FREE Blogger Opportunity: Cook n Grow Kitchen Sign up NOW!

Cook n' Grow Event

Hosted by: Mom to Bed by 8

Prize Package includes: Little Tikes Cook n' Grow Kitchen + Amazon Gift Card

Event dates: 2/1 - 2/15

Free Blogger Event: Sign Up HERE

Please make sure you say Pam Allen (PinkMama's Place) sent you ; )

Famous Footwear 15% Off Coupon

Do you need new shoes to get this year started?  I know I need a pair for work.  You can get shoes for the whole family because the coupon works for the ENTIRE purchase.  Also you can buy online using CODE: NEWYEAR2013 or print our COUPON and us in store.

Get COUPON HERE  (the coupon may say 2012 but it still will be valid)

Vistaprint - 10 Free Valentine's Day Note Cards

Who doesn't love something sweet on Valentine's Day? A personalized valentine with a piece of candy will definitely make anyone's day! This year, get away from the generic boxed cards and give extra-special valentines that will really make everyone smile.

Now at Vistaprint, you can create 10 personalized Valentine's Day note cards for FREE, plus shipping & processing! Choose from over 50 designs with even more new designs this year! Add a personal touch to your valentines this year with your own messages and photos for cards that everyone will love to receive.

Plus, you can even turn each note card into three valentines by cutting it into thirds to create three smaller cards. They’re perfect for children’s classroom valentines exchanges and parties! Find fun cards with playful designs like heart-shaped candies, sock monkeys, and even space dinosaurs. But this offer only lasts for a limited time, so get started at Vistaprint now and make your next valentine truly unique!

The Shipping & Processing: Starts at $4.80.  Order HERE! 

Free Blogger Opportunity- $100 Cash Crate Giveaway

Hosted by: Funny Postpartum Lady

Prize: $100 PayPal

Event Dates: 2/1-2/14

Free Blogger Opportunity! 

Grab the code HERE to repost on your Blog.

Cree and Scooter Book Review- 2 Thumbs Up!

We HIGHLY recommend Cree and Scooter Books!  Sahara found the book very fun and now wants to go to British Columbia to go skiing.  In the back of the book is activities like word search, mazes, coloring and much more.  The books illustrations are beautiful.  As a mom I loved how it also taught her a couple words in French.  Reading, learning and fun is what Cree and Scooter brought to Sahara.  

Please check out her book review video below to see how she feels about the book.  She is already asking me for another one, LOL! 

Parents become a PARENT AMBASSADOR 
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Bulu Box Review- Plus Coupon Code

Have you heard about the BULU BOX?  Oh my goodness I love what this monthly subscription offers to customers.  It is geared towards people who want to buy products in the health industry.  This is an awesome way to TRY products before you buy the FULL bottle/product.  I know I have a couple bottles in my bathroom drawer that I bought and didn't like so I see where the box would come in handy.  In your MONTHLY Bulu Box there will be 4-5 health/supplement samples.  You can buy one box for $10 or you can even buy a year worth for $110. 

GUESS WHAT...why don't you try a month for FREE, yes I said it FREE because  Bulu Box has given me a code you can use at checkout for $10.... DISCOVER (code).

MY BOX:

Vitamin C Spray:  What a cool product, this is my favorite item in the box.  Spray in mouth to give you an added boost plus it's great for fighting a cold.  It sure helped me.  I used it at work.  The taste is great too. I will be getting a new bottle soon. 

Herbal Papaya:  I got 2 Mint Tea bags and 4 Papaya Leaf Extract Capsules.  The tea smelled so good and had such a rich flavor.  I enjoyed it a lot.  The tea is loaded with health antioxidants and helps with digestion.  The capsules boosts immune system.  I would buy these products. 

Vibrant Cleanse:  Great tasting cleansing lemonade.  If I do a cleansing I will use this product for sure!  

Sun Warrior:  Protein Drink.  I made it with almond milk and it was very filling.  I would buy this product. 

Re-Body Saf Slim:  Belly Fat Supplement.  I would have to use this product longer to give it a 2 thumbs up but I love the fact it is for belly fat (something I have, lol).  

Also there was a coupon code for a fitness app- so that was a cool extra bonus.  

