How do you keep your family happy?

I know that I am no where near perfect, but I do know that I am happy! I do my best every day to make a great day for my family, even if we just stay home and do nothing. I think for my family, being together no  matter what the day brings, is all that we need to be happy!
One of my favorite things to do with my family is to go for walks, all four of us! It's something simple, but it brings us such joy! We usually go after dinner, so we can enjoy a long leisurely walk. This is a favorite past time especially in the summer when it's warm. The boys chatter randomly and my husband and I actually have a moment for a meaningful and fun conversation! Even though we are walking, it's relaxing and so enjoyable!
Now that my 4 year old knows how to ride a bike, he enjoys these walks even more!
Something else we like to do as a family that's bound to put a smile on our face is fishing. We're lucky that we live along the river where we can fish to our hearts content-don't worry, there is a fence that prohibits the boys from getting to the river, not that they are ever outside alone, but just wanted to share to put your mind at ease!
I have so many pictures of my oldest and my husband sitting on the dock with the sunset in the background and their poles in the water! One memory I have is when I was eight months pregnant with my youngest, and the phone rang and it was for my husband. I waddled and tried to run down to the river and my husband looked up at me and just laughed and laughed at the sight of me-I was not amused! But as soon as I caught my breath and sat down, I had a good laugh too, it's fun that we can joke with each other sometimes!
Since becoming a parent, I've learned it's really the small things in life that make us the most happy. It's not the biggest toy, or the expensive vacations...it's the quality time we spend together as a family, no matter where we are. It's the laughter of our boys, or the wink in my husbands eye that keep me going.
What makes you and your family happy?

Disclaimer:I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Farm Rich blogging program, for a gift card worth $25. For more information on how you can participate, click here.” (make sure you link to http://farmrichsnacks.socialmoms.com/about

Check out these amazing masks!

There is something mysterious and exotic about wearing a mask. Whether it's a masked super hero, or a sultry siren at a costume ball, a mask can appeal to many people in many different scenarios.
Masks like these breathtaking Venetian Carnival Masks can be seen as both art and costume. I would certainly not be opposed to just displaying a beautiful mask just for the sake of admiring it.

Check out this amazing collection of Venetian Carnival Masks, you'll no doubt find something that catches your eye, that you can't live without! The array of masks you'll find are unique and alluring. I've honestly never seen anything like them, but then again, I live a pretty sheltered life ;) These full face masks are to die for! I wish I had an event that I could use something like these masks for, I would grab one of these beauties in a heartbeat! Be in awe with me, and explore the masks I've linked above!


Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post. For more information on my blogging practices, please see my disclosure policy.

Sit and Relax in a beautiful Chaise Lounge Chair!

I can't be the only person who has visions of herself relaxing pool side in with a fruity drink in one hand and a good book in the other. No distractions, nothing but sun and comfort!
Now my dream can become a reality, at least part of it :D
In that vision, I see a gorgeous Chaise Lounge. I'm lucky that I do live on the water, and I've been dreaming of creating an outdoor patio that is both stylish and comfortable. With an addition of one or two of these beautiful Outdoor chaise lounge chairs, I know I can relax in style!
One of my favorites is this:

There is a chaise lounge for every budget at the Chaise Lounge Chair Store. So many styles to choose from, it will be hard to decide which one your favorite is, whether you like a modern look or something vintage and classic, you'll find what you're looking for!
So go on, let's make our dream of peace and relaxation a reality! But if you're a mom like me, just make sure to get a Chaise Lounge big enough for your babies to cuddle with you :D

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post. For more information on my blogging practices, please see my disclosure policy. 

Get a free Kidorable Umbrella and make a donation to save a childs life!

I love Kidorable for all their adorable products, but now I love them even more for their charitable work!
From NOW through April 4, Kidorable is partnering with the Children’s Cancer Research Fund to help you support a great cause. 

What's in it for you? A free Kidorable umbrella, that's what! When you make a minimum $20 purchase on www.kidorable.com.  Kidorable will donate 10% of your purchase to the Children's Cancer Research Fund, bringing kids health, hope and happiness by revolutionizing the way childhood cancer is treated worldwide. 

Head on over to www.kidorable.com and use coupon code CCRFUMB2 at checkout to get your free umbrella, and help save a child’s life.  Remember to add the umbrella of your choice to your cart BEFORE checkout!

Disclaimer: I rec'd no compensation for this post. 

It's a Mommy Party with Nutella!

