Scotts Florida Select Mulch made from 100% Eucalyptus

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Scotts Miracle-Gro for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.
I recall visiting Cairns Australia and smelling the wonderful scent of Eucalyptus trees.  Up until recently I had imagined that they only grew in Australia.  On a walk with my husband we spied a small tree up in someone's yard right here down my own street!  The scent was simply exquisite and the trees were simply beautiful!

I was again confronted with Eucalyptus in a form I never ever dreamed it would come from, sustainable gardening.  In our own USA home front one can find Eucalyptus trees growing in the state of Florida!  I think it is incredible that among my gardening supplies I was shopping for, there was a product that was perfect for greening up my garden.  Scotts Nature Scapes mulch comes in several different colors to suit your landscaping needs.  It comes in the following complimenting colors:

Scotts Florida Select Natural Eucalyptus Mulch is made from 100% Florida-grown Eucalyptus. Eucalyptus Mulch is a sustainable Cypress alternative, grown in Florida, for Florida!

When talking with my husband over plans for our planters and yard I asked him about mulch.  He told me it was a great way for keeping water moisture retained for the plants.  Mulch is such a fun simple solution to give your yard or garden aethestic qualities!

So we scanned the internet to get some ideas for our yard and here are some equisite and very tasteful ways to utilize mulch for yards and garden beds!  I love seeing how others utilize mulch to beautify their garden.

 When considering mulching  your garden one needs to know how much to buy for your yard.  Getting enough is important so that you can get adequate coverage for your yard.  It is no fun running back and forth from the garden store just because you forgot to buy enough materials!  So here is some information about the coverage area for Scotts Eucalyptus Mulch: A 2 cu. ft. bag will cover the following: At a depth of 2 inches, 12 sq. ft of bedding area. At a depth of 3 inches, 8 sq. ft. of bedding area. At a depth of 4 inches, 6 sq. ft. of bedding.

Other gardening supplies needed for the job of spreading mulch are a good rake, shovel, wheel barrow, and a good pair of gloves.  I love having my husband be a retired landscaper...he knows alot about what materials are needed!  I cannot wait to jump start my garden with Scotts Florida Select Mulch this Spring!

Eucalyptus Mulch is the best option for your landscape because it is:
1. SUSTAINABLE: Sustainably-harvested and plantation grown Eucalyptus is considered a renewable resource because it re-grows up to 4-times faster than Cypress.*
2. NATURAL: Made from 100% plantation-grown Eucalyptus trees. Eucalyptus Mulch is guaranteed free from any construction, demolition, pallet, or other waste materials.
3. EFFECTIVE: Prevents weeds naturally** while helping to conserve soil moisture and moderate soil temperature.
4. LOCAL: 100% Florida-grown - helps support your local economy.
*Sustainably-harvested and plantation grown Eucalyptus is considered a renewable resource because it re-grows up to 4-times faster than Cypress.
**A three-inch layer of Eucalyptus Mulch naturally helps prevent weeds by blocking growth and access to sunlight.
How to Use: Spread 3 inches deep. Keep mulch several inches from tree trunks and house foundations or other wood structures.
When to Apply: Apply around trees, shrubs, flowers or vegetables after seeds have germinated and plants have developed.
Where to Use: Apply around trees, shrubs, flowers or vegetables after seeds have germinated and plants have developed.
Where Not to Use: Avoid use: Before seeds have germinated, around underdeveloped plants, and within several inches of house foundations or other wood surfaces.

Green Giant Veggie Snack Chips are Delicious!

 

Now, I am an avid chip snack buyer. In particular...I love Hawaiian chips, but I have to say that Green Giant has given my ole' time favorite Hawaiian Chips a run for its money.  I am in no way kidding.

Green Giant has come out with some really tasty snack chips.  The medley of multigrain is truly delicious and satisfying to my tastebuds.  The fact that these chips are made with REAL VEGETABLES helps me feel good about giving them to my family.

• Roasted Veggie Tortilla Chips with Zesty Cheddar are crispy tortilla chips made with real vegetables like carrot, broccoli, and tomato, plus 17g of whole grain
• Multigrain Sweet Potato Chips with Sea Salt are made with real sweet potatoes and 14g of whole grain, with 40% less fat than regular potato chips

The two flavors I was given to try was Zesty Cheddar and Sea Salt.  The Sweet Potato Sea Salt reminded me of my favorite chips.  The flavor is incredibly tasty for just having sea salt too.  It surprised me how good and fresh they tasted!  It was full of flavor for just being sea salt! 