Like on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BuluBox

Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/bulubox

From Bulu Box website:

Bulu Box is the first vitamin, supplement and general health subscription sample box designed to help you feel your best. Every month, you'll get a box filled with 4 to 5 premium, curated samples from top brands. Look forward to a new mix of products for both women and men, including vitamins, weight loss, sports nutrition, protein, diet, energy, detox, digestion, sexual health, herbs, natural remedies, endurance and more. We'll make sure you get enough to decide if the product is right for you. No shipping or shady fees. Depending on your plan, you can cancel anytime. Get ready for a healthy discovery!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

iPad Free App Review- Recards Voice Recorded E-Card

Do you like sending e-cards?  I know I do because it is so easy and convenient.  However, wouldn't it be nice if we can personalize the cards?  Well you CAN with now with Recards.  

You need a iPad with with the iOS 6.0 update.  The App is FREE!  

I plan to use this APP for Valentines Day for sure.  What a great way to share with loved ones- through song. Maybe I'll have the kids RAP dad a Father's Day e-card.  The ideas are endless and this is a fun app that every one should have! 

Create unique and stylish voice recorded music cards with no time! Send love and attitude to the loved ones and have fun!

Recards lets you create and email personalized voice recorded music cards right from your iPad. Just choose one of the six custom made Christmas beats, record your greeting, then customize it with beautiful artwork and with a few taps your music card is on its way to your loved ones.

Features: 

- Custom made beats by Diamos Roll
- Rap or sing your greeting
- Popular X-mas music themes
- Don't like the result? Just record it again!
- Share your recards with your loved ones via email
- Unique artwork to go with your email
- Original design
- New beats coming soon!
Get app on iTunes HERE.  We give this app 2 thumbs up.  


I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Last Night's Dinner- EASY Recipe from Pinterest

I really need to start taking pictures of the food I make.  This is not my picture but it looked just like this last night.  Yesterday, I was a bit tired so I wanted to make something that wouldn't require a lot of work and clean up.  This was the perfect dish!  

The recipe:
4-6 raw chicken breasts, 
new potatoes (enough to cover one side) 
2 cans green beans (fresh or canned-really any green veggie would work)

Arrange in 9x13 dish. Sprinkle with a packet of Italian dressing mix and then top with a melted stick of butter. Cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour. Enjoy!

Everyone liked it plus they were all full.  There was enough for Dad to take some to work today. 

Click here to repin recipe on Pinterest

Please follow me on Pinterest HERE

Going to make THIS tonight.

Kranich's Jewelry Giveaway- Ends 1/29

Who doesn't love Jewelry?  On Kranich's website there are so many beautiful pieces.   If you want to WIN please enter below.  Think Valentines Day- for your loved one, a friend or for YOU! 

Sponsored by Kranich's, and hosted by S.O.S. Mom, Real Momma and The Bunny's Reviews, one lucky person will win his or her own choice of one (1) piece of jewelry from a selection of dazzling and gorgeous earrings, bracelets, rings, necklaces and watches! Prize is valued at up to $150. All choices can be viewed via the following link here.

Kranich's Jewelers was established in York, Pennsylvania, in 1903. The company was originally called Kranich Brothers Jewelers. The Kranich Brothers had stores in York, Lancaster and Altoona, Pennsylvania as well as one in Worcester, Mass. The Altoona store opened in 1923. Charles and Mildred Kranich operated and expand the Altoona operation. In 1962, Charles and Mildred were joined in business by their son, Michael. In 1976 the Kranich's opened a store in Downtown State College, the home of Penn State University. Charles and Mildred Kranich died in 1978 and Michael took over the family business. Michael Kranich, now retired, was succeeded by his sons in the 1990’s. In 1996 Kranich's opened a second State College location at the Nittany Mall. In 2000 Kranich’s opened a location in the Johnstown Galleria. In 2008 Kranich’s dramatically expanded their Logan Valley Mall location and Corporate offices. In 2012 Kranich’s opened a huge new store on North Atherton Street in State College.