In my 26 years of life, I have never partaken in the joy that is Nutella...that is, until now!!
I was given the pleasure of hosting a Mommy Party sponsored by Nutella, and I was excited to try this tasty treat and share it with my friends!!
I first heard about Nutella back in High School in my German language class, and ever since then when I pass by the Nutella on the shelf in the grocery store I have to resist the urge to buy it because I thought it couldn't possibly be as good as everyone says.
Well I'm hear to say that everyone was right! Nutella is rich, creamy, and so good!
If you don't already know, Nutella is a creamy spread made up of hazelnut, a bit of skim milk, and a splash of cocoa! Nutella makes a great addition to your breakfast menu. As you know, Breakfast is the most important meal of the day :D Pair Nutella with some wholegrain toast, some fruit and a glass of milk for a well balanced meal! You're kids will go nuts for this, mine sure loved to indulge in this special treat!
Like I mentioned, I was given the opportunity to host a Nutella Mommy Party! I was given some amazing loot to share with my friends for the party. I was given 10 party bags that included: Reciepes, information cards and trivia, coupons, Nutella samples, Nutella knives, and Nutella coffee mugs!

Our fun party favors!

Inside our bags:coupons, recipes, fun and informative trivia MISSING FROM PIC:
Nutella Sample, Nutella Knife, and Nutella Coffee mug that I had to  hide from my boys
because they kept running away with them :D

From Nutella, With Love!

 Unfortunately due to the crisis in my family that was my dads many strokes and my emergency trip to TX, I had to cancel my party with my mommy friends :( But when I got home, I had a mini party with my family. I chose to donate my Nutella party bags to some amazing women who have been working hard on a special benefit dinner for my parents to say thank you! I'll be sure to take a picture of them with their gift bags!

Want more information on Nutella? Check out their website, and of course you can go to the store locator to find a store near you that sells Nutella!!

Disclaimer: I was given Nutella products for review purposes only, no other compensation was given. Please see my disclosure policy for more information on my blogging practices!

I am obsessed with...

ADELE!! I have loved Adele since she came out with her first album, 19, a few years ago. Her new album, 21, has just come out. Her single, Rolling in the Deep is on repeat on my ipod all day long!!
I love her voice, so soulful and just beautiful.

Any favorite musicians you can't get enough of lately?? Share!!

It's time to announce my big news! Nutrisystem!!

That's right, Ladies and Gents, I'm one of the many bloggers taking part in the Nutrisystem Blogging Program!
Over the course of 10 days, I'll be sharing my favorite Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert with you as well as a video blog or too!
Now, why am I partaking in this amazing diet program?
Well, when I had my first son, the 65 lbs I gained while pregnant just dropped so fast and I was in killer shape by the time he was a year. With my second, I gained close to the same (65-70 lbs! Yikes!!) and have had a really hard time losing it all. I know I'll always have a belly thanks to my c section and stretched skin, but I'm stuck on the last 15 lbs! My son is now 19 months old, so I think my excuses have to end!
My longterm goal is to lose 15 lbs in the next three months. Sounds easy, right? With the help of Nutrisystem, my diet will finally be under control! There are no excuses with Nutrisystem. They provide you with exactly what you need to eat, with plenty of variety I might add! And bonus, you get to have dessert too!
So I'll put this out there in virtual world so you can help keep me accountable!
My starting weight: 135 lbs.
I'll take a picture at the end of the 10 days to show my weight loss after Nutrisystem got ahold of my reins :D
And of course, in three months time, I hope to have made my goal and I'll be brave and show my before/after pictures!!!
Let's keep each other accountable!
Let the journey begin!

Moms CAN be fashionable and frugal at the same time!

Okay, Fashionistas! I have come across a place that has all the top fashion items we dream about and amazing prices!! As a mom, I don't always get to dress my best if I'm in a rush out the door to school or I have to put my wish for a high end bag on hold until my kids go to college :D Well thanks to Bluefly.com, I can find top brands like BCBG  at a great price so my wallet can breathe easy! Check out these BCBG shoes! Ahh I need all of those in my closet!
There is so much to see, and so many top brands at unheard of prices! Tonight, when the kids go to bed, hit the laptop and do a little shopping for YOU! We deserve nice things too, we'll just have keep our designer shoes under lock and key until Mr. PB & J hands learns to wash with soap ;)
Check out Bluefly.com today!

Disclaimer: These opinions are my own. Please see my disclosure policy for more information on my blogging practices. 

