Tanya Peila

Friday, May 28, 2010

WINNERS of Old Navy Coupons! - Drum roll please...

Take a DEEP breath!

Of course I'm going to make you LOOK for it!

And the winners are:

#1 24/7 MOMS said...

I follow you on twitter

#2 mushymush said...

I will be wearing my dress for family fun- so cute and casual!

#3 Josee said...

I would wear this dress for a family fun day with a cami and a scarf.

Thanks for the giveaway :)

#4 elle said...

I like Old Navy on facebook!

#5 Kim D. said...

Following you on twitter @kimmi78_sd.

#6 Anonymous said...

I would use it for PLAY!!!!

#7 Anonymous said...

I would use it for romance. Have to look good for my man ;).

#8 Britney Ada said...

I subscribed to your blog!

#9 His Wifey said...

I follow you on twitter

#10 Beth said...

I like Tanya Peila on FB

I have emailed your coupons to you. Check your JUNK MAIL if you do not see the email. If you did NOT receive the email with the coupon in it. PLEASE email me before 9AM PST tomorrow OR I will have to resend it on Sunday evening.

Congrats everyone! Thanks for entering!

3 Spices You May Have Never Used That You'll Love

By 8:40:00 AM No comments:

Guest post from : Eric Rea

Ever wonder about the phrase, Variety is the spice of life? We use phrases like that, not ever really thinking about what they really mean, or where they came from. Tracing back to 1 B.C., this particular phrase means making life exciting when you try different experiences, making life interesting by adding different things to your life, or making life worth living.
It is a very apt phrase as it refers to the role spices play in our food. Adding spices to our dishes adds interesting flavors, enhances our fruits, vegetables, and meats, give our taste buds something to relish and savor. Using these spices in new and interesting ways are what separates the cooks from the master chefs.
But, you don't have to be a master chef to try new spices. So, to further your spice journeys, here are 3 spices you may have heard about but never used.

Fenugreek Seed
This maple-flavored seed is an annual herb that is a common ingredient in curry powder, pickles, and pastes. But, its unique flavor can be a delightful enhancement to all kinds of hearty soups, stews, salads, chutneys, effectively blended with other spices, used as sprinkles on cakes, and its greens can be used in salads, as well.

Saffron
Known as the most expensive spice in the world, saffron possesses a pleasant metallic honey flavor with grassy overtones. You've seen its evidence in Spanish Arroz con Pollo, as it is often used to add a distinctive flavor and exceptional yellow-orange color to rices, soups, and breads. Its distinct flavor lends very well to seafood, rice, breads, and cakes.
And if you're wondering why it's so expensive, saffron is actually the stigmas of the saffron crocus. It takes 225,000 handpicked stigmas of 75,000 blossoms to make one pound of saffron! Worth the expense? Absolutely.

Wasabi
You may know this spice as Japanese horseradish. Often found in sushi and sashimi dishes, this particular spice will add pizzazz to your seafood, meats, sauces, and soups. Its strong flavor is hot, yes, but it doesn't linger like chili peppers do. It's the perfect thing for putting a little zest into those meal days when nothing sounds good.
So, spice up your life and your palate! Experiment a little and see how it turns out. Even Julia Child had to start somewhere.
Image taken from: http://www.fotosearch.com/photos-images/fenugreek-seed.html, http://www.fotosearch.com/photos-images/saffron.html, http://www.fotosearch.com/photos-images/wasabi.html

ONE day Old Navy $50 Gift certificate giveaway! TEN winners!

By 3:42:00 PM 187 comments:

Old Navy has a new Facebook game! Playing “Barker’s Bones” you can dig up this week’s highest-value, unlimited coupon: $10 off $50. Play once a week to score super savings. Happy digging!

This Memorial Day weekend you can plunge into the weekend with a fun, daring look! The Old Navy Item of the Week: Women’s Deep V-Neck Dresses. A little number with big impact! They look super with flats or heels, with or without a cami, day or night. All that for $10, reg. $19.50, 5/28-6/3! Take advantage of this fab fashion find in-store only.See Women’s Deep V-Neck Dresses at www.facebook.com/oldnavy under the “Weekly Ad” tab. While you’re there, click the “Barker’s Bones” tab to dig up this week’s coupon.

Tanya Peila and Old Navy are giving away TEN $50 off of $100 coupons. So basically 50% your purchase of $100! WOW! (Check with your local Old Navy to see if you can combine this coupon with your Barker's Bones coupon for even MORE savings!)

Coupon is good from 5/28/10-6/3/10!

Ways to enter to win:

1. Leave a comment below and tell me: A Deep V-Neck Dress is perfect for a play date or date night. Will you wear it for a family fun or romance?

