#Mamavation Monday

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Happy Halloween!  Which sucks for all of us that have a hard time resisting temptation!  The good thing is that at least I did a lot of walking, now to keep from picking at the candy.  I have been getting stressed easily lately and turning to food.  So my goal for this week is not really to diet, and avoid everything...cause the thoughts get me stressed too.  So this week I am going to make sure I work out every day to help me stay busy and away from the food. 

So I am hoping to get in some good Wii workouts and some Leslie Sansone Walking DVD workouts.  I won a great one from Karla at Bond with Karla.  For a Walking dvd, it is a great one....5 Miles, with tons of different moves and some resistance band arm workouts too.  I have some strength training workouts programmed on my Active 2 game, and will most likely do some Golds Gym Wii workouts too.  So that is my plan...not think about food so much by working out!

The Furniture Fix (review)

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Is your couch saggy or worn out like mine?  My couch gets lots of use from us and the dog sitting on it, to my son jump, jump and jumping on it!  This has worn it out quite a bit, and you can feel it sagging some as you sit down.  My husband will not let me get any new furniture right now because of all the destructive activity the kids and dog place on it, so I am always looking for a way to help it out.

Furniture Fix to the rescue!  Furniture Fix easily slides under the sagging cushions to support weakened springs.  You do not need any tools at all to get the correct fit and support.  Furniture Fix comes with six durable interlocking panels.  The panels are engineered for strong support and can hold the weight of two cinder blocks.  Furniture Fix panel sets are adjustable to fit the width and length of your furniture.  One set of panels fits a standard chair,  while you typically would use two sets for a love seat and three for a couch. 

I got to try out one set...which I placed under the worst area of my couch.  This really did help and give more support so when I sat back I did not sink down into the couch.  It was much more comfortable.  I unfortunately would need 5 more sets to fit both my couch and love seat.  To me this is a bit pricey.  My cheap husband would say "I'll just cut a pice of wood and it will do the same thing".  I guess no matter what even buying 6 sets would be much cheaper than buying a new couch.  If only I had something to fix the upholestery too, thanks to my dogs nails!

The Furniture Fix retails for $14.88 at national chains including Wal-Mart, Walgreens, and Bed, Bath & Beyond.  You can also order it online at www.furniturefix.com for $14.99 (plus shipping and handling).

disclosure:  I received a free set of Furniture Fix for review.  These are my personal opinions.

Band-Aid Limited Edition Mickey Mouse Collector's Series Tin

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We all need Band-Aids every once in a while.  Some even more often.  For the Mickey Mouse lover there is a cute Collector's Tin available.  The Band-Aid Limited Edition Mickey Mouse Collector's Series Tin comes with a cute assortment of 20 Mickey Mouse themed Band-Aids.  I love the assortment.  There are some simple Mickey ones, and many that are so funny.  I love the "ouch" faces and the funny action scenes. 

I cut my finger yesterday, and grabbed out  one of these Band-Aids.  It was the Donald Duck one, and I had to show my husband...especially seeing I was grumbling about cutting my finger on the new knife he had to have.  I asked him if the Band-Aid reminded him of me...lol.  I had the Band-Aid on, even finished washing dishes and it stuck very well.  It stayed on even later when I took the kids trick or treating and had to wear gloves.  Later I took my gloves off and my step daughter saw my Band-Aid and said "hey I like your Band-Aid".  So I think they are a hit with the young and old!  

I love that I have a cute collectors tin to keep them in too.  I love the face on the back of the tin!  I am going to keep these in Kennedy's room, where she has other Mickey and Minnie items.  We can put it next to her Mickey snow globe.  Then when she gets her blood drawn, she can have a cute Band-Aid to put on instead of the ugly plain ones the lab uses. 

You can find the Band-Aid Limited Edition Mickey Mouse collector's Series Tin on amazon at http://amzn.to/MickeyMouseBAND-AID

Don't forget to “Like” Band-Aid's Facebook page  www.facebook.com/band-aid  to keep up with the news and fun contests.

Disclosure:  I was provided a free Tin to review as a member of Smiley360.  No other compensation was received and these are my personal opinions.

The True Story of Puss N' Boots now on dvd (review)

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This month Phase 4 Films released  The True Story of Puss 'N Boots on DVD.  Based on the Puss 'N Boots characters by Charles Perrault, The True Story of Puss 'N Boots is a tale of a young farmer's son that inherits a strange talking cat with magical boots.  The farmer left his older sons his riches, who do not share with the younger son.  The cunning cat tells him not to worry.  The farmers son has one dream to win the heart of the beautiful Princess.  Puss 'N Boots shows him that you can always accomplish your dreams no matter who you are!

