Party Like Its 2014 - $25 iTunes Giveaway

As a thank you for 2013, I am giving away a $25 iTunes gift card to rock in the New Year!  New Year - New You (and me).  I have several goals this year:

• Reduce the clutter on a weekly basis.
• Reduce the distractions that I allow to suck up my valuable time.
• Learn to say "no" more often and not over commit myself.
• Reduce my library fines (this one is so hard for me)!
• Get a business idea off the ground that has been swirling in my head for over a year now.
• Love life, my family, my God and all he has given me a little more each day!

I hope you have also set some goals up for 2014, if you never aim for anything, how are you going to achieve it?

Thanks for reading and good luck!



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Merry Christmas From Our Family... To Yours

Wordless Wednesday

We got to visit Santa at the mall, however my youngest started to scream when I put her on Santa's lap.  So instead I opted to join the picture and even told Santa what I wanted for Christmas!

Say Goodbye to Survival Mode Review – Control the Clutter

 

As previously mentioned, I am participating on the launch team of Crystal Paine’s new book Say Goodbye to Survival Mode.   Stay tuned for more posts as we prepare for the launch in January.  In Chapter 6 (Manage the Home Front) of Say Goodbye to Survival Mode, Crystal indicates:

“I truly believe that the less you have, the less time you spend on upkeep, maintenance, and cleaning.  Either you can control the clutter or the clutter will control you.”

Clutter and excess stuff is one of the most challenging things for me to control in my household.  We have A LOT of stuff!  A LOT of stuff no one touches for months (ahem…or years) in our house.  We have A LOT storage bins to contain A LOT of stuff, just in case we may need that item again.  I have an extra closet full of A LOT of extra clothes, just in case I wear a size 14 or 8 (pretty, pretty please) again during my lifetime.  The sad part is, when I actually do fit in those size 8 jeans again, they probably won’t even be my style anymore!

How does a full-time working Mom take control of all this clutter?  I believe Crystal when she indicates you will spend less time maintaining stuff, if you just do not have the stuff.  But what if you already have all that stuff, how do you get rid of the clutter?  I have three kids under the age of 8 and it seems like they are always bringing home more stuff; papers from school, toys from Grandma, books given to them by their cousin, stuff animals they win at the fair, the list goes on and on.  This is definitely my weak point, but I am going to share some of the outlets/techniques I have been successful at in taming down the “clutter monster”.  Most importantly, I have come to the realization, that my family will always have A LOT of stuff, but I am trying my hardest to keep it under control!

EBay – I get on kicks where I sell things like crazy on EBay.  I find that the items that sell the best on this site are items NWT (new with tags).  I try to find and post at least 5 items a week to sell.  My philosophy?  Ninety-nine cents is better than nothing, and it is now out of my house!

Facebook Garage Sales Groups – these groups have been popping up everywhere on Facebook.  I use “Mommy Stuff for Sale”, “Want it Out” and more.  Search on garage sales near your city.  I have sold A LOT of clothes, toys, miscellaneous household items, and baby stuff on this site.  Admittedly, I have also bought stuff off of these sites.  I have to keep the temptation down.  You would be amazed what (especially new) stuff sells for on these sites.  Bonus?  No shipping charges!

 

Resale Shops – Once a season, I take a laundry basket full of kids’ clothes to two of my favorite resale shops.  You do not get a whole lot for the items ($0.50-$1.00) a piece, but both stores I go to give you an extra 10% if you take store credit.  This allows me to essentially trade-in clothes my kids no longer wear for some “new to us” clothes.

 

Donate – I make a habit of keeping a box in my closet of items to donate.  I have not had much success selling adult clothes unless they are new with tags.  If there is something in my closet that I just do not wear anymore, I put it in the donate box.  My husband will do the same.  I also make a habit of donating shoes my kids never fit into any more.  I strive to have at least one donate box per month to give.  It is also so convenient because most will pick up right from your porch.  I always keep a running list of all the items I donate for the year for tax purposes (you CAN deduct those items)!

 

Recycle the Paper – When my son started kindergarten, I saved every paper he ever brought home from school.  Guess what I had at the end of the school year?  Yes a drawer full of overflowing school papers we never looked at again.  We keep a bin in our garage that is strictly for paper.  I go through my kids backpacks every night and review all the papers.  I now only save really important papers or projects they completed.  Everything else goes into the bin.  Just to warn you I once had a 5 year old call me a “bad mommy” because I tossed one of his projects in there which he found.  I do the same with the mail.  I go through and sort it every night and all unnecessary paper goes into the bin.

