Life with the Stevens

Our Father's Day Craft!

2012-05-21T05:36:00.004-07:00

Because I'm a Facebook stalker ;) I know that my friend Katy at Katy's Creations is awesome at creating unique crafts and digital art. So after browsing Etsy for some Father's Day gift ideas, I decided that I could probably come up with my own without spending nearly the amount of money as gifts were on there (not that they are not worth it!) That is where Katy comes in! I asked if she could create a bare tree with the names of my boys underneath that I would use for an art project that would become a Father's Day gift for Bill. I saw something similar online, but didn't want to pay the ridiculous price that was being asked (call me cheap, I prefer thrifty!). She thankfully took on the task, and what she came up with was perfect!!!

The total cost of this project was $5, which was for the frame!
Most of us have paints on hand, as well as paper in our printer :).
But the end result was super cute and Bill really loved it! What do you think? Would you be interested in doing this too?

Benny had a practice page!

Finished product!!
My boys have giant hands, lol.

It's not too early to get a head start on Father's Day!
Huge thanks to Katy at Katys Creations for the help!!
Be sure to follow her blog and "like" her Facebook page, she is always
coming up with new creations and loves to do giveaways too!

5 Remedies for the Spring Time Cold

2012-05-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

Colds find us, no matter what the season, and in the Spring I feel they are at their worst because you are battling all the allergens in the air on top of feeling miserable :S

Here are 5 easy remedies that will get you through your Spring cold!

Remedies for the Spring Cold

1) Make sure you drink a lot of Vitamin C. Try drinking cold drinks such as orange juice or grapefruit juice

2) Keep Cold-EEZE Oral Spray or lozenges in your purse. It’s clinically proven to shorten the duration of a cold by nearly half.

3) Try using a humidifier. These are great in the summer time because they do not add any additional heat to the room and it cleanses the air.

4) Honey is one of the best remedies if you’re having a sore throat along with a cold. Try adding honey to every day meals such as pancakes or to your ice tea.

5) Get plenty of rest. Whether you are sick or not, a good night’s sleep will always improve a person’s overall health.

Disclaimer: Information was provided to me for a post. No compensation was given.

Skindinavia 10 Years Younger Makeup Finishing Spray Review

2012-05-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

I like makeup. A lot. I am one of those people who likes to wear it when I go out in public. Call me vain, I guess I just feel better when I am "put together" as my mom would say!

One downfall of wearing make up that I never could find a solution for-was the end of the day makeup you were left with, or left with out! Sweating, playing, everything I did would make my makeup melt or rub off and I looked a hot mess by the end of the day!

Well that is no longer the case, I've been introduced to 10 Years Younger Makeup Finishing Spray by Skindinavia and I'm IN LOVE!! This "cult favorite" product is used by many Celebrity makeup artists and I can see why it's such a staple in their routines! 10 Years Younger Makeup Finishing Spray by Skindinavia is a gentle spray that sets your makeup for up to 16 hours! Skindinavia "hydrates and smooths the makeup surface, softening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles". The best part is that this is made for all skin types! There is no residue left on your skin or clothing and of course it is not tested on animals. And better yet, it's a hypoallergenic formula which is just what I need for my picky skin!

I tried it (and have been using it ever since) and it's really simple to apply. I just give the bottle a quick shake and apply about 3 sprays to cover my face!

I was really surprised how well it worked. I wore it for the first time last weekend when I made a mad dash to MI-after 4 hours in the car, running around town to gather some paperwork, out to dinner and then back on the road another 4 hours, my makeup remained fairly flawless-

This is my picture at dinner time, after applying my makeup at 8 a.m.
I did not take a before picture, but really I didn't need to, as I looked the same!!

I am the newest and biggest fan of the 10 Years Younger Makeup Finish by Skindinavia.
It's affordable, and you can't even tell you're wearing it!
Check out this video for an awesome transformation:
Dramatic 1 minute transformation with SKINDINAVIA! 60 seconds to flawless makeup - A MUST SEE: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEJ3jTSEolc&feature=results_video&playnext=1&list=PL8048683EF94DFDBF
Don't just take my word for it though, this is one of those products you must try yourself. If you wear makeup, you must have this in your bag!

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

{Almost} Wordless Wednesday

2012-05-16T14:46:00.000-07:00

You know you are a born rock star when you can't even bother with your Converse and sunglasses when taking a nap...

Mother's Day Freebies!!

2012-05-10T05:51:00.003-07:00

Thanks to Kendal Perez!

Mother's Day freebies are usually easy to find, but the pickings are a bit slim this year. Still, there are a few goodies to be found, whether you want to treat Mom to a movie or a stroll in the garden. Here are the top six offerings for 2012. For a more comprehensive list, see the blog post at MrFreeStuff.com.

