None Like Him by Jen Wilkin Book Review and Giveaway

I have only made it through a few of the chapters in this book, because my life is so crazy busy, but I really wanted to share with you all.

I know that God is different from me. I always have, but I was intrigued by this book and to dig a little deeper into some of the characteristics of God.

There are some really great stories that being this home to me. I like how the writer was able to capture everyday moments and turn them in a way to show the stark differences.

It is amazing how when we think that our lives are just about us, we can turn what we are going through, what we are doing, what we see, into an avenue to learn more about the difference between God and man.

At the end of each characteristic chapter are questions that will make you think harder, and dig deeper into the realm of differences between us and to bring us to a better understanding of why these are so very important for us to know.

I am excited to continue reading through this and spending time on the questions. To dig deeper and to open my heart to learn  and grow more, and to build my relationship even stronger then ever.

This would make a great book for a ladies group Bible Study as well, and it would be interesting to hear others points of view!!

I have a copy to give away and I'm going to make this an easy entry

Check out their Facebook page

And also check out where you can buy a copy of you want one and don't win at Amazon

Contest entry!!

Tell me in the comments how you would use this book... Personal study, ladies group, sharing with your family etc...

I will do the draw on May 18 at 10pm EST

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book to review. All opinions and comments in this post are my own.

Do You Love To #RipYourClothesOn? I Do!!

In January we received some Downy Unstopables and Ultra Downy to try out.

Just the other week, when I reached in my drawer to pull out something to wear, I couldn't stop smelling my clothes!  I am not even joking, this is what my exciting life has resorted to;)

But I really couldn't believe how great my clothes smelled.

I am excited to share this giveaway with you all, and I had great plans to do up a funny video with some items I bought at Joe Fresh...but the months have zipped by.

First I want to show you the great scarf that I got from Joe Fresh, I was even able to buy a shirt that fits great and is really comfy. The best part about shopping at Zehrs, where I was able to get the Joe Fresh clothing items, was that they were on the clearance rack!  Their clearance had a great selection and I love that I got the scarf for the low price of 9.99!

I'm all about the bargains!

I wasn't sure about a scarf, but I love it so much now!  Especially with the cold weather here, I do, however, have to fight my girls for it regularly, which is something new for me;)

Now, to the giveaway:

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McFarland Pre-Screening Giveaway 2 Double Passes!!

I love when new movies come out that are encouraging and uplifting to watch.

That is what McFarland sounds like it will be.  Just from the trailer alone, I could see that they are showing their spirit, their will power, their commitment and their dedication to their school and their families.

What a great movie to come out in a quiet month and inspire our own kids to strive to achieve higher then they could ever imagine. To build those relationships that come from being part of team, and achieving a goal that seemed unattainable.

I can't wait to take my kids to see this movie, and I love that it is based on a true story.  These are real lives making change in our world!!

McFarland

*As a friendly reminder- although the US has changed the film title to McFarland, USA, in Canada we will continue to use the original film title McFarland.

Based on the 1987 true story, “McFarland” follows novice runners from McFarland, an economically challenged town in California’s farm-rich Central Valley, as they give their all to build a cross-country team under the direction of Coach Jim White (Kevin Costner), a newcomer to their predominantly Latino high school. Coach White and the McFarland students have a lot to learn about each other but when White starts to realize the boys’ exceptional running ability, things begin to change. Soon something beyond their physical gifts becomes apparent—the power of family relationships, their unwavering commitment to one another and their incredible work ethic. With grit and determination, the unlikely band of runners eventually overcomes the odds to forge not only a championship cross-country team but an enduring legacy as well. Along the way, Coach White realizes that his family finally found a place to call home and both he and his team achieve their own kind of American dream.

I have been given 2 sets of double passes to giveaway to 2 of my readers.

The passes are for the Wednesday February 18th @ 7pm pre-screening at Galaxy Cinemas in Waterloo.

You can earn 14 entries for these passes by doing the items below:

MANDATORY ENTRY
*  Please leave a comment in this blog post about who you will take to this movie and what impact you think it will have on you and your guest. (1 entry)

EXTRA ENTRIES
 *  Tweet once a day and leave the link to the tweet in the comments below (on this blog post as well): "Win double pass tickets to see @Disney #mcfarland on Feb.18 #waterloo #kwawesome #giveaway ends 02/13/15 @ 11:59pm #sponsored #momsmusings" (12 entries total - 1 daily)
*  Share on Facebook (1 entry)

DISCLOSURE:  I have been given these passes to share on my blog at no cost.  All thoughts expressed in this blog post are my own.

Do You Play #LIKEAGIRL

It's no secret, I have 4 girls in this house, plus myself, my son is sorely outnumbered!

Each of my girls is so unique, I have an athlete, an artist, a free spirit and one with a very strong willed spirit.  I love them each so much and try to build them up in their interests and encourage even trying new things as well.

With our family dynamics changing on almost a monthly basis, I have taken the time to teach my girls that they need to love themselves, despite what others may say.  They need to be happy on their own, or they will never be happy with someone else.  That they need to be strong and to stand up for themselves.  And to be honest, I believe that each of them has their own way of doing this, they still have a ways to go, same with myself.

Our house is a very open house.  When someone feels that they have been teased, bullied, made fun of, or just left out, we talk about it.  We work through breaking the stereotypes that may follow them. We are a family who breaks cycles and creates better futures for ourselves.  

This is what I wish everyone could see.  I want my kids to embrace the phrase #LIKEAGIRL I want them to feel that it is empowering and not something to be ashamed of.  Together, we can all help that change to happen.  We can all speak into the lives of every girl and boy that we come into contact with and be that voice that they will hear when they use the phrase in a negative way.  