 

Recycle the Cardboard – Right next to our paper bin in our garage is a cardboard box.  In my community we have drop boxes for paper and cardboard.  We throw all of our cardboard into our garage box.  This includes cereal boxes, delivery boxes, etc.  Usually about every two weeks we have to go to our community’s site and dump the paper and cardboard.  This really helps reduce the amount of trash thrown out every week.  We normally only have one garbage can for 5 people.  I notice some people in our neighborhood will have 3-5 cans full!

 

De-clutter One Area at a Time – On long breaks (such as Christmas vacation, over Thanksgiving etc.) I challenge myself to clean out one area a day.  This could be a closet, a cabinet, a drawer, etc.  I only have to get through one a day so it is definitely manageable.  This past Christmas I was able to organize our coat closet, the pantry, both of my boys’ closets, the kitchen “junk” drawer, and the linen closet.  It really only takes about an hour to do one area, I try to do this during nap time.

These are just a few of the things that I do to tame the “clutter monster”.  I know I will never get to a perfectly clean, organized home, but that is not my goal.  My goal is to keep our stuff under control and not let it take control of us!

Does anyone else have any helpful tips to control the clutter that have been successful?

Go here for Post 1 of this series.

Broccoli and Cauliflower Au Gratin

I made this last night for my son's 5th birthday party.  The picture above is the "pre-baked" picture, I forgot to take a picture after it was baked.  It was a hit at the party and fed about 10 people!

Ingredients:
Head of cauliflower
Bunch of broccoli
4 tbsp butter
4 tbsp flour
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup milk
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1/4 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp dry mustard
couple of red pepper flakes
2 cups of bread cubes (1/2" cubes)
olive oil
1 tsp parsley flakes
1 tsp garlic powder

Directions:
1.  Melt butter in saucepan over medium heat.  Stir in flour and allow to cook for a few minutes.  Slowly add milk and cream.  Allow to cook until thickened.
2.  Add all 3 cheeses, salt, pepper, paprika, mustard, and pepper flakes.  Cook on low-medium heat until all melted.
3.  In 9"x13" pan, put chopped broccoli and cauliflower.  Pour cheese sauce over vegetables and mix to combine.
4.  In a separate bowl, combine bread crumbs, parsley, and garlic powder.  Toss with Olive Oil until combined.
5.  Pour bread mixture on top of vegetables and top with a bit more of shredded cheddar.
6.  Bake at 375 for 45 minutes.
7.  Enjoy!

**Party Hint - I use disposal aluminum pans when I make large party foods.  It makes for extremely easy clean-up!**

Say Goodbye to Survival Mode - 7 Day Challenge (Day 1)

I have been given the amazing opportunity to participate on a launch team for Crystal Paine's new book Say Goodbye to Survival Mode!  I have been huge fan of Money Saving Mom for years and it has helped me tremendously in learning how to coupon, save money, and save for the future.  Now Crystal is helping us become more organized, efficient, and effective in our daily lives!

Stay tuned for more post as we get closer to the launch date of January 21, 2014!

Right now I am participating in the 7 Day Challenge to Say Goodbye to Survival Mode!  You can join to by going to Money Saving Mom and look for the header at the top of the screen!

 

Say Goodbye to Survival Mode Challenge – Day 1: Learn to Say No

 

Today’s Challenge
Sit down somewhere quiet and compose a to-do list for tomorrow. Include everything on your plate, from the moment you wake up until you go to bed. When you’re finished, force yourself to immediately eliminate three items from your list. Just cross them out.

 

This is not a mind trick to make you feel more productive than you really are. Instead, it’s a way to help you start learning to evaluate your activities and commitments. Choose three items and get rid of them.

 

Let them go—no justification, no guilt.

 

Wow - this was a hard one for me.  I think as a Mom of 3 kids, you try to do all you can for your kids.  I often have a hard time saying "no, I cannot do that".  I am going to strive to evaluate things for longer before I say "yes"!

I often have a bad case of "mommy guilt" since I do work full-time outside the home.  Because of this, I often extend myself too much when it comes to volunteering at my child's school, after-school activities, alone time with my kids, etc.  I know personally that my children are happy, healthy, and content.  So this week, when the PTA asked for donations for bakery for a function at school, I said "No".  I do not have to help every time.  I knew it was going to be tough with Thanksgiving to find the time to do it, so I took time to evaluate before I decided.  The best decision ever!  Now I need to practice this every time!

 

 

Buffalo Chicken Sliders - Crock Pot Recipe

Ingredients:
4 boneless chicken breasts
1 cup buffalo hot sauce (I used Franks)
2 tsp dried parsley
1/4 tsp dried dill
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp dried basil
1/4 tsp pepper
slider buns
ranch dressing
lettuce
tomato
provolone cheese

Directions:
Put chicken breasts in slow cooker and cover with hot sauce and spices.  Stir and cook on low for 8 hours.  Shredded chicken and mix back it in with the sauce (more or less depending how hot you want the chicken).
Butter slider rolls and toast both side under the broiler.
Put chicken on the buns along with ranch dressing, lettuce, tomato, and cheese.