Secrets to Hiring the Perfect Nanny

Secrets to Hiring the Perfect Nanny

 

Cassford Management LLC provides tips on how to select, screen and hire the right nanny

 

 

There are many unanswered questions when it comes to hiring a nanny – a decision that affects your child’s life: Where can I find a nanny? How can I train a nanny? How can I make sure a nanny treats my child well?

“We watch troublesome stories in the news of how a nanny abuses a child, yet we see very few parents take the proper steps to ensure their child’s safety and well-being,” said Kim Cassford, co-founder of Cassford Management. “Most recently, a babysitter was charged with murdering 23-month-old Aaliyah Ali. In the wake of horrific stories such as this, we want to help parents understand the importance of selecting, screening and hiring the right person to care for your child.”

We all want to make sure the person we leave our child with is qualified, professional and reliable. Cassford says this is achievable, but you must take the necessary steps to keep your child in good hands. Here are some important things you should know when looking for the perfect nanny:

STOP, THINK, ACT

Stop! Carve out the time to think about what you need from your nanny to ensure the most precious person in your life is safe and sound. Invest 30 minutes to an hour to list requirements, duties, hours of service, days of service and a realistic salary range. Parents who do not take this first step often end up in trouble. Only then can you begin the search.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK

Search for reputable resources to source your nanny. Ask friends and family who they have used and can refer. Research and do your due diligence. Learn the differentiating factors in using an agency versus conducting the search yourself.

TAKE ACTION - ACTIVATE YOUR SEARCH

As you review applicants’ resumes or applications, look for the following:
- Legal working status. Do not hire a non-legal worker for reasons such as less money and/or longer working hours.
- Qualified help who has the appropriate credentials in child care.
- Years of experience.
- Employment history –be sure to speak to former employers.
- Conduct a full background check, including public records, criminal and credit history.
- Conduct a thorough interview process.

BE PROACTIVE AND MONITOR

After you’ve made your decision, trial the candidate for a period of time to ensure he/she is the right fit. Cassford recommends placing a monitoring camera in several locations and letting the nanny know they exist. Make sure you have careful supervision from a specialist to assist with assessing the nanny’s skills, capability to perform the duties adequately and, most importantly, that he/she is a good fit for your household.

 

 

About Cassford Management:
Cassford Management LLC is an experienced, credentialed and discreet luxury estate and hospitality advisory service specializing in staffing, household staff training, estate and household manuals, management and other luxury lifestyle consulting. Cassford Management’s luxury lifestyle support services save you time and enhance and supports your desired quality of life, managing and meeting all your expectations. To learn more, visitwww.cassfordmanagement.com.

Disclosure: I did not write this post. There was no compensation for this post. If I were in a situation that required a nanny, I would want to be aware of the ins and outs of hiring a nanny, so I thought I'd share with my readers these tips!
Please see my disclosure policy for more information on my blogging practices.

Raising Awareness for the March of Dimes-how you can help!

As many of you know, my youngest son was born with a birth defect and spent 8 days in the NICU and while we were there, we met many special families. My oldest brother was born premature by 7 weeks, and because of that I learned of the March of Dimes.
One great company helping with this amazing cause is Hess Express. For the past 10 years, Hess Express has been raising awareness for the March of Dimes with in store fundraising and donations. This year they have a new way of getting involved, and they need your help!
What you need to do is go to the Hess Express Facebook page and "Like" them and with each fan that "shares" the March of Dimes Badge on their own page, Hess Express will donate $1 for each "share". They have a goal of raising $25,000 for the March of Dimes with this online campaign and with over 35,000 fans on their page I think we can help make that happen! This along with their in store fundraising will make a great donation to an amazing cause!
Check out the Hess Express FB Page to find out how you can help!!

Disclosure: I received no compensation for this post, please see my disclosure policy for more information!

The Children's Project Announces Breastfeeding Support Program Now Available Online

Peer to Peer Support –The Sistah Connection– Follows Surgeon General’s Recommendation

Los Angeles, CA – March 7, 2011 – The Children’s Project is pleased to announce that the Sistah Connection, a peer-to-peer breastfeeding support system designed for African-American women, is available online for the first time at http://www.emotionallyhealthychildren.org/breastfeedingsupport.html.

Pioneering breastfeeding program The Sistah Connection was created in 2005 by the Riverside County Department of Public Health WIC (Women, Infants and Children) Nutrition Program in California with the guidance of Dr. Gerald Newmark, author of How To Raise Emotionally Healthy Children and the head of The Children’s Project.  The unique system has now become one of the most successful breastfeeding projects in the United States.