We got to watch this DVD this week. I personally knew there was a Puss 'N Boots character, but never really knew the story.  After checking out the story itself, the DVD is quite the comparison.  Puss 'N Boots really is a cunning cat.  At first I thought Puss 'N Boots, played by William Shatner, had an eery voice.  Then I felt it really fit his character.  Most of the characters in the movie are dark and devious.  I can understand having some of the characters this way, but it seemed like the only ones that were not were the boy and the princess.  I thought for Halloween weekend the movie was good fit, with all these crazy characters.  On the other hand for younger children, they may be too dark.

I was not crazy over the King, Queen and Princess characters either for a children's film.  The King always seemed like he was asleep or stoned, while the Queen kind of bobbled around looking like she was always drunk.  The Princess, who is supposed to be the most beautiful, was portrayed as a woman with lots of cleavage and a lot of junk in the trunk!  I thought it was a kids movie, yet to me these characters seemed like something you would see more in the animated series for adults. 

The other issue I have with this for children, is the actual story.  While in the movie the boy does not want to tell lies, the cat is very devious.  The princess actually pretty much knows about the boys act as being the Marquis, but still falls in love.  She is not wooed by riches like her parents. The way the boy wins over the King and Queen is by the devious acts the cat does to make them believe the boy is the Marquis.  The story kind of has mixed messages about lying.  In some ways it is almost saying it is OK to lie and be deceptive to get what you want.

My seven year old son started to watch it as he saw that it was Puss 'N Boots, and he keeps seeing the previews for the newer movie coming to the theater.  He however did not actually watch it.  He sat for maybe 5 minutes in the beginning and came back once while they were dancing.  My daughter watched it, but only seemed interested when the princess and the boy were dancing and singing.  She never really lit up too much.  While she is older(10yrs), probably more the age I would recommend the film for, she still likes the younger kids shows with lots of singing.  Once the movie was over and a nickelodeon show came on, she lit up and started laughing.  So I would take that as a sign she did not care for the DVD. 

I guess overall this was not really a movie for our family.  I would think it would be better suited for older children.   The DVD is in stores now and available for $19.99, or the Blu-Ray/DVD combo for $24.99.  You can find more information by visiting http://www.pussnboots-themovie.mk2.com/

Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this DVD for review.  These are my personal opinions.

Looking for some visually entertaining items for Christmas

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Having children with special needs I am always looking for some different items for Christmas gifts.  The last couple years I have been checking out items that will catch both Kennedy and Zach's attention visually.  For Kennedy it is hard to do a lot of hands on activities so I like checking out things that will may catch her attention that she does not really have to do anything with.  For Zach I like things that plus ones that he can play with.  This year I have been checking out some items from Discovery as possible gifts.

I got to check out the 2011 Holiday Sneak Peek catalog from Discovery.  There were many items in there I liked, especially a few I thought would make good gifts for the kids.  Here are a few of what I was thinking:

SoundMaster Dancing Water Speakers

These Two Speakers look like a great way to play your music.  I think they would be a fun way to play some music for the family, while they can enjoy watching the water action.  This would be the best of both worlds for Kennedy.  She loves listening to music and then having the visually entertaining water action to the music would be great.  I can really picture having the Christmas tree all lit up, playing some Christmas music, and watching the colorful water display...it sure would make a beautiful scene.

The SounMaster Dancing Water Speakers connect easily to your computer and do not need any batteries or external power.  You simply plug them in, play some music and watch the water dance.  The water is lit by colorful LEDs and the music dancing to the beat of the music.  (suggested retail $49.99)

Discovery Kids 3D Star Theater

This looks like something Zach would especially enjoy.  Last Christmas he stole the toy we got Kennedy that put some simple star lights on the ceiling.  This would be a nice step up.  I think Kennedy would enjoy looking at it, except she does have some issues keeping glasses on because of her disability.  It would be cool though to try out.  It looks like another visually stunning item.

The 3D Star Theater takes you on a journey seeing stars, constellations, planets and more.  You simply put on your 3D glasses, turn on the Start Theater and you have your own planetarium right on your ceiling. Ages 6+ (suggested retail $39.99)

Discovery Kids Fireworks Light Show

My kids love watching fireworks.  This would be a great toy to enjoy them all year long.  Plus you can watch them in the comfort of your home.  With the lights and the sound effects this one looks like it could be really entertaining....and a safe way to do fireworks (without really setting off fireworks that is).

