Ouidad Curl Experts Debuts on Broadway SOON!

OUIDAD DEBUTS ON BROADWAY

Curl Experts Partner with The Musical Annie to Offer Young Fans

Show-Stopping Curls & Fun

February 12, 2013 (New York, NY) – The renowned Curl Experts at Ouidad are excited to announce a creative new partnership with Annie on Broadway. As one of the most beloved musicals of all time, Annie shares Ouidad’s overall core message to “be yourself.” With Ouidad’s line of specialized products formulated to embrace one’s naturally curly hair, the partnership is as natural as Annie and Sandy’s.

Featuring the "It's the Curly Life for Us" sweepstakes, the brand invites all fans to enter to win a trip to New York City to see Annie on Broadway and have a curl makeover with a friend at the Ouidad flagship salon.  To see the curl makeover that Annie’s pint-sized Broadway stars, Tyrah Skye Odoms and Taylor Richardson, received, and to enter the sweepstakes, enter on the Ouidad Facebook page or the link below:

https://www.facebook.com/ouidad/app_201050433375110

Additionally, now through February 28, 2013, curly kids can visit the Ouidad New York City flagship salon for a KRLY Kids haircut ($75 special rate), styling lesson and complimentary gift bag.  To book a consultation, please call 212-888-3288 and mention “The Annie Promotion.”

Ouidad New York Flagship Salon

37 West 57^th Street, 4^th Floor (between 5^th and 6^th Avenues)

New York, NY 10019

Ouidad KRLY Kids Collection

·         Say goodbye to tears and tangles with Ouidad's exclusive line of products created to gently cleanse, condition and style children’s curly hair

·         Extremely gentle, moisturizing and easy to use collection includes:

o    No Time for Tears Shampoo

• A gentle formula designed to cleanse curly hair without the tears
• Proteins and amino acids create luxurious curls
• $12.00, 8.5 oz.

o    No More Knots 2 in 1 Conditioner

• Detangling rinse and leave in conditioner helps prevent split ends and doubles as a leave in moisture treatment
• Leaves a great slip in curls so a comb will glide right through
• $14.00, 8.5 oz.

o    Pump N’ Go Styling Spray Gel

• Easy spray on application is perfect for quick styling on the go
• Special wheat proteins define curls and protect against humidity with a soft hold
• $15.00, 8.5 oz.

About Annie

Under the direction of three time Tony Award® winner James Lapine, Annie, the classic musical is back on Broadway in an unforgettable performance book.  The beloved book and score by Tony Award® winners Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin remain the same, with new choreography provided by Tony Award® winner Andy Blankenbuehler.

About Ouidad

After years of working with curly hair in her exclusive salons, Ouidad developed a line of products specifically formulated for the unique needs of curly hair.  Ouidad products deliver a lifetime of gorgeous curls by focusing on the building blocks of healthy hair, not just on the aesthetic, short term effects.  All Ouidad products are gentle, deeply moisturizing and are guaranteed to help get hair into its healthiest condition.  The formulations are lightweight and water soluble leaving hair free of residue or product build up.

We love these products!!!

Free Printable Valentine's Day Card-Frecklebox

Through Valentine's Day (February 14th), Frecklebox is offering FREE printable (and customizable) Valentine's Day cards for kids in addition to their FREE coloring pages, which they offer year round. The Valentine's Day cards are great for kids to bring to school, give to friends or decorate for family members.

Kids can personalize, download, print and get creative!

Frecklebox is on a mission to educate and entertain with personalized children's books and other unique gifts for kids. A fast-growing company that has been featured on the Today Show, Frecklebox uses a child’s name to customize books, growth charts, posters, puzzles and much, much more!

Go get your FREE CARD at Frecklebox today!!

Valentine Gift Idea Day 3: Blurb Photo Book

I love giving photo books and let me tell you I'm very impressed with Blurb!  We made a couple books last Christmas to give to grandparents and they loved them a lot. It was also very easy to make and the customer service was awesome.  We highly recommend this site to get your photo books. 

Get your book TODAY at Blurb.

Gojo Purell Review- 2 Thumbs Up!

I was pretty excited when I got the box full of GoJo Purell products to review.  I know my kids don't always wash their hands when they use the bathroom because I usually have to tell them to go back in to do it.  Also I'm always cleaning the bathroom and kitchen to make sure we are not spreading germs everywhere.

Having these products around the house is a blessing during this flu season.  I put the Gojo Purell Hand Sanitizer/Dispenser AD-7 in the bathroom (it wouldn't stick to our wall so it's on the counter).  It was very easy to set up and put the soap in so I loved that.  The kids are washing their hands more I hope, I haven't had to say too much lately.    My lil girl took off with the pink Gojo Sample of Purell Jelly Wrap and has it on her backpack now- wonderful spot! She loves the jelly wrap because she says it's not going anywhere that is how strong it is!  The Purell Pal is in our kitchen and I love this cute thing.