Enjoy!

Success With Lose It!

I have one confession to make (okay maybe 2 or 3).  After having baby #3 last July, I lost my baby weight plus some baby weight from #1 and #2 without even trying.  I only gained 20 lbs with baby #3 and that weight plus another 10 lbs came off within 2 months.  When my baby was only a month old, I started having gall bladder attacks so I really had to watch my diet until I had it removed when she was 12 weeks old.  I truly believe that contributed to rapid weight loss also.

Fast forward one year, I have gained about 10 lbs of that weight back and I am not a happy camper!  Previously I could eat anything and it didn't matter, well in the last 3 months that "method" has caught up with me.  I have a goal weight range (plus or minus 3 lbs) and I have a maximum weight I want to weigh.  Well, last Monday I exceeded that weight!  Hello diet, goodbye fast food and sweets!

In the past I had success doing the Weight Watcher's point system in losing weight (like 12 years ago before we got married)!  I just exited the Blackberry age and entered the iPhone age about 2 weeks prior, so I knew there had to be an app out there and I found it!  I downloaded Lose It! and I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!!

With Lose It! you can track your weight, calorie intake, and exercise on a daily basis.  I set up a goal to lose 2 lbs per week for a total of 15 lbs.  After one week I already lost 4 lbs (guess I should slow down a bit).  It is amazing how much better my clothes fit and how much healthier I am eating.  This app works for me because I do not want to use up my daily calories on bad foods, it makes me think twice before eating.  It also pushes me to exercise, because when you exercise you "earn" more calories to eat for the day (hello, more food?  Yes please!).

I was already walking every evening, but now I have added an extra 30 minutes of brisk walking on my lunch break at work.  So I am normally walking 2 - 30 minute increments.  Each of my walks earns me an extra 100 or so calories a day. 

I am currently set up to eat 1024 calories per day, here is an example of my food intake for one day:

• Breakfast - 2 hard boiled eggs (155 calories)
• Lunch - Caesar Salad (221), croutons (46) and yogurt (147)
• Dinner - 1 cup pasta (221) with pasta sauce (79)
• Snacks - 7 Triscuits (120), 1/3 cup Colby Jack Cheese (147), apple (77)

I also exercised twice that day:

• 30 minute walk at a brisk pace (119 calories burned)
• 20 minute walk at a brisk pace (79 calories burned)

So I had one successful week down and I am onto number 2!

This post is linked at Workout Wednesday at The Not-So-Secret Confessions of a Second Time Mom.

We're Going To Idlewild & SoakZone

My family has been given the opportunity to visit Idlewild and SoakZone in Ligonier, PA.  This will be the first time visiting Idlewild and SoakZone and my boys (and their parents) could not be more excited!  Be sure to check back for complete 'rundown' from our visit'!

Looking for your ticket to family fun?  Nestled within the foothills of the beautiful Laurel Highlands, just outside of Ligonier in Westmoreland County, you’ll find Idlewild & SoakZone, named “Best Children’s Park in the World” by Amusement Today and “Best Park for Families” by the National Amusement Park Historical Association.

Since 1878, Idlewild has been providing smiles, laughter, and memories longer than almost every other amusement park in the entire United States.  Originally a simple picnic ground along the Ligonier Valley Rail Road, the park has grown into a sprawling entertainment center rich in tradition, nostalgia, and natural beauty, and is recognized as one of the top destinations for family fun in the country.

Idlewild strikes the perfect balance between traditional and modern-day amusement.  At one end of the park you’ll find tranquil Story Book Forest.  Featuring a winding path through a real forest, guests visit cottages and other character scenes from fairy tales and nursery rhymes – providing a great chance for parents and grandparents to revisit their youth as they introduce their own little ones to Mother Goose, Goldilocks and many more.

At the opposite end lays SoakZone, gushing with “splash-tacular” fun from the Wowabunga Family Wave Pool, over a dozen waterslides, Captain Kidd’s aqua-structure, Lil’Squirts kiddie pool, and the new lazy river, Float Away Bay.  In between, families can experience cheerful excitement within the entertaining Hootin’ Holler’ western town,Jumpin’ Jungle interactive playground, Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood of Make-Believe, and Raccoon Lagoonkiddieland - one of the largest and most scenic children’s areas in the country.

The park’s roster of nineteen major rides includes rare gems like the Whip, not to mention the top-notch Rollo Coaster, which has appeal to both children (often listed as their first ever coaster ride) and longtime coaster enthusiasts, (whom designated the ride an “American Coaster Classic”).  Compare those classics to the park’s more modern rides, like the fast-paced Wild Mouse steel coaster, towering high among the park’s tall evergreens and offering high action at every quick turn.