Pump up the fireworks launcher, choose your firework, aim and pull the trigger.  Watch the light effect burst and expand on your wall along with booming sound effects. Ages 6+ (suggested retail $29.95)

Discovery Kids RC Spinning Lights Car

This spinning, tumbling stunt car has flashing lights to entertain you while making the car do stunts.  This car has the ability to do 360 degree turns, flips. standing up all while provided a cool light show.

We got to try out this remote control car.  It is awesome.  It takes a little bit to figure out the remote control functions as they are not just your right, left, front, back.  Each side works either the right or left wheels.  This and the fact that the car can open up somewhat makes it possible to see the car do circular spins, unlike those of typical remote control cars.  The car can bump into things and can even stand up and then flip over.  It has lights on the car and flashing lights in the wheels, which produce a stunning light show.  We loved turning off the lights and watching the car go all around.  Everyone of us liked watching or playing with this, from my husband, myself, the kids, and even the baby.  She was pretty funny, as we would put her in her walker and she would try to chase the car or look around to figure out where it went. 

Here is a pic of our car in the dark, spinning.

The car seems like it can take a beating.  It has been bumped into many things and still no problems.  The remote is a different story.  We have to watch having the antenna up all the way cause my son likes to not pay attention and bent it a little.  So to keep it from getting broken we keep it in the lowest position...which still makes the car go within the room it is in.  Also I noticed my son dropped the remote and broke one of the joysticks on the remote.  This does make it a little easier to use with the joystick, but fortunately it is not really necessary.  You can still place your thumb on the spot where the joystick came off, and make the car move just the same.  This car is recommended for ages 6+ and has a suggested retail of $24.95. 

All of these products can be found at DiscoveryStore.com.  So if you are looking for some visually stunning gifts this holiday season check them out.  You can find many other types of toys for the kids, or even some for babies or yourself there also. 

Disclosure:  I received the RC Spinning Lights Car for free to review.  These are my personal opinions.  I only tried the RC Spinning Lights Car, the other products are ones I am interested in, but have not personally tried.  The information on the products was taken from the 2011 Holiday Sneak Peek book.

Leapfrog Learn, Create, and Share party

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I recently was able to have a Leapfrog Learn, Create and Share party to feature the popular Leapfrog Tag Reading System and the new LeapPad Explorer Learning Tablet.  As you see in the title of the party it is a "learn, create, and share" party.  You ask my 7 year old son about that "sharing" part.  I keep telling him the LeapPad Explorer is actually mine, but he keeps calling it his!  He did however share and show it off to his friends. 

We have always been interested in the Tag reader, as were our guests.  The Tag Reading System is a great handheld pen that has touch technology to bring Tag books to life!  You do need a computer with Internet to connect the Tag so that you can download the audio.  Once you have this, it is very simple to download and store the audio for the books right on the touch pen.  Back when the Tag Reader first came out I was interested.  I was foolish though and bought another system, that cost  less.  It had the same technology, but as I found out the hard way, it had no where near the library of books!  The Tag reader has a huge library of books.  I can not wait to now get some all time favorites and see how they come to life using the Tag.  The kids really liked how easy it is to use the Tag.  They had fun sharing, or sitting back and watching the others use the Tag and listening to the story.  Each book has some fun games or learning activities to go along with the story, on top of how it helps teach the children to read.  My son also loved checking out the sampler book that came with the pen.  He seems drawn to the puzzle books and their fun games and sound effects.  The Learn To Read book collection had great books to help teach the kids to read.  They were fun too.  Buying a bundle like this is also a great way to save money vs. buying one book at a time. Leapfrog also has some other products to use the Tag with, like the Tag World Map that we got to try out.  The large map was one of the first things checked out at the party.  I think there is something about the large size that kids can sit around and explore.  It even is two sided, so they can explore, play games and learn different things.  They liked hearing the children talk from around the world.  The Tag reading system would make a great gift this holiday season for many young children.  The kids and I would definitely recommend it!

