Win a $25 Gift Card to Build-a-Bear Workshop

My daughter just loves stuffed animals. So I'm trying to win her a $25 gift card to Build-A-Bear Workshop. They have this new really cute Valentine's Day Dalmation that she'd probably love. (pictured below)



Go to the blogs listed below if you want to enter to win too.

The Mom Reviews (ends 2/3)

As They Grow Up (ends 2/9)

Mommy 2 Two Girls (ends 2/10)

Aloha Friday/Follow Friday!

An Island Life hosts this meme. Aloha Friday is the day that we take it easy and look forward to the weekend. Therefore, I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response.

My question: What is the weather/temperature where you are today?

My answer: It is so cold out today! It is only 10 degrees out here today. With winds up to 40 miles an hour at times. And with a wind chill of zero. And it is going to be like that all weekend!

And last night it was very icy out too. I had to go out last night and I saw 3 cars that had spun out on the highway. And then a 3 car accident. I can't wait for Spring!

P.S. and if anyone read my Aloha Friday last week about the Yoga. I decided Yoga is not what it is cracked up to be. And I thought I was going to die doing it. I think I may have to find another exercise program!

Today is also Follow Friday. If you want to find more blogs to follow or more followers, then click on the button below to add your link. And find out how you can participate! Happy Friday everyone!

New “Cheap Apartment" search engine!

In my hopes of one day moving to a warmer climate (as I'm facing below zero wind chills here today), I was checking out some Cheap Apartments in Jacksonville.

That would be a dream come true. I have visited Florida four times in the past. I really loved it, and could totally see myself living there.

But trying to find somewhere to live is the hard part. I found a website though that could help me find some cheap apartments. This site is amazing. They have pictures of some really nice apartments on there. I was just looking at one in a nice neighborhood, with a pool! Oh, how I would love that. They also have a great way to sort the listings by price, and you can even see floorplans of the listings!

I'm going to show my husband the cheap (cheap in price, but very nice) apartment I found in the Jacksonville area, when he gets home later!

WW #92 "More Sledding"

Sunday was a great day for some more sledding. The conditions were right. And the weather was pretty good too. I don't mind going when it is above the freezing mark!

My son couldn't go this time, because he was sick with a cold. But we took my daughter. She really was screaming down the hill this time. Of course I forgot my camera though. But I snapped a few shots with my husband's cell phone. (as I'm uploading them I just realized - they're a little blurry - Oh Well)




Visit Wordless Wednesday , 7 Clown Circus, Sunnymama, & 5 minutes for Mom for more participants.

One Stop Los Angeles Real Estate Shopping!

Every Winter I really consider moving to a warmer climate. That would really be a dream come true for me. I say sometimes that I really believe I was born in the wrong part of the Country. I was born in New England, and have lived here all my life. But someday I may just move!

I have often thought of moving to southern California. That would be so cool. In the past 6 months that thought has occured to me even more. My husband's work actually acquired another company out in southern California. So my husband was out there two times in the past 6 months on business trips.

It crossed our minds that we could relocate out there through his job. There is a lot to think about if we ever decide to do this though. Such as finding a place to live. That is where Beverly Hills Foreclosures can help.

This is a very useful site. Finding Los Angeles Condos or a Los Angeles Rental Property can be daunting in a major city. But the clean design of this website and the innovative search engine, makes it a useful resource for online real estate shopping.

I really may start searching in the southern California area for some real estate. And with this website never before has finding a place in the in Los Angeles, California area been easier!

Post It Note Tuesday - 1001 Posts

Time for what is becoming one of my favorite memes. Post It Note Tuesday! If you want to find out how to play along then go visit Adventures of a Wanna-Be SupahMommy. (Or click the top post it below.) Hope you have a great Tuesday!

Winner of 100 Postcards

The winner of the 100 Postcards is Diane.

Diane {createdbydiane.blogspot.com} said... 9

I'm already following you on twitter I'm @createdbydiane
I hope that counts or feel free to delete if it's just for new followers :)

I will be contacting the winner shortly. Thanks everyone for entering. And be sure to check out my other two giveaways. Links are on the top of my sidebar.

Chocolate Cheerios Review/Giveaway

Do you like Cheerios? Do you like Chocolate? Then you are going to love Chocolate Cheerios.