Idlewild is truly multi-generational.  Grandparents are often seen riding alongside their grandchildren among the family-friendly rides and there’s a wide array of entertainment directed to both the young and the young at heart.  At the core of every attraction is the principal that the entire family can enjoy it together.

It’s unique charm and laid-back atmosphere just invite you to relax.  Shady trees, lakes and the Loyalhanna Creek passing through its center, make Idlewild compare more to a state park than any other amusement park you’ve ever seen.  The center midways are lined with benches and there are plenty of picnic groves where families can enjoy a picnic lunch together as they take a break during their fun-filled day.


SAVE 2 Ways at Idlewild and SoakZone this summer!    Save $8 per admission online or Save $5 per admission ticket at the gate! http://www.pittsburghkidsguide.com/coupon.php?bid=5283&dealid=936®ionid=58

Try Windex Touch-Up - Money Back Guarantee

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• Countertops like Corian®, sealed granite, marble (real or synthetic), Formica®
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• Stainless steel​
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• And more

If you are interested in trying Windex Touch-Up Cleaner, there is currently a $1.50 off one coupon in the 7/28 Smart Source insert.  If you are not completely satistifed, Windex is offering a complete refund when you use this form.

Why not try it today? 

Fab Kids - First Outfit 50%Off

I'd like to invite you to join FabKids, a fashion club with endless outfit combinations for stylish girls sizes 2-12. You should definitely check it out and if you sign up today, you can get 50% off your first outfit.

I just received my first outfit from FabKids!  I picked out a super cute outfit in a size 2 for my little girl for next summer!  With FabKids, all outfits are $39.95 with free shipping and handling.  Plus you will receive 50% off your first outfit!  When you first go to FabKids, they ask you a few questions and then show you their picks for outfits!  Every month they send you new picks.

My daughter's new outfit arrived within a couple of days in a cute pink box.  I cannot wait for next
summer!  The pink dazzle dress came with matching pink shorts and a sparkled blue bow!

Go here to get started now!

Menu Plan Monday - Week of 7/29/13

Well it has been a LONG time since I have done this.  Life has been hectic lately since my husband now teaches a couple of nights a week.  Those nights, the kids and I just help ourselves, eat sandwiches (or go to Subway)!  It is a little cooler this week, so these are the recipes I have on my mind to make:

Monday - Baked Smothered Pork Chops with mashed potatoes
Tuesday - Breaded chicken legs with Zucchini Cakes
Wednesday - Help Yourself Night
Thursday - Help Yourself Night
Friday - Taco Pizza
Saturday - Eat Out
Sunday - Braided Spaghetti Bread with a salad

This post is linked at I'm An Organizing Junkie!

Zucchini Cakes

The zucchini has begun to sprout in our garden.  I made two loaves of zucchini bread on Saturday morning and had some grated zucchini left over.  So last night I made these zucchini cakes to go with dinner.  They were delicious!

Ingredients:
2 cups grated zucchini
1 cup panko bread crumbs
1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
1 egg, slightly beaten
1 onion, grated
1 clove of garlic, finely chopped
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1/4 tsp. paprika

Directions:
1.  Heat oil in a pan on medium-high heat
2.  Combine all ingredients.  Shape in a patty (they are a little lose) and then carefully lay into hot oil.
3.  Flip after 3-5 minutes (when nicely browned) and repeat on the other side.

I ate mine with ketchup (but I love ketchup on a lot of things), I think sour cream would also be good!

Enjoy!

Ebates

Are you using Ebates when you shop online?  I use it every time I can to make an online purchase.  You get cash back on every purchase you make!  Go here to sign up!

Become a Purex Insider

I am excited to announce that Purex Insiders is OPEN for new applicants!  I have been a part of this program for several years and it is by far the best promotional program out there.  I have been a part of so many amazing trial events, promotions, and giveaways.  I love Purex products and I love to try them and spread the word.  Best part is that my readers get to share in the excitement because I always have free coupons to give away!! 

Bloggers who meet the following guidelines usually are the best fit for the program:

• blogs about savings, product reviews and giveaways
• enjoys using social media
• blogs about family friendly content

Want to join?  Go here to sign up!

New Soft Scrub Mold and Mildew Stain Remover - A Review and Giveaway!

 I recently had the opportunity to try New Soft Scrub Mold and Mildew Stain Remover.  It is a unique spray gel that is tough on stains, and gentle on surfaces.  Unlike other spray bleach cleansers that produce a fine mist of bleach vapors, Soft Scrub Mold and Mildew Stain Remover is a thick gel that clings to bathroom surfaces to penetrate and remove tough stains without harsh fumes or over spray.  This is important to me with three little kids in the house!