I am betting the new LeapPad Explorer is going to be a huge his this holiday season!  I have already been seeing it in many Christmas Toy Catalogs.  My son has had a Leapster for a few years now and has always loved it.  Well the LeapPad Explorer is a huge step up from even the Leapster.  This is the item he does not want to stop calling "My LeapPad".  He loves it!  While the other kids seemed to enjoy it too, it is definitely an item that each kid will like of their own.  The kids loved interacting with the LeapPad Explorer.  They can touch the screen with a finger, tap it with the stylus or turn, twist and shake it for exciting motion-based gameplay! Kids can explore 100+ cartridge games, apps, digital books, videos and flash cards all with fun characters.  The kids loved the Ultra EBook: Disney Pixar Cars 2.  The Ebooks are kind of like reading the Tag books, yet you use your finger or stylus on the LeapPad e-reader instead.  Also for the games on the Ultra Ebooks, you can move the LeapPad to play the games.  This was an extra fun feature all the kids loved!  They offer other games that are like this too, like the Game App:  Rolly Polly Picnic.  I have to say that even my husband liked playing this game. 

Children can read, play or watch so many different Apps on the LeapPad Explorer.  Besides downloading Apps they can also use the Leapster Explorer game cartridges in the LeapPad.  While you can get these game cartridges, the Apps seem to be the kids favorites.  The Pet Pad App was a huge hit!  I even got to create one, because I thought that blowing on your pet to dry her off was awesome!  With the built in microphone the sound of blowing into it interacted with what was going on in the screen. How cool is that!  What is so awesome about the LeapPad is it has a built in camera and video recorder!  Then it comes with some fun Apps (and ones you can purchase to add on later) that you can use with the pictures and videos that the kids make.  The Art Studio and Story Studio are really great for using with the pictures.  The kids loved taking pictures and fooling around with them.  All the kids Loved the LeapPad Explorer!  So if you are looking for a handheld game or ereader for your kids this is highly recommended from us! 

You can find the Leapfrog Tag Reading System and the LeapPad Explorer in many retail stores, like Walmart and Target.  You can also find them online at the LeapFrog store and Amazon.com.  Watch for special deals for the holidays.  I know one of our local stores, Fleet Farm, has a special right now where you receive a free App card with the purchase of the LeapPad Explorer.  They also have the Tag books on sale!  I know I am heading there to pick up so more Tag books, and to check out the Leapster games to fill some Christmas wish lists!  One thing I would recommend is to add in some rechargeable AA batteries.  The LeapPad goes through them pretty quickly, especially with how much the kids play with it!

Reminder:  A computer with Internet connection is required for downloads for both the Tag and the LeapPad.

 The LeapPad is so kid friendly they can take it anywhere.  My son grabbed it while we were outdoors and I was taking pictures.  He had to get it to be a little photographer also.  Here he is taking pictures.

11/3/11:  Just wanted to post a quick note since our party on something cool I learned about the LeapPad.  When you buy the Leapfrog Apps you can use them on two different LeapPads at a time, or if you have the leapfrog Explorer you could use it on one LeapPad and one Explorer.  I thought this was pretty cool, especially seeing I have a friend that is VERY interested in getting for her two kids.  So she can buy the app once, and use it for both kids LeapPad. 


Disclosure:  I received The Tag Reading System, map, books, plus a Preprogrammed LeapPad, game cartridge and App card to explore and share having a LeapFrog Learn, Create and Share Party.  These products were provided for free from Leapfrog as a member of Mom Select.  These are my personal opinions after exploring the products and hosting the party.

The Juppy Walker (review and giveaway)

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I remember the backaches I would get when I would help my children while they were prewalkers.  You hold their hands and are hunched over...and when you go to stand back up your back is telling you NO.  I remember seeing The Juppy Walker online a while back and thought "wow I wish I had that back when my kids were smaller".  Then comes our surprise baby, and now I get the chance to actually try it out!

I can now safely help my baby girl to walk while not putting the extra strain on my back.  Using the Juppy, I can adjust the straps and do not need to lean over to hold her hands.  I simply put her legs through the holes, zip up the back and she is ready to go.  This is nice and adjustable so that anyone that is caring for your child can use it.  It is the perfect tool to go from Mom to Dad in just seconds. 

Justin Hines, Days to Recall CD (review and giveaway)

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About Justin Hines:
Days to Recall, is Justin Hines' U.S. debut album, released this August on Decca. The Canadian singer/songwriter’s collection of heartfelt songs about life and love showcase his considerable talents, and his will to overcome insurmountable obstacles. The CD coincides with a PBS special of Hines in concert, which aired multiple times across the U.S. during Public Television’s August pledge drive.

Justin Hines has also partnered with the American Red Cross for a new music video for his inspiring song “Tell Me I’m Wrong," the first single off the new album. The clip was filmed in and around Joplin, Missouri, which was recently devastated by a massive tornado in May. The video demonstrates the region’s resolve to rebuild despite their daunting challenges, as well as the commitment by the Red Cross to continue their tireless fundraising efforts for those in need.