1. National Public Gardens Day
Print out a coupon that will provide you and your mom (or any two visitors) with a free day on May 11 at a participating public garden.

2. Redbox Rental
Treat Mom to a free movie on Mother's Day. Whether she prefers "Bridesmaids" or "Downton Abbey," any one-day rental is free on Sunday. Just send a free Mother's Day e-card through the Redbox Facebook page.

3. Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
All Fleming's locations will open early at 11:30 a.m. for brunch. Treat Mom and she'll receive a $25 dining card towards a future visit.

4. IKEA
Get a free breakfast from opening until 11 a.m. on Sunday. There's a limit of one per family.

5. Ruby Tuesday
Bring Mom in on Mother's Day and she'll receive a free voucher for a "Ruby Tuesday Simply Fresh Cookbook." Reservations are recommended.

6. TCBY
Mom gets a free frozen yogurt of her choice on Mother's Day. Call to make sure your local store is participating.

Disclaimer: This is a guest post!!

Wish Mom a Happy Mother's Day with a Jumbo Card from BuildASign.com

2012-04-28T11:57:00.000-07:00

http://www.buildasign.com/JumboCards/browse-mothers-day?utm_source=Newsletter&utm_campaign=business&extcid=1627&emcid=1812

Conceiving isn't always easy, but there is help!

2012-04-27T11:49:00.001-07:00

When I was trying to conceive (TTC) my youngest son, it seemed to be more of a process than it was with my first. I was more aware of my body and my cycles and each month that it didn't happen became more and more frustrating! While we weren't in need of getting medical help, we did get some over the counter help!

I want to introduce you to the TTC Kit from Fertibella ConceiveEasy. Sometimes all it takes is learning our body's natural cycles and I'm surprised how many women just plain don't know what is going on with their body (I was one of them!). This kit will help you in your journey of TTC!

This TTC Kit is "an all-in-one, natural, proven solution for helping mommies-to-be conceive sooner & easier than ever before." You can boost your body's natural fertility with this kit, it will stimulate ovulating-studies have shown an increase of pregnancy by 33%! When you are having trouble getting pregnant, any and all odds are worth trying for!
Sometimes we are stressed or having an imbalance that we don't know about and our body just needs a little boost! The Fertibella ConceiveEasy TTC kit will do just that! And when you see those positive pregnancy tests, well...what's better than that in the end!
Whether you have issues due to age, progesterone, ovulation, short luteal phase-you'll find the natural help you need.

Disclaimer: This is my opinion. I will receive compensation for my post. Please see my disclosure policy for more information on my blogging practices.

Mother's Day Giveaway Package!!

2012-04-26T14:34:00.000-07:00

I'm exciting to be able to offer another "Mother of all Giveaways!" I was able to do one last year and am excited to share the new products that one of YOU will win!! This is a prize package valued over $200!!
Check out these great prizes and sponsors and you'll find the form to enter below!!

BombayFashions.com will provide winner with 1 item of their choice, valued under $25, from the 2012 Collection or Bohemian Gypsy Skirt Collection available at www.bombayfashions.com

About BombayFashions.com

BombayFashions.com is the premier online retailer for affordable fashion accessories and clothing headquartered in Michigan. It is a one-stop online shopping boutique that caters to the fashion needs of women. Since its inception, Indian-inspired jewelry has been the backbone of the company and is the first original jeweler from Bombay. Today, BombayFashions.com offers the largest fashion jewelry collection available online.

The company recently launched its 2012 Collection & Bohemian Gypsy Skirts Collection. The 2012 Collection boasts the seasons’ tribal aesthetic trend, juxtaposing earth tone pieces against metallic hardware. The Bohemian Gypsy Skirt Collection can take a woman from a day by the pool into the evening hour with just a few simple accessory updates. The new items beckon the spring and summer seasons with pastels, neons and colorblocking in unexpected hues. The 2011 Bella Collection & Bella Couture Collection feature a large selection of cuffs, bangles, earrings and necklaces that enliven any occasion.

BombayFashions.com offers on-trend fashion forward accessories and one-of-a-kind pieces at prices everyone can afford. For more information, please check out www.bombayfashions.com

The Bar Method (www.barmethod.com) will provide winner with 1 Pregnancy DVD (valued at $20) and 1 onesie (valued at $17).

About The Bar Method

Burr Leonard is the founder and creator of The Bar Method, a full-body exercise workout that utilizes a ballet bar technique. The method draws from the principles of isometrics, dance conditioning, interval training, and physical therapy. With 19 years of experience in the fitness field, she and her business partner have turned their one Bar Method studio into a franchise operation with 30+ studios and a media company selling exercise DVDs and accessories.