WE NEED TO BE THE CHANGE!!

I love that Always has taken the lead in this change, even securing a commercial spot during the Superbowl tonight! I am not into sports and my kids are out watching the game, so I am taking advantage of the quietness right now:)

This is the commercial that has been or will be shown during the big game. It is a great conversation starter. Please take the lead in your own circle of influence and lets watch that ripple go through our family, our community, our city and the world!!

To help with the conversation, I have a giveaway starting right away, it includes a variety of Always products along with a Play #LIKEAGIRL t-shirt.  The giveaway will end on Feb. 9, 2015 at midnight.

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Disclosure: I am a P&Gmom/mamanP&G. As part of my affiliation with this group I receive products and special access to P&G events and opportunities. The opinions on this blog are my own. By entering the following contest you are accepting that if you win your contact information will be shared with a P&G PR and shipping agency for the purpose of mailing your prize.  Please allow 4-6 weeks from the contest closure date to receive your prize.

This giveaway may appear on other blogs as part of the #PGmom/#mamanPG program.  However, to be fair, you can only win once per giveaway.  If your name is chosen more than once, another winner will be selected. All winners must be from within Canada.

Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day - Pre-Screening Giveaway!

I have another, amazing Flash Giveaway to offer up this weekend!!

If you have kids, I am sure you have heard about or seen the previews for Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day coming out on October 10!!

I know that my kids have been talking about it for a while now, and it really looks like a great movie.

I have the opportunity to take 3 of my kids to a pre-screening in Waterloo, on October 8, and even better, I get to give away a family pass of 4 to one of my readers!

It is exciting to be able to see a movie before it is actually out in theaters for the general public.

Because this is a flash giveaway, there will be 3 entries that you can earn:

Entry #1 Leave a comment letting me know who you would take to see this movie
Entry #2 Tweet the Giveaway with the #kwawesome and the #VeryBadDay hashtags and leave a link in the comments
Entry #3 Share on any other social media site and let me know in the comments

Stampin' Up Back to School Kit Flash Giveaway!!

When my kids are invited to parties, we always make our own cards.  Not only does it save on the cost a bit, but I believe that personalized cards are much nicer to give and receive.  It shows that someone wanted to take the time to be creative and make something personal for a friend and that means so much more, I believe, to those who receive it!

I was offered the opportunity to try out a Stampin' Up Back to School kit and let me tell you, myself and my kids have had a great time making creations from this kit, and I know that they would love to try out some more of these great products!

I have been sick the last few days, and today Faith made me a Get Well Card!  I love that with a little bit of supervision and help, she can create something that is so meaningful to me.  What I loved about this kit was that I was able to organize the notebook to keep track of the things that I have to get caught up on!  With the date stamp, I can pick any date over the next few years and the book is so much fun, with the different colour and designed pages.  It is nice to see what I have to do instead of just looking at a plain white page!

I have a flash giveaway to share on my page.  The contest will end at midnight on Sunday September 28.  

The kit includes:

• 1 Everyday occasions Cardmaking kit – cardstock and envelopes for 20 cards, twine, buttons and clips, precut paper embellishments, Stampin’ Spots, 7-piece Occasions
• 1 Stamp Set & clear stamp block, full color Tips & Tricks brochure for making the cards and a cool, storable, giftable box.
• 1 Documented journal from the This And That collection – debossed chipboard cover and 60 total printed sheets
• 1 Rotary stamp – includes dates and 12 clever and useful phrases

This is a great starter kit or even a great addition to any other stamp kits you may have!

Because this is a flash giveaway, you will have 3 ways to enter. 

Entry #1 Leave a comment here telling me what kinds of cards you will make with this kit

Entry #2 Tweet the giveaway and leave a link to the tweet in the comments

Entry #3 Share this giveaway via one other social media outlet and leave your link in the comments

Feel free to follow Stampin' Up on Twitter, Facebook, and feel free to share your creations on Instagram

Disclosure:  I received this Stampin' Up Kit to try out with my family.  All opinions expressed in this post are my own.

How Do You #ShineStrong

I have been separated for just over 2.5 years now. In the beginning it was difficult, knowing that my relationship was over, but I got through it.

The last few months have been the most difficult ones for me. Without divulging too much of my personal life, I can say that life has really been upended for me and my family.

These past few months have shown me that I am stronger then I thought I ever was, I am more confident then I ever have been. I have had to shine through these days and keep moving forward.

It's not easy. Things never really are. I have had to look at my life, and where I want to go l, and what path I need to take next...and that is not so easy.

When this opportunity arose, as a P&G mom, to share what makes me #ShineStrong, I knew I had to be a part of it.
I had so many words go through my head: confidence, independence, strength, speaking up, not hiding anymore, trusting myself, not second guessing everything.  I could go on and on.

This journey that I have been on, that my family has been on, has been rough at times but it has made us stronger. It has made me a stronger woman, a stronger mom, a stronger friend. It has strengthened the relationships I have with my kids.

We are always moving forward. This past weekend, we finally moved into a place of our own. We were technically homeless. My best friend took me and my kids into her place. 2 single moms and 8-9 kids. It was just supposed to be for a short time, it ended up being 6 months.

I couldn't have asked for a better friend.

When our new home finally came to us, I celebrated. I knew that it was the right place, the right landlord, the right location and time. It is perfect.  It is mine. I am doing this on my own!