Unfortunately this touches home just way too much

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If you want to know how it feels to raise a child with a progressive disease, read "Notes From a Dragon Mom" by Emily Rapp.  Emily having a son with Tay Sachs disease expressed it in ways I can't...but I definitely feel it! 

"How do you parent without a net, without a future, knowing that you will lose your child, bit by torturous bit? "

There are so many days I look at Kennedy and just wonder.  I remember back before she had seizures and how I had tears about the things she couldn't do.  Now I look back at those days and wish she could do what she did back then.  It is heartbreaking to know you can not have a healthy child.  At the same time it is heartwarming to know I have this beautiful, sweet daughter to love right now! 

"Parenting, I’ve come to understand, is about loving my child today. Now. In fact, for any parent, anywhere, that’s all there is."

Well written article Emily Rapp...you touched my soul with this article!  God bless you, your son Ronan, and all the children with a progressive disease and their families!

Gourmet Gift Baskets review and giveaway

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All of us out there have those hard to buy for people.  Sometimes it is for a friend that you just do not know what to get, or a group of people.  How about a gourmet gift basket for all different occasions!  At GourmetGiftBaskets.com you can find a gift basket for just about anyone or any occasion.  You can even get these gift baskets delivered that day!  They offer all kinds of gift baskets to care packages.  You can get them filled with all different kinds of treats, edible or play. 

#Mamavation Monday

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BLOGGING CARNIVAL: This week’s blogging carnival is sponsored by Grunt Style. Two blogging carnival participants will receive a shirt from Grunt Style. Answer the following question in your blog post and link back to the Grunt Style website. You can join along too.  Just write up a post, check out Mamavation and Link up your post on bookieboo by clicking here.


Question: What parts of your body are you especially proud of right now? What makes you love them?

Well I do not think I am that proud of any of my body parts right now.  It was another week of not really getting anywhere.  I just cant seem to not be tired lately.  Then the stress of being tired and sick kids just makes me not care.  Yeah I know ....enough of the excuses and get going!  I guess the only part I am somewhat proud of this weekend is my arms.  I did do lots of scrubbing and painting this weekend.  So my arms were working but that is about it.  They have a looooonnnnngggg way to go.  So I do not love them, but gotta get them firmer to keep up on my heavy lifting I do.  They are strong, yet have lots of extra coverage that needs to go.  That is all I am gonna say, as lately I just feel down about it all.  This week I will get moving. 



Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Grunt Style and I’m writing this to be entered into a giveaway hosted by Mamavation – a community dedicated to obesity prevention & weight loss for women.

Like Growing Tree Toys on facebook to help Toys for Tots

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For every new "Like" Growing Tree Toys page receives between now and Nov. 30, they will donate $1 in toys to Toys for Tots! Click the "$1 for Toys for Tots" tab (on the lef)t for details.  Click to Share button to share with all your friends....They can do the same!

disclosure:  I may receive a coupon from Growing Tree Toys for sharing this.

Stinky house? Check out Natural House Probiotic Cleaners (review and giveaway)

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Sick of using harsh chemicals to clean up your house?   Natural House probiotic cleaning products brings you a revolutionary, new method of cleaning the most dirty areas of your home.  Traditional cleaners “clean” a surface for a moment in time; the second the rag is finished wiping the surface, that surface is almost instantly polluted once again with ambient dust, dirt, and micro-organisms. Natural House probiotics creates mini-ecosystem on a microbial level that produces enzymes which break down odors, dirt, fats, oil, grease, food scraps, waste and toilet paper products on a continuous basis between applications. This creates a natural, clean, balanced environment that is safe for even the most sensitive members of your natural house.

Natural House's plant-based ingredients are eco-friendly, non-toxic and biodegradable.  Their products use an eco-friendly cleaning method of probiotics that create a beneficial, odor eating ecosystem to naturally drive out and digest odors at their source.  Their cleaners contain good probiotics which continue to scour, clean, consume odors, grime, grease, and germs, and they continue to do so until your next weekly treatment!

Wordless Wednesday

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Purina Pet Gear

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Right now Purina Pet Gear is challenging puppy trainers to take the DryStep challenge.  Try Purina® Pet Gear Ultra Dry Training Pads for one week and if you are not completely satisfied, they  will purchase a pack of the your preferred brand of training pads. Check out Purina® Pet Gear on facebook (www.facebook.com/purinapetgear)  to take the challenge.  They even have a form to get a $1 off coupon to help you out.  Also through the end of this month they have "try me free" rebate. 