Pirri Elements & Elemental Tools will provide winner with one of each of the products listed below (valued at $88 total).
The Pirri Elements line was inspired by the beauty of the Mediterranean “crystal blue” Sea, pure air, rich soil and fiery volcanoes. Each product consists of Bergamot, an essential oil that comes from a fruit native Calabria, Italy, the hometown of the Pirri brothers. The oil along with other essential and natural ingredients is used to nourish the hair and lock in moisture.

Daily Shampoo: Mediterraneo
o Contains essential ingredients to cleanse the hair while maintaining balance and moisture in all hair types. The product normalizes the hair, scalp and PH balance while keeping the hair looking healthy and shiny. Cost: $20/12oz.

Daily Conditioner: Earth’s Balance
o Restores moisture and smoothes the shaft of the hair while helping to combat humidity and static electricity. The product works to coat the hair and protect it from the damaging effect of heat styling. Cost: $22/12oz

Smooth & Relaxing Serum: Lava Glaze
o Relaxes the hair for a straight style or reduces frizz for a great natural air-dried look. The combination of Aloe Vera along with other essential products, work to eliminate dead ends and protects hair from the damaging effect of blow drying and UV rays. Cost: $24/8oz

Detangler & Leave-In Conditioner: Nature’s Breeze
o Smoothes tangles and mends dry ends while protecting the hair and reducing fly-aways. The product is a must-have before heat styling. Cost: $22/8oz

About Pirri Hair Group
Pirri Hair Group is designed and managed to best capture the essence of European culture. Everyone that enters the salon has their choice of selecting from fashion forward vibrant hair colors and precision hair cuts – always leaving looking their best. The Pirri brothers pay close attention to the current fashion trends to sculpt couture and constantly evolving styles. For a full menu of services and products, please visit: www.pirrihairgroup.com

SwimsuitsForAll.com will provide winner with an exclusive site-wide discount code: “SAVE” (to be provided after selecting winner); winners will receive UP to 50% off site-wide.

About SwimsuitsForAll.com

Taking inspirations from sun, sand, and sea, SwimsuitsForAll.com offers swimwear and related apparel & accessories that work for real women sizes 8 & up. SwimsuitsForAll.com strives to offer quality swimwear that will fit your unique body, style, and budget and fashionably flatter your next escape. SwimsuitsForAll.com is committed to making your online swimsuit shopping experience easy, so you can shop worry-free. In business since 2004, SwimsuitsForAll.com takes pride in its customer service. With toll-free, e-mail, and live support, we help guide you through your shopping process. We offer easy exchange & return policies, express & international shipping, and a low-price guarantee, so your next swimwear purchase will be hassle-free!

As your swimwear oasis, SwimsuitsForAll.com sells swimwear 365 days a year and helps you get into the right swimsuit for your body & taste. Shop confidently with our detailed images, sizing charts, and fit information on each product page. If that's not enough for you, we offer free consultations where our swimsuit specialists can personally advise you on finding the right swimsuit for your body!

Escape the norm with a dedicated, personal customer service staff and swimwear that offers you coverage & comfort, classy styling, classic fits, and competitive pricing. So whether you're going to enjoy sun, sand, sea, or pool, flatter your next escape with SwimsuitsForAll.com!

Adesign will provide winner with “The Eye Set” (valued at $45)

The defining and detailing eye set in a travel-friendly pencil case. This set contains the following brush styles: All Over Eye, Eye 2 (basic soft eyeshadow brush), Eye 4 and Eye5.

About adesign brushes

Adesign (adesignbrushes.com) is the consumer brand and product incubator for Anisa International, the leading global designer and manufacturer of makeup artistry tools, founded by Anisa Telwar. The brand was initially established in 2006 by makeup artists for makeup artists, but has expanded to cater to the everyday woman’s needs when it comes to cosmetic tools. The company eventually grew into a community for collaboration with makeup artists and consumers. adesign’sapproach to development is a team effort, as the brand engages beauty experts and consumers throughout the process, and the end result is a product that is unparalleled in terms of meeting the needs of the industry. In this way, adesign is constantly innovating and pushing the boundaries of cosmetic tools by introducing new and exciting shapes and textures, making them superior in terms of performance, head shape, function, and design.

With utility and beauty top of mind for all the brand’s inventions, adesign is able to remain ahead of the curve in product creation. The company also owns and operates its own manufacturing plant, allowing a level of control and speed to market that has been largely unrivaled in the cosmetic world. adesign also shows a strong commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices, creating a culture in which new ideas can come to be while maintaining ethical and charitable conditions.

Giveaway-One Lucky Winner will win all of the above!!!

Entrants from the USA only at this time.

This is going to be an easy entry giveaway, we're not messing with forms today!
*All you have to do is a leave a blog comment (family friendly please!!) and include your email address!!
*For a Bonus Entry, follow me on Facebook and leave a comment!!
*For another Bonus entry, follow me on Twitter and leave a comment with your handle!!