Additional entries (#1 above MUST be entered before the following entries)

1. Subscribe to my blog! and leave a comment that you subscribed.

2. Follow my on Twitter! @tanyapeila

3. "Like" Tanya Peila on Facebook.

4. Follow Old Navy on Twitter! @OldNavy

5. "Like" Old Navy on Facebook.

6. Tweet about this giveaway.

Leave a comment for EACH entry method please.
Winner will be chosen TOMORROW May 28, 2010 at 9pm PST. Winners have until 5/29/10 (8am PST) to respond with their email address for coupon delivery, so make SURE to leave your email address in your comments!). If you do not respond in time I will draw another winner.

Giveaway Rules:

1. These are only one-time use coupons. Once redeemed, code is no longer valid and cannot be used again.

2. If a Sales Associate advises that code is not working, customer should ask them to key in the alpha-numeric code under the barcode (if the code is valid, and it’s just a question of the barcode reader having issue with the print quality of the code, then keying in should work – unless it’s already been redeemed then it will come up as invalid).

3. Coupons are valid for a limited time only. Tanya Peila, and Old Navy cannot replace a coupon that was not redeemed in the correct timeframe.

I did not recevie any compensation from Old Navy or it's affiliates for this blog post.

Top Renovation Tips for a Happy Home

By 9:09:00 AM No comments:

Next week we will start talking about home renovations and repairs. As you all know we have started this at our house since moving in in October!

Here is a great guest article on "Top Renovation Tips for a Happy Home", from Ashton Mapletoft

Everybody’s idea of the “perfect home” differs. For this reason, you might not be able to find the house of your dreams. Even if this home did exist; it would no doubt cost a pretty penny. It might make more sense to purchase a house that best fits your aspirations and then shape it as you require. First-time buyers commonly buy a bare or run-down property and work away “doing it up”. Once work has completed, the first time buyer can sell the property and buy a more “fitting” house. Whatever your reason for home renovation, make sure that the project you are undertaking is well planned and thought out.

Normal buildings insurance may not cover the home during a renovation. Each insurance policy is different, so the terms and conditions should be read in their entirety before you decide whether or not your existing policy provides ample cover during work.

Always employ the services of builders, decorators and plumbers who have a good reputation. Receiving job quotations from more than two sources will help ensure that you don’t get overcharged for a particular job. You can always barter with each source; after receiving a new quote, describe the price and services on offer by other workmen, you will probably find that the new quote is revised and you may well end up saving money.

Although “adding your own touch” is an essential element in creating the home you desire, err on the side of caution when installing fixtures and decorating your home. You may wish to sell the property in the future, so you should try and ensure that personal touches are laced with neutrality. Painting the walls black and ceilings red may create the ambiance you are looking for, but when selling the property you would be likely to scare away any interested buyers.

Properly plan every detail of the renovation project and get advice from professionals whenever possible. Seek advice and the thoughts of close friends and family –they may come up with something you haven’t thought of. Don’t try to “reinvent the wheel” when building and decorating. Budget for every job – and adhere to it. Finally, if you don’t feel confident about carrying out a particular job yourself – call in the professionals.

About the author: Ashton Mapletoft is a freelance writer with a particular interest in buildings insurance.

The 13 Lamest Excuses For Bad Service

By 8:19:00 AM No comments:

Last month we had a horrible experience at the Rain Forest Cafe! I submitted their "excuse" to The Toilet Paper Entrepreneur and here is the full article. Mine is #2

Udder Ointment!

By 8:55:00 AM No comments:

I LOVE Udder Ointment. I have used it for years. When you sew (when I get time) often your hands can get really dry and I find many lotions have oils in them and will leave stains on your fabric if you use it while sewing. Well Udder Ointment does not leave any oily stains om my fabric!

My friend at Dr. Hess products sent me some samples if their new Udder Stick 's. They sent four tubes and there was a fight between me and Little Man on who got how many and what flavors! We love our chapstick. So we both tried it, SO moisturizing! Little Man loves it so much he kept reapplying throughout the night, not that he needed to! We will see how long his tube lasts him! Yes I only gave him ONE tube and save all the rest for myself!

The newest addition to the Dr. Hess Udder Ointment line includes a soothing Lip Balm for dry and chapped lips. Based on the original healing formula and with added SPF 15 Sunscreen, the Udder Stick will keep your lips protected and “udderly” smooth! FOUR FLAVORS NOW AVAILABLE including the Original Vanilla, Mango, Pomegranate and Vanilla Mint! Choose one of each, four of a kind or design your own pack! Vanilla Mint is my favorite so far!

Just $10 for the four pack and you are on your way! Dr. Hess has other great products as well, like the previously mentioned Udder Ointment and Udder Ointment for Baby Butts.