This stain remover is perfect for cleaning tile, grout, tubs, and showers along with many other surfaces in your bathroom.  Whether you are doing a quick spot cleaning or a top-to-bottom cleaning session, this is the product for you. 

I have been trying and trying to clean all my windows.  We have about 18 windows in our house on two floors so it is a daunting task.  Luckily we have newer windows in which both panes tilt in so I can clean it all from the inside.  For some reason on some of my windows I get little dots of mold on the caulk line as seen in the picture.

I sprayed some of the Soft Scrub Mold and Mildew Stain Remover on the spots and let it sit about 10 minutes while I cleaned the rest of the window.  I then scrubbed it off and it did a great job of removing the mold spots.  I normally do this with a product with bleach, so I enjoyed the smell of this new product much better!

See?  No Mold!

Three lucky Spend Less 2 Save More readers can win a coupon for a FREE Soft Scrub product (up $3.39).  Easy entries are below!

 

 

 

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The Soft Scrub brand provided me with a sample of their NEW Soft Scrub Mold and Mildew Stain Remover in exchange for a product review.  However, all the opinions expressed here are my own.

Super Foods

As a busy Mom of three young kids, it is a constant struggle in my home to put healthy meals on the table fast that my kids will eat!  I was reading an article in a magazine recently about Super Foods. 

Super Foods are nutritional powerhouse foods are loaded with nutrients crucial to a healthy, long life. If you can include a variety of them in your diet, everyday, they will change your life!  These foods were chosen because they contain high concentrations of crucial nutrients, as well as the fact that many of them are low in calories. Foods containing these nutrients have been proven to help prevent and, in some cases, reverse the well-known effects of aging, including cardiovascular disease, Type II Diabetes, hypertension and certain cancers.

The Super Foods include:

Now it is probably impossible to remember this list when you are trying to grocery shop or make a quick dinner.  So when you need some healthy inspiration, use the acronym FAST & LEAN:  Fiber-rich grains, Avocados, oils and other healthy fats, Spinach, leafy greens and other vegetables, Turkey and other lean meats, Legumes, Eggs and dairy, Apples and other fruits, and Nuts and seeds.

So how about a nice spinach salad for dinner topped with avocados, turkey, peas, hard-boiled eggs, apples, and walnuts?

All 4 Fun Sweepstakes

I have never been to Sesame Place, but we are planning a trip this August.  I want to take the boys (who are now 7 and 4) before they are too old to enjoy it.  Even better?  An all expenses paid trip with airfare!

Right now you can purchase an entry with 20 Gifts to Grow Points or you can send an entry into the contest for just the cost of a stamp!  Here is how to enter by mail:

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY: HOW TO ENTER WITHOUT REDEEMING "GIFTS TO GROW" REWARDS POINTS: To enter the sweepstakes by mail without redeeming "Rewards" points, hand print your complete name, home address (no P.O. boxes – U.S. residents only), city/state/province, zip/postal code, birthdate (mm/yyyy) plus (optional) daytime and evening telephone numbers on a plain piece of 3" x 5" paper. Mail your entry in a hand-addressed, stamped #10 (4-1/8" x 9-1/2") envelope to: Gifts to Grow All 4 Fun Entries, Department D, P.O. Box 5704, Blair, NE 68009-5704, USA. Mailed entries must be received by 7/10/13 to be eligible. Limit one entry per outer mailing envelope. You may enter as often as you wish, but each entry must be mailed separately. Each separate mail in entry will be equal to one (1) entry into the sweepstakes. No mechanically reproduced entries permitted. Not responsible for lost, late, illegible, mutilated, postage-due, misdirected entries, or entries not received in time for the random drawing.

Disclaimer:  This contest is not sponsored or endorsed by Spend Less 2 Save More.

Win a Free Month of Conscious Box!

We're Conscious Box – the monthly subscription service that delivers the purest, most natural products on the planet, right to you doorstep!

Want to try it out?  One of my readers will win a Free Month of Conscious Box!  Easy Entries are below!  Value of this box is $19.95!

Check them out on Facebook and tell them Spend Less 2 Save More sent you!



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Chicken Bacon Ring

 

This was one of our dinners that resulted from what to do with leftovers?  We had some leftover chicken that needed to be used up and I came up with this recipe!

 

Ingredients

1 can of crescent rolls

1 cup shredded cooked chicken

1/2 cup shredded cheddar

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup diced onions

1 tbsp. Dijon mustard

6 slices of bacon cooked and crumbled

1 tsp. Italian seasoning

 

Directions

Open crescent rolls and separate triangles, arrange on non-stick pan as shown in picture 1.

Mix remaining ingredients and spread around the middle of the crescent rolls.

Fold in the triangles over the chicken mixture.