That's it! I'm making it easy this time!! Good Luck!
Giveaway will end May 5th, winner will be chosen by Random.org and announced May 6th!!

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored giveaway, I received no compensation. Please see my disclosure policy for more information!

Coming up for air!!

2012-04-26T13:59:00.000-07:00

Hey friends!!! I know I've been absent-packing is not so fun!! On top of that my faithful computer is not working :( I think it's time to replace it. I'm super bummed! But just wanted to check in from the sea of boxes to say "I"m alive!!" :D I do have some posts coming up, so you won't just be hearing crickets for the next few weeks!!!

Hope you all are having a great week!!

{Almost} Wordless WednesdayB

2012-04-11T15:01:00.002-07:00

The elusive Bunny-raptor on Easter collecting his eggs :D

Crayola Outdoor Colored Bubbles Review and Giveaway #MyBlogSpark

2012-04-09T13:02:00.001-07:00

Bubbles and the outdoors-a perfect combination for fun, right?? Enter the New and Improved Crayola Outdoor Colored Bubbles and you have just what you need for a colorful good time!

I know, I know...You tried the colored bubbles from Crayola a while ago and had trouble with them staining, right? Well Crayola has heard us and has greatly improved their formula and launched their new Crayola Outdoor Colored Bubbles!!

My boys and I were very excited to give these a try, we are huge bubble fans!

Our Crayola Outdoor Colored Bubbles kit for review!

We had so much fun! We waited for a warm and sunny day so we could see the bubbles in all their glory!
Both my 2 yer old and 5 year old handled the bubble launcher with ease. It was easy to put together!
SO-did we have any trouble with the bubbles staining??
NO!! Not in the slightest!!
The color rubbed right of our skin, and with a little water it came off the sidewalk!! Any color on our clothes washed right off too!

Instead of pictures of my review like I usually do, I thought a video review would be a better way to show you how easy the color washes off!

I hope you are willing to give Crayola Outdoor Colored Bubbles a try!Guess what?
One lucky reader will win the same prize pack that I recieved:
A Bubble Launcher
& a 3Pk Colored bubbles
Check out the Rafflecopter form for easy ways to enter-after the jump!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: “The Crayola Outdoor Colored Bubbles product information and gift packs have been provided by Crayola through MyBlogSpark."

Top 10 Online Coupons for Easter

2012-04-05T01:51:00.000-07:00

Easter Sunday is just around the corner and that means fun times ahead with family and friends. Whether you're looking for new attire or special gifts for loved ones, you can find great deals on the Easter Coupons page at FreeShipping.org. Enjoy the following top offers and fill your basket with savings.

1. 1-800-Flowers
Save 15% on flowers and baskets through April 7 with promo code BUNNY15.

2. Kohl's
Take 20% off your purchase through April 7 with Kohl's promo code SMS9717.

3. Ulta
Get $15 off orders of $75 or more and free shipping through April 28 with code AFP312.

4. Pottery Barn Kids
Save up to 40% on select Easter products through through April 8 (no code required).

5. Coldwater Creek
Get free shipping on all orders with Coldwater Creek coupon FREESHIP. Hurry as this offer ends April 5.

6. Famous Footwear
Save 15% on any order through April 8 with coupon code WEDGES15.

7. Macy's
Take an extra 30% off through April 15 when you purchase three or more pairs of shoes with code SHOES.

8. Home Depot
Get $10 off purchases of $100 or more with coupon code SPRINGBF. Hurry as this offer ends April 5.

9. Joann Fabrics
Save 40% on one regularly-priced item through April 15 with promo code AE916.

10. M&Ms
Take 15% off orders of $60 or more through April 8 with coupon code HOP.

###

Source: Kendal Perez

FreeShipping.org is the largest resource on the Internet linking shoppers to free-shipping deals offered by over 4,000 online merchants.

GourmetGiftBaskets.com Review and Giveaway!

2012-04-04T13:44:00.004-07:00

I've had nothing but good experiences with every basket I get from GourmetGiftBaskets.com, and that continues to remain true with their delicious Baked Goods! GourmetGiftBaskets.com always has the best selection of gourmet goodies, and I was lucky to be able sample some of their delicious gourmet brownies from their Brownie Sampler!

I'll admit, I've got quite the sweet tooth! Let me just say, that the selection of brownies I was sent did not disappoint! My family and I were able to try:

· Belgian Chocolate Chunk

· White Chocolate Macadamia Blonde

· Butterscotch Blonde

· Cheesecake

· Peanut Butter

· Fudge Walnut

My favorite was the cheesecake. You just can't go wrong mixing chocolate and cheesecake together, but in brownie form-it's to die for! My boys loved the peanut butter, and my husband couldn't get enough of the white chocolate macadamia! Each brownie was moist and delicious. I've had treats in the past delivered by mail from other companies, adn I have to say they arrive broken, dry and are just disappointing. Not these browines from GourmetGiftBaskets.com-they arrived fully intact, and were just as fresh as if I had just pulled them out of the oven myself!