I received some from MyBlogSpark to try out. And I know one person in my house who is very happy about it. That is my daughter. Actually my husband too. I know my daughter likes something, when she makes the mmm...mmm...mmm sound when she eats something. And that is what she was doing when she ate some Chocolate Cheerios.



Chocolate Cheerios are low in fat, heart healthy, have 100 calories per serving, contain at least 8 grams of whole grain per serving (at least 48 grams recommended daily), and is a good source of calcium and vitamin D. Made with real cocoa, Chocolate Cheerios can help your family start the day off right with a delicious and nutritious breakfast that is sure to make you smile!

Also included in my package from MyBlogSpark was some really neat bath stuff. I received some chocolate soap, chocolate body wash, chocolate bath salts and a bath scrunchy. Oh yea, and there is also a really cool bowl to eat the Chocolate Cheerios in!


Win It!: One lucky reader will win a Chocolate Cheerios Prize pack (as described and pictured above)

Mandatory entry: Tell me what you or your family does to start your day off with a smile.


EXTRA ENTRIES: (leave separate comment for each entry you do. For example if you blog about this giveaway - worth 3 entries - please leave 3 separate comments)

1. Follow my blog on Goggle Friend Connect (current followers count too)
2. Follow me on Twitter & tweet this giveaway (use retweet button above if you like)
3. "Grab my Button" and post it on your blog (worth 3 entries)
4. Become a Fan STAY AT HOME MOM on Facebook (also see sidebar) (worth 2 entries)
5. Follow my Blog on Networked Blogs on Facebook (see sidebar) (worth 2 entries)
6. For 3 extra entries blog about this giveaway, linking back to this post.

RULES: Giveaway is open to US Residents only. Giveaway ends February 7, 2010 11:59 PM. Winners will be chosen via Random.org. Must have valid email in blog profile or leave email in comments otherwise you will be disqualified. Winners will have 48 hrs. to confirm by email, If no confirmation in that time frame a new winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: Cheerios provided me with the free product, information, and gift pack through MyBlogSpark.

Triaminic Thin Strips For Your Children Giveaway

Yes, it's cold and flu season again. My son actually stayed home from school yesterday. He has a slight temperature and a cough. He seems to be feeling better today.

My kids have never been big on taking medicine. It has always been difficult to get them to take any over the years. But the one thing I discovered when they first came out were the Triaminic Thin Strips. They are great because they help ensure accurate dosing by providing a pre-measured dose of medicine that dissolves quickly on the tongue.

My kids actually don't give me such a hard time about medicine with the Triaminic Thin Strips!

Triaminic has also put together a two helpful online tools to help you and your family get through the cold and flu season. First is The Sick Day Guidelines, created in partnership with the National Association of School Nurses. These are guidelines that will help parents determine when they should keep their kids home, or weather they can go to school. Check out the Triaminic Sick Day Guidelines for more information.

Another helpful online tool is the Cold & Flu Tracker. There you will be able to track cold & flues in your area. I checked mine and it said it was moderate at our state capitol.

You can also get a coupon for $1.50 off Triaminic Thin Stripes. Click below to get your coupon:

Win It!: Three (3) lucky winners will win a Triaminic Prize pack. Prize Pack includes two (2) packs of Triaminic Thin Strips (14 ct. boxes)

Mandatory Entry: Visit the Triaminic Sick Day Guidelines and tell me one thing you found interesting.

EXTRA ENTRIES: (leave separate comment for each entry you do. For example if you blog about this giveaway - worth 3 entries - please leave 3 separate comments)

1. Follow my blog on Goggle Friend Connect
2. Follow me on Twitter & tweet this giveaway (use retweet button above if you like)
3. "Grab my Button" and post it on your blog (worth 3 entries)
4. Become a Fan STAY AT HOME MOM on Facebook (also see sidebar) (worth 2 entries)
5. Follow my Blog on Networked Blogs on Facebook (see sidebar) (worth 2 entries)
6. For 3 extra entries blog about this giveaway, linking back to this post.

RULES: Giveaway is open to US Residents only. Giveaway ends February 1, 2010 11:59 PM. Winners will be chosen via Random.org. Must have valid email in blog profile or leave email in comments otherwise you will be disqualified. Winners will have 48 hrs. to confirm by email, If no confirmation in that time frame a new winner will be chosen.


Disclaimer: I will also be receiving two (2) boxes of Triaminic Thin Strips for hosting this giveaway. I received no monetary compensation for this post. The opinions expressed are solely my own, and your opinions my differ. Always use as directed. Consult with your physician before taking this medication or any medication. Winners will be receiving prize pack directly from the sponsor.