Can you hear me roar? :)

I have been able to get out of debt and stay there. I have been able to get a permanent contract at a job I love. I have been able to example to my daughters what it means to be strong and what it means to know their value and their worth.

Women need to cut themselves some slack, they need to know that they can be independent and not always have to be in a co-dependant relationship!

We are women and we are strong!

This is a video that my bff and our kids made to share with everyone about what makes us #ShineStrong


 I'm having a Pantene bundle giveaway on my blog. It is going to just be a quick one as I am away camping next week.

To enter is easy. Just tell me in the comments what strong means to you!

I will pick 3 winners on Friday night, but I have to hear back from you by Saturday night.

Bonus Entry Tweet what strong means to you using #ShineStrong ! Comment your tweet link


Disclosure: I am a #pgmom . I have received product related to this giveaway, all opinions are my own.

By entering the following contest you are accepting that if you win your contact information will be shared with a P&G PR and shipping agency for the purpose of mailing your prize.  Please allow 4-6 weeks from the contest closure date to receive your prize.

This giveaway may appear on other blogs as part of the #PGmom/#mamanPG program.  However, to be fair, you can only win once per giveaway.  If your name is chosen more than once, another winner will be selected. All winners must be from within Canada.

Furby Boom and Duracell Giveaway!! Power a Smile!!

I am so excited to share this giveaway with my readers, and especially at this time of year!

Our family had always bought the cheap dollar store batteries, because I thought it was better to pay less...what I have learned though is that I was actually paying more then I thought, because we were going through batteries like crazy in this house.

Duracell has become a regular name in our house now.  They last longer and I don't have to buy batteries as often anymore.

One Christmas, when my son was about 5 or 6, we had him write out his list for Santa.  On the top of the list, believe it or not, was batteries!! It was the cheapest Christmas gift ever asked for!  That is because we used to have a rule that when the batteries died the toy was done...he knew that if he had his own stash of batteries, he would be able to play with his toys longer;-)  (I am THAT mom!!)

In reality, we always replaced the batteries.  That year, we bought him a whole pile of batteries and he was so happy when he opened them in the morning...

These are the batteries that will be making an appearance this year in our house:

Introducing Duracell Quantum, the world’s most advanced alkaline battery. With its revolutionary Hi-Density Core™ and proprietary PowerCheck™ power indicator, Duracell Quantum has been engineered to deliver the performance consumers demand.
Duracell Quantum offers long-lasting power when it’s needed the most—whether its powering children’s toys or first responders’ radios, you can count on Duracell’s most powerful premium-tier battery when it just has to work.

Features and Benefits:
The Duracell Quantum Hi-Density Core stores more power boosters to provide longer lasting performance than ever before Duracell Quantum is the single solution for multiple device needs in a household working efficiently across high-drain and low-drain devices – from remote controls to portable video games Duracell is the only battery brand with PowerCheck on the cell for accurate reading of remaining power Duracell DURALOCK technology locks in power for up to 10 years in storage.

To make this even better, we are going to be trying them out first in a new Furby Boom!!  But don't tell my 11 year old!!  Her birthday is on December 22, and we are always struggling to figure out what to get for her birthday when Christmas is just a few days away...This is going to be her big surprise this year!!

A whole new generation of Furby critters is about to hatch, so dust off your Furbish dictionary and get ready to party with your Furby Boom creature! Your Furby has a mind of its own, and the way you treat your Furby will shape its personality -- so the more fun you have with it, the better! It speaks more English the more you play with it. Tickle your Furby, talk to it, and feed it with your finger. Play some tunes, pull some tails and party on with your Furby Boom creature!

You can also download a free app to have a Furby Boom adventure and translate Furbish. Take care of your Furby, get virtual eggs and hatch and raise the Furblings! The Furby app is optional and works with iPad, iPod touch and iPhone with iOS 5.0 or later (devices sold separately). The app is not compatible with prior Furby generations. Check Furby.com for device compatibility. Requires 4 "AA" batteries (not included).

Furby and all related characters are trademarks of Hasbro.
iPad, iPod touch and iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

I am not sure if I am going to regret the whole "Furby" thing or not, but I do know that Grace has been wanting one for a very, very long time!!  I cannot wait to see her face when she opens this gift!!

I have a Furby Boom and Duracell Gift Pack to give away to one of my lucky readers!!
Estimated retail value is $80.

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Disclosure: I am a P&Gmom/mamanP&G. As part of my affiliation with this group I receive products and special access to P&G events and opportunities. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Have You Heard of 1 Girl Nation!! Review and Giveaway!

When I was offered the opportunity to review the 1 Girl Nation CD, I jumped on the chance!  To remind everyone, I live in a house of girls...1 boy, 4 girls.  They love music, they love dancing, there is constant singing, humming, and music playing in the background of our house.

I love it!  Music is such an inspiring part of ones life, and our kids have learned a lot of what they know through songs.

I am thrilled that in this day and age, with all the music choices out there, where someone is breaking up, someone is making up and don't forget the unmentionable songs (that we have banned in our house), I am thrilled that my girls can have some amazing and fun role models to influence them while they are growing up.

This group of girls are fun, young and really appeal to the tweens and teens (and even my 6 year old Faith!) My kids, even the older ones, were commenting that the music sounded like some of the bigger secular artists, and my daughters friend was even bopping along!

I loved checking out their website and watching some of the videos that are posted in the media section. They are a great, fun and devoted group and I love that my girls are going to have this group to remind them of the importance of living right and not being afraid of that!

I have a copy of their 1 Girl Nation CD to giveaway to one of my readers.  This is open to the US and Canada.

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Disclosure: I received a copy of the CD to review and a copy to giveaway.  All opinions in this post are my own!