The texture is superb and is nice and crisp with that "multigrain" sweet potato flavor.  I am not too much of a fan of sweet potato fan, but I truly liked it in this snack.  It will replace my current chip bag that I buy frequently.  I have to confess that it tastes really good and is sort of a guilt free snack I want to treat not only myself but my family!


The only thing I would change about this product is that in the Roasted Veggie Tortilla Chips I wished that it did not contain milk ingredients.  My husband is lactose intolerant and allergic to milk.  I would really hope that Green Giant would make some veggie snacks without Milk ingredients in it.   Some of my family members are all vegetarian and would really appreciate no milk as well.  They would love these chips if it wasn't for the milk.


Disclosure: I received free samples of the product from my sponsor for the purpose of writing a review.  I am a BzzAgent and received this for a blog campaign.  All opinions are 100% my own.  I was not required to write a positive post.  Thank you so much to Green Giant and BzzAgent for letting me try out these wonderful veggie snacks!

Fibond Review and Giveaweay {Guest Post Giveaway}

Who doesn't long for a full, lush head of healthy hair?  I grew up with two sisters who both had the most amazing, full heads of long straight hair.  My thin, curly hair was always a mess -- especially in the humidity!  I spent countless hours trying to straighten it for it only to curl right back up into an unruly mess.  My hair was ALWAYS very thin -- I just didn't have the volume of hair that most others did. 

As I aged, it only got worse.  Years of harsh chemicals to color it and hide the gray that creeped in seemed to exacerbate the situation.  Having babies, the years of worrying that went with them, flat irons, curling irons and a bout with breast cancer really reeked havoc on my poor strands. 

That's why when I was asked to try Fibond for Men and Women I was ready! 

Here's the natural part of my hair BEFORE using Fibond:

And here it is AFTER using Fibond:

Honestly, what a huge difference!  

There's many reasons that your hair thins and you lose precious volume.  As people age, hair tends to gradually thin. Other causes of hair loss include hormonal factors, medical conditions and medications. Hair loss can also result from physical or emotional shock, excessive weight loss, a death in the family and certain hairstyles which involve pulling the hair too tightly into pigtails or cornrows.

I've tried so many hair loss products and I can honestly say that Fibond is my favorite!  It is easy to use and the price is under $30.  You simply hold the bottle at a 45 degree angle over the thinning spot and shake gently.  The fibers cling to the thinning area.  You can use as much or as little as you want!  There's no odor, no harmful chemicals and best of all, no surgical procedure.  I couldn't tell it was there and it washes out with your regular shampoo.  Fibond comes in black, medium brown, brown, light brown, dark brown and blonde. 

The folks at Fibond have graciously agreed to give one of my readers a 25g, 50-75 day supply.   
Enter below for a chance to see what Fibond can do for you!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer:  This is brought to you by advertisewithbloggers.com and Fibond.  I was given a sample of Fibond in order to facilitate my review.  All opinions are 100% mine.  

Mother's Day Dresses Ideas from ModCloth

Quite often I love online shopping (or rather wishing).  I find myself creating wishlists on ModCloth sooner or later!  I think a great way to treat Moms is by giving her a nice little dress to make her day a little bit fun with some added sweetness and spice!  

Here are a few of my Mother's Day picks if someone would treat me out to a little shopping spree at ModCloth!  The first top two dresses would be if my husband would take me out to a brunch or a day date! If a more romantic night out in luxurious dinner or stroll in town, I would wear the bottom two picks!  

Take a Lichen to It Dress

The sweet heart top is just to die for!  I love the color scheme just because for my skin color it would compliment me a lot.  The little belt-bow is just adorable.

Summer Festival Dress

For a more fun dress out to a carnival or fun active time with family, I'd love to wear this dress.  I can picture going to the fair or fun outing with my husband and daughter.

Exquisite Visit Dress

The lace on this dress is exactly "exquisite" as its name suggests.  I think it is beautiful.

When the Night Comes Dress in Smoke

Favorite cut of dress with the top being sheer--showing off the lace work.  

The color on this dress is one of my favorites!  Just an overall lovely romantic dress..

Disclosure: Not a paid post.  Just a fun post not sponsored by anyone.  Pictures taken from Modcloth.com

Mother's Day Gift Idea with CollageIt Pro {Giveaway}

Super excited about this giveaway. I have been in the process of getting my photos ready to create some picture gifts for my mom. She absolutely adores her grandbaby, and I thought a great gift would be to snap a few pictures, and create a collage!

CollageIt Pro is such an easy fast way to get the pictures in a collage format. I am not all that when it comes to picture programs, but I have found that this program is simple and fun to use, and not to mention quick. I love that I there are templates that help make giftmaking a breeze. I definitely feel that this is something that everyone can enjoy and utilize for Mother's Day as well as other special occasions and gifts!