Aloha Friday & Follow Friday

An Island Life hosts this meme. Aloha Friday is the day that we take it easy and look forward to the weekend. Therefore, I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response.

My question: Do you exercise or work-out? And if so what do you do?

My answer: I used to work out more back about 15 years ago, but after kids, the most I have done is walking. But now I'm excited because I'm going to try to start doing Yoga. I have done it for about 3 days now. And just got some Yoga work-out tapes I'm going to try. Not sure how much of a "work-out" it is, but hey it's better then nothing.



I'm also participating in "Follow Friday." Click the banner below if you want to join too. Just add your link and follow others that have added their link. I participated last week and I think I got at least 15 new followers! It's a great way to meet some new bloggers.

2010 Homebuyer Tax Credit - Extended & Expanded

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Coldwell Banker. All opinions are 100% mine.

January means the beginning of tax time again. Are you starting to get organized for your tax returns? Well one tax credit you may or may not know about is the 2010 Homebuyer Tax Credits.

Watch the video below to get an overview of this tax credit:



This tax credit was set to expire last November. But now has been extended and expanded. The new tax credit includes first time homebuyers, which is those who have not owned a house in the last 3 years. These first time homebuyers can receive up to an $8,000 tax credit.

The new tax credit has been expanded to also include homeowners who have lived in their current home consecutively for 5 of the past 8 years. If these homeowners purchase a new home they will be eligible to receive up to $6,500 tax credit.

But homeowners should act now, homeowners will need to have a written, binding contract by April 30, 2010 and must close by June 30, 2010. There may be no further extensions after this so you are urged to act quickly.

The Homebuyer Tax credit, is also a great stimulus for the economy. This tax credit will help to encourage some new homebuyers to get into the market and also current homeowners to maybe move up in their housing. This would be great for the Real Estate business, which in history has always helped the economy when it is doing well. The Real Estate business through this tax credit will help the local economy and also help to create jobs.

If you are eligible for this tax credit I encourage you to find out more information, by visiting Coldwell Banker today!

Thursday Thirteen #32

Visit Thursday Thirteen for more participants.

Lately I've been hearing what National Day it is. Mostly to hearing it on The Hoda & Kathie Lee show. Like for example did you know Tuesday was National Popcorn Day? And yesterday was National Penguin Awareness Day.

Here's 13 National Days starting with today:

1. Squirrel Appreciation Day & National Hugging Day - Jan. 21
2. National Blonde Brownie Day - Jan. 22
3. National Handwriting Day - Jan. 23
4. Eskimo Pie Day & National Compliment Day - Jan. 24
5. Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day - Jan. 25
6. National Speak Up & Succeed Day - Jan. 26
7. Chocolate Cake Day - Jan. 27
8. National Kazoo Day - Jan. 28
9. National Puzzle Day - Jan. 29
10. National Croissant Day - Jan. 30
11. National Seed Swap Day - Jan. 31
12. National Freedom Day - Feb. 1st.
13. Groundhog Day - (an actual holiday) Feb. 2nd

So there you go. That should keep you covered for the next 13 days. I guess there is a holiday for everything. Some days I listed actually had more then one for each day. So this is only a sampling.

So Happy Hugging Day today! And Squirrel Appreciation day! Maybe go hug a squirrel!

New Book - "Blast Off!"

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Allison Maslan, author of "Blast Off!". All opinions are 100% mine.

There is a new book out, that is called Blast Off! The author is Allison Maslan. She is a leading Life & Career coach. She has written this book to help people by guiding them to a personal transformation and professional success.

If you feel you are not were you want to be in your life, or that you are not doing what you want to do, then is is the book for you. If feel that you are not attaining your goals. Or that you don't feel fulfilled then you should check out "Blast Off! "

If you have ever asked the question "Where do I want to be in 10 year or ever 5 years," and it's not the same as where you are now. Then this book may help you find some answers. "Blast Off!" is a powerful book that may inspire you to envision your biggest dreams. And could help you to actually take action in achieving them.

Blast Off's launch date was actually yesterday, January 19, 2010. It is available on Amazon, Borders & Barnes and Noble's websites now. It is at a great price of only $24.00. And even cheaper on Amazon.com. So check out this book, if you want to jump start the new year right!