Visit Dr. Hess today!

Free Tropicana Pure Premium Juice!

By 11:53:00 AM No comments:

Are you a Tropicana Rewards Member? According to their Facebook Page the deal of their day on Wednesday 5/26, will be a coupon for a free Tropicana Pure Premium Juice (up to $4.99 value!) for just 5 points!

Volunteer Spot - Doing Good Just Got Easier

By 8:29:00 AM No comments:

We are all starting to think about and plan our summer activities. Yesterday we talked about how we can help our community out. Today we are going to talk about getting the community involved in our summer plans!

Karen Bantuveris, a management consultant working-mom, became a Girl Scout leader and PTA board member once her daughter entered school. Shocked at all the ‘little things’ that made volunteering a hassle, and fueled by frustration with reply-all emails, clipboards, Online! Groups, and late night reminder messages…she decided to do something about it.
VolunteerSpot launched in Spring, 2009 with the mission of enabling ANYONE to quickly mobilize and coordinate volunteers in their community, congregation and social network. VolunteerSpot’s simple sign up application makes it easy for community members to participate and say YES to volunteering. No waiting for approvals and passwords, no software to install, just easy, free scheduling and sign up tools for everyday heroes making a difference.

Providing a quality summer camp experience doesn’t have to be expensive -- find a willing group of friends and neighbors and have a Do It Yourself Kids Summer Camp. Our complete guide to DIY Neighborhood Summer Camp includes suggestions and ideas that make planning your camp a breeze. VolunteerSpot’s free online scheduling tool makes it easy for parents to sign up to share the workload, making more fun for all!

Volunteer Spot offers a free e-book called "DIY Neighborhood Summer Camp ". What are GREAT way to get all the kids and parents involved in summer activities!

VolunteerSpot offers FREE eBooks to support your local community volunteer planning, fundraising, and service activities. We invite you to download and share our eBooks with your friends, family and fellow volunteer leaders. Spread the word....with VolunteerSpot, DOING GOOD just got easier!

How will YOU make your community better?

By 8:09:00 AM No comments:

From simplemom.net

May is all about relationships and community service with Simple Living Media. The past few weeks, we’ve discussed (sometimes pretty fervently) what it means to be a good neighbor, whether it’s important to know our surrounding neighbors, and at what level do we allow our children to play freely in our living environments.
These are all important factors in helping us thrive wherever we live, be it a high-rise in an urban metropolis or a wide-open farm with horses as the nearest neighbors.
Regardless where or how we live, we all live in community, to some extent. And communities need its people to make the place what it is, and what it should be. A few weeks ago, contributor Megan Tietz gave us some fabulous ideas for encouraging a tighter-knit community — spearheaded by us.

To read the rest of this article please visit Simple Mom

Little Man and the BUS!

By 9:13:00 PM No comments:

So here is the story and I'm not backing his behavior BUT there may be a reason why! First off he takes an herbal remedy called Brightspark to help calm him and take away some hyperactivity. WELL he is suppose to take it three times a day. When he started the nurse at the school said since we give it to him at 7AM he should have it at school around 1 or 2. WELL she has been giving it to him at 10:30AM! No wonder the kid has issues in the afternoon! And then come to find out the principal did not even TELL him he was kicked off the bus! I went to school to get him, like I was told to do and he was not there! He substitute teacher sent him home on the bus! So I go to the bus stop and get him and told him there was a mistake and he was not suppose to get a "pride" certificate for the week since he got kicked off the bus. He said "I got kicked off the bus?" GEEZ! So long day but he did really good considering he knew the rules were no electronics if you can't ride the bus. No whining, he took it like a MAN!

New Yoplait GREEK Yogert!

By 8:40:00 AM No comments:

VERY Yummy stuff. I wish they would put probiotics in it! Even my local dariy carries it! Go Smith Brother's Farms!

With 12 grams of protein -- twice that found in leading yogurts-- new Yoplait Greek nourishes from the inside out. Available in four delicious flavors, Strawberry, Blueberry, Honey Vanilla and Plain, the brand’s newest offering has a unique thick and creamy texture with the unmatched taste expected of Yoplait.

To celebrate its new Greek yogurt and to encourage women to nourish their inner goddess, Yoplait has teamed up with actress Izabella Miko, who plays Greek Goddess Athena in the epic adventure new Warner Bros. Pictures’ and Legendary Pictures’ film “Clash of the Titans,” in theatres April 2 in 3D.

Click HERE to download a coupon* and save $0.30 on one cup of new Yoplait Greek today
VIP coupons, gift pack, information and additional gift pack to give away were all given to you from Yoplait and MyBlogSpark.