I know that as a mother, I love collages and pictures of my family!  Something to recap the year or a special moment in time means something to me.  I do hope my husband reads this post and creates a picture present for me!  I might have to give  him a hint ;)

I have yet to print out these collages, but when I do I will defintely post up my resulting Mothers' Day gifts~

• Making collages is as easy as 1-2-3 with only 3 steps, choose template -> add photos & customize -export collage. 
• Various layouts and diverse templates. 
• Easily personalize collage by cropping, adjusting photo number, photo space, page margin, rotation, sparse, and so on. 
• Save collage as an image file; set as desktop wallpaper; share through Email; or print it out. 

20 of my readers will win licenses to CollageIt Pro thanks to our sponsor at Pearl Mountain! Enter before May 12, 2013 midnight PST, Winner will be drawn at random. Winner will be emailed. For more information on this product please check out: http://www.collageitfree.com/

Giveaway: To Enter leave a comment below telling me what you did. Leave a separate comment for each entry. Leave your email address in at least one comment.

{Mandatory} 
Entry 1: Visit the website and tell me something you like about the program.
{Optional Entries} 
Entry 2: "Like/Fan" Sophie and Mommas Family Blog and Pearl Mountain
Entry 3: Follow Sophie and Momma and Pearl Mountain on Twitter


Disclosure: I tried out the trial form of the program. All opinions are my own, I was not compensated in any other way. I was not obligated to write a positive review.

Melissa and Doug Jumbo Knob Puzzle!

We made an order off the internet, and I do not regret my purchase!  My toddler absolutely loves this Farm Jumbo Knob Puzzle!  I am usually not too keen of purchasing online just because I can't handle them or get a feel for how big they are and how they will hold up.  But Melissa & Doug is really known for high quality toys and I was not disappointed at all.  This puzzle we bought was big and definitely suited what I had imagined.  My toddler is rather rambunctious and quite hard on her toys and this one passes her test.  She plays hard.  The puzzle has stayed in tact!

I bought these on sale, and I would recommend waiting for a sale or getting a coupon just because for a family on a budget they are a bit pricey.  But this Melissa & Doug puzzles are worth saving up for.  I would not want to settle when it comes to toys for my daughter, though I'm on a budget, I would not hesitate saving up to purchase another one.  


I have to say I am quite impressed with these knobbed puzzles.  The puzzle pieces are thick, chunky and wooden.  It makes for easy grasping and playing for little hands.  I love not having to worry about losing pieces because they are so big it is easy to find.  They are not a chocking hazard for my two year old.

Knobs on the puzzle pieces are perfect for little hands to easily fit the pieces on the board.  She absolutely loves how easy to hold while figuring out where they go.  It is a good challenge for her mind, but at the same time appropriate for her age.

To make learning easier, there is a picture of the "what goes where" when the puzzle pieces are not in place.  I think that is a very useful for developing some visual association skills.

I think this puzzle is ideal for kids.  Not only is it fun it is a great educational toy.  After a few days she has already learned which animal goes where.  After a few months of playing, she has figured it out, knows all the animal names and what sound they make!  I LOVE how far she has progressed.  She also loves making the animal sounds and naming off the animal!

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Join Big 5 E-Team & Save on your next in-store purchase.

Crayola's Big Colorful Birthday Adventure!

To celebrate their 110th birthday, the 8 original crayons are throwing a birthday bash at the new fun-omenal Crayola Experience, the world's only interactive Crayola family attraction. Right now, they're out on a colorful adventure to spread the news, and you're invited to join the fun!

This May 2013 you can join in on Crayola's 110th Birthday Celebration!




How can you join in on the fun?

You can FOLLOW the crayons on their adventure, LEARN more about each color and enter to WIN a trip for 4 to celebrate their birthday and the Grand Opening of the all new Crayola Experience this coming May, 2013!

Visit the Crayola Facebook page and click "enter now" for your chance to be first in line when the Crayola Experience reopens.

The new Crayola Experience features four floors of new interactive exhibits and one-of-a-kind attractions that will bring the magic of color and your child's creativity to life! The winner will be among the first to experience the fun, along with a three- night, all-expenses paid stay. It's an experience your kids will never forget - and neither will you!

Disclosure: Information was provided through Crayola.

Massdrop Keurig Giveaway Event {Enter to WIN}

Sophie and Momma's Family Blog Welcomes You to the Massdrop Giveaway Event

Are you a coffee drinker?  I sure am starting to become one.  My dear husband bought me a Keurig for Christmas this last year.  He stole away and bought me some Hazelnut Keurig cups too!  The smell of the coffee in the morning is just amazing, and it is such a treat for me to have a cup of coffee without having to run out to get some.  I love that I can offer company a cup of coffee without worrying I will botch it up! 