GourmetGiftBaskets.com really has everything you need for every occasion, from Gift Baskets to Baked Goods!

One lucky reader will win the same brownie sampler that I was lucky enough to review, one of each yummy flavor I listed above!
You can enter via the Rafflecopter form-

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: I rec'd a product for review, no other compensation was given. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.

Happy April!!

2012-04-02T10:50:00.001-07:00

April is full of fantastic opportunities, and big changes! We should be closing on our new house this week and our home here in Ohio is officially listed with a realtor! I'm excited for the future, but sad to close this chapter in our lives! I'm working on getting back into the swing of things as far as blogging, I can't wait for what is to come!

In the meantime, we're going a little crazy ;)

Health Insurance Options for Newborn Children {Guest Post}

2012-03-22T00:46:00.000-07:00

Health Insurance Options for Newborn Children
Guest post by: Carrie McLean
Consumer specialist with eHealthInsurance

Enrolling a newborn under a parent’s employer-sponsored plan. If you or your child’s other parent are currently covered under an employer-sponsored health insurance plan, this is often your baby’s best coverage option. Employer-based plans tend to provide robust benefits that may include preventive checkups, well-baby visits and immunizations – often at no or little out-of-pocket cost. A few considerations:

· The child may be covered under either parent’s employer plan (or both), even if the parents aren’t married

· Adding a dependent may substantially increase the amount the employee is required to contribute from his or her paycheck towards the monthly premium

· You don’t need to wait for the employer’s open enrollment period to add a newborn to your plan but must typically enroll the baby within a specific time-frame, typically thirty days after birth

· If you miss the enrollment window, you may want to consider a short-term plan to temporarily cover the baby; keep in mind, however, that while short-term plans can provide protection in case of serious illness or injury, they often don’t cover preventive care or regular checkups

· Contact your Human Resources department or benefits administrator before your child is born to make sure that you understand how the enrollment process works and how much additional money will be withheld from your paycheck for dependent coverage

Enrolling a newborn under a parent’s individually-purchased plan. Individually-purchased health insurance plans may provide coverage for individuals or for families. The 2010 Affordable Care Act strengthened these plans by doing away with lifetime coverage limits for basic covered services and making certain preventive care services available at no out-of-pocket cost. According to eHealth, Inc’s 2011 Cost and Benefits Report, the average monthly premium paid for a family of two or more in 2011 was $414 per month* Nearly nine in ten (88.8%) of the plans surveyed in the report included well-baby coverage.

· If you already have an individually-purchased policy, contact your licensed agent or insurer to learn how to add a dependent and how much your monthly premiums may increase as a result

· Be sure to add your newborn as a dependent within the “qualifying event” period, typically thirty days following birth

· When applying or re-applying for individual or family coverage it is possible for adults age 19 and over to be declined coverage due to pre-existing medical conditions; such a decline may result in the decline of the application as a whole, including for the coverage of dependents

Enrolling a newborn in a child-only individual plan. “Child-only” plans are individual health insurance policies made available to children age 18 and under with no parent or guardian listed on the same policy. The 2010 health reform law prevents insurers from declining applications for children based solely on pre-existing medical conditions. However, child-only policies are not available in many states, and states where child-only policies are available may limit enrollment to designated open enrollment periods or only with the occurrence of a “qualifying event.”

· Find out if child-only plans are available in your state by contacting your state department of insurance or a licensed agent

· Review eHealthInsurance’s recently published chart describing the availability of child-only plans across the country

· Birth may be considered a qualifying event and enrollment may be allowed within a specific period of time after birth in states where child-only health insurance plans are available

· In states where child-only plans are not available you may still be able to apply for an individually-purchased family plan with yourself as the policyholder and your child as a dependent, but remember that the application may be declined due to your own pre-existing medical conditions

Enrolling a newborn in a state-sponsored health insurance program. If no other options are open to you and you can’t afford coverage on your own, you may qualify for government assistance. Depending on your income, you and/or the baby may qualify for Medicaid. In some states there may be other programs available specifically for uninsured infants and children.

· Contact your state department of insurance or the non-profit Foundation for Health Coverage Education (coverageforall.org) to learn more

· If you face an enrollment delay with a government program, consider a short-term plan to temporarily cover the baby; keep in mind, however, that while short-term plans can provide protection in case of serious illness or injury, they often don’t cover preventive care and regular checkups

Disclaimer: This is a guest post.