The five critical emotional needs of children detailed in Dr. Newmark’s book – the need to feel respected, important, accepted, included and secure – provide the structure to the curriculum in the 10-part Sistah Connection series.   A copy of the book, How To Raise Emotionally Healthy Children, is provided to each new mother participating in the Sistah Connection.

“Being a relaxed, happy person who enjoys life is one of the greatest gifts a parent can give to a child, and is one of the most important attributes a parent contributes to a child’s sense of security,” said Dr. Newmark.   “This is vital to a child’s sense of security all the time, but especially during the breastfeeding period.”

When the Riverside County Department of Public Health started the program in 2005, there was a 2-month exclusive breastfeeding rate for African American women in Riverside County of 16.66%.  By January 2011, the 2-month exclusive breastfeeding rate for African American women rose to 36.5%, an increase of 119%. (The term “exclusive breastfeeding” means feeding infants only breast milk without added formula or solid food, a practice now recommended by all experts in the field.)

“Mother to mother support is the key to our success,” states Laurie Haessly, Public Health Program Director for the Riverside County Department of Public Health WIC Program.  “With this project, we have created a community of breastfeeding moms who come together regularly to share their challenges and the joys of motherhood. The concepts found in How To Raise Emotionally Healthy Children have been the backbone in helping new mothers feel competent in their new role as mother.  Feeling confident is the key to breastfeeding success. We are extremely proud of the significant increase in exclusive breastfeeding rates we have seen with our African-American mothers.  The rates are unheard of elsewhere in the U.S.”

The Surgeon General’s most recent report on the issue, published last month, says that “breastfeeding protects babies from infections and illnesses that include diarrhea, ear infections, and pneumonia. Breastfed babies are also less likely to develop asthma, and those who are breastfed for six months are less likely to become obese.  Mothers themselves who breastfeed have a decreased risk of breast and ovarian cancers."

African American women have the lowest breastfeeding initiation rates (28% vs. 54% for whites) and the lowest one-year breastfeeding duration rates (9% vs. 25% for whites).  Because many African-American women do not breastfeed, the health problems that go along with not breastfeeding are high among African Americans.  Childhood obesity is one such problem – recent guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics say that solid foods should not be given to infants before 4 months of age.  Babies introduced to solid foods before 4 months of age were at six times the risk of being obese by age 3, according to a recent Harvard study in the journal Pediatrics.

The Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Project in Riverside County is a model for other communities to follow for all new mothers.  In the Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Support Breastfeeding on January 20, 2011, the number one-recommended community action is to strengthen programs that provide mother-to-mother support and peer counseling.

The power of the peer group model has been recognized by several counties in California.  The Riverside County project coordinator is now mentoring similar programs in Shasta, Sacramento, and Orange Counties as well as the Watts Health Foundation WIC Programs, to replicate this project.

Laurie Haessly expressed just how easily the program can be duplicated with all new mothers and how other communities can have the same success that Riverside County has seen.  “The partnership we have had with the Newmarks’ and The Children’s Project has helped create breastfeeding as the norm in our County.”

The Riverside County WIC Program has distributed over 10,000 copies of How To Raise Emotionally Healthy Children to all new mothers.  The book is available at cost for nonprofit schools, government programs and childcare organizations.  For special pricing email The Children’s Project at info@emotionallyhealthychildren.org.

Dr. Newmark has worked with schools and youth for more than 30 years, and has held senior positions with the Rand Corporation and the System Development Corporation.  He has conducted extensive educational projects with the Ford Foundation and the Los Angeles Unified School District.  He is the author of several books, including This School Belongs to You and Me, and has received a Presidential Citation for his work in education.  How to Raise Emotionally Healthy Children, now in its second edition and 5th printing, has sold 400,000 books to date, and is often distributed free of charge to parents by many cities, educational systems, hospitals and other institutions.  For more information on The Children’s Project: www.emotionallyhealthychildren.org
Disclosure: I did not write this post. I posted as I am an avid supporter of breastfeeding mothers.
No compensation was given, please see my disclosure policy for more information on my blogging practices.

More Winners!

Here are the winners of the two latest giveaways!
Remember, all winners are chosen by www.random.org

Yoplait Prize Pack: Comment #35 Beck
$25 Kroger Gift Card: Comment #117 LAMusing

Winners will be contacted shortly! As always, winners have 48 hours to respond or a new winner is chosen.
Thanks to all who entered and made my giveaways a success!
Remember, when my giveaways are successful, I'm able to provide you with more fun items to enter and win!!