Bake for 15 minutes or until golden brown at 350.

Enjoy!

 

Countdown to the Beach!

Yes we are going to the beach this summer!  My boys are so excited, so am I.  I am a beach girl, always have been always will be.  For me the word "vacation" means to me is spending a week with my toes in the sand soaking up the sun! 

My boys get so excited and they love to do a countdown before a vacation.  This also helsp my husband and I from being asked the constant question, "When do we leave for the beach?"

This year, my four-year helped cut out pictures and glued them onto our countdown chart.  My seven year old wrote the numbers one through 44 on small pieces of scrap paper.  I then taped the numbers on our countdown chart.  Every morning we pull a number off and are one day closer to when we "leave for the beach!"

Spinach Mushroom Omlet

The picture doesn't make it look very appealing, but if you love spinach and mushrooms, this one is for you!  I enjoyed this for dinner one night when we were having a "help yourself night".  No one in my family would eat this anyways, except me!

Ingredients:
2 eggs, beaten together
1/2 cup fresh mushrooms
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 cup fresh spinach
salt and pepper

Directions:
Heat oil in skillet over medium-high heat.  Sauté mushrooms until tender.  Add spinach and cook down.  Pour eggs directly over the spinach and mushrooms.  Once cooked on one side, flip entire omelet and continue to cook until eggs are fully  cooked!  Salt and pepper to taste.  Enjoy!

I didn't add cheese, but I am sure it would be a great addition!

Soft Scrub 4-in-1 Toliet Care - A Review, Giveaway, and Sweepstakes

Just what everyone wants to see, the inside of my toilet.  But I am proud to show it off, that is the inside of my most used, clean toilet, thanks to Soft Scrub 4-in-1.

Say goodbye to constant scrubbing and hello to 4-in-1 toilet care that cleans, prevents buildup, fights toilet ring and freshens for up to 4 weeks.  The plastic cage keeps the product in place and allows water to activate the cleaner with each flush.  The best part?  It costs less than $2!  Now that is worth it to me if I do not have to scrub my toilet.

I have always been a fan of automatic toilet cleaners and I was impressed with the new Soft Scrub 4-in-1.  My downstairs toilet get a lot of use, especially from two little boys.  It keep the toilet clean and left a fresh scent I the bathroom!

3 lucky Spend Less 2 Save More readers will win a free coupon for any Soft Scrub product!  Winners will be updated on this post and must e-mail mailing address to Spend Less 2 Save More to claim prize.

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Dial Kids Body & Hair Wash - A Review, Giveaway, and Sweepstakes!

For 65 years, the Dial brand has been developing trusted personal care products for clean, healthy skin.  Dial is excited to announce its entry into the kids' personal care segment with NEW Dial Kids Body and Hair Wash that offers age-appropriate variants developed to address the specific needs of children.  Dial Kids Peachy Clean for ages 2+ and Dial Kids Watery Melon for ages 6+.

Developed with pediatric dermatologists, Dial introduces specialized formulas for children ages 2-5 and 6-10, helping parents make smart decisions with it comes to kids' perfect skin.  The 2-in-1 formulas combine shampoo and body wash for one speedy step.

 (my 4 year old thought it was pretty funny when I asked him to stand in the shower in his pj's!)

Dial Kids Body and Hair Wash Peachy Clean

 

Meant for children ages 2-5.

Perfect for kids that have outgrown traditional newborn soaps

but aren't ready for adult strength hair and body wash.

Provides ultra gentle cleansing with a fun, light scent.

 

Dial Kids Body and Hair Wash Watery Melon and Berry Cool

 

Meant for children ages 6-10.

Offers mild cleansing without drying out delicate skin.

Watery Melon and Berry Cool variants contain bright, vibrant colors

and fun scents that take bath time to a whole new level of fun!

 

Both formulas are teat free, hypoallergenic, contain no artificial dyes or added parabens,

 and are pH balanced.

 

 

I was given the opportunity to try both of these great new products.  I have a 4 year old that was able to test the Peachy Clean and a 7 year old who got to test the Watery Melon.  The first thing I liked about both products was that it was both a shampoo and body wash in one!  I like having just one container that can do the job of two.  It is often confusing for little ones who want to "do it by themselves" to know which the shampoo and which is the body wash.

 

The second thing I enjoyed were the scents.  I love the smell of scented body washes and they both had an amazingly pleasant scent.  I especially enjoyed the Peachy Clean scent, I wish I could use that for myself!  Also, they did not irritate either of my sons' skin, just left them smelling clean and fresh.

 

The verdict from the boys?  "Can we buy some more of this?"  They loved it! 

 

The Dial brand is hosting a sweepstakes along with the release of NEW Dial Kids Body and Hair Wash.  One grand prize winner will receive $1000, while 250 additional winners will receive a coupon for a free bottle of NEW Dial Kids Body and Hair Wash.