CampusBookRentals.com saves you money and gives back!

2012-03-21T10:39:00.001-07:00

If you've gone to college, or are on your way, you know it's going to be expensive. Housing, classes, and books really add up. Not everyone has the luxury of a parent paying for school or has piles of grants paying the way, so why not lesson the load just a bit? How about renting your books for school? Campus Book Rentals is all about saving you money and making college life a little less stressful buy allowing you to rent whatever book you need at a fraction of the price when buying it new or used!
I wish had known about this when I went to school!

Some perks about CampusBookRentals.com:

Save 40-90% off bookstore price!!!

Free shipping both ways

30 Day Risk Free Returns

Largest Book selection in the Nation

Live Customer Support

You can highlight pages

and so much more!

Look at this-"Fundamentals of Physical Geography" by James Petersen, Dorothy Sack, Robert E. Gabler. You'll find that at a book store for over $100, but CampusBookRentals.com will save you 71% AND you can rent for as long as you need-whether it's a summer class, quarter, or semester!

What's even better than saving money? Giving Back. Campusbookrentals.com is donating a percentage of each rental to Operation Smile. Not just every "checkout". It's EVERY textbook. Their goal is to pay for 1000 life changing operations. I think that's awesome.

College is stressful, but finding the money to pay for books doesn't have to be a worry anymore, thanks to Campus Book Rentals!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post, but all opinions are my own.

My sister

2012-03-17T11:56:00.000-07:00

My Sister

Guest written by our friend Mason Abbott

My sister had been looking into getting adt alarms for her house the day her house got broken into. It was really scary, actually, because she’d been at home with the girls just a few hours before and though they didn’t find all her jewelry they did take a lot of stuff she was really disappointed to lose. I love my sister but sometimes she leaves her door unlocked but it turns out that wasn’t the case here – she hadn’t at all. They broke in a window in the basement and got everything – I don’t really understand why robbersfeel like they need to break everything in a house when they come in but you know, there’s something to be said for the fact that a lot of people don’t have anything but keeping my house safer has now become a priority of mine, I can tell you that. My sister feels the same way and she definitely ended up getting that alarm she had been looking at in the first place!

Disclaimer: this is a guest post.

Please excuse my lack of posts-We are MOVING!

2012-03-16T07:25:00.000-07:00

I'm sure you've noticed a lack of posts recently, I'm doing my best to play catch up :D But I wanted to share with you some exciting news that might explain my absence-We are MOVING!!

We have lived in NW Ohio for 5 years now, and I love it. I have great friends here and the community is amazing! But an exciting job opportunity came up for my husband, and it would bring us back to our home state of MI and we just couldn't pass it up!

We are in the process of a few things:

Finishing our remodel (almost done!)

Selling our home

Buying a new home

It's been stressful, but exciting. I know I'm going to cry when the day comes to leave our home. This was our first home that we bought, we've made it our own and it will be hard to leave. But I'm ready for a new adventure!! I'll keep you posted on the progress!! Thanks for sticking by me!

Seventh Generation and The Lorax team up {Giveaway}

2012-03-08T10:49:00.001-08:00

Seventh Generation has teamed up with The Lorax (now in theaters!) to teach you the lesson of the Lorax!
The Lorax is the Speaker of the Trees, and he provides us with the environmental truth and ecological hope.
Seventh Generation is a company that takes pride in using environmentally safe products for your family, especially for your baby. Seventh Generation has teamed up with Universal Studios and has debuted a limited edition Lorax print!

*info courtesy of MyBlogSpark*

Discover (or rediscover) Dr. Suess’ The Lorax as you read about his legacy and messages of sustainability with your child, and inspire a new generation of environmentalists starting with your family!

The Seventh Generation family of Free & Clear baby products continues to deliver on your needs as it expands in March, with the addition of NEW Overnight Diapers. Moreover, Free & Clear diapers have been redesigned with new, improved tabs for better fit while Free and Clear training pants now have an absorbent core that is made with more renewable materials.

Be among the first to try these new products before they hit store shelves and rest assured that with every Seventh Generation purchase you’re helping to protect the planet for future generations!

NEW Overnight Diapers are absorbent enough to keep your baby and bedding dry through the night or during prolonged travel
Free & Clear diapers have improved more flexible tabs that provide even better fit
Free & Clear training pants have an absorbent core made with more renewable, plant-based materials. They also feature stretchy, tear away side panels for a better fit and added convenience, as well as inner leak barriers for superior leakage protection
Seventh Generation Free & Clear baby care products do not contain chlorine, fragrance, petroleum-based lotions or latex, and all Free & Clear products are also hypo-allergenic
Starting March 2, you can register for a free The Lorax scrapbook with the purchase of any three Free & Clear diaper products, until supplies last

*The movie Dr. Seuss' The Lorax © 2012 Universal Studios debuts in theaters this March. Based on The Lorax book and characters ™ & © 1971 Dr. Seuss Enterprises, L.P. All Rights Reserved.