Massdrop takes a group of people that each want to buy the same thing, combines their order, and places that order directly with the manufacturer. If you are interested in a product for a group buy you can start a poll to see how many people might be interested. When people vote on a poll, Massdrop calls the manufacturer and negotiates with them to get the group the best price possible.

As a result, everybody in the group gets the large quantity price while only having to buy one, or however many you want. Of course, the larger the group the better price everyone will get!!

Massdrop just had this great group buy on a Keurig B60 Single-Cup Home-Brewing System. Normally, this Keurig retails for around $169.99 but, Massdrop worked their magic and offered it for $97.00! Even though this deal has ended you can "request" the group to be on again, or create a poll to vote for upcoming group buys you want.

One lucky winner will receive a Keurig B60 Single-Cup Home-Brewing System!!

Organized by: Mom Powered Media

Hosted by: Baby Costcutters, Mom to Bed By 8, Powered by Mom, Giveaway Booster, Homeschooling Mom 4 Two, Making Memories With Your Kids, Mommy May We, and Frugality For Less

Giveaway ends May 8th at 11:59pm, open Worldwide, ages 18+. To enter please use the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received no compensation for this publication. My opinions are my own and may differ from those of your own. YOUR BLOG NAME HERE is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment. This event was organized by MomPoweredMedia please contact tina@babycostcutters.com with questions or to see your business or blog featured on the next big event!

Frugality as a College Student---Textbook Rentals

As a former college student at Olympic College and UW, I can testify of the appalling ridiculous prices of textbooks.   I was blessed with a family who helped me get through college, but I know money was tight and tough because on top of tuition--books, food, room and board.  The cost of college is pretty steep.  So I have a few great tips to help the student who does not want to pay steep prices for textbooks.
   
College Libraries.

So what I did was hit the library.  I was lucky enough to rent out a book that was either a later version of the "updated" and even struck gold a couple of times with the latest edition to rent out!  That was  how I was able to save money and not have to fork out $100 for a new/used book.  This option can be harder though, and I am sure that someone in my class hated me for renting out one of the precious few textbooks in the library.  

I have recommended this to my sister, but all in all her college library has one or two copies of the textbook that can only be borrowed for a mere couple of ours.  So not a very reliable method to save, but when you can, do!

Buying Used/Preowned Textbooks.

Friends are awesome.  I can say if you can find someone who is taking a class that you will take next quarter.  It does not hurt to buddy up to them and make a friendship relationship!  Or a mere acquaintance.  Offer them after some coffee and cookies to buy the book after they're done.  Swap emails, numbers, and a handshake.  College fellowship can be divine.

There are alot of students there who hate to return their books to the college bookstore...be on the look out for signs and fliers posted up on the various pin boards!  Again you have to be quick.  My experience with this method was a bit of a pain.  Meeting up with another college student--a stranger can be a little creepy.  I was a 16 year old girl who moved from a tiny island.  I was a bit wary but I did it once.  Meet in a very public place, and during the daytime when there's a lot of people.  I might sound too cautious, but hey, you never know! I have a little sister who now is in college, and I want her to be safe and have a good head on her shoulders. 

Campus Book Rentals.

My preferred method to all those currently heading or are in college.  Is through this website which offers Textbook Rentals. 

Why I am excited to share though is Textbook Rentals is the fact that it meshes the idea of buying used together with my method of borrowing or renting out books!   I did mention one way to borrow a book through the library, but it is sometimes hard and not always feasible or preferable. 

 Campus Book Rentals is a great way to not deal with the hassle of meeting up with someone in hopes that the textbook you want is still available.  You can easily search their site to find the textbook you want.  You can simply use your ISBN, Title, Author, Key Word to find your book in a matter of seconds. 

• Searching for your book is a breeze.
• Editions, ISBN, Author and Cover Picture are clearly seen in order to verify the RIGHT textbooks.
• Prices are very comparable if not lower than other online websites.
• Feel free to Write, Highlight, and Underline the book as if it was yours!
• Free Shipping--Receive and Return your books without having to pay shipping!
• Rentback your book for money.
• No Membership Fees
• They offer 30 day worry free guarantee. If you drop your class or change your mind for any reason, return your book within 30 days of your order date for a full refund.

What's not to love about Campus Book Rentals?

 All in all, I will be recommending CampusBookRentals.com  to my own sister who is family!  I recommend it highly to you.