Ultimate Laundry Pack Giveaway!!

Yes, I used ULTIMATE and LAUNDRY in the same sentence!!  

When I was approached to be a P&G Mom, a year ago, I was excited to try out some new products and share about the ones that our family have used and loved already.

What I didn't expect, was to become a Tide Pod lover!!  Oh, and don't forget the Downy Unstopables and the Downy Infusions!!

I have become a self-proclaimed laundry aficionado (this however, doesn't mean that I do the laundry in our house;-)

I cannot remember if I have shared the news here or not, but I have hired a nanny.  She comes here 2 days a week, while I am working, and she watches the kids, prepares dinners and lunches, cleans the house and does any laundry that we may have.  She is very loved by everyone here and I don't know what we ever did without her!

It was an easy transition to have her do laundry when my contract changed.  She has no measuring, no dripping, no spilled powder etc...she just has to throw the Tide Pod into the machine and push start!  It is so simple, that on her days off, even my 8 year old will do laundry.

We have gone from "Mount Neverest" to a clean house!!

I am sold on the Tide Pods, now I watch for coupons (P&G BrandSavers are great) and watch for sales and I stock up at those times.

I have also been able to try out the Downy Unstopables and Downy Infusions, and I just love the scents that I have had here.  It just adds such a nice touch to our laundry and it really feels nice to put on clothes that smell good too:-)

I know I am in good company!!  Read below about Kimberley Newport-Mimran from Canada's Pink Tartan woman's wear:

Kimberley Newport-Mimran, the woman behind Canada’s iconic fashion brand, Pink Tartan, knows a thing or two about looking chic. As creative director and president for one of Canada’s most successful women’s wear lines and mom, Kim shares her style secrets for looking great on the go:
Timeless pieces are always in fashionWe’re all guilty of committing fashion crimes, but building a wardrobe founded in timeless pieces will ensure your look is always on point. By choosing pieces you can wear season after season, you’ll also increase the lifespan of your wardrobe. To keep my washable pieces looking their best, I launder with Tide Pods - an item every woman needs to have in her fabric care arsenal.
You don’t have to sacrifice style for functionalityAs my collection evolves, I want to ensure I’m making clothing for the modern woman. The Washable Collection was developed for her. Each piece is made from quality washable fabrics that can be easily cared for. I recommend Tide Pods to care for all washable garments as they dissolve quickly and are easy to use.
Modern style is about careSometimes being chic is as simple as keeping your clothes looking crisp and clean. Imagine browsing your favourite shop if the clothing looked less than polished? It would alter the way you looked at the garment. I believe we should care for our clothing as you would other items you cherish. Using Tide Pods protects your favourite pieces and helps keep them looking their best.
For more style tips and information on the Pink Tartan Washable Collection for Tide Pods, check out the Hightail link and visit Tide Fashion 

I am excited to be able to share my new love for laundry with one of my readers, by offering an Ultimate Laundry Pack complete with Tide Pods, Downy Unstopables and Downy Infusions, with a value of approximately $52!

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Disclosure: I am a P&Gmom/mamanP&G. As part of my affiliation with this group I receive products and special access to P&G events and opportunities. The opinions on this blog are my own.

Sleep, How I Love Thee, Let Me Count The Sheep!! Febreze Giveaway!I

CONGRATULATIONS FLOWERCHILD!!

I have a love/hate relationship with sleep.  When I want to sleep, I can't and when I need to stay awake, I can't!!

It is a constant battle of the mind for me.  And it doesn't help that Faith struggles with sleeping on her own still, we are transitioning her to a bed, but she still ends up with me on a regular basis.

In one of my P&G Boxes, I received a selection of the new Febreze Sleep Serenity products, and I have fallen head over heels in love with them!!  My favourite scent is the Moonlit Lavender.  Sometimes I just spray it so I can smell it!!

Unwinding during the hours before you climb into bed can make a big difference. Febreze has partnered with the National Sleep Foundation for some recommended tips that will have you counting sheep in no time: 

*  Establish a regular bedtime: Try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time each day, even on the weekends. Trying to catch up on sleep on the weekends can actually have a reverse effect on the body, and make you feel more tired when Monday rolls around.

* Create a sleep haven: Create an environment that promotes sleep – one that is quiet, dark, cool and comfortable. Fresh sheets, cooling pillows and black out shades seem to do the trick.

* Fill the air: Incorporate soothing fragrances into your bedtime routine to help relax and unwind. Febreze Sleep Serenity collection’s calming scents in Moonlit Lavender, Warm Milk & Honey and Quiet Jasmine help create a soothing bedtime atmosphere.

* Exercising: Getting your body moving is one of the best things you can do to help you sleep.
Exercise anytime, as long as it doesn’t cut into your shuteye.

* Nighttime beverages: Avoid drinking caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea and soft drinks after noon. Caffeine-free herbal tea or warm milk are great options prior to nestling into your sheets. 

I get to offer a giveaway to share with my readers!  You can try it out for yourself and see how wonderful calming Febreze Sleep Serenity really is!!

What can you win?

 Febreze Sleep Serenity giveaway valued at $40*, which includes nine new products: 

 Febreze Sleep Serenity Bedside Diffuser in Moonlit Lavender, Warm Milk&Honey and Quiet Jasmine 

 Febreze Sleep Serenity Bedroom Mist in Moonlit Lavender, Warm Milk&Honey and Quiet Jasmine 

 Febreze Sleep Serenity Bedding Refresher in Moonlit Lavender, Warm Milk&Honey and Quiet Jasmine 

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Disclosure: I am a P&Gmom. As part of my affiliation with this group I receive products and special access to P&G events and opportunities. The opinions on this blog are my own. 