I received a pack of Seventh Generation training pants for my 2 year old, and I love them! They aren't as "papery" feeling, and of course I love that they are safer for my son and for the environment! Both of my boys love reading "The Lorax", I couldn't think of a more perfect partnership than Seventh Generation and The Lorax!

One Lucky Reader will win:
One "Earth Friendly" Copy of Dr. Suess's The Lorax printed on recycled paper
and
One package of the new Free & Clear Seventh Generation diaper product (overnight, training pants, regular diapers, your choice)

Find the Entry form after the jump-

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: The Seventh Generation Diapers prize pack, product and information have been provided by Seventh Generation through MyBlogSpark.

{Almost} Wordless Wednesday

2012-03-07T00:59:00.000-08:00

This is what happens when mom doesn't sleep and has lots of extra time to make a fun breakfast
for her kids :D
Our favorite pancake recipe+Wilton food dye gel+smallest cookie cutter ever!

Spring into Health! {giveaway}

2012-03-05T09:32:00.001-08:00

Spring is quickly approaching and I don't know about you, but in the Stevens house we are fighting to kick the winter blahs to the curb! Staying healthy is what keeps us going after a winter full of "yuck" and I'm doing what I can to keep the health momentum going for my entire family!

Some products I want to introduce you to that may help if your fighting illness after illness this winter like we are-

Maty’s All Natural Vapor Rub: Maty’s Vapor Rub offers Soothing relief while it boosts your immune system. Our rubs help soothe and comfort and provide relief while boosting your immune system. Petroleum free. (http://www.matyshp.com/)

Cold-EEZE Oral Spray: Cold-EEZE reduces the duration and symptoms of the common cold including cough, stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing, post-nasal drip and hoarseness. It actually shortens your cold to help you get well sooner.(www.coldeeze.com)

Smart for Life protein bars: Eliminates post-exercise hunger, so you gain muscle not fat. Supports healthy cardiovascular function, helps promote weight loss, boosts metabolism and controls hunger. (www.smartforlife.com)

USANA Booster C: Booster C 600 is a special blend of immunity-supporting ingredients. Not only does it contain zinc, echinacea, and elderberry, but it also includes USANA’s own proprietary vitamin C supplement Poly C. And, as it is created by scientists at USANA, you can trust that Booster C 600 is safe, pure, and effective. (www.usana.com)

One lucky reader will actually win all of these products!!
Will it be you?
Winner will be chosen on the first day of Spring, March 20th!
Enter on the Rafflecopter form after the jump-

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: I will receive the same prize pack as the winner in exchange for this post, no other compensation was given. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.

Zeiss Better Vision Educational Tools

2012-03-02T06:40:00.000-08:00

I've been wearing glasses for over 20 years so I know the importance of being knowledgeable in the health of your eyes. Zeiss Better Vision knows that too, so they've come out with some great educational tools to help you understand your vision,to find the best lenses for ytour eyes, and what to do during your next eye appointment.

Zeiss Educational Tools

I trust my Optometrist has my vision in her best interest, but I know I need to keep myself in the know too.
I am near sighted and have Astigmatism in my right eye, and reading about the changes in my vision as I get older was "eye opening" (pun intended :D) As much as I hate to admit, I am getting older and I need to be more aware of potential changes.
I'm lucky to have a great Doctor on my side, but it's important to find the best one who will best suite your needs. Some of the tips from Ziess-
*Maintain your regular eye exams. SO IMPORTANT!
*Determine if your Dr is covered by your insurance, contact your company or call the office your interested to see if they accept your plan!
*Know the difference between an Optometrist and an Ophthalmologist!!
An Optometrist is a Doctor specializing in prescribing your lenses and can diagnose any issues. An Ophthalmologist can treat those issues and diseases and perform eye surgery.

There is so much to know, and Zeiss Better Vision is helping you to get educated!
As moms, we make sure our children have the best when it comes to their health, let's not forget about ourselves!

Disclaimer: I received the information to write this post on behalf of MomSelect. Please see my disclosure policy for more information on my blogging practices.

Gift Baskets for Auctions & Fundraisers

2012-03-01T13:06:00.009-08:00

by Anne DelBalzo

Spring is in the air, and that means lots of schools, churches, and
organizations will be planning events. Whether they're hosting a
carnival, an auction, or a dance, most of these places like to include
items that can be raffled off to one of the attendees. That's a great
way for the group to raise money, especially if local businesses or
individuals donate items that can be turned into prizes.