 

But this is your lucky day, I have three coupons for a free bottle to give away to three Spend Less 2 Save More readers!  Winners must e-mail mailing address to spendless2savemore@gmail.com to claim prize.

 

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Pantene Pro-V Expert Collection Rebate and ECB's!

There is a $10 rebate when you spend $20 on Pantene Pro-V Expert Collection products (after coupons).  Plus this week (through 4/6/13) you get $10 in Extra Care Bucks when you spend $30 on Pantene Pro-V Expert Collection products at CVS.  I got:

Shampoo - $8.99
Conditioner - $8.99
Keratin Repair - $14.99

I had a $3 coupon off one, so I spent $29.97 before taxes. I got $10 in ECB's and will submit for a $10 rebate.  So I will ended up paying $9.97 for all three!

Combat Ant Killing Bait Strips - Review, Giveaway, & Contest

Well it is almost spring time and that means ants will be coming out in full force!  Combat is introducing new Ant and Roach Killing Bait Strips.  The same killing power found in Combat Gels is now available in a new discreet design.  These thin bait strips have an adhesive backing that makes it easy to hide out of sight and reach of children and pests.

Combat Killing Bait Strips are easy to apply and leave no mess.  The unique gel bait formula contains food and water that roaches and ants seek, combined with Fipronil, a fast acting insecticide that begins killing within hours once the insect has come into contact with the bait. 

Unlike sprays that just kills the bugs you see, the strips are designed to kill the nest and colony that are beyond your reach - attacking the source of the pest problem. 

We have a sunroom that constantly gets ants.  I will definitely be using these strips over the summer picnic season!

During the month of April through June, Combat brand is hosting an online sweepstakes where entrants can become eligible to win one of three $250 Visa gift cards or one grand prize of $1000 Visa gift card!

One Spend Less 2 Save More reader will win your choice of either the Ant Killing Bait Strips or Roach Killing Bait Strips!





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$1000 Giveaway From Dial

Dial® is proud to introduce the Healthier Skin. Healthier You.® Sweepstakes featuring Dial® Coconut Water Body Wash!  One lucky grand prize winner will receive $1,000, while 250 second place winners will receive free Coconut Water Body Wash.  Go here to enter!

Combat $1000 Giveaway

Combat® is proud to introduce the $1,000 Giveaway featuring NEW Combat® Ant & Roach Killing Bait Strips!  You can enter to win up to $1,000!  Go here to enter!

Purex E-Newsletter

In April, Purex will be releasing not just one but TWO exclusive coupons to their e-newsletter subscribers.

In order to have access to these digital coupons, consumers not already signed up for the Purex e-Newsletter must opt-in by next Friday, March 29.

Consumers can add themselves to the newsletter via this link:
www.purex.com/newsletter

 

Soft Scrub Advanced Surface - Review & Giveaway

Update:  The winners are askandilltell86@, tarter95@, and
lilypaddj3@ please e-mail your mailing address to spendless2savemore@gmail.com to claim your prize!

 

NEW Soft Scub Advanced Surface is the rinse-free gel that cleans and polishes granite, marble, glass cooktops, and stainless steel.  Soft Scrub Advanced Surface is both tough on stains, and gentl on even your most delicate surfaces.

Tough on Stains, Gentle on Surfaces:

• Specialty formulated for granite and marble countertops, stainless steel sinks and appliances, and stovetops.
• No rinsing required, just wipte away ith a dample sponge, cloth, or paper towel.

I tried this new produt out on my glass cooktop.  Now my stove is about 8 years old now and unfortunately I have developed some ring around my burners.  I followed the directions on the bottle.  It defintely cleaned the glass cooktop well, but failed to remove the burnt on rings on my stove.  The cooktop came out extra shiny, and I will definitely use it to clean my stove.  Perhaps, my burners are just not going to get clean!

Spend Less 2 Save More Contest 3 lucky Spend Less 2 Save More readers will receive a coupon for a FREE bottle of Soft Scrub To enter:

• Like Spend Less 2 Save More on Facebook and leave a comment on this post!
• Enter the Soft Scrub Don't Worry, Be Happy Sweepstakes and leave a comment on this post!

Contest will end on April 2, 2013 at midnight EST. Winners will be posted at the top of this post and must e-mail spendless2savemore@gmail.com with address to claim prize. Contest is open to US residents 18 and over only.

Purex and Soft Scrub provided a free sample so I could review them. However, all of the opinions expressed here are my own as always!

Try A Different Side - Avocados

So lately, I am loving avocados!  I never was a really big fan of eating them as is (not as guacamole) until I was pregnant with baby #3.  Plus, Aldi has been having amazing sales on them.  I just picked them up a couple of weeks ago, three of them for 99 cents!  Can't beat that deal.