WW #91 "Snow In The Trees"

I complain a lot about Winter and the snow. I think, I was just about 10 min. ago, when I was trying to clear the snowbank at the end of my driveway. But the other day, during a snowstorm, my husband dragged me outside. He wanted me to take a look around, and try to appreciate the beauty of it.

I have to admit, it does look pretty in the trees, after it first snows.

Visit Wordless Wednesday , 7 Clown Circus, Sunnymama, & 5 minutes for Mom for more participants.

Winner of 250 Business Cards

The winner of the 250 Business Cards is Matty.

Matty said... 24

I was recently given a new permanent assignment at work. They won't spend the money for business cards for me. I would use the cards there.

January 16, 2010 11:58 AM

Congratulations Matty. I will be emailing you shortly with details on claiming your prize. Thanks to everyone who entered. Be on the look out for more giveaways soon.

Post It Note Tuesday #3

Time for what is becoming one of my favorite memes. Post It Note Tuesday! If you want to find out how to play along then go visit Adventures of a Wanna-Be SupahMommy. (Or click the top post it below.)

Two Year Blogaversary

Tomorrow is this blogs 2nd year Blogaversary! Thanks to all my readers for following my blog as I continue my blogginess.

I'm not really sure what to say or do on such occasions. I'm not great at reflecting back, sappy sentiments, etc. Sorry if that sounds weird. But I just wanted to acknowledge it and to thank everyone who has given this blog and I support over the past two years.

I'd like to do a big giveaway or something, but that's not going to happen right now either - lol! I am going to have one soon for a Chocolate Cheerios prize pack, so be on the look out for that.

Thanks everyone. Happy Blogaversary!

Monograms - Travel Planning & Details Made Simple

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Monograms. All opinions are 100% mine.

If you know me, then you would know that I have always wanted to go to Arizona. That for some reason is my dream vacation. I really want to go to see the Grand Canyon. I really hope I can do that one day soon.

Well I was just on a website called Monograms. And this site really makes it simple to plan your vacation. They have a search box that asks you where you want to go, how many people, when you want to go etc. Then you hit search and it gives you a whole bunch of choices for itineraries for your vacation.

I plugged in my information, that I wanted to go to Arizona. And Monograms planned a fabulous looking vacation for me. They planned out a vacation for seven days for me from start to finish. This site is great. It can really help you to plan your vacations. They help with hotels, and all the other logistical hassles for you so you can just enjoy your vacation.

Monograms can help you save time and money if you book through them. They have a worldwide variety of destinations and packages to choose from. And right now, travelers can fly to Europe for as little as $487 on a Monograms vacation.

Looking up a trip to Arizona on Monograms, really is getting me get excited about going there. I really have to get planning this soon! Check out there site by clicking here: http://www.monogramstravel.com/simple?utm_source=izea&utm_medium=ppp&utm_campaign=simple

And then you can start planning your dream vacation!

Aloha Friday #15

An Island Life hosts this meme. Aloha Friday is the day that we take it easy and look forward to the weekend. Therefore, I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response.

My question: Do you use hand sanitizer?

My answer: Yes. More and more lately. Ever since the H1N1 scare I have been using it more. I carry one in my pocket book and am paranoid about touching shopping carts, etc. So I use it after I go shopping. I even find myself wiping off the cart handles now with wipes they provide. Better safe then sorry. :)

Time For a Relaxing Getaway

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Hiltons of Branson. All opinions are 100% mine.

Now that the holidays are over, it would really be a great time to go on a getaway. And a great place to do that is in Branson. While in Branson it would be really nice to stay at either the Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing or the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel.

There is also some terrific packages going on right now there. One is the exclusive Romance Package. This would be a perfect weekend getaway. Very romantic for upcoming Valentine's Day, or any weekend for that matter. With this package you will enjoy in-room sparkling wine or cider upon arrival.

With the Romance Package you get access to the hotel health club. You can also use the hotel pool and whirlpool spa. You also get a full American breakfast for two in your room, and a lot more!

Then there is the Hilton Bed and Breakfast Package. This lovely package will allow you to enjoy the comforts of the Hiltons of Branson. And you will get a personalized breakfast for two all weekend long! Wow, that sounds cool.