March Pearista giveaway: 16 personalized Thank You/Note Cards!

Pear Tree Greetings is getting you prepared for Graduation!! It's just around the corner, whether we as parents are ready for it or not! I remember when I graduated, it was the best yet scariest time of my life!! But Pear Tree Greetings helps make the graduation celebration a little more fun with their great selection of Graduation Announcements, Invites, Thank You Cards, Address Labels and More! What a fun way to say Thank You with a personalized photo card or perhaps you want to create your own profile card after you've graduated College! Pear Tree Greetings has you covered!I was sent some samples of what PTG has to offer, and I'm never disappointed! The quality is amazing, what better place to get unique and beautiful stationary!
Some of my favs:

Are you in need of some ideas when it comes to graduation? Well, Pear Tree Greetings has you covered! Check out the Pear Tree Greetings Blog for Grad Party ideas!!!

Buy it! Be sure to visit Pear Tree Greetings for all your graduation needs! Don't forget to shop the PTG Official Coupon Code page, you'll see codes for 10% off Graduation Invites, Birth announcements and much more!!

Win it! One lucky reader will win 16 Personalized Thank You/Note Cards of their own!

Mandatory Entry: Which design of Thank You cards do you like?

Extra Entries:To qualify for extra entries, you must first complete the Mandatory entry. Please put each entry in a separate comment. (and for example, if you are already a FB fan, just leave a comment stating :i'm a fan on FB) if your email is not in your profile, please leave your email in one of your comments.

*For 2 entries,  Follow Pear Tree Greetings on Facebook

*For 2 Entries, Follow Pear Tree Greetings on Twitter (@peartreegrtngs)

*For 3 entries, Add my button to your blog, located near the top left side and leave a link to your blog in your comment-leave 3 separate comments

*Become a FB fan of Life with the Stevens

*Follow Life with the Stevens on Twitter

* For 2 entries, Tweet about this giveaway "I entered to win with @peartreegrtngs and www.lifewiththestevens.com @hlstevens" You can tweet once a day for a daily entry.

*For 2 entries, Follow my blog through Google Friend Connect, located on the right hand side of my blog *Vote for my blog by clicking the "We're on the Fence" button on the right side of the blog, above the counter. Each click of that button gets me a vote! Vote once per day for a daily extra entry.

Entrants from the US and Canada are eligible. Contest Ends on April 2nd at 11:59 pm EST. Winners will be chosen by random.org and announced April 3rd, 2011. Winners will be notified by email with “You Have Won the Pear Tree Greetings Giveaway” in the subject line. Winners will then have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen.

Disclosure/Disclaimer: I received a product for review, myself and PTG will be responsible for prize distribution. For more information on this blog and my posting practices, please refer to my disclosure policy.

I'm Home!!

Whew! What a whirlwind week I've had! I made it safely to TX last week to help my parents prepare to come back to their hometown in MI so my mom can get better help in caring for my dad who has had several strokes.
It was very hard to see my dad that way, and I lost it a few times. But every day he gets stronger and stronger, and I"m so amazed at how well he is doing. He still has a long long road of recovery, and I know he will never the same way he was before his strokes, but he will always be my dad and I"m so proud of him. And seeing the way my mom has been caring for him, it's so beautiful (yet so sad)
We're having a benefit in their honor in their hometown in MI in two weeks, to raise money for medical bills as they have no insurance and no income other than my dads social security.
If you know of any business in MI that might be willing to donate an item for auction that I can pick up on my way there, please contact me or leave a comment on this post!
The kindness of strangers that I've felt through this whole ordeal has been overwhelming but so wonderful. I knew my dad was well loved in the community but I didn't know to this extent. I'm so proud of my dad and am so unbelievably grateful for all the help that has been coming in. There just aren't enough ways to say thank you to my friends, family, and to the complete strangers out there who have felt led to help.
Love to you all.
And now, back to blogging :D
Oh, my mom and sister and I took an hour to be "tourists" while we were there just to take a break, here are a few pics from TX!

rockin' the cow girl boots :D

Turtle Back Mountain

Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels Review

I haven't had a good pretzel in years (until now, read on!) I have fond memories of going shopping with my grandmother as a child and she would pick up some gourmet pretzels for us to snack on after, those are some of my favorite times from my childhood!
Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels brought back those memories for me, and boy and I glad they did! Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels are premium gourmet pretzels made with all natural ingredients. Each pretzel (Yes, EACH!) is hand made and hand twisted with care. This company was started by two people who met by chance and decided that they were more than soul mates-they were creators, entrepreneur s, meant to bring many jobs to our great country! Kim and Scott Holstein started their pretzel company in a small studio apartment, and now are sold in stores all over the country!
I was given the opportunity to review Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels, and was sent six delicious flavors:
Grilled Cheese, Pizza, Spinach and Feta cheese, Cheddar Jalapeño, Apple and Cinnamon, and Chocolate Crumb! YUM!!!