Pampers Through the Stages Giveaway

With 5 kids we have used our fair share of diapers! Now, with Faith finally fully potty trained, day and night we have just finished the final stage of diaper wearing. My best friend is just about to have a baby girl and I am excited to smell the new baby, cuddle her and do the occasional diaper changes...

Some of the PG Moms that I have met through this program created some videos to share with readers about the stages and advice that they have to offer to new moms and parents on the diaper to potty training journey.

Pampers Swaddlers are so soft for newborns! They keep your baby dry and comfortable.

Pampers Cruisers are a great transition for when your baby is on the go!

When we potty trained, we used a sticker chart too!  It was a great instant reward for my kids!

Pampers Village is a great way to get questions answered and collect points for some cool gifts!!

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Disclosure: I am a P&Gmom. As part of my affiliation with this group I receive products and
special access to P&G events and opportunities. The opinions on this blog are my own.
By entering the following contest you are accepting that if you win your contact information will be shared with a P&G PR and shipping agency for the purpose of mailing your prize. Please allow 4-6 weeks from the contest closure date to receive your prize.  This giveaway may appear on other blogs as part of the #PGmom program. However, to be fair, you can only win once per giveaway. If your name is chosen more than once, another winner will be selected.

Dine and Dish with Dawn #pgmom

On June 5, 2013, at Dundas Square, in Toronto, Dawn held a special event.  They were serving free poutine to anyone who was willing to wash their plate afterwards.

I was not able to attend this fun, free, poutine filled day, so we decided to do our own challenge at home.  

My 17 year old, Devin, wants to be a chef, so I gave him the task of creating a poutine recipe that we would all enjoy.  I have pictures, but they are on my dead iPod, and my charging cord has mysteriously disappeared...lol.

The recipe he came up with was:

1 Pork Loin in the crockpot covered in root beer, then smothered in BBQ Sauce (to make the pulled pork part)

Fresh potatoes, cut and fried in the deep fryer (I never said this was going to be healthy;-)

A mixture of cheese curds and grated cheeses

Gravy from the leftover Pulled Pork juices

The poutine was so good!  We had it for supper, and balanced it with a salad...that makes it alright, right?

After we enjoyed our poutine, we were left with the task of cleaning up...and anyone who knows us, knows that we don't do our dishes right away.  So they sat for the night, and just before bed we hit the ever so daunting task of cleanup.

I think it was Devin who said "wow!  It just comes right off!!"

We had not been Dawn Dish Soap users in the past, so this was really an eye opener for us!  I could not believe how easy it was to clean up the dishes...We are sold!!

I have a very quick giveaway to post.  I need to send the winners name in by July 30th, so it is a quick one for sure.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I am a P&Gmom. As part of my affiliation with this group I receive products and
special access to P&G events and opportunities. The opinions on this blog are my own.
By entering the following contest you are accepting that if you win your contact information will be shared with a P&G PR and shipping agency for the purpose of mailing your prize. Please allow 4-6 weeks from the contest closure date to receive your prize.  This giveaway may appear on other blogs as part of the #PGmom program. However, to be fair, you can only win once per giveaway. If your name is chosen more than once, another winner will be selected.

The Love Dare for Parents - Review and Giveaway

I was asked to review a copy of the book, The Love Dare for Parents.  It is based on the movie Fireproof, which was an amazing movie!  I loved it!

On a quick glance through the book at first, I thought that this was actually really do-able, even as a parent of 5 kids.

The idea is that every day, for 40 days, the parent reads the section then does the "task" for the day.  Each task is a way to show your kids how much you love them.

Day 1 the task was telling your kids how much you love them.  I try to say "I love you" on a regular basis to my kids, but doing it this time, I actually took notice of how their voice, their response, their attitudes changed!  It is amazing how much 3 little words can change an entire day!

After the task is complete, you have a place to journal a response to the questions the Love Dare poses.  The first questions were: What was the result of your interaction? Did they respond? Was this easy or difficult for you? Why are these simple words, though often taken for granted, so very important to say consistently?

See?  Thought provoking for sure!!

My kids have been in and out of the house for the summer, so I am taking this dare a little more sporadically then the 40 days.

Here you can see a sample of The Love Dare for Parents

About The Love Dare for Parents:

From the authors of international best-selling marriage book The Love Dare comes The Love Dare for Parents, a 40-day journey of “dares” challenging one or both parents to understand, practice, and communicate Christ-likelove to their children.

Easy to read and work into a busy schedule, The Love Dare for Parents is designed to “turn the hearts of parents to their children and turn the hearts of children to their parents” (Malachi 4:6) so that moms and dads can more fully enjoy and delight in their children while maximizing the positive impact they have on their lives long term.

Each day brings a promising key verse from Scripture, a biblical principle about love that applies to parenting, a specific challenge the parent does for the sake of their child, and space to journal thoughts and reflect on what happened that day.

The Love Dare for Parents even includes access to a FREE online parenting assessment, helpfully keyed to select material in the book.

About the Authors (Stephen Kendrick, Alex Kendrick):  

Stephen Kendrick is senior associate pastor of preaching and prayer at Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia. He is also a screenwriter (Facing the Giants, Fireproof, Courageous) and movie producer and co-wrote the New York Times best sellers The Love Dare and The Resolution for Men with his brother, Alex. Stephen and his wife, Jill, have four children.