Throughout its history, Kranich's Jewelers has specialized in fine diamond jewelry and engagement rings. Today, Kranich's Jewelers also specializes in fine timepieces, colored gemstones, gold and platinum jewelry and pearls. They feature selections of Designer Jewelry, Estate Jewelry, Penn State Jewelry and Fine Crystal. Kranich’s features pieces by Simon G, Verragio, Ritani, Hidalgo, Belle Etoille, Swarovski, Pandora, Gucci, Burberry, and Michael Kors. In recent years, Kranich’s has actively grown their ecommerce business (kranichs.com). Kranich’s Jewelers is able to provide a high level of personal service at competitive pricing. The internet has given the company an international reach. In Central Pennsylvania, Kranich's Jewelers remains the leading source for Fine Jewelry and Gifts.

The Kranich family believes it is very important to contribute to the communities they serve. Consequently, they are involved in many civic and charitable activities. In 2003, Kranich's celebrated their 100th year. In recent years, Kranich’s has been inducted into the Blair County Business hall of fame and has been named one of Central Pennsylvania’s leading businesses by Pennsylvania Business Central Magazine.

Visit Kranich's at these two following addresses to view their beautiful collection, www.kranichs.com/simon-g and www.kranichs.com.

This giveaway event will be running until January 29th inclusively and is open to US residents only. To gain entries to win, simply fill out the form below. Good luck! 

Special thank you to co-hosts: Mamacita La Cuponera, Sanity Is For Those Without Children, Simply Sherryl, Kelly's Thoughts On Things and Stay A Stay At Home Mom. 

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Kids With Disabilities and School

I know I have mentioned in a couple posts that my youngest child Sahara was born with EXTREME Clubfeet.  The Dr's told us the day she was born she might not walk because this was the worse case they have seen.  Wow, that was a lot of news on the day she was born.  I didn't know before hand that she had clubfeet so it was a big whammy for us!  Her first day of life she had 2 casts put on her.  Those things were heavy!  Breastfeeding and holding those legs up were a challenge.  

Years later she is walking, running, and now dancing.  She has had several years of castings, braces, two surgeries and many hours of physical therapy but her feet still turn in a bit.  This doesn't stop her a bit except at school.  The only time it is really noticeable is when she runs.  

This year Sahara is at a new school and the kids are not familiarized with her disability.  They tease her all the time and she comes home crying almost everyday.  They mimic her, call her names, and laugh at her.  I mentioned first to the teacher but she did nothing so I went to the Principal and she took action as soon as I told her.  The Principal pulled in the kids that were making fun of Sahara and let her tell her story- she had a voice.  The Principal told me that Sahara did this with poise and extreme confidence.  They talked about  safety first for their bodies and hearts, recognizing the many individual differences they have and how those differences make them unique, acknowledging that they should, at school, take care of each other and make certain they do their best to help each other feel great about them selves and recognize each others beauty. 

As a mom I really appreciate the principal not brushing me off like the teacher did "kids will be kids" is what I was told.  Really...well my child is going to fight back and let it be known she doesn't deserve to be picked on!  Or Mama Bear will appear, LOL! 

I know I was picked on for my red hair and being overweight through out school.  I will always be there for my kids and we will always stand up to those who might need a bit more education about what clubfeet is and how this is something she is not doing on purpose.  

Do you have any advice on how I should handle future incidents at school?  

Looking for Middle Schools for my Son

Okay this is a big responsibility and WHY are there so many choices and deadlines.  When I was growing up...you went to your neighborhood school. Nothing too hard about that.  Not here and not now.

This week I have one tour at a Charter School that my son really wants to go to so of course I'll go check it out. Sounds very interesting and some where my son would really fit in.

Realm Charter School is designed to be a project-based, technology-rich learning environment that promotes critical and socially responsive perspectives. This means that students will learn to think about the world as a set of interconnected systems that can be affected through rigorous studies and action. Students will navigate and create complex information networks, virtual worlds, and immersive learning environments by utilizing emerging technologies. Moreover, through culturally relevant instruction and curricula, students will recognize and own their ability to shape our world and to better humanity.

Next week I go to another Charter School- NOCCS.  This school both kids can go to and its only a couple miles from our house.  This school is more our speed than the school we go to now.  The school we go to now we feel lost and the kids have had a hard time adjusting. But it is an awesome school!

 North Oakland Community Charter School is a public school dedicated to helping children become thoughtful, informed, and inquisitive citizens. NOCCS is a vibrant, diverse learning community driven by respect for each child’s unique intelligence and history. The school’s dynamic and challenging educational approach deepens the intellectual and social capacities of each child.