Step2® Recalls to Repair Riding Toys Due to Risk of Injury

By 1:22:00 PM No comments:

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and Health Canada, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.
Name of Product: Push Around and Whisper Ride Buggies
Units: About 2.5 million
Manufacturer: Step2 Company, of Streetsboro, Ohio
Hazard: A pin attaching to the yellow knob on the handle of the buggy can loosen, causing the handle to detach from the buggy. This poses a serious risk of injury to young children.
Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received 28 reports of the handle detaching; two incidents required professional medical treatment and 26 resulted in minor scrapes and scratches.
Description: The Step2® Push Around Buggy™ and Whisper Ride Buggy™ are ride-on toys. The buggy comes in various colors; such as, orange, red, blue, pink and green. The buggies have a red “Step2” logo on the handle of the buggy.
Buggies that have a handle attached by a bolt with a plastic white or black head and nut are not included in this recall.
Sold at: Major retailers and specialty stores from August 1999 through March 2010 for between $29 and $59.
Manufactured in: United States
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled buggy and contact Step2 for a free repair kit.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Step2 toll-free at (866) 860-1887 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. ET Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at http://www.step2.com/recall/
Note: Health Canada's press release is available at http://cpsr-rspc.hc-sc.gc.ca/PR-RP/recall-retrait-eng.jsp?re_id=1035
Only buggies with pins that have yellow knobs are included in this recall.

The Hobby of Quilting - Guest Post

By 8:56:00 AM No comments:

I have been quilting since I was 17. My grandma taught me to make my first quilt (pictured to left). I am not the A-typical quilter, because most of the time my corners don't match up BUT it is VERY theraputic for me! Here is a great article about the Hobby of Quilting along with some pictures of my quilts!

If you have looked high and low for just the right covering to match your decor and have not found what you were looking for, consider making one. You can select the pattern and colors. By making your own you don’t have

to worry about choosing a quilt with fabrics, patterns, or even a price that you hate. Putting together your own gives you so many options. Keep in mind however, if you want to save money, it probably won’t be cheaper especially when you consider the time you will spend on it.

Sewing and quilting is an expensive pastime. You need to have both a sewing machine and quilting machine unless you are going to hand quilt. If you hand quilt it, you will need to have or borrow a frame. But you also have to buy the material and other supplies in order to make both your quilt top and the backing. Quilting is a hobby that lets you get away from the world and release your creativity. For many people, it is what they do to relieve stress and find their own peace for a time. Some find the challenge of quilting a specific pattern to be invigorating, others feel it is enervating and frustrating.

The extended procedure of making a quilt begins with selecting the design. This will determine the amount of time it will take you to craft. Pick out a design that matches, or moderately boosts your quilting proficiency. All your hard work and the time you put into it will be obvious in the finished product. Always keep your quilting skills in mind when deciding on a pattern. You might prefer the appearance of an intricate quilt, but have you mastered the art of quilt assembly enough to choose such a complex pattern? Those tiny pieces will allow you to form a delicate design, but they are more time consuming to create.

The next thing that you do is pick out your colors. Sound easy? It is not as simple as a novice may think. Most people when making a quilt go to a number of different stores to learn what lines of fabric, patterns and colors various shops offer. Don’t settle with the cloth you locate at the first store. Don't be satisfied until you locate the best selection to fit your needs.

Next, if you’ve selected any dark hues such as black, red or blue it is best to prewash and dry them. This is a preventative measure because it will help stop any dark colors from running onto any lighter colors in the future. Drying your fabric before use prevents shrinkage. After this is the cutting which can be quite laborious or restorative, depending on how you look at the task. Make sure the pieces are formed exactly as instructed or else it will mess up the overall effect.

Some people think the sewing is the most enjoyable stage. The pieces start to come together and you can see how your choices work in tandem with the entire project and how the pattern is shaping up. Be sure you are sewing it really well because you don’t want the corners to come undone or have points that don’t match up. Don't forget that if you are frustrated walk away from it for awhile. You don’t want to be frustrated when sewing for pleasure.

Once you have stitched the blocks together it’s time to affix the sashing and borders. This is the most rewarding experience because all your efforts have made such a lovely object. Whether you quilt it by hand on a quilting frame or even find a machine quilter to do it for you is your decision. No matter what method you choose, you are likely to love the end result particularly after the labor and time you have invested in this functional piece of art and comfort.
This article is brought to you by classesandcareers.com. Start your career off on the right foot with a degree from accredited Online Schools

Remote-Controlled Helicopters Recalled by Imagine Nation Books Due to Fire and Burn Hazards

By 1:20:00 PM No comments:

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product.
Name of Product: “Fly Dragonfly” (also called “Queen Bee”) Remote-Controlled Helicopters
Units: 46,000
Distributor: Imagine Nation Books Ltd./Books Are Fun, of Boulder, Colo.
Hazard: The rechargeable battery inside the helicopters can overheat, igniting the helicopter and posing fire and burn hazards to consumers.
Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received 49 reports of the helicopters overheating, including six reports of flames coming from the helicopters, and one report of minor property damage. No injuries have been reported.
Description: This recall involves the “Fly Dragonfly” (also called “Queen Bee”) remote-controlled helicopters. The helicopters are black and yellow plastic, measure about 19 inches long by 6 ½ inches high. The helicopters have a rounded front yellow cockpit with bee decals and a narrow black plastic tail assembly. They were sold with a remote-control unit and a separate charger. “Fly Dragonfly” and SKU #51727 are printed on the packaging.
Sold at: Book/gift fairs held in schools, hospitals and office buildings nationwide from August 2009 through January 2010 for about $38.
Manufactured in: China
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled helicopters and contact Imagine Nation Books Ltd/Books Are Fun to receive a full refund.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Imagine Nation Books Ltd./Books are Fun at (800) 917-0213 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. MT Monday through Friday, visit the firm’s website at www.booksarefun.com/helicopter.php

6 Tips for Sandwiched Boomers Planning Summer Staycations

By 9:28:00 AM No comments:

Guest post by Rosemary Lichtman, Ph.D. and Phyllis Goldberg, Ph.D.

With the high price of gasoline, are you thinking of canceling your vacation trip? This summer more and more Sandwiched Boomers are reducing their carbon footprint by taking "staycations" with their families. Why drive to a resort when there are community swimming pools around the corner? Why plan a remote getaway when you can relax in the beauty and serenity near you? You don't need to travel to the city for excitement when you can create your own at home.

Gasoline prices are edging toward five dollars a gallon and the hassle and expense of air travel is increasing. Families saddled with the economic and emotional costs of caring for growing children and aging parents are saving money and energy by vacationing at home this year. But how to make it a real vacation and not one long list of chores and obligations? When you follow these tips, you'll return from your staycation refreshed, recharged and reconnected to your family:

1. Make planning for your staycation a part of the process of reconnection that usually comes about on vacation. Set aside time to have a family meeting and encourage everyone to talk about what activities they want to include. This preparation will give you all a better understanding and appreciation of each other. And you can reduce the tension and arguments that might ensue later about what you were going to do together.

2. When your staycation begins, take a complete break from all work. Don't check your job-related emails or call in for updates about projects. This is your free time so resist home-related chores as well. Leave the beds unmade or arrange for someone to come in and clean so that you won't be temped to work around the house. Do set aside time for any home activities you enjoy for relaxation - gardening or scrap booking, for example.

3. Act as you would on a vacation away from home. Go to bed and get up when you want - don't set your alarm clock. Let the kids stay up past their bedtime if you are doing something out of the ordinary. Enjoy a special breakfast out one day. Relax in the sun and read a page-turner or amusing beach book. Exercise in ways that aren't easy while you are working - a morning tennis or golf game, a midday horseback ride through the countryside, a leisurely hike at sunset. Splurge on a night out at a fancy restaurant or for tickets to an entertaining event.

4. Consider this time as a week of weekends. Have fun with your family - play board games together, make popcorn and rent classic movies, go to the park for a pick-up basketball game, take in a concert under the stars, get bleacher tickets for a baseball game, go for family bike rides or long walks in the neighborhood, splash each other in the community pool. Have a barbeque and let each family member cook or prepare a different part of the menu. Plan your own Olympics competition with events appropriate for your children's ages.

5. Explore your immediate surroundings and discover something new. Take a city bus tour and see the sights that you've never noticed before. Expand your horizons and those of your family members. Visit a museum near you - often they offer entrance fee free days or discounts for local patrons. Participate together in a creative activity like ceramic painting or a mini-course in photography at the community center. Visit the campus of a local college and wander through the library. You may uncover an interest you never realized you had.

6. Remember to include the universal vacation ritual - take lots of photos and videos to share with your friends. Looking at the pictures of your family's smiling faces will enhance your memories of the special times you spent together. Continue the feelings of togetherness by creating an album commemorating your first family staycation.

The decision to spend your vacation at home this summer can deepen the bonds and transform your family. Without either the tension that travel creates or the stress of considerable expenditures in this uncertain economy, you will find that the time socializing with family this year is more relaxing than ever. And as a Sandwiched Boomer with so many responsibilities, you deserve this rest and respite. Your staycation can help carry you through the year ahead with your enriched family relationships. So instead of "bon voyage," it's "bonnes vacances a la maison!"
© 2008, Her Mentor Center
Rosemary Lichtman, Ph.D. & Phyllis Goldberg, Ph.D. are co-founders of www.HerMentorCenter.com, a website for midlife women and www.NourishingRelationships.Blogspot.com, a Blog for the Sandwich Generation. They are authors of a forthcoming book about Baby Boomer's family relationships and publish a free newsletter, Stepping Stones, through their website.