As a mom I feel every house should have these items to help stop the spread of GERMS!  Dad is the only one in the house that got really sick so we think we are doing pretty good fighting this flu from getting the best of us.  Dad need to use this more LOL!

If you are interested in learning more about GOJO PRODUCTS please visit http://www.shoplet.com/

Valentine Gift Idea Day 2- See's Candy

What woman doesn't like chocolate ???  Ummmm I LOVE SEE'S CHOCOLATES.  This particular box is under $18.  Not a bad price.  There is something for everyone at See's.

My Son Has the Biggest Heart!

I had a proud mama moment last night because one of Ronnell's friends didn't get into a school they auditioned for and he was bummed for her.  He said " I just want to tell the judges off and how could they not pick her, it's just wrong".    Then he called his friend and asked her if is she was okay.  They talked for awhile and I could hear him reassuring her that it will be fine.  He is a great friend.

Yesterday, Ronnell told his daddy that I was going to be his Valentine so they will have to share me.  I feel loved.  Hopefully with 2 Valentines I might actually get a present LOL!  Just hidden...NOT!

He still loves to snuggle with me at night when everyone else goes to sleep.  He is almost as tall as I am so it's funny he is all curled up with his mom but damn I love it!

Ronnell also is a great big brother, even though they fight a lot.  This boy has her back, if anyone is messing with her he is on them!  Go Big Brother you ROCK.

Movie Party The Weekend- Hotel Transylvania

What was I thinking....inviting a lot of kids over to watch a movie.  LOL!  Not sure, maybe I didn't have enough coffee the day I agreed to do this.  Just joking, my kids love having their friends over and I haven't been able to throw any parties for awhile due to my health so LET THE PARTYING BEGIN!

We will be watching:

Now HOW FUN is that.  I loved this movie, we went to the movie theater as a family to watch this movie.  My hubby and I laughed so many times i think we embarrassed the kids.  Oh well we really enjoyed.  

We are going to have fun watching the movie, eating pizza and playing with these cool apps:

HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA GOLDRUN APP
ANDRIOD: http://bit.ly/JDyikI
IPHONE: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/goldrun/id396800792?mt=8&wdId=32800
With the Hotel Transylvania GoldRun App, you and your guests can take pictures with the entire Hotel Transylvania cast! Download the GOLDRUN APP ON YOUR IPHONE OR ANDROID phone and search for the Hotel Transylvania background! Aren’t you glad the cast could attend your Monster Bowl?!

HOTEL T MONSTER PARTY APP (IOS ONLY)
IPAD, IPAD MINI, OR IPHONE:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/hotel-transylvania-monster/id587203170?mt=8

Here comes the Party! The HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA MONSTER PARTY APP FOR YOUR IPAD, IPAD MINI & IPHONE lets you create your own monster, play a memory match game, explore the hotel, and more! 


Also we get a SNEAK PREVIEW of the brand new, never-before-seen mini-movie, GOODNIGHT MR. FOOT. Before kick-off, have your guests huddle around your computer to watch the teaser clip! Also, the mini-movie is a special feature on the new HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA BLU-RAYTM & DVD 

You can find HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA on the following SOCIAL NETWORKS:
• FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/HotelT 
• TWITTER: https://twitter.com/HotelT
• PINTEREST: https://pinterest.com/hotelt


Thank you HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA and CROWDTAP for this awesome opportunity!

Valentine Day Gift Idea~ Day 1: Noodle & Boo All of My Heart French Milled Soap

I will be posting every day for the next 7 days on Valentine Gift Ideas.  These will be items I would LOVE to receive so if I would love to get them I'm sure you will too, lol! This will be my online wishlist I guess!  Hint Hint to my hubby if you are reading this : )

The reason I would love this item is my skin is so sensitive to soaps that I need something that won't break my skin out in those nasty itchy bumps!  

This Valentine’s Day, share your heart with those you love and give the gift of beautiful skin from Noodle & Boo.  The Noodle & Boo All of My Heart French Milled Soap is heart shaped and made with mild cleansers and gentle moisturizers that ensure healthy skin.  The formula has a rich and creamy lather that gently cleans delicate skin, leaving it soft and supple. 

Noodle & Boo French Milled Soap  

o   All natural formula made of 100% vegetable oil

o   Wholesome oatmeal, sweet almond oil, aloe and nutrient rich milk protein moisturize and

soothe the skin Does not contain dehydrating detergents or irritating surfactants

• Dermatologist and Pediatrician tested formula is mild enough for daily use and can be used on those with sensitive skin
• Hypoallergenic and clinically tested for sensitive skin

The Noodle & Boo All of My Heart French Milled Soap is available for $15 at Nordstrom, Saks Fifth Avenue, Lord & Taylor, Neiman Marcus, Von Maur, and NoodleandBoo.com.