Look at this pretzel, doesn't it make you want to grab it through the computer screen? 

Even the kids loved them!!

I won't lie, my family and I dove into these right away! They were packaged great to keep them cold, but don't worry if they show up thawed! You can still enjoy them, just be sure to follow the instructions in your package!
The boys tried the pizza pretzels and grilled cheese while my husband tried the cheddar jalapeño and I snatched up the spinach feta pretzels. Oh my , there was not a bite left over on anyones plate! The pretzel itself was soft on the inside and had that perfect pretzel crust on the outside. The fillings...gooey, gourmet goodness!! I had no worries giving these pretzels to my kids, knowing they were all natural and not filled with unpronounceable ingredients that you and I know are unnecessary for our digestive system!

There are so many great varieties of Kim & Scotts pretzels. The dessert pretzels, you MUST try them!! The chocolate crumb was a family favorite, although you wouldn't believe my husband saying that since he ate up all the apple and cinnamon by himself (shh don't tell him I told you!)
Some of the other delicious flavors you'll find are: Cinnamon Roll, Traditional Bavarian, Sourdough Parmesan, cream cheese...they even have gluten free options! And check out their stuffed bagels too!

You can find Kim & Scott's Gourmet Pretzels online and in a store near you!
Be sure to check them out on Twitter and Facebook to stay up to date on all the latest!
Follow the Kim & Scott blog too!

Disclaimer: I received a product for review, no other compensation was given! For more information on my blogging practices, please see my disclosure policy.

Winners!

Here are a few winners that I've been delayed in posting!
All winners are chosen randomly by a random number generator, www.random.org

Skin MD Lotion Giveaway: Comment #4 Raven in a Blue Room
PSGive.org Giveaway Comment # 19 Natalie
As always, the winners have 48 hours to respond!
Thank you all!

Sew Fantastic Review and Giveaway

I happened across this fantastic Etsy shop by pure chance, and I'm glad I did!

Sew Fantastic (Get Sassed) is a trendy Etsy shop where you can the cute yet chic creations!

I actually purchased my review item, I came across a great deal and I just instantly fell in love with the Mini Shopper Clutch and I just had to have it! I chose the Morning Glory print, I have long been a fan of this fabric print.

The Mini Shopper Clutch is light weight and made with 100% cotton material. For such a little thing, it can hold a lot! It's got 4 pockets: two big ones and one  small one on the inside, and a longer pocket on the back. Perfect for holding a notebook (even has a little pen pocket!), phone, credit cards, coupons, and more!! My mini shopper clutch goes with me where ever I go, I love it! I keep my business cards in there, coupons, stamps, grocery list...the list goes on! And it actually helps me keep my purse a little more organized-it leaves more room for toys and snacks :D

Sew Fantastic has so much  more to offer than these amazing clutches, you'll find: Crayon wallets, Carryall Clutch, Key Candy, E Reader covers, So Chic shopper and more! And she even does custom work-just let her know what you're looking for and she'll work with you! As a mom, I have a soft spot for women in the work place, and I want to show my support for a well made, hand made product!!

Buy it! Check out this amazing Etsy shop, Sew Fantastic, now!!
Win it! One lucky reader will win their own Mini Shopper Clutch!

Mandatory Entry: Check out the Mini Shopper Clutch's available and tell me your favorite print! Please leave your email in this first comment if it is not in your blogger profile.

Extra Entries:To qualify for extra entries, you must first complete the Mandatory entry. Please put each entry in a separate comment. (and for example, if you are already a FB fan, just leave a comment stating :i'm a fan on FB)

*for 2 entries, Like Sew Fantastic on Facebook (leave 2 separate comments)
*For 2 entries, Follow Sew Fantastic on Twitter, please leave your twitter handle for verification
*For 5 entries,  Blog about this giveaway, link back to your post in your comment. Your blog MUST have more than 30 Followers and must NOT be just a blog about peoples giveaways.*For 2 entries, follow the Sew Fantastic Blog
*Become a FB fan of Life with the Stevens
*Follow Life with the Stevens on Twitter
*For a daily entry, tweet about this giveaway "Win a  @SewFantastic clutch with @hlstevens and www.lifewiththestevens.com"
*For 2 entries,Follow my blog through google, located on the right hand side of my blog-leave 2 separate comments
*Vote for my blog by clicking the "We're on the Fence" button on the right side of the blog, above the counter. Each click of that button gets me a vote!