Did you know that most of the fat in avocados is monounsaturated fat, the same heart-healthy kind found in olive oil and macadamia nut oil? Even more important, the fat from an avocado isn't likely to stick to your hips, because the fruit is packed with fiber!  Research shows that high-fiber foods can help keep you healthy in a number of ways, including aiding in digestion and improving heart health.

So why not try a different (refreshing) side for dinner like an avocado!

Peanut Butter Chocolate Corn Flake Bars

Ingredients:

1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 cup white sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
6 cups corn flakes
2 cups semi sweet chocolate chips

Directions:

Heat peanut butter, sugar, and corn syrup over medium heat until boiling.  Remove from heat and stir in corn flakes.  Pour into greased 9"x13" pan.  Melt chocolate chips in the microwave.  Use 30 second increments stirring and heating.  Pour chocolate over top.  Chill in refrigerator.  Cut, serve, enjoy!

Purex Natural Elements Tropical Splash Detergent - Review, Giveaway & Contest!

Update:  the winners are tarter95@, lilypaddj3@, and Laurasu82@ please e-mail your mailing address to spendless2savemore@gmail.com to claim your prize!

 

I love it when I get a brand new box from Purex, it means something new I get to try!!
Purex brand is proud to present the launch of a exciting new fragrance as part of their Natural Elements line.  Exotic fruits like pineapple and coconut combine with distant flowers to take your nose on a tropical vacation with NEW Purex Natural Elements Tropical Splash Detergent.

This detergent delivers the Bright, White, and Clean I expect from Purex, but with naturally sourced ingredients.  Purex Natural Elements Tropical Splash offers natural fragrance extracts providing a great scent and a formula gentle enough for sensitive skin.  It is also biodegradable which promotes green cleaning practices.

What I like best about Purex detergents is that all of their products are optimized to perform in both HE washing machines as well as traditional ones.  Also, the price is always 1/2 the cost of other name brand detergents.  As a mom with 3 kids, Purex works for us and fits our budget!

The fragrance of this detergent will make you think you have escaped to the tropics!  The good news is that Purex has teamed up with Honey Bunches of Oats and Outrigger Hotels and Resorts for The 2013 Tropical Trio Sweepstakes.  One lucky winner will be sent to Outrigger on Waikiki Beach!  To enter go here!

Spend Less 2 Save More Contest: 3 lucky Spend Less 2 Save More readers will receive a coupon for a FREE bottle of Purex Natural Elements Tropical Splash. To enter:

1. (Mandatory) Like Spend Less 2 Save More on Facebook and leave a comment on this post!
2. (Bonus) Enter the Sweepstakes here and come back to this post and leave a comment that you did!


Contest will end on March 28, 2013 at midnight EST. Winners will be posted at the top of this post and must e-mail spendless2savemore@gmail.com with address to claim prize. Contest is open to US residents 18 and over only.

Purex provided a free sample so I could review them. However, all of the opinions expressed here are my own as always!

BabyComfyNose

 
If you’ve ever used a bulb or battery-type aspirator to clear the mucus out of your little one’s nose, you’ve probably said to yourself: “There has to be a better way!” Well, I just found a better way and it’s called the BabyComfyNose Nasal Aspirator. Here’s the amazing part (or gross part – depending on your perspective) it uses your own suction. And that’s why it’s superior to standard aspirators. Think about it: your own lungs are a really strong and natural vacuum cleaner – much more powerful than a tiny bulb or battery-powered motor. And the result is just a more effective method of clearing your baby’s sinuses.

But have no fear; you won’t suck boogies into your mouth because of the design of the receptacle and the tissue filter that you insert into the body of the aspirator. This is why pediatricians are recommending BabyComfyNose to moms and dads. Recently, Dr. Sears of The Doctors TV Show recommended the BabyComfyNose as the best way to clear babies’ noses. Take a look at the video ‘How to Use the BabyComfyNose’ here www.babycomfynose.com to see how well it works. The folks at BabyComfyNose are also offering a 20%-off coupon. Details here http://www.babycomfynose.com/usfamilyguide. Coupon expires April 30, 2013.

 

 

Ken Turns 52!!

I just had to share!  Barbie's boy toy debuted on March 13, 1961.  I was such a huge fan of Barbies growing up.  My older sister and I would spend hours and hours in our basement playing with our Barbie families.  I was beyond excited when my daughter was born, I cannot wait until she is old enough to play Barbies.  My Mom still has a lot of my Barbie dolls, so she is sure to get some classic dolls!

My absolute favorite part of Toy Story 3, was when Ken was changing outfits for Barbie in his Dream House!  It completely cracked me up!