CollageIt Review and 50% OFF Deal- ends Feb 15th

To celebrate the world’s most romantic Valentine’s Day, PearlMountain would love to offer PinkMama's readers ColageIt Pro on Windows and Mac, originally priced at $ 29.90, at 50% off. Besides, anyone buying CollageIt Pro for Windows can get PearlMountain Image Converter for free, saving you up to $55.90. The deadline for this deal is February 15, 2013.

CollageIt Pro is an automatic and easy to use collage maker that helps people create eye-catching photo collages in no time on Mac OS X & Windows. It excels with its ease of use and hugely reduces manual work.

Highlighted Features:

• Making collages is as easy as 1-2-3 with only 3 steps.
• Various kinds of layouts and diverse templates.
• Easily personalize collage by cropping, adjusting photo number, photo space, page margin, rotation, sparse, and so on.
• Share collages via multiple export ways.

PearlMountain Image Converter is a batch image converter, which helps you convert image formats, resize, rotate, crop, add watermark, apply effects and add border to thousands of images at a time.

Get CollageIt Pro for Windows plus the Free PearlMountain Image Converter here: http://www.collageitfree.com/promotion/valentine.html  

Get CollageIt Pro for Mac here: http://www.collageitfree.com/promotion/valentine-for-mac.html

REVIEW

I enjoyed reviewing this software.  I put the Collageit on my iPhone and it was super duper EASY.  I was able to make a collage in 2 minutes.  You can import up to 9 pics and choose many different college templetes.  I was able to edit, rotate, resize, flip, delete and adjust the border.  There are 4 collage styles Mosaic, Grid, Center, and Manual.  Then I was able to SHARE it with ease.  I can share on Facebook, Email, Tumbler, and Flickr.  My kids now make their own collages and share with their friends.  

The ideas are endless~ make a college for your honey, mom, dad, friends, kids, or co-workers for Valentines Day.  

Here is the collage I made:

I'm going to print it out for GRANDMA'S!!

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.

February Day 5 Photo Challenge: Fave Photo

Yes it's another picture of my lil girl- she takes GREAT PICS!  I love her hair and smile in this picture.

Every night she sings me a song using this heart symbol.....I love you and you love me and we are a happy family with a great big hug and kiss.  I love you!  The melody is the Barney song, lol!  Then we make these heart hands and then pound it out.  Every night she does this before bedtime.  It warms my heart. 

February Day 4 Photo Challenge~ Letter

If it was this easy, right.  Yesterday I wasn't feeling so good- not sick just tired.  I guess that old age is kickin in a bit.  Anyways, I just looked at my house and knew I wasn't in the mood to clean.  Thank goodness it wasn't too dumpy but enough for me to want to do it.  But TODAY I need to stop the excuses and CLEAN!  

I did sign up for FLYLADY- I love the encouragement and tools they provide.  Now there is a lot going on but you are able to control what you sign up for and you can always say NO EMAILS.  

If you want to see more pictures from the challenge follow me on Instagram plus you can see others with the hashtag ##7sddphotoaday

New Coupons: Coffee, Snacks, Kraft, and more

Coffee and MORE

• $1.00 off ONE (1) MAXWELL HOUSE Coffee
• $1.00 off TWO (2) CRYSTAL LIGHT Liquid Drink Mix
• $1.00 off THREE (3) CAPRI SUN 10 pack
• $1.00 off TWO (2) MIO Liquid Water Enhancers
• $1.00 off TWO (2) MIO Liquid Water Enhancers

Snacks (+ gum)

• $1.00 off any ONE (1) Wrigley's Gum Car Cup
• $0.75 off any ONE SeaPak product 
  $0.55 off 2 StarKist Single Serve Pouch Products
• BOGO Beech-Nut Yogurt Blends Toddler Pouch
• $1.00 off TWO (2) JELL-O Ready To Eat Puddings
• $1.00 off ONE (1) PLANTERS Mixed Nuts or Cashews

Kraft & Velveeta

• $1.00 off THREE KRAFT Macaroni & Cheese Blue Boxes
• $1.00 off TWO (2) VELVEETA Shells & Cheese Dinners
• $1.00 off TWO (2) VELVEETA Skillets or Casseroles
• $1.00 off TWO (2) KRAFT Dressing 16 oz
• $1.00 off ONE (1) KRAFT MAYO or MIRACLE WHIP 30 oz 
  $1.00 off TWO (2) KRAFT Natural Shredded Cheese