Wish me luck and I hope we get into one of these schools!!!

UNREAL Candy Moms Meet Facebook Party on 1/14

You're invited to join the UNREAL™ candy Moms Meet Facebook party, where you'll get the chance to win UNREAL™ candy! This is your chance to chat live with representatives from UNREAL™ and learn more about their brand. It's all happening on Monday, January 14th at 3:00 P.M. EST, and here's how it works:

• When the party starts, log into Facebook and head over to the Moms Meet page.
• Representatives from UNREAL™ will be posting on our page to answer your questions about their brand and products.
• Ask your questions, share your comments, and participate in the discussion during the event. Be sure to stick around until the end, when we'll announce the 5 lucky winners on our Facebook page!

For your chance to win UNREAL™ candy, send questions about UNREAL™ before the party starts using this online form. They want to hear your questions about UNREAL™ candy! The winners will be announced at the end of the Facebook party!

Ready to join the fun? RSVP to the UNREAL™ candy Moms Meet Facebook Party today. Click here for Official Rules.

Favorite Pinterest Recipe~Baked Tacos

OMG they are so yummy and addicting!  This is now are favorite go-to recipe.  So happy Pinterest is in my life or else we would be just having plain ole tacos.  

photo from http://blogchef.net/baked-tacos-recipe/

Ground Beef, Taco Seasoning, Black Beans, Mexican Cheese, and Stand Up Taco Shells is all you need.  

1. Brown ground beef. Drain off any fat and add black beans, and seasoning.
2. Spoon mixture into taco shells.
3. Place filled shells into a 9×13 pan, standing up. Sprinkle with cheese.
4. Bake at 400 for 10-12 minutes or until heated through

Absolutely Yummy!!

Review: Kikkoman Soy Sauce Brine Chicken-YUMMY

• 
  
• I was given a wonderful opportunity to BRINE a chicken with Kikkoman Soy Sauce thanks to Smiley360! I'm very late on this review due to having surgery and just not cooking for a month.  I twisted my hubby's arm to do this for me so I can get to review up.  I'm so happy I did!  I've never BRINE anything in my life and let me tell you what a life changing cooking experience- YUMMY!!!  I plan to do this for Thanksgiving this year for sure.  Now it does take some work but it's well worth it.  I apologize for the lack of pictures (hubby forgot)!   
• RECIPE:
• 1 gal warm water
• 34 cup kosher salt
• 23 cup sugar
• 34 cup soy sauce
• 14 cup olive oil

PLUS the WHOLE CHICKEN!

• Directions

Pour the warm water into a container that is twice the volume of the water. Pour in the salt, sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil. Stir until the sugar and salt have dissolved, then allow the brine to cool to room temperature.

To use, place chicken in the brine, cover, and refrigerate two hours for skinless breasts, 4 hours for bone-in pieces, and 4 hours to overnight for whole chickens. Drain and pat the chicken dry before cooking. One gallon of brine is enough for 6 pounds of whole chicken or bone-in chicken pieces, and up to 10 pounds of skinless, boneless chicken breasts.

We did overnight!  After taking it out- rinse off. Sprinkle seasoned salt over it and bake at 400° for 45 minutes.  ENJOY!

This chicken was so moist and tender!  Best meal I had in a long time.  We served with red beans and rice. Thanks to Kikkoman Soy Sauce and Smiley 360 for this opportunity. 

To get recipes, products and information please visit the Kikkoman website. You wont be disappointed!

You can also follow Kikkoman on Facebook for even more recipes, photos and coupons.  Go BRINE you a bird!

Disclosure: I received a free sample of Kikkoman Soy Sauce from Smiley360 to conduct this review. I received no monetary compensation and all thoughts on this product are my own

REVIEW: CoverGirl BlastFlipStick

THE ONLY LIPSTICK YOU'LL EVER NEED

The COVERGIRL blastflipstick isn't like anything you've ever seen. It's a double-ended lipstick, which, let's be honest, is awesome by itself, but there's even more to it than that. The blastflipstick has two shades — one soft, for day wear, and the other dazzling, for night. Wear separately or combine to create a shade that's all your own. It's your personal color palette, giving you endless pucker-up possibilities.