Here's an example of a book I needed to use for my Microbiology 250 Class:

Amazon Site

Campus Book Rentals prices for the same book.

Disclosure: This is a paid post.

Worship

Beauty in the Growing Pains

Some days, I just want to wrap myself round about with the music of worship and the truth of God's word. Closing my eyes, just absorbing the sounds and opening my mouth to bring out praises to Him. Every part of my self just exuding "God you love me...Thank..you..so..much!" My eyes close to the world blocking them out. My mind just saying no to how weird a moment this may seem to others, but oh so lovely to me giving thanks to the King.

Other times it's just being awed by the mere reading of His Word and truth that I just can't contain it--kinda feeling? Have you ever felt that?? Just like you've read something that makes you feel so uncontrollably happy and joyous?? or so powerful that your fingers tremble. oryou are overwhelmed by emotions of awe because of God that sometimes you sob because of how tremendous He is to you...

Sometimes it might just be a quietness. so tender. the quiet peace and joy that He sees you and knows you. His thoughts for you are amazing, unnumber-able.

I get taken back at different days where when I delve into his word and meet with Him or see something that exhibits His Love and Hand on something--I just want to thank Him and live in this worship moment and not to forget that we can always live worship--not just in worship music, but continually?


I wrote this two years ago...some times I feel so different from who I was.  I feel more troubled within and more tainted by this world and my own sins and faults.  God, change me to be that person whom you love again!  Forgive me for my shortcomings, and my temper tantrums.  Forgive me for losing sight of simply being your child...a child of the King of Love.  Mold me again, God...Yahweh.

Be still and know that I am God...

Inspired: A Divine Calling Devotional

Seattle Art Museum Presents SAM Camp

Seattle Art Museum Presents SAM Camp

Three weeks of fun-filled imagination and creativity, designed for children in grades 1–5!  Each week is a different experience. Attend one week or all three.  Your kids will make art and new friends!

 

Week One: July 8–12

Globe Trotters: Art from Around the World
Are you ready to put your art on the map? Make collages, paintings, sculptures, passports, mixed media maps and more in response to art from around the globe. This week will also include fun music workshops.

Week Two: July 15–19

Time Machine: Art Past & Present
SAM Campers will go back in time exploring art from the Pacific Northwest and across many continents! Time capsules, comics and futuristic portraits are just part of the adventure.

Week Three: July 22–26

Planet Heroes: Art & the Environment

 
Be a hero for planet Earth! SAM Campers will create superhero costumes from recycled materials, create trash sculptures and other “green” art, and learn everyday acts to save our planet.

Seattle Art Museum is one museum in three locations. The camps take place at either the Seattle Asian Art Museum in Volunteer Park, or at the Olympic Sculpture Park on the Seattle Waterfront. Each week of camp includes a trip to the galleries at SAM Downtown.

 

Click here for details and to register.

Ephesians Bible Study:A Discover Together Study

I love reading the book of Ephesians.  I think I have gone through this book a couple of times with a couple of group Bible Studies.  Though I liked doing a group Bible Study, I really appreciated Author Sue Edwards direction in her Ephesians Study.


When beginning the study of Ephesians, she offers a background that helps us visualize and understand why Paul is writing.  The context really helped me understand what was going on, and also helped me see how very relevant the book of Ephesians is to me in this day and age where godlessness abounds.

I absolutely loved the progression of the Lesson.  It starts us from who we are in Christ and our position in Jesus Christ.  We are seated in Christ Jesus at the right hand of God!  Praise God! And then it progresses to learning how to live in Him and to have a life of prayer.  From there it goes to work and what that looks like in a born again believer.  In Lesson 4 Paul addresses the importance of the unity of believers.  And how we are to be built together.  Then Lesson 6-8 it seems to address the action and life of a believer in terms of what we "do" and how we are "walking" in relation to relationships in and out of the home.  Finally in Lesson 9 it seems like if we know who we are and practice all that we learned we are called to stand!  Stand in Jesus Christ and in all that He has given us.

Lesson 1:  Learn to Sit
Lesson 2:  Sit and Pray
Lesson 3:  Sit Down to Work
Lesson 4:  Sit Down Together
Lesson 5:  Sit Down to Walk
Lesson 6:  Tripping Over Your Tongue? Talk Your Walk!
Lesson 7:  Walking "Under the Influence"
Lesson 8  Walk Worthy in Relationships
Lesson 9  Sit Down to Stand

Snippet of Lesson 2 of the Ephesians Bible  Study:  

In the next chapter we discover what the role of prayer is in our lives--and the importance of communing in fellowship with God throughout the whole day.  Prayer is so much more than just a "block of time".  It is not just asking, but so much more.  I especially appreciated reading and studying the great prayers throughout the Bible of godly men and women.  I am convicted at how my prayer life is not a portrayal of my life, but just a short blip of a conversation.  When in fact prayer is this as John White puts it:

Prayer is not you trying to move God. Prayer is among other things, being caught up into God's directions and activity.  He orders the affairs of the universe, and he invites you to participate by prayer.  Intercession is God and you in partnership, bringing his perfect plans into being.  (The Fight, 27)

The second chapter is by far my favorite because of how much I was convicted of my lack of a prayerful life!