Absorbent products

• $2.00 off ONE (1) package of DEPEND Products
• $1.00 off 1 package of POISE Hourglass* Shape Pads
• $1.00 off 1 POISE Absorbent or Feminine Wellness
• $2.00 off 1 DEPEND Real Fit or Silhouette
• $2.00 off ONE package of DEPEND Guards for Men

Misc Stuff (Oil, Make-up Remover + Cream)

• $1.00 off Maybelline Makeup Remover
• $5.00 off 5.1 Qt. jug ANY Valvoline Motor Oil
• $1.50 off any Triple Cream

February Photo A Day Challenge Photos

Here is the list of pictures that I will be taking everyday- if it is underlined than there is picture!  

Day 1:  IN MY CUP

Day 2: SHADOW

Day 3: TEAM
Day 4: LETTER
Day 5: FAVE PHOTO
Day 6: CHOICES
Day 7: TECHNOLOGY
Day 8: BUTTON
Day 9: ROMANIC
Day 10: BLACK & WHITE
Day 11: 3 OF A KIND
Day 12: HONEST
Day 13: BEST FRIEND
Day 14: LOVE
Day 15: CANDY
Day 16: SIDE BY SIDE
Day 17: PASSION
Day 18: CLOSE UP
Day 19: VINTAGE
Day 20: LOVE AND HATE
Day 21: MY TOWN
Day 22: QUOTE
Day 23: CHERISHED
Day 24: FAVE SHOES
Day 25: TOGETHER
Day 26: 7 OCLOCK
Day 27: SOMEONE I LOVE
Day 28: FLOWERS

Join here: Love to Have You Join – February 2013 Photo a Day Challenge #7SDDPhotoADay

It's done on Instagram (love that site) with the hashtag #7SDDPhotoADay. 

Please follow me on instagram: http://instagram.com/pamallen68

If you want to LINK UP your Photo Contest Post please do below!  I would love to see other bloggers pics.  

Little Tikes Cook N Grow Kitchen Giveaway- Ends 2/15

Wow, I wish they had this when I was a little girl because this looks like a lot fun and maybe if I had this I might have became cook instead of a waitress LOL! I love how it GROWS with the child.  Now you have a chance to WIN one for your little one. 

Welcome to the Cook n’ Grow Event

Hosted by Mom to Bed by 8. With special co-hosts: Kelly's Thoughts on Things, Capri's Coupons, Homeschooling Mom 4, Coupon Queen of Texas, Giveaway Bandit and Iowa Sweets.

You will have an inspiring little chef with this realistic Cook N' Grow Kitchen playset that grows with your child. When this Little Tikes kitchen is opened it is the perfect height for toddlers. When the kitchen is compacted it is now the perfect size for your preschooler to cook your dinner. There are 50+ accessories included! Browse our full Play Kitchen collection for more fun toys.

Features:

• Kitchen has 2 age grade configurations
1) Kitchen is expanded and the height is just right for toddlers
2) Compacting the kitchen makes it just right for preschoolers
• Electronic cooking sounds
• Hooks for hanging cups
• Molded in slots to hold plates
• Oven, refrigerator and microwave doors all open and close
• Shape-sorting lid for pot helps develop fine motor skills
• 50+ accessories included

One lucky winner will receive the Little Tikes Cook N' Grow Kitchen + $25 Amazon Gift Card!

Giveaway ends February 15th, open to US and Canadian residents, ages 18+. To enter please use the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received no compensation for this publication. My opinions are my own and may differ from those of your own. PinkMama's Place is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment. Please contact teri@mompoweredmedia.com with questions or to see your business or blog featured on the next big event!

February Photo Challenge- Sounds Fun!

Join here: Love to Have You Join – February 2013 Photo a Day Challenge #7SDDPhotoADay

It's done on Instagram (love that site) with the hashtag #7SDDPhotoADay. 

Please follow me on instagram: http://instagram.com/pamallen68

The theme for February is LOVE!  Now I have to schedule in my calendar EVERY DAY take a picture! 

CashCrate Cash Giveaway- $100 ends 2/14

Welcome to the CashCrate $100 Giveaway hosted by Funny Postpartum Lady!

With CashCrate you can start making money right away by completing
offers, taking surveys, and shopping online. Click HERE to get started. 

If you'd like to enter to win the $100 PayPal cash, simply enter the Rafflecopter below.

Giveaway ends February 14th 11:59 p.m.



a Rafflecopter giveaway ..

 DISCLOSURE: I received no compensation for this publication. My opinions are that of my own and may differ from yours. PinkMama's Place is not responsible for prize shipment.

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 
Like on FACEBOOK
Follow on TWITTER

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!!