Playtex Bra Makeover - Don't Get Excited GUYS

By 12:47:00 PM No comments:

We know that busy moms don't always have time to update their bras or even check to make sure they are wearing the correct size. That's why we wanted to let you know about this contest from Playtex! Playtex recently launched www.PlaytexBraMakeover.com, a site where women can go to apply for a bra makeover or nominate a friend. If chosen, the winner will be flown to New York to receive a Bra Makeover with style expert Alison Deyette. Deyette is a fashion and trend lifestyle expert who has been featured on Bravo's Millionaire Matchmaker and TLC's Ten Years Younger, as well as in print publications including Good Housekeeping, The Washington Post, and O Magazine. Apply for your chance to win a Playtex Bra Makeover today. The last day to apply is Friday, May 21st, 2010.

The 10 winners selected for a Bra Makeover will also star in their very own webisode wherein a makeover candidate will receive a fitting with Deyette and walk away with the perfect Playtex products. A new webisode will premier on www.PlaytexBraMakeover.comevery two weeks.

By posting this information, I am entered into a contest to win a free bra from Playtex. I did not receive any compensation for this post and thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

My Weekend!

By 9:30:00 AM No comments:

What did you do this weekend?
This weekend we FINALLY/OFFICIALLY finished unpacking. (with some HEAVY persuasion from the Milk Man).
But that is just where the weekend finished!
Saturday, I mowed the lawn, this is very therapeutic for me. Especially when I crack up the iPod and sing my little heart away! THEN, my mom came over and brought me some veggie seedlings and we added them to the garden.
Sunday, after the final unpacking, we had some family time and painted and played some games. THEN it was time to break out the weed whacker put the finishing touches on the yard! Lastly, spreaded the Weed And Feed on the ever growing Chia Pet (newly seeded front yard) and the weekend was done!
I'm a bit sore today and think I almost need a day to recover from the weekend. But it was GREAT exercise and lots of great family fun!

6 Ways to Keep your Child Active this Summer - Guest Post

By 9:15:00 AM No comments:

This is a guest post written by Lauren Dzuris. Lauren runs FindMyCarSeat, a child car seat website that helps soon to be parents find the right car seat for their child.

Summer is a time that we all look forward to. We can finally leave the house more often, become active again and enjoy the nice weather. Although we look forward to summer a whole lot, our children have been waiting for this time all year. They are finally out of school and can enjoy their time off with their friends, family and by doing what they love.

Children can be quite easy to entertain, but some things entertain them more than we’d wish. When it comes to watching TV and playing video games on a nice day, we wish they could find something better to do outdoors. So, if you’re looking for ways to keep your children having fun this summer while staying active, here are a few things you may want to consider doing!

Visit the park: Visiting the park is always a fun time. Whether you enjoy a lake that is nearby or you just take a walk on the trails, it’s good to get out and enjoy the fresh air. Kids love the space to run around, especially if you have a smaller yard at home!

Take a trip: Taking your children somewhere they’ve never been is exciting. Whether you go up north a few cities or you visit a water park down south, the traveling is something every child looks forward to.

Join a sports team: Getting your children active with sports is important. It keeps them healthy, active and having fun. It also helps them interact with other kids and develop social skills and gain skills in whatever sport they’re playing.

Parks and recreation: Parks and rec has several different programs your child can enroll in. Whether they want to take swimming lessons, dance lessons or get involved in a crafting program, there are always options out there.

Beach: Letting your child play in the sand, swim in the water and enjoy a nice picnic is always fun too. It gets them out of the house and enjoying time with friends and family.

Yard work: Children love to get dirty, we all know that. So, the next time you’re out in the yard let them help you. Whether you’re planting flowers or pulling a few weeds let them get a feel for what yard work is like.

Spending time with your children outdoors is important. It helps them learn healthier, more active habits than by encouraging them to keep busy by watching TV and playing video games. So, the next time you and your child are bored at home and want to get out and about, consider a few of these ideas!

Lauren is a stay at home mom that runs FindMyCarSeat.com in her spare time. She enjoys writing, parenting, doing crafts and taking walks around the neighborhood.

Simplify Your Life Giveaway

By 8:31:00 AM 9 comments:

New Simply… Go-Gurt is made from simple ingredients moms look for and contains no high fructose corn syrup or artificial colors or flavors. Each convenient portable yogurt tube contains a good source of calcium and vitamin D. Simply stated, Simply… Go-Gurt is a good-for-you, low fat yogurt snack that you can feel good about giving to your kids. New Simply… Go-Gurt is available in two kid-friendly flavors, Strawberry and Mixed Berry.

