to win a copy, go over to MamaBuzz and enter now!

I was provided a SpellQuizzer software license free of charge for the sole purpose of this review; no other compensation was received. All opinions expressed are my own.

This is a Mama Buzz review. The product was provided by TedCo Software for this review.