Alex Kendrick is associate pastor of movie outreach for Sherwood Baptist Church. He is also an actor, writer, and director whose film credits include Facing the Giants, Fireproof, and Courageous. He and his wife, Christina, have six children.

I have 1 copy of this book to giveaway.  This is open to Canada and the US.  Rafflecopter was a great success last time, so we are going to try it again!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Is Spring Really Here???

Spring has definitely taken its time arriving this year...

I have always dreaded cleaning, decluttering and trying to get my family involved.  This year has been a little different.  

My kids have got to be the "strangest" around, as soon as they realized we had these cleaning products, they were jumping in without me even asking them to help.  Some phrases that I have heard around the house are "If you finish the living room, you can use the Swiffer" and "NO, I want to clean that room"!!  

Can we say music to my ears!!  The scents that we have had wafting through the house have been tremendous and the joy at the fact that our house is staying clean, has taken me over!  I am not sure why I waited so long to have things like this in the house.  

Even Faith can help and loves using the Magic Eraser and the Duster.

Next year (or even throughout this summer) I plan on setting up a household notebook which will include regular daily, weekly and monthly jobs that I would love to see each member of the family participating in.  This way, it stays clean all the time and hopefully next spring, it will not be as big a job as it has been this year.

What tips and tricks, websites, checklists do you use when it comes to spring cleaning?

I have a giveaway for a Spring Cleaning Kit, open to Canadian Residents, that will end on June 6/13 at midnight.  The prize includes:

 Bundle valued at $80* includes:

Mr. Clean Magic Eraser Select-A-Size
NEW Mr. Clean with Gain Spray
NEW Swiffer Dust & Shine with Gain
NEW Swiffer Sweeper with Gain Dry Refills
NEW Swiffer Sweeper with Gain Wet Refills
Swiffer Sweeper Kit
NEW Swiffer WetJet with Gain Solution
Swiffer WetJet Kit
Swiffer Duster Refill
Swiffer Duster Kit
Gain Fireworks Original Scent Booster

I am trying out Rafflecopter for the first time, I hope it all works well.  If you have any issues, let me know and I will try to figure them out.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I am a P&Gmom. As part of my affiliation with this group I receive products and
special access to P&G events and opportunities. The opinions on this blog are my own.
By entering the following contest you are accepting that if you win your contact information will be shared with a P&G PR and shipping agency for the purpose of mailing your prize. Please allow 4-6 weeks from the contest closure date to receive your prize.  This giveaway may appear on other blogs as part of the #PGmom program. However, to be fair, you can only win once per giveaway. If your name is chosen more than once, another winner will be selected.

Happy Mothers Day!! How Do You Celebrate?

What better way to celebrate Mothers, then with an AMAZING Spa Package Giveaway!!

With this set, you will be able to pamper yourself at home, and trust me, as much as I like to get out for pampering, the realities of our lives don't always allow that to happen...

Today, I received cards, plants, fruit, pizza and lots of hugs and love from my kiddos.  We were able to spend some time at my parents to bring over a fruit bouquet that we bought from church for my mom.

It has been a nice day, and to be honest, I have enjoyed being home to spend the time with them.  Tomorrow though, I will have a quiet house...wait a minute...Tuesday I will have a quiet house, while they are all in school, and I think that it will be my time to pamper myself:-)

My family has fallen in love with the Pantene Shampoo and Conditioner products through this program, and I am always keeping my eyes and ears open for sales and coupons so I can stock up! With 6 heads to to be washed, we go through a LOT of hair products!!

I was also really excited to receive the candle.  With a dog, and 5 kids, it definitely is helpful to keep my house smelling like a relaxing place:-)

P&G is providing a Mother’s Day Spa giveaway valued at $95*. The bundle includes:

Febreze Vanilla & Moonlight Candle 

Pantene Repair & Protect Conditioner

Pantene Repair & Protect Shampoo

Pantene Overnight Miracle Repair Serum

Pantene Stylers Hairspray Flexible Hold

COVERGIRL Outlast Stay Brilliant Nail Gloss Grapevine

COVERGIRL LashBlast Clump Crusher Mascara

Olay Massaging Bar Soap

One Free Clairol Hair Colour Coupon

COVERGIRL LipPerfection Jumbo Gloss Balm

Open to Canada only.

Ends on May 25, at 11:59pm EST.

Leave a comment with your email address for each entry.

Include any links you have to earn the entry.

Mandatory Entry:

• How do you find time to Pamper yourself regularly?

Extra Entries:

• Like Pantene on Facebook
• Like Olay on Facebook
• Lke Clairol on Facebook
• Like Covergirl on Facebook
• Like Febreze on Facebook
• Like Mom's Musings on Facebook
• Like Mom's Musings on Twitter
• Tweet the giveaway (up to once a day): '#WIN a #MothersDaySpa prize pack  @momsmusings http://bit.ly/10svT0Y ends: 5/25/13 #giveaway #PGmom'
• Blog about this contest (5 entries)
• Post on Sharing Sites (Digg, Stumbleupon etc...)

Disclosure: All opinions expressed in this post are my own. By entering the following contest, you are accepting that if you win, your contact information will be shared with a P&G PR agency for the purpose of mailing your prize. This giveaway may appear on other blogs as part of the #PGmom program, however, to be fair, you can only win once per giveaway. If your name is chosen more then once, another winner will be selected

Celebrate Oral Health Month with Oral-B Giveaway!

With 5 kids at home, we certainly have a lot of teeth..

We have experienced a wide range of dental issues with them, from not having enough enamel with my son, who ended up having 8 teeth pulled by the age of 6 to my 11 year old who cannot handle the thought of needles, so would rather have a tooth pulled with no freezing!!