My son LOVES Simply..Go-Gurt. We freeze them and then send them in his lunch and they are defrosted and still cold just in time for lunch!

The first 30 readers who visit the site below and download a coupon to try the new Simply..Go-Gurt for FREE!

Tanyapeila.com and Yoplait are giving away one Go-Gurt “Simplify Your Life” prize pack that includes a pocket Etch a Sketch, weekly planner and a seat back organizer.
Ways to enter to win:
1. Subscribe to my blog! and leave a comment that you subscribed.
2. Follow my on Twitter! @tanyapeila
3. Blog about this contest.
Leave a comment for EACH entry method please.

Winner will be chosen May 23, 2010 .
Simply… Go-Gurt, prize pack, information and additional prize pack to give away were all given to you from Yoplait through MyBlogSpark

New Sonicare for KIDS!

By 8:42:00 AM No comments:

I was just talking with the aunt the other day how it is IMPOSSIBLE to get my son to brush his teeth for longer than 30 seconds! I LOVE my Sonicare! So what better brand to come up with a children's version! And I'm the "coolest" mom for getting the "coolest" toothbrush for my son!

There’s finally a Sonicare specifically designed to help kids build healthy brushing habits for life. With its kid-friendly features and clinically proven results, Sonicare For Kids helps parents teach their children to brush—supporting the transition from brushing together to brushing alone. It’s finally true that for children learning to brush, there is a Sonicare waiting to help them.

Superior results at each brushing phase
Sonicare For Kids is specifically designed to help parents teach their child (ages 4-10) to brush, then to help them transition their child to independent brushing. With its kid-friendly features for more effective brushing, Sonicare For Kids delivers superior results through every brushing phase.

Watch the Sonicare For Kids video:
Designed to deliver exceptional results as your young patients grow. View video >
Watch the AAPD “Healthy Smiles” video:
A family guide to kids’ oral health, featuring Kristi Yamaguchi. View video >

Look for Sonicare For Kids at Wal-Marts nationwide beginning on May 3rd. It is also currently available at Amazon.com and Target.
I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Sonicare and received a free Sonicare For Kids toothbrush to facilitate my review.

Gift Giving Ideas!

By 9:15:00 AM No comments:

Perfect Gifts for Dads and Grads

May is the perfect time to shop for dads and grads. With graduations and Father’s Day right around the corner, Scentsy products say “Congratulations” or “I love you” in the most heartwarming way.

For the fathers (or father figures) on your Father’s Day shopping list, Full-Size Scentsy Warmers from the Sports Collection are perfect for the armchair quarterback (or die-hard basketball, baseball or soccer fan). Or, for the outdoorsman, the classic Yukon or Lodge bring a touch of the outdoors in. Or, the ruggedly refined Riverbed will add a natural touch to his favorite space.

For graduation celebrations, Mid-Size Scentsy Warmers add unique designs and wonderful fragrance to small spaces. From the bold design and colors of the Twist Collection to the sophisticated and understated finishes of the Smooth Stone Collection, there is a Mid-Size Scentsy Warmer to fit nearly any dorm room, first apartment or favorite place to hang out.

Be sure to include a great scent as part of your gift. This season’s trendy Calypso (a blend of tropical fruits and exotic baobab), the masculine warmth of Rustic Lodge, or the fresh and herbaceous Clarity are the perfect complements to any Scentsy warmer you choose for your favorite dad or grad!

Interested in hearing more about these gift ideas? Call or email me today!

In Less Than 24 Hours

By 8:50:00 AM No comments:

YOU ARE AMAZING!
You will be a legal adult.
For 18 years now I have watched you grow from this little being into a woman.
With your beautiful smile and contagious personality.
I have witnessed your first steps, your first dance, and your first boyfriend.
You make us all so proud in your accomplishments.

We cannot wait to continue to watch you grow into an amazing women.
Remember you can accomplish anything you put your mind to.
I secretly pray that you will never lease this block.
I enjoy every minute we spend together, and feel like it is not enough at times.
I am here if you need me, and always will be.