While you are enjoying these awesome packages at the Hiltons, you can also have a fun time doing the many things Branson has to offer. And there is also some upcoming events you can enjoy while there such as a professional ice sculpting competition. Another event is the Master's Trout Championship. There is also many more events coming up. Check out the Hiltons of Branson for the great packages I mentioned and for all the fun things you can do on a relaxing getaway.

Entrecard Drops

I've seen on some of my fellow bloggers and Entrecard droppers blogs, posts on viruses they're computers have gotten recently. They are attributing this to Entrecard. I do not doubt it. The same thing happened to me about a year ago last month actually.

I have noticed my Norton Security blocking what is called a Bloodhound virus (something like that) recently when I am dropping EC's. I can not take the chance of something happening to my computer. So like I've read on others blogs, I am only going to drop on a list I created as my favorites. I will try to add a few more blogs to it as I go along.

I can no longer drop on everyone who drops on me. I do not want to take a chance of getting a virus. Some of these blogs are junk anyway. Is anyone working at Entrecard anymore?

Too bad too, I had just gotten back on the front page in my category. I guess that might change. Oh well.

Skin MD Natural Lotion Valentine's Giveaway

Remember my Review/Giveaway for Skin MD Natural Lotion? Well if you don't go read that Here.

Anyway, there is a great giveaway going on now at the Skin MD website. They are having a Valentine's Giveaway. You could win the cute basket shown above. The basket includes:

- Bottle of Skin MD Natural shielding lotion

- Bottle of Skin MD Natural + SPF 15 shielding lotion

- One pound of See's dark assorted chocolates

- Pack of Starbucks VIA Ready brew coffee pouches

- Kiss Me coffee mug

- A Cuddly teddy bear

- Lollipop Bouquet

This basket is valued at $100! So go to their website Here to see more details & to enter! Entering is as simple as entering your name and email. With a few more extra entries too. Check it out!

Disclaimer: Skin MD is sending me a bottle of their lotion for doing this post to promote their giveaway.

WW #90 "In-Laws"

I am lucky to have nice In-Laws. I really like most of them. Just kidding. They are all really nice people.

Last weekend we all got together for an after Christmas/New Year's get together. No one is ever there at there at the same time. So what was unusual this weekend was everyone made it to my Mother-in-law's house. So we took this group photo, since everyone was there!

Visit Wordless Wednesday , 7 Clown Circus, Sunnymama, & 5 minutes for Mom for more participants.

100 Postcards Giveaway

My sponsors at UPrinting are offering my readers another great giveaway. This one is for 100 Postcards.

Postcards can be a great way to promote your business. They also could be used for baby announcements, invitations, thank you notes. And so much more. Check out the UPrinting's Postcard Design Template page for some great ideas.

Giveaway Prize Details: 100 Postcards for one (1) lucky winner
Size: 4x6; Paper: 14pt Cardstock Gloss; Printing: Full color both sides
Shipping: Winners have to pay for shipping

Win it: 100 Postcards for one lucky reader

Mandatory Entry: Tell me how you will use the postcards if you win

EXTRA ENTRIES: (leave separate comment for each entry you do. For example if you blog about this giveaway - worth 5 entries - please leave 5 separate comments)

1. Follow my blog on Goggle Friend Connect
2. Follow me on Twitter & tweet this giveaway (use retweet button above if you like)
3. Daily entries: tweet giveaway
4. "Grab my Button" and post it on your blog (worth 3 entries)
5. I just recently created a Fan page on Facebook for my blog. Become a fan of STAY AT HOME MOM on Facebook (worth 3 entries)
6. For 5 extra entries blog about this giveaway, linking back to this post.

RULES: Giveaway is open to US Residents only. Giveaway ends January 24, 2010 11:59 PM. Winner will be chosen via Random.org. Must have valid email in blog profile or leave email in comments otherwise you will be disqualified. Winner must pay for shipping costs.

Disclaimer: UPrinting.com will be awarding me 100 Postcards too for hosting this giveaway

Post It Note Tuesday

This was fun to do last week (my first time.) So I decided to play along again. If you want to see more and play along too, then visit Adventures of a Wanna-Be SupahMommy. (Or click the top post it below.)

WW #89 "Sledding"

This past weekend we had more snow. It snowed for 3 days. A good time to go sledding, right? Here's some shots I took. Somewhat hurriedly, because it was snowing at the time and I didn't want my camera to get to wet.







Visit Wordless Wednesday , 7 Clown Circus, Sunnymama, & 5 minutes for Mom for more participants.