I was able to review 3 different Blastflipsticks and fell in love! I only liked one color VIXEN because of my lip color preference (pink) and the other 2 colors were bit darker than I would normally wear. I did share with my friends and they loved it as much as I loved mine.  I love the concept- 2 lipsticks in 1!  Can't beat the price it's under $10.  As a mom that means a lot to me.  I wore the shimmer during the day and at work then at night when I go out I would put on both. 

 I love having only one lipstick for all these looks:  I love the Matte/Shimmer mix the best.  I felt great wearing and got a lot of compliments so I think it looked good.

Like on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/covergirl

Follow of Twitter: twitter.com/COVERGIRL

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I was able to do this review because I'm a member of BzzAgent-

(it’s free to join). I get to try cool products, for free, and even get coupons and special offers to share with friends. Then I make my voice heard by sharing my honest opinions about the great stuff I try with others, including some of the largest companies in the world. It’s great, you should come join me!

https://www.bzzagent.com

Kids Go Back to School- WOOHOO!

I know bad mom but I'm ready for them to go back.  The last 2 weeks have been busy with the holidays and keeping them entertained.  I'm exhausted!  I want my house back and give it a good cleaning.  I'm ready to work on some projects that I couldn't really do with kids around because I get distracted, of course!  

I'll try to hide my excitement but the kids keep asking why I'm smiling- ummmm because you two are going back to school and I get some peace and quiet.

10 Steps To Self Care

Found this on Facebook and I love it now going to use it!

1. I learned #1 a long time ago- listen to my stomach.  I stay out of trouble a lot by doing this! 

2. "Exactly" oh wow that is going to be hard since I usually stumble over my words.

3. OMG really I'm the biggest Person Pleaser I know.

4. I can handle this one, no problem.

5. I can't say "Look how fat I look in these jeans"  OK whatever!  LOL

6. My Dreams....I have many and so true never give up! Will have to work on this one.

7. I'm not sure NO is in my vocabulary except to say to my kids and hubby!  I do need to do this though.

8. Yes Yes Yes...not scared.

9. I really need to be kind to myself this year.  Give a little to myself instead of always to the kids.

10. Easier said than doing that's for sure- but will be letting go of a lot in 2013.

11. That's a given,  I hate DRAMA!!!! 

I am HAPPY 2012 is DONE!

Wow, what a year 2012 was!  It was exhausting and I'm really looking forward to 2013.

My 2012 Highlights:

• My relationship with my hubby became stronger.
• I became a home school teacher for 2 months
• Got kids in a good school- didn't want to home school anymore LOL
• I won a iMac :)
• I grew my blogs numbers
• I lost some weight
• We received Angel Love for the holidays
• Oldest son came down to Calif for a couple months
• Had a great family trip with my mom and kids

My Not-So Great Highlights:

• My kids school went down hill and then closed
• I was sick a lot!
• I had 3 blood transfusion
• I had an hysterectomy
• Lost some important friendships but gained new ones
• Kids had to be home schooled for 2 months

It wasn't the worse year but I am happy to say GOOD-BYE!

2013 Goals for PinkMama's Place

GOALS:

• I'm really hoping to GROW PinkMama's Place in 2013.  
• I want to have a successful blog and create a community.
• What I need to figure out is what direction I want to take this blog.  Do I just do reviews/giveaways?  Or go back to my family stories.  I need to make that decision. 
• I want to work on blogging relationships with other mom bloggers.
• I want to overcome my fear of looking stupid on my blog.  I write from my heart and how I write is how I talk.  I'm not a english major and to be honest FAR form it!  
• I want to learn more about SEO and use it!
• I want to have a new design!
• I want to take blogging to a new level and actually make money.  

************************************************************************

When I look at my goals they seem workable and I think I need to change the word WANT to WILL though!

• I will GROW PinkMama's Place in 2013.  
• I will have a successful blog and create a community.
• What I need to figure out is what direction I want to take this blog.  Do I just do reviews/giveaways?  Or go back to my family stories.  I will make that decision. 
• I will work on blogging relationships with other mom bloggers.
• I will overcome my fear of looking stupid on my blog.  I write from my heart and how I write is how I talk.  I'm not a english major and to be honest FAR form it!  
• I will learn more about SEO and use it!
• I will have a new design!
• I will take my blogging to a new level and actually make money.  

Now that looks much better!  I WILL!  Now I need to think about my PERSONAL GOALS!