My Thoughts:   I really enjoyed how clear and focused each chapter was.  Each page almost seems to have some little note that helped me understand deeper what I was studying, and also encouraged me as I went through the devotional.

With every chapter I studied, I am placed in a position to Read the Word and to answer questions based upon the portion of reading I did.  This method of question and answering reminded me of homework I do in a women's Bible Study Fellowship I am apart of.  The idea is that it is straight from the Word of God.  Provokes my thoughts, and allows me to retain what was read and studied.  I love this method of study because I feel like God is using this to get me to read a whole book little by little while slowly digesting it's hidden nuggets of truth.

This study is definitely something I enjoy, and Sue Edwards as an author who's such an encouragement in my walk.  Through author chats and her online Facebook Fan Page, I find that she is open and available for those who may have questions or just looking for some encouragement!  I highly recommend this book: 5 out of 5 stars.

Meet Sue: Sue Edwards (MA, Dallas Theological Seminary; D.Min., Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary) teaches full-time in the Christian Education Department at Dallas Theological Seminary. She has more than twenty-five years of experience teaching, pastoring, and directing women's ministries. In addition, Sue speaks at retreats, conferences, and seminars across the country. She is the coauthor of Women's Retreats and New Doors in Ministry to Women, and the author of the new Sue Edwards Inductive Bible Study series.

• Find out more about Sue at http://www.discovertogetherseries.com.
• Read more reviews on this book: http://litfusegroup.com/author/sedwards
• Order a copy of the book: http://ow.ly/jJdA1 

Disclosure:  I was given a free copy of the book for the purpose of this review.  I was not compensated in any other way.  All opinions are mine, and I was not required to write a positive review.  

{Potty Training}

What advice can I give to a new mom who is going to begin potty training?

• Check out fun children's books about Going to the Potty. 
• Everyone Poops
• Dinosaur vs the Potty
• Once Upon a Potty for her
• Potty
• Diapers are not Forever
• Check out adult books about Going to the Potty.
• Potty Training for Dummies
• On Becoming Pottywise for Toddlers
• Potty Training Girls/Boys the Easy Way
• Watch DVDs like "Once Upon a Potty for him/her"
• Demonstrate using the Potty
• Some kind of distraction as he or she is on the potty (like books) 
• Have the tools ready and handy for them:

• Step Stool for climbing onto the toilet
• A Potty Seat
• Some kind of Reward: Stickers/Candy/Chart
• Toilet Paper
• Develop a System/Schedule for them to constantly go to the potty.  Consistency helps!
• Trainers

My Experience:
It has been a month or so since we started Potty Training.  In all honesty, this is me being trained as to how to do the training!  Went to the library and borrowed about 20 books/dvds about the Potty!  A handful of parental books for me to thumb through and learn, and a bunch of children stories about the potty for her! 

By far the one lesson I have learned in all this is just not putting pressure on my little one.  She is two and half.  As a mom fears come up and thoughts tell me that she needs to accomplish this before she is three.  Or Else...I am not a good mom!  BLOW that thought life away.  It will make life stressful for both the child and you.  I was stressed and it does no good for a little one in learning.  I am making it a priority not to force her, but to keep it a positive moving forward experience.  It is Hard not to feel pressure as a mom...so...making it a positive experience is a good challenge for us right?


Watching and Reading Potty books  has greatly helped.  I feel like things are clicking here and there in her brain.  I am so excited and thrilled with her every time she tries to use the potty!  :)

Little by little we are getting there.  I am thrilled to be her Coach, Encourager, and Teacher in all of this.  I cannot believe she is growing up right before my eyes.  I am so proud of her.  In all of the potty training experience I love it when her face lights up when I praise her for using the potty.  She is all rapture when she sees that her little tinkle has gotten my approval.

Picture: So...this  picture was one I got when she was "potty" training Penguin and Bear!  She usually sits on the potty while I read her books to pass the time away.  I love being a mom when these moments happen.

Ephesians: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose for Christ.