The new Purina® Pet Gear Ultra Dry Training Pads feature an exclusive DryStepÔ cover designed to prevent leaks and paw prints from tracking through the house. The pad features an innovative top layer that contains thousands of microfunnels to quickly channel liquid into the middle, where it’s rapidly absorbed and locked away, preventing it from coming back to the surface, even as dogs walk across. The leak-proof backing also protects floors and carpets. The pads are available at Wal-Mart in 10-count, 20-count and 40-count and come in an easy-to-store box for convenient dispensing.

Now I do not have a puppy to try out the training pads, but I actually use pads under my disabled daughter, who tend to leak through diapers in bed.  I ran out of her pads and decided to try out the ultra dry training pads.  I wish I could get these with our insurance!  They worked great.  The leak-proof backing worked perfect.  I really loved on the top layer locked away the liquid.  I know she leaked onto the pad, but could barely tell that the pad was wet.  I can't say for sure how well they would work with a puppy, but I would definitely check them out if I were training a puppy.  Why not, with the DryStep challenge and try me free rebate, there is not much to lose!

For us the pets are much bigger, but we still get puddles.  I have to say I get so sick of cleaning up messes from my dog and cat.  They drive me crazy.  I typically end up cleaning up some kind of mess at least once a week from my animals.  I used the Purina Pet Stain and Odor Eliminator on some stains I had on my carpet from my cat.  I think they really helped eliminate some of the odor. I also can use it now when my dog throws up, like he likes to do too often.  It would be a great one for using with training puppies too.  It helps clean up any messes left behind and eliminate the odor so their is less chance for your puppy to go back to the same spot.  I think it has helped with my cat, as I have not noticed any new spots since I used it! 

I also tried out the Purina Pet Hair Roller.  I was doing some fall cleaning by taking down the curtains to wash out the pet hair.  My curtains get lots of cat hair and chinchilla hair.  The pet roller helped get the pet hair off my furniture.  I think it takes a lot if you have a build up of hair, but works well in areas that are not as thick.  The back of my couch had tons because my cat always lays there.  The roller did work, but I had to use many sheets to get up the hair.  So I would recommend the roller more for more immediate use.  You know you have guests coming and have a shedding dog that loves the couch....give a quick roll to get up any hair so they dont end up leaving with it on their pants.  Or it works great on your pants.  I have used it several times now before I leave the house to get the pet hair off mine.

What ever type of pet problem you have, check out Purina Pet Gear for a solution.  You can find out more about their products by visiting them on facebook or at http://www.purinapetgear.com/

disclosure:  I received free samples from Purina Pet Gear to review.  These are my personal opinions.

#mamavation monday... Setting my before new years resolution

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Well I was a total slacker this week!  My baby is almost 10 months old, and I am soooooo not where I thought I would be.  I have seen some pictures of myself and just keep getting more down about how I look and feel.  Yet then I just cant seem to stick with anything lately. 

So today new Mamavation Moms will be chosen...and this time they will be not just mom, but dads too.  I really like that they are couples this time.  I asked mine if he wanted to join, but he turned me down.  I would love for him to eat healthier as I think it would really help me.  If nobody wanted junk food, or fried foods in the house, then maybe it would be easier to say no to that stuff.  But I am here by myself still trying! 

So a lot of people will be starting new this week....So I will start new this week too.   Its time for exercise and eating healthy.  Time to set new goals instead of looking back all the time.  So I know I am not where I wanted to be, but I can still make some goals.  Why keeping putting it off...instead of making a new years resolution, I am going to set a goal for me to be by new years.  There is 12 weeks(if I am counting right) until New years.  So if I get working hard I could realistically lose 20lbs by new years.  I think starting off I should be able to lose about 2 pounds a week.  I know then it starts slowing down.  So I am going to have a goal of 5 pounds per month...which if I can meet most of these goals by bathing suit weather I will be down 50 pounds!  That sounds like a huge number, and 50 pounds before took me quite a while.  It took me that long because I would lose and then I would quit.  Now it is time to stop quitting and change my lifestyle.  I want that 50 pounds gone, but I am going to keep looking at the numbers smaller so it doesn't look like such a huge number.  So right now my number is 2. 

So I am off to plan some memus and get moving.  If you want to cheer on some others or get some support check out Mamavation....and come tonight to the mamavation twitter party http://www.mamavation.com/2011/09/mamavation-twitter-party-launch-10.html.