At my daughter's school, we organize a dance every spring, and
beforehand, we spend a lot of time soliciting donations and putting
together a great selection of prizes that are auctioned off during the
party. Usually, the most popular ones are the gift baskets!

Since some local stores cannot afford to make large contributions, they
often give us smaller items to include in our raffle. Then volunteers
like myself organize the items into pretty baskets, usually based around
a theme. For instance, we had a pair of sunglasses from a local Pearle
Vision, a gift card from a deli, and a blanket from a home goods store.
We added two plates and napkins and put these together as a “picnic
basket” for someone to win.

The first year I was involved in this fundraiser, I thought it was very
stressful to come up with ideas for the party itself, while at the same
time trying to promote the raffle so that we could earn money for our
school. However, the gift baskets I put together were a huge hit, and I
never hesitate to recommend them to volunteers who are trying to raise
money for a cause. People love winning prizes, and they especially love
winning things that they can use and enjoy. In fact, I tend to think
that the chance to participate in an auction or giveaway brings more
people to an event than would come if it were “just” music and dancing.

The next time you end up on a fundraising committee, remember gift
baskets, and you'll be a success!

Save at the Kroger Cart Buster Savings Event {$25 Kroger GC Giveaway!}

2012-02-29T09:23:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year-The Kroger Cart Buster Savings Event!! It is happening right now!!

Now through March 6th, shop the Kroger Co. Family of Stores biggest-ever promotion and find the hottest prices around on more than 35 brands, across more than 60 categories! During the Cart Buster Savings Event, you’ll find great savings in almost every department at the Kroger Family of Stores, which includes:

Kroger
Ralph’s
King Soopers
City Market
Dillon’s
Smith’s

Fry’s
QFC
Baker’s
Owen’s
Jay C Food Stores
Hilander

Gerbes
Food4Less
Pay Less Super Markets
Scott’s Food & Pharmacy

Check your local store to confirm the exact dates for your Cart Buster Savings Event.

Here are just a handful of the great brands participating in the event:

Cheerios
Lucky Charms
Pillsbury
Betty Crocker
Hamburger Helper
Yoplait
Progresso
Totino’s
Green Giant
Cascadian Farm

Tide
Charmin
Bounty
Pampers
Pantene
Crest
Iams
Febreze
Old Spice
Bounce

Pepsi
Ruffles
Quaker
Tostito’s
Rice A Roni
Tropicana
Stacy’s
Sobe
Mountain Dew
Gatorade

Looking for even more ways to save time and money? Visit CartBuster.com beginning 2/26/12 to find money-savings digital coupons, shopping lists and more. And starting 2/29/12 you can participate in the “Deal of the Day”! How does the Deal of the Day work?

During seven days of the Cart Buster Savings Event, 2/29/12 - 3/6/12, there will be a super hot, exclusive offer good on one participating Cart Buster item. Each offer will be exclusive and available for one-day only – but the offer will be good for the duration of the entire event.
You’ll see savings of up to and over 50% with the Deal of the Day offers – maybe even some freebies - and that’s on top of the already-low, low prices that Cart Buster has to offer!
Look for seven days of “Deal of the Day offers” beginning 2/29/12. The Last Deal of the Day offer will be up on 3/6/12. But don’t fret - the Cart Buster event will continue even after the Deal of the Day ends. Check your local store for the exact end date for the Cart Buster Savings Event.

Now comes the fun part-One lucky reader will win a $25 Kroger Gift Card!!
Enter on the Rafflecopter form after the jump!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclaimer: I rec'd a gift card for this post, no other compensation was given.

Check out VueZone Personal Video Network!

2012-02-28T09:26:00.006-08:00

We haven't ventured into the babysitter world yet, I haven't felt brave enough to leave my boys with people other than family. I've recently learned of a product that I think will keep my mind at ease when the time comes to leave my boys with a sitter-VueZone! VueZone Personal Video Network is a remote video system that's so easy, even *I* can use it :D I'm not very tech savvy and am often intimidated by the lastest and greatest devices but VueZone has great step by step tutorials on their website that makes learning the system as easy as pie!
Some information I thought was worth noting:
No wires = no installation! Just take the VueZone out of the box and in about 15 minutes you're set up and Publish Postready to roll!
You can set up your cameras in any room in your home.

You can view the video on a computer or have it set up on your smartphone so you can check in on the go-That is what appealed to me the most!
It's compact and better yet-it's affordable!
Footage can be saved and emailed to you so you have access to any video you want in the future.

Just set up one account online and you can view the cameras from multiple sources .

This system if great for families, daycare centers, schools, and more!!
A system like this is worth the peace of mind it will give to any parent when they can't be home with their kids (or pets too :D) and peace of mind is worth just about any price in my book!

Learn More about the VueZone Personal Video Network and how it works!

Disclaimer: This is my opinion, see my disclosure policy for more information.