Ephesians: Discovering Your Identity and Purpose for Christ. Join the online Bible study (4/15 -5/7) with Sue Edwards! And invite your friends to join you.

Between April 15 and June 17 Sue will be posting weekly on the Year of Discovery Facebook Page and interacting with groups and individuals around the country going through the study at the same time. Women will be able to discuss the study with each other and ask questions via Facebook.

Completing each lesson requires about one-and-a-half hours. Readers still receive in-depth Bible study but with a minimum time commitment. For those who desire a more thorough study, including an opportunity to learn more about the history, culture and geography related to the Bible, Edwards has provided “Digging Deeper” questions. Answering these questions may require outside resources such as an atlas, Bible dictionary or concordance and challenge readers to examine complex theological issues and differing views more closely.

More about the Ephesians study: This insightful Bible study uses the example of Paul’s church in Ephesus to show readers how they can be victorious Christians, living in God’s Word, and free from sin. Part of the discovery series, the Ephesians edition includes tips for either individual or group use, inspirational sidebars and short, 3-5 minute teaching videos.

Purchase a copy of Ephesians and join the on-line Bible study today.

“Ephesians” Online Bible Study – JOIN ME!

Carmex: Hydrating Lotion and Healing Cream Review

What's new with Carmex?  

• Increased levels of Lanolin!  
• Our Healing Cream mimics your skin's natural lipid layer to maximize healing, while petrolatum and allantoin soften rough skin and aid in moisturization.
• Hydrating Lotion is loaded with vitamin E and ultra-concentrated aloe vera to soothe skin and deliver serious hydration, without any greasiness.

Why I like Carmex Everyday Hydrating Lotion:

• Works great:  I like the feeling of hydration and "moisture" because when I need extreme help with my dry elbows, a pea size drop will do the trick.  It is easy to rub in, and again does not leave a greasy feeling. The scent is also so addicting and soothing in itself!  Not so powerful or too much, it has a nice light almost powdery scent.  
• Smooth hands and skin:  The Hydrating Lotion makes my hands feel great.  I often slip this lotion into my purse and have it ready in the car.  As a drive I hate it when my hands feel dry and Carmex is my solution!  For one thing this lotion does not take too long to get absorbed into my hands and skin.  Gripping the wheel is not a worry after I lube up some lotion at a stop sign or in the parking lot.  
• Absorbs Quickly into the skin. 

Why I like Carmex Everyday Healing Lotion:

• Works great:  I love using this on my elbows and especially my legs and feet.  They seem to be the most "weathered and beaten" part of my body.  And of all parts the driest!  This concentrated formula contains 9 healing ingredients that penetrate and help repair very dry or rough skin.  This definitly has helped my feet to feel so much more comfortable during the changing seasons and weather temperature changes.   The uncomfortable feeling of dryness is easily solved by lathering a tiny amount of Healing Lotion to my legs and feet.  They feel comfortable and moisturized again!  
• Smooth skin on legs and feet:  In terms of smoothness, I do have to say that my feet and legs feel smoother and softer after using the Healing lotion daily.  
• Absorbs Quickly into the skin. 

Texture and Feel of Carmex Hydrating and Healing Lotion:  

The Thickened Creaminess of the product is oh so nice.  I do not have to work hard at having the lotion in all its creaminess to disappear into my skin.  The texture is easily spread around and has almost a silky texture to it which I love.  The Hydrating Lotion leaves my skin soft and soothes my dryness.  I like it very much.  I think overall both are consistently thick, smooth, and creamy.  Not runny at all.

I'm a Carmex Blogger and I love being one!  I hope to tell others about Carmex products as I go about my day to day life--especially when I wear their comfy sweater.


Disclosure: I was sent free products to review and to provide  my honest opinion.  I was not compensated in any other way.

Double Stuffed Swagbucks!

Swagbucks really knows how to do Mondays. In fact, this Monday, April 15th, is Double Stuffed Swagbucks. If you're thinking, "Well that sounds like an Oreo or tasty treat, but what's it all about?" then I've got the exciting details for you. Double Stuffed Swagbucks means you'll get DOUBLE the SB amount in many of the ways to earn: Shop & Earn (in countries where available!), the Daily Poll, NOSO, the Toolbar, Games (aka Play) & on SBTV (aka Watch)!

In addition to Double the SB-earning fun, there will be 30SB worth of Swag Codes given throughout the day in each country of the Swag Nation.

You will earn 2X the Swag Bucks in:

• US, CAN & UK only: Shop & Earn (Hotels.com will be 3X SB where available!)
• The Daily Poll
• NOSO
• Toolbar
• Games / Play
• SBTV / Watch

 [For US Swagbucks members]
Monday, April 15th is also Tax Day, but thankfully Swagbucks knows how to put the "fun" in tax refund. While you're on the site searching for Swag Codes and earning double wins on a game of Key Crusher, make sure to catch all the fun surprises in store.