This year has seen lots of dental visits, and also lots of teaching on how to brush and floss properly.  My kids have been using these great toothbrush products and they actually get excited to brush their teeth now!!

I am hoping that between the teaching and the new products, this next year of dental visits will be better, and in turn help my kids to learn the value of doing things the right way.

A mom can hope, can't she?  LOL!

*  Seven Oral Care benefits for a clean, healthy mouth.Brush your mouth-not just your teeth-with new Oral-B CrossAction Pro-Health. By combining CrissCross® and Power Tip® bristles with soft gum stimulators and a new textured tongue cleaner, CrossAction Pro-Health provides Seven Oral Care benefits to help you achieve a clean, healthy mouth.

1. Removes up to 90% of plaque in hard-to-reach places*

1. Helps improve gum health in four weeks by reducing gingivitis

1. Provides up to 55% better cleaning along the gum line**

1. Removes surface stains and polishes teeth

1. Removes odour-causing bacteria from the tongue

1. Stimulates gums

1. Works gently on enamel and gums

*  The Oral-B Pro-Health for Me Vitality toothbrush is the perfect electric toothbrush for kids. It is designed to cater to the oral health needs of tweens without cramping their style. This electric toothbrush has a waterproof handle with fun designs and is compatible with multiple toothbrush heads. It also features a brushing timer that ensures their brushing style goes the extra mile for the dentist-recommended 2 minutes.

• Two Oral-B Sensitive Clean Brush Head Refills included. This brush head provides a gentle brushing experience.

• Rechargeable Battery that is impossible to overcharge.

• 2 Minute Timer - Signals to let you know when you have completed 2 minutes of brushing.

• Ortho Brush Head refill available designed to clean away gunk around braces.

*  Oral-B Glide Pro-Health Clinical Protection Floss — Clinically proven to help reverse gingivitis in 2 weeks.*Oral-B Glide Pro-Health Clinical Protection Floss is our most advanced floss ever. It’s clinically proven to help reverse gingivitis in 2 weeks when used as part of a complete dental routine.

• Slides up to 50% more easily in tight spaces versus the leading floss

• Helps effectively remove plaque and food particles in between teeth to help prevent cavities

• Invigorates gums and provides a minty cool feeling every time you floss

• Light coating of natural wax for superior grip

• Gently stimulates gums Helps remove plaque to reverse gingivitis in 2 weeks*

*When used as part of a complete dental routine.

I have one of these prize packs (worth app. $50) to giveaway here on my blog

Open to Canada only.

Ends on April 25, at 11:59pm EST.

Leave a comment with your email address for each entry.

Include any links you have to earn the entry.

Mandatory Entry:

• What part of oral health do your children struggle with the most?  And what is your best tip?

Extra Entries:

• Like the Oral-B Facebook page
• Like Mom's Musings on Facebook
• Like Mom's Musings on Twitter
• Tweet the giveaway (up to once a day): '#WIN an #OralB prize pack http://tinyurl.com/cqow33b @momsmusings ends: 4/25/13 #giveaway #PGmom'
• Blog about this contest (5 entries)
• Post on Sharing Sites (Digg, Stumbleupon etc...)

Disclosure: All opinions expressed in this post are my own. By entering the following contest, you are accepting that if you win, your contact information will be shared with a P&G PR agency for the purpose of mailing your prize. This giveaway may appear on other blogs as part of the #PGmom program, however, to be fair, you can only win once per giveaway. If your name is chosen more then once, another winner will be selected

Veggietales - The Little House That Stood Review and Giveaway!

One of my BFF's sons:-)

I was contacted to receive and review the Veggietales movie "The Little House That Stood", (see The Little House That Stood trailer on YouTube) and I jumped on it as fast as I could!

This year marks the 20th year of Veggietales and I think we have seen (and our family owns) every episode!

I remember the first time my family was introduced to Veggietales, my son was 3 and we signed him up for a VBS in the summer.  It was all based on Veggietales and we have been hooked ever since:-)

We live in an area where a local bookstore rents out a local theater and they sell tickets to see the new episodes as they come out, and our family goes every time.  It is a great morning out and the theater is filled to capacity everytime!!

Last weekend we got to preview The Little House That Stood at the theater and it lived up to every other episode we have seen. 

I love that they make the stories applicable to the kids and even throw in some fun for us adults. 

It is also nice, when in the theater, to notice that my family isn't the only ones who love the theme song and laugh uncontrollable when Larry the Cucumber (he's NOT a pickle;-) falls over at the end.  The whole theater erupted in laughter, including myself.

I really enjoyed how they made this story a fairytale type, using the 3 Little Pigs, a story that we all know and love.  The kids were able to follow along, and get the lesson out of it at the end. 

My favourite part of this movie though, was the Good Egg of Gooseville.  I really loved how they tied in all the various nursery rhyme, and that it was riveting to watch even when it wasn't "animated" the same as the other episode.  Here is a teaser video I found:-)

Open to Canada and the US only.

Ends on March 20th, at 11:59pm EST.

Leave a comment with your email address for each entry.

Include any links you have to earn the entry.

Mandatory Entry:

What is your favourite Veggietales Movie?

Extra Entries:

Like Veggietales on Facebook

Like Veggietales on Twitter

Like Mom's Musings on Facebook

Like Mom's Musings on Twitter

Tweet the giveaway (up to once a day): '#WIN a #Veggietales #TheLittleHouseThatStood movie http://bit.ly/ZAqYMz @momsmusings ends: 3/9/20 #giveaway'

Blog about this contest (5 entries)

Post on Sharing Sites (Digg, Stumbleupon etc...)