Kids week in review

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The weather was beautiful here all week long!  We took advantage of it and spent some time outdoors, especially Zach.  It is nice that he is getting older and we can trust him outside by himself.  I only allow him out in the backyard, and he has to be where we can see him.  He is doing really well.  His imaginative play and communication have come so far.  Even his bus driver mentioned how well he is talking.  Next week is is parent teacher conference.  It should be interesting as he doesn't really like going to school.  He is going to be like his father! 

Kennedy has still been sick.  She did go to school, but her cold doesn't want to go away.  She went to the doctors Thursday and he started her on antibiotics for a sinus infection.  Last night she was up most of the night coughing and congested.  I wish the crap would go away!  She didn't like it outside today.  It was either too sunny or too windy.  She wouldn't open her eyes.  We had to try it though, as it is just too nice out! 

Lauren liked it outside again this week.  I thought she was getting the cold, but seems to be fine...yeah!  This week she goes for her 9 months check up.  Guess we will see if he is concerned that she isn't crawling.  Its tough when you have other children with special needs, everything makes you worry.  I remember feeling safe with Zach as he sat and walked and stuff fine.  Then his communication fell behind and it was something totally different than Kennedy.  Now I sit there and wonder where Lauren is going to be.  How do you not.  Overall she seems pretty healthy so that is great!

This weekend was homecoming for the twins.  Can't believe it is their last year!  It seems like just yesterday they were the little ones that I was swinging around or yelling at for jumping on the couch.  Now they are seniors!  Corie just loves Lauren, so she had to show her off at her pep rally and the homecoming game.  Cortnie had a date this year and got all dolled up for the homecoming dance.  She looked beautiful!  We saw her while we were out, so I didn't get a picture.  So I will have to wait until she posts some.

Yoplait Light...Do The Swap (giveaway)

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I am one that is big on "everything in moderation".  That doesn't always have to mean just food.  Your favorite pair of heels kill you...well wear flats on other days.  So just wear those favorites "in moderation".  Small changes add up....they can add up to a healthier, better feeling YOU! 

That's why Yoplait Light has created the "Yoplait Light Swap" to remind people that by making simple substitutions, like swapping one item from your diet per day for a 100 or 110 calorie Yoplait Light, you can cut unwanted calories and help yourself feel great about daily diet choices. Yoplait Light yogurt offers 33 different options to choose from in fruit, pastry and dessert flavors that contain around 100 calories or less, providing endless swapping options.

FRESCHETTA PROUD TO SUPPORT PINK (review and giveaway)

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October is National Breast Cancer awareness month and FRESCHETTA is on a mission to support research with their FRESCHETTA PROUD TO SUPPORT PINK program.  Now through October 31st when you purchase specially marked-packages of FRESCHETTA pizzas and Artisan Pizza Crusts you will be helping them reach their goal of a $50,000 donation to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.  Specially marked packages are printed with codes that you can enter at http://www.proudtosupportpink.com/.  For each code entry, the makers of FRESCHETTA products will dontate $1 to this center to support breast cancer research, up to $50,000.

Share your breast cancer journey, or the journey of a loved one by visitting http://www.proudtosupportpink.com/.  These stories will be displayed there and on their facebook page.  This is a great way to raise awareness!

Freschetta is donating 50 pink iPod Shuffles each week in October to four cancer centers around America to be enjoyed by breast cancer patients during treatments.  Also to encourage participation in their Proud To Support Pink program Freschetta is also giving away 50 pink iPod Shuffles. (To enter the sweepstakes you must sign up, and enter a code from a specially marked Freschetta product.  You may then get additional entries by sharing on facebook and twitter.)

Wordless Wednesday

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I was getting a pic of Zach laying in the leaves...He was left quite wordless as he freaked because he thought he had a bug climbing on him...it was just a leaf! 

First experience in the leaves

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#mamavation monday

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Well I started the week off strong.  I started the grunt style two week challenge.  My abs were sore by the third day.  My knees however do not like all the jump moves.  That plus the fact that I was a bit tired from sick kids and stressed out, that I kind of slacked off a couple days.  I did fairly good with my eating, and only had a little bit of junk food one day last week! 

Now I really gotta watch my portions.  What is odd is that I normally want to eat at night, but this last week I was hungry a lot more in the morning.  So I gotta really start watching my eating then, or stay busy.  This week I should be ok, as I have to take my daughter to two doctors appointments, which will take about half the day.  I just gotta remember to pack my lunches so I dont get fast food.

This week I am going to try to do the arms and ab workouts from the two week challenge, I am also going to work on using my Wii for some workouts.  I have strength training workouts set up using the EAS Active more workouts game.  I also love using both my Gold's gym workouts for a great cardio workout.  My other goal is to watch my portions and not go back for seconds, and to eat a healthy breakfast that will hopefully sustain my hunger for longer. 