Entrants from the USA are eligible. Contest Ends on March 23rd at 11:59 pm EST. Winners will be chosen by random.org and announced March 24th, 2011 Winners will be notified by email with “You Have Won the Sew Fantastic Giveaway” in the subject line. Winners will then have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen.

Disclosure/Disclaimer: I received no compensation for this review. For more information on this blog and my posting practices, please refer to my disclosure policy.

SimplyToImpress.com Review

SimplyToImpress.com is a fantastic website for all your card and announcement needs! They have gorgeous selection of birth announcements, Holiday cards, Thank you cards, invitations and MORE!
I was given the opportunity to review a selection of cards from SimplyToImpress.com, and I was more than just simply impressed (:D) by the quality of these cards. The photos were crystal clear, and the design options are beautiful. After exploring the SimplyToImpress.com website, I found it easy to navigate, nothing was hard to find. Designing a card is so simple! Choose the design you like and personalize it! Done and done!
The prices cannot be beat, and you won't find this unique selection in stores. Right now, SimplyToImpress.com has a great sale going on: Save 20% store wide! *prices already marked* and if you order by 3/14, enter RETURN at checkout and get free return address printing! I always think an invite looks more classy with a printed address right on the envelope!
What I LOVED the most about SimplyToImpress.com was their shipping! The container these cards came in, I have never seen anything like it! Such a cute box, and it kept the cards in crisp and pristine condition!
Just look, so neat!

Check out SimplyToImpress.com!

Disclaimer:I received a package of sample cards for review, no other compensation was given. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.

Playing catch up, winners edition!

I've been so distracted this week, and I'm just now getting to picking some winners!
Winners chosen from Random.org

Resurrecting Anthony Book Giveaway: Comment #3 Rhiana
Celebrating Love Book Giveaway: Comment # 1 Bree
Nachomamatees Giveaway: #34 Natalie
3-8 ETA: Cosutme Squad Giveaway #8 Ashley

Winners will have 48 hours to rsepond to the email being sent out or a new winner will be chosen!
Thanks to all who entered, and thank you for understanding my delay!

Telltale signs your child has a peanut allergy-Guest Post by Maureen Gotly

Telltale Signs Your Child Has a Peanut Allergy

Mother of five, Maureen Gotly earned a degree in social work by taking courses online scheduled around her busy family lifePeanut butter is often considered one of the great all-American children’s foods. Unfortunately, peanuts also account for the majority of severe food related allergies, and these allergies usually develop early in life. If your child has a peanut allergy, or you suspect they might be developing one, peanut butter can take on a whole new, not so positive light.Fortunately, with Sun Butter, a child developing peanut allergies doesn’t have to give up tasty, easy sandwiches, gooey Check Mix treats, and yummy cookies. If your child has been developing any of the telltale signs of peanut allergy listed below, you should take them to the doctor right away. Then you’ll have to get to work on making them some Sun Butter brownies, to make them feel better.

Skin reactions like hives, redness, or swelling: Reactions of the skin are by far the most common sign of peanut allergy, with 89% of sufferers experiencing them. In younger children that can’t verbally complain about an upset stomach, this is the easiest way to tell that your child has developed an allergy.

Itching or tingling around the mouth: If your child complains that their mouth feels weird or strange after eating peanuts, don’t ignore it, especially if they have other symptoms like hives and an upset stomach. This seemingly small sign may point to a peanut allergy.

Coughing, wheezing, and feeling congested: Respiratory symptoms are the second most common effect of a peanut allergy. In severe cases, this respiratory congestion can constrict the airway, making it difficult to breath, especially for children who also have asthma.

Stomach and gastrointestinal pain: About a quarter of peanut allergy sufferers will become sick to their stomach after eating peanuts or being exposed to them. If severe enough, they can also experience vomiting and diarrhea.

Tightening of the chest and low blood pressure: In a small number of cases, severe peanut allergies can lead to shortened breathing, heart palpitations, and other cardiovascular issues. Get to a doctor right away if your child is experiencing these symptoms.