If you haven't joined Swagbucks yet, now is the time. It's your chance to earn Swag Bucks twice as fast on Monday -- which means more free prizes like gift cards to Amazon, Target, Walmart & Paypal! Use the sign-up code DOUBLESTUFF70 for an extra 70 SB bonus when you sign up here.

Organic Mama Bottom Balm ON SALE till 2PM PST

50% off, today only! Soothing, cooling, organic Mama Bottom Balm is perfect for pregnant and postpartum bottoms, or anyone with a sitter on the fritz. Limit TWO, from 10 AM to 2 PM Pacific Time today only. Use code FBLOVE at checkout. (Canada, you get some too, go to Bliss Distributing for yours!)

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links.

Active Swag Code~till 11AM

We know how much you all love Swag Codes, so we are implementing an exciting, major change beginning immediately.  Moving forward, you should now feel free to share active Swag Codes.  Tell your friends, post it on your Facebook wall, Tweet it to your followers; let everyone know the active Swag Code so that everyone can take advantage of the bonus Swag Bucks!

Don’t worry, there will be no repercussions for posting active Swag Codes.  This will not negatively impact your account in any way.  This is a permanent change.

Let’s put this plan in action!  Start now by entering “ShareThisCode” underneath the Swag Code Safe Icon by 11am PDT (2pm EDT) for 4 Swag Bucks, and be sure to tell all of your friends!

Scott Dudelson

COO Prodege, LLC

Post Reblogged from http://blog.swagbucks.com/2013/04/big-change-to-swag-codes.html

Tales of the Defended Ones: These stories may change the way you see the world!

Have you ever felt overwhelmed about the great need around the world?  Specifically burdened by the poverty and the needs of children?  I know I have, and truthfully I have felt overwhelmed that I feel like what little I do hits that big great cloud and bounces right back at me.  A drop in a huge bottomless bucket.  So what do I end up doing?  Nothing.  I felt powerless and unable to help those that need help!  If you have felt that way or are feeling that way...this book is one that is for you.  It provides a different perspective that will help one understand how to help and see the great need!

This book by Beth Guckenberger has impacted my life and have changed my "drop in the bucket" feeling.  Focusing on the "Storyweaver" our Great God, Beth tells of the stories of those that God has defended--these orphaned kids, abused kids, mistreated and how He the Defender Defended them and was present with them.  This book shows how he has worked in men and woman's lives to unite them with these kids who needed help.  It truly redirects my thinking and sees that it is not me but God who can provide for them--and I just need to be a ready tool in his hands whether it is praying, providing food, shelter, monetary needs...etc.  God is not overburdened by the great need. 

Interestingly enough this book was written to be read for children in mind.  For young adults this is a great way for them to be involved in the ministry of helping others.  There were parts in the book that addressed the reader saying, "Will you pray for kids being adopted right now?  God knows their names and wants to involve you in their stories through prayer."  It was refreshing because it showed how WE as the reader can help right then and there through prayer!  

Tales of the Defended ones are five stories about kids who have gone through real tough life experiences--Experiences ranging from being sold into the sex slave industry, to being orphaned, and to being in a family  struggling with drug abuse.  They are real experiences, but all written in a way which is appropriate for young adults.  Nothing in it was "too much" at all.  I think kids who are old enough to understand will find this book stirring, encouraging, and eye opening.  I found myself crying in both sadness and then in joyfulness of how our Defender God had weaved the lives of individuals for his purposes and rescued and defended the kids.  

I give this book a 5 out of 5 stars!  I highly recommend this book. 
Click here to Purchase a copy: http://ow.ly/jJ8g6

Meet Beth:   Beth Guckenberger and her husband, Todd, are the founders of Back2Back Ministries which communicates a lifestyle of service by sharing the love of Christ and serving God through service to others. Guckenberger travels and speaks regularly at women's and missions conferences, as well as youth gatherings and church services. In addition to her children's releases in the Storyweaver series, Guckenberger has written two mission-minded books. She has also partnered with Standard Publishing on the mission content in its 2013 VBS program. The Guckenberger family lives and serves in Monterrey, Mexico. 

• Find out more about Beth at http://www.bethguckenberger.com/. 
• Read more reviews on her book here: http://litfusegroup.com/author/bguckenberger

Disclaimer: I was provided this book for free for the purpose of reviewing this book.  I was not required to leave a positive feedback, just my honest opinion and review of this book.