I would like to share a yummy snack I came up with this week.  Pumpkin apple yogurt:
mix 1 part vanilla yogurt (which ever kind you like: greek, light, fat free, regular)
1 part natural applesauce (chunky is great)
1 part canned pumpkin
dash of cinnamon
dash of nutmeg

I do a spoonful of each, mix and enjoy! 

Kids week in review.: Coughing, Vomitting, Seizures, and Teething.

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It was a long week, sitting at home most of the time.  Last weekend both Kennedy and Zach were sick.  Zach had a cold with coughing and sneezing.  Kennedy was throwing up for no apparent reason.  Lauren was teething.  We had many nights getting up between the two girls.  Zach's cold got better as the week went on and luckily did not progress into anything else.

Monday rolled around and Kennedy stopped throwing up.  I did however call her nuero as I thought I might have to take her in to get some IV meds because she threw up several doses of her seizure meds.  She was ok though, so we stayed home.  Got a phone call from the twins mom.  Cortnie had a seizure and had to go to the ER.  Again luckily she did not have to stay, and got to go home later that day.  I swear if it isnt Kennedy it is her, and visa versa. 

Kennedy's throwing up must have been a cold coming on.  Most of the week she was coughing up crud.  Brought the suction machine out, as she has a hard time getting the stuff out when she is congested. 

Lauren's top teeth finally broke through a couple days ago...now hopefully she will start sleeping better!  We had to reschedule her 9 month check up because of Kennedy being sick.  I am a little concerned as she is not crawling yet.  She does get around, rolling everywhere.  When she rolls she is getting into everything, so maybe I am kind of happy she isn't crawling.  I am kind of glad we have a couple more weeks.  She also had me worried as she would not feed herself....but she started doing it some the day we were supposed to go for her check up.  I think she is just a bit lazy that way.  Likes us to hold her bottles and feed her.  She is finally liking finger foods though and if we force her she will hold the bottle. 

So we are hoping for a healthier week for all!  Kennedy goes to Children's this week for a VCUG.  Otherwise we have a pretty quiet week, and hope to keep it that way! 

I forgot to mention the fun we had the week before seeing Yo Gabba Gabba Live!  Lauren was a bit scared at first with the noise but seemed to enjoy it after.  Zach wanted to dance away, and got mad at Dad when he wouldn't let him dance in the isles.  Kennedy had a blast!  It was great seeing her so happy and making lots of noise!

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Inspiration for the Young at Heart (giveaway)

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101 Stories of Inspiration, Humor, and Wisdom about Life at a Certain Age

Life begins again at 60! Crossing that magic age might bring a few new wrinkles but also new experiences. This collection is full of humorous and fun adventures from those who are actively enjoying their "senior years!" Chicken Soup for the Soul: Inspiration for the Young at Heart celebrates the fun and wonder of getting older with its stories about dynamic older singles and couples finding new careers, new sports, new love, and new meaning to their lives. This book will amuse and invigorate readers.

Numenko-in-a-bag (giveaway)

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All parents love games that are both fun and educational.  You get both of these with the Numenko-in-a-bag game!  Numenko comes as a board game for ages 9 and up, but for the family with younger children you can get the Numenko-in-a-bag game that is for ages 7 and up.  The board game is similar to a Scrabble board, yet with numbers instead of letters.  Each player builds calculations instead of words.  This game is unique in its multichoice tile.

The multichoice tile can be played as an addition, subtraction, multiplication, division or an equals tile so there are numerous calculations that can be made by having just two of these tiles in your hand. 

The Numenko-in-a-bag game is a game where all players play at the same time, but play independently by taking tiles and building calculations.  The winner is the one with no tiles left. I first played this game with my sisters, niece(age 13) and nephew(age 9).  It was really nice because each could build at their own level.  So you could do simple equations like 2+2=4 or do harder ones. It was fun, and if you have those that do not like waiting their turn, no problems.  Everyone plays at the same time until there is a winner.  I think the age suggestions are right on.  My son just turned 7, and can do some simple math equations.  He figured out right away the multichoice tile, and could do some calculations.  Having autism, he was not quite sure how to play it as a game though.  He was unsure on the wild tile, and what to do with it.  He also was unsure about what to do when he did not have the right tiles to make a calculation.  He did really like just practicing his math, by  being able to pick any tiles.  Sometimes you just have to change things up when you have a child on the spectrum.