What is anaphylactic shock, anyway? Anaphylactic shock is a full body response to an allergen, and can often be brought on as a result of peanut allergy. In anaphylactic shock, most people experience one or more of the symptoms above, along with a rapid pulse, dizziness, and constriction of the airways. If you suspect your child is experiencing anaphylaxis, you should treat them with an epinephrine pen if you have one, and get them to the emergency room right away.What if I suspect my child has peanut allergies? Then a trip to the doctor is in order. The doctor will perform skin and blood tests to check for the allergy. If your child has a peanut allergy or intolerance, there are several ways to be prepared for an allergy attack.

Over the counter antihistamines can reduce hives and other minor symptoms.

People with severe allergies should carry an epinephrine auto-injector pen. This syringe with a concealed needle can be injected into the thigh during an attack; the single dose of medication inside will quell the life-threatening allergic reactions.

Parents can also check out this resource for allergy sufferers, for more information and ideas.

Disclosure: This is a compensated post. My thanks to the author and PR company for the opportunity to spread the word. For more information on my blogging practices, please see my disclosure policy

The Truth about Tobacco and Allergies-Guest Post by Edward Stern

The Truth about Tobacco and Allergies

This guest post was written by Edward Stern who also writes for distance learning and onlinecollegedegrees.netSmoking is bad for you. And it is bad for others around you. But can you be allergic to tobacco? To start with, by definition an allergic reaction are the results of your body fighting off something it believes to be harmful such as a disease, even if no such thing is present. Allergies manifest themselves in hives, itching, irritation, redness, more mucus produced, etc. Therefore, if there are people allergic to tobacco, it would mean their bodies find tobacco harmful and are reacting to it.Whether this actually happens, and why, is still up to much debate. A U.S. Environmental Protection Agency study does claim that individuals may be allergic to tobacco smoke. These allergies demonstrate themselves through nasal symptoms like runny nose and congestion. Tobacco smoke allergies may also cause headaches and nausea. Children with such allergies are susceptible to ear infection and lung deficiencies, such as a greater risk for asthma. Most of these symptoms are easily treated by over-the-counter medicines and are nothing close to life-threatening. But that is for tobacco smoke, and "allergies" sound an awful lot like "ashtma." In fact, it is difficult to differentiate between the two, and to decide what exactly constitutes an allergic reaction, and what is causing the allergic reaction. It may not necessarily be the tobacco in tobacco smoke that is causing the adverse reaction -- cigarettes are filled with all kinds of chemicals and carcinogens that very well be the contributing factor to allergic reactions.Plus, someone saying they are allergic to tobacco can mean a wide variety of things. The actual tobacco leaf? There are people who have commented on various forums and said they have been tested by doctors and found to be allergic to the plant itself. What about smokeless tobacco? I could find no such studies. What about different brands of cigarettes? How well-ventilated an area does a person need to be in to avoid exposure from smokers around them? How serious can these allergies get?Unfortunately, I could find no such easy answers to any of the above questions. The EPA study says people can be allergic to smoke, but failed to indicate what types of cigarettes were smoked in the studies conducted and what ingredients were present in the cigarettes.Evidently, more research needs to be done to prove that tobacco causes allergic reactions, and not other chemicals, and what that even means -- is it the tobacco itself, or does some chemical reaction happen after it is burned?Regardless, claims of tobacco allergy seem to be sufficient for anti-smoking advocates who want to ban smoking from public places, or even in Los Angeles, where the city wants to ban smoking outside of homes. People are allergic, that's enough, and no one really dares to question the veracity of such statements or what they really mean.I'm not trying to say that tobacco isn't harmful. It is horribly so, especially to others exposed to it who do not smoke themselves. But people need to get their facts straight before passing any kind of legislation that bans personal habits from public places. Tobacco allergies do seem to exist. But until someone knows why these reactions occur, and if it is completely tobacco's fault, that topic needs to stay out of anti-smoking legislation discussion.
Disclosure: This is a compensated post. My thanks to the author and PR company for the opportunity to spread the word. For more information on my blogging practices, please see my disclosure policy.

Dear friends

Hi friends!
I might  be quiet for a week or so on the blog front. My father has had several strokes in the past 24 hours, and my parents recently moved across the country so as soon as I get word on when his surgery is, I'm going to *hopefully* fly out to help my mom who is disabled herself and will need all the help she can get. I'll update when I can! I do have a few reviews and giveaways I will try to get posted tomorrow but after that I'm going to take a small break!
Thank you for understanding!! Love to you all.