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."  All opinions expressed in this post are my own...we do REALLY LOVE VEGGIETALES!!

Loving Tender Care for your Hair - Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Giveaway!!

If you are a regular follower of my blog, you will know that I have 4 girls and 1 boy...Yup, 5 kids!!

When this Vidal Sassoon package arrived at our house, I had to HIDE the evidence...because, if I didn't, then I would have lost (and not been able to try) the Vidal Sassoon products that came:-s

Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Moisture Lock Shampoo, Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Moisture Lock Conditioner, Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Boost and Lift Foaming Air Mousse, Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Repair and Finish Spray, Vidal Sassoon The Mega Firm Hold Gel

My favourite product from this line is the Moisture Lock Shampoo and Conditioner.  I love how my hair feels after my shower, revitalized and refreshed!  I am almost ready to share these with my girls, and I am pretty sure my oldest will like the Repair and Finish Spray along with the Boost and Lift Foaming Air Mousse.

The Moisture Lock Shampoo cleanses and quenches hair’s thirst, while the Moisture Lock Conditioner helps to seal in moisture, leaving hair soft and silky. The rich moisturizing formula helps prevent dry or damaged-looking hair, leaving it noticeably smooth and irresistible to the touch.  

The Boost & Lift Foaming Air Mousse contains a foam technology that helps control unruly hair for a fashionably weightless and pumped up feeling. This formula provides up to 24 hours of flexible hold, long lasting volume and is easy to comb out.

The Repair & Finish Spray creates a conditioning shield to help protect your hair and restore smoothness. The formula helps protect damaged hair from breakage while helping to seal in style and taming flyaways.

The Mega Firm Hold Gel provides a strong hold, allowing for perfect and customized control for up to 24 hours. This professionally inspired formula helps lock out frizz, while smoothing hair to keep your style all day.

I have one of these prize packs (worth app. $44) to giveaway here on my blog

Open to Canada only.

Ends on March 9th, at 11:59pm EST.

Leave a comment with your email address for each entry.

Include any links you have to earn the entry.

 

Mandatory Entry:

• How often do you pamper your hair and what product would you love the most?

Extra Entries:

• Like the Vidal Sassoon Facebook page
• Like Mom's Musings on Facebook
• Like Mom's Musings on Twitter
• Tweet the giveaway (up to once a day): '#WIN a #VidalSassoonProSeries prize pack http://tinyurl.com/a339lcy @momsmusings ends: 3/9/13 #giveaway #PGmom'
• Blog about this contest (5 entries)
• Post on Sharing Sites (Digg, Stumbleupon etc...)

Disclosure: All opinions expressed in this post are my own. By entering the following contest, you are accepting that if you win, your contact information will be shared with a P&G PR agency for the purpose of mailing your prize. This giveaway may appear on other blogs as part of the #PGmom program, however, to be fair, you can only win once per giveaway. If your name is chosen more then once, another winner will be selected

Brighten Up Your Winter with the Olay Total Effects Giveaway

This winter, in Ontario, has become so cold!  Just a few weeks ago, we could barely move outside due to the amount of snow that had fallen. 

I am DONE with winter!!  In my younger years, I thoroughly enjoyed the snow...but now, I just want to cuddle up indoors and not step outside at all...however, I have 5 kids, and that means that I have NO CHOICE!!

I do have a choice though, when it comes to taking care of my skin and helping my skin stay "healthy, beutiful and young looking!"

It is never too early to start taking the necessary precautions to protect your face and fight the signs of aging that comes with time.

I received the Olay Total Effects package, and while I haven't been one to regularly take care of my skin properly (I have been a soap and water kinda gal), I have enjoyed these products and what they are doing for me.

Olay Total Effects Daily Anti-Aging UV Moisturizer plus Touch of Foundation Cream,  Olay Total Effects 7-in-1 Anti-Aging Eye Cream Line and Dark Circle Minimizing Brush, Olay Total Effects Refreshing Citrus Scrub, Olay Total Effects Tone Correcting Night Moisturizer, Olay Total Effects Tone Correcting Eye Treatment

I absolutely LOVE the Citrus Scrub (I love anything citrusy:) and the Eye Treatments.  For some reason (could it be my crazy, busy life?) I have always had dark circles under my eyes.  These treatments have received a VERY HAPPY welcome to my life!!

I have one of these prize packs (worth app. $140) to giveaway here on my blog

Open to Canada only. 

Ends on March 3rd, at 11:59pm EST.

Leave a comment with your email address for each entry.

Include any links you have to earn the entry.

Mandatory Entry:

• What tricks/tips do you do to take care of your skin/face during the harsh winter months?

Extra Entries:

• Like the Olay Facebook page
• Become a Club Olay Member (you will receive offers and coupons!)
• Like Mom's Musings on Facebook
• Like Mom's Musings on Twitter
• Tweet the giveaway (up to once a day): '#WIN a #OlayTotalEffects prize pack http://tinyurl.com/ajdf5wt @momsmusings ends: 3/3/13 #giveaway #PGmom'
• Blog about this contest (5 entries)
• Post on Sharing Sites (Digg, Stumbleupon etc...)    

Disclosure:  All opinions expressed in this post are my own.  By entering the following contest, you are accepting that if you win, your contact information will be shared with a P&G PR agency for the purpose of mailing your prize.  This giveaway may appear on other blogs as part of the #PGmom program, however, to be fair, you can only win once per giveaway.  If your name is chosen more then once, another winner will be selected