Happy Birthday Caylah Christine

Graco®-Branded Drop Side Cribs Made by LaJobi Recalled Due to Entrapment and Suffocation Hazards

By 8:52:00 AM No comments:

For pictures of ALL the recalled cribs please see: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10212.html

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Graco®-branded drop side cribs made by LaJobi
Units: About 217,000
Manufacturer: LaJobi Inc., of Cranbury, N.J.
Hazard: The drop side hardware can break or fail, allowing the drop side to detach from the crib. When the drop side detaches, a hazardous gap is created between the drop side and the crib mattress in which infants and toddlers can become wedged or entrapped, posing a risk of suffocation and strangulation. In addition, children can fall from the cribs when the drop side detaches or fails to lock.
Incidents/Injuries: CPSC and LaJobi have received a total of 99 reports of drop side incidents, including hardware breakage and drop side detachment. There were two incidents in which children became entrapped in the gap created by the detached drop side. Both children were freed by their caregivers. There were six reports of children falling due to drop side failure, including one report of a mild concussion.
Description: This recall involves LaJobi-manufactured Graco® wood cribs. The full size cribs were sold in cherry, espresso, natural and white finishes. The production date, item number, purchase order number and finish name is printed on a label affixed to the footboard or headboard. "LaJobi" and the crib model name are printed on a product sticker located on the stabilizer bar or bottom rail of the crib. Affected models are listed below.

Sold at: Children's product stores and other retailers nationwide from February 2007 to March 2010 for between $140 and $200.
Manufactured in: China and Vietnam
Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled cribs and contact LaJobi to receive a free hardware retrofit kit that will immobilize the drop side. CPSC urges parents and caregivers to find an alternative, safe sleeping environment for their baby.
Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact LaJobi toll-free at (888) 842-2215 anytime, or visit the firm's Web site at http://safetyinfo.lajobi.com/2010/sindex.php
For more information on Crib Safety, visit CPSC's Crib Information Center.

Simplicity Cribs Recalled by Retailers; Mattress-Support Collapse Can Cause Suffocation and Strangulation

By 8:48:00 AM No comments:

One Infant Death Reported
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is announcing the recall of all Simplicity full-size cribs with tubular metal mattress-support frames. This recall includes fixed-side and drop-side cribs. These cribs pose a risk of serious injury or death due to entrapment, strangulation, suffocation and fall hazards to infants and toddlers.
The crib's tubular metal mattress-support frame can bend or detach and cause part of the mattress to collapse, creating a space into which an infant or toddler can roll and become wedged, entrapped or fall out of the crib.
CPSC has received a report of a one-year-old child from North Attleboro, Mass. who suffocated when he became entrapped between the crib mattress and the crib frame in April 2008. CPSC is aware of 13 additional incidents involving the recalled cribs collapsing due to the metal mattress- support frame bending or detaching, including one child entrapment that did not result in injury, and one child who suffered minor cuts to his head when his mattress collapsed and he fell out of the crib.
CPSC staff urges parents and caregivers to stop using these cribs immediately and find an alternative, safe sleeping environment for their baby. Do not attempt to fix these cribs.
Due to the fact that Simplicity and its successor, SFCA Inc., are no longer in business, CPSC has limited information about the number of cribs sold. All Simplicity drop-side cribs have previously been recalled for a hazard involving the drop side. Simplicity drop-side cribs could still be in use by parents or caregivers who are unaware of the recalls or by those who received a repair kit to immobilize the drop side from Simplicity when the firm was still in business. This recall involves ALL Simplicity cribs with tubular metal mattress-support frames regardless of model number.
Crib Name
Model Number
All Simplicity Cribs with tubular metal mattress-support frames regardless of model number
Model numbers unknown
Some of the known model numbers include:
Aspen 4-in-1
8755
Chelsea Deluxe 4-in-1 Convertible Sleep System
8324
Graco 4-in-1 Ultra Sleep System
4600
Graco Aspen 3-in-1
8740
Simplicity Crib and Changer Combo
8994
Simplicity Ellis Deluxe 4-in-1 Convertible Sleep System
8676
Simplicity Nursery-in-a-Box Convertible Crib
8910
Some model numbers are followed by letters, indicating the color or finish of the crib. The name "Simplicity Inc." or "Simplicity for Children" appears on a label on the crib's mattress-support frame and/or the crib's end panels. The cribs were manufactured in China.
The recalled cribs were sold at Walmart, Target, Babies R Us and other stores nationwide for between $150 and $300. Consumers should contact the store where the crib was purchased to receive a refund, replacement crib or store credit.
Important Message from CPSC:
CPSC would like to remind parents not to use any crib with missing, broken or loose parts. Make sure to tighten hardware from time to time to keep the crib sturdy. When using a drop-side crib, parents should check to make sure the drop side or any other moving part operates smoothly. Always check all sides and corners of the crib for disengagement. Any disengagement can create a gap, which could fatally entrap a child. In addition, do not try to repair any side of the crib with tape, wire, rope or by other means. Infants and toddlers have died in cribs with makeshift repairs.
For more information on Crib Safety, visit CPSC's Crib Information Center.

Recall of Kids' Tylenol, Motrin, Zyrtec, Benadryl

By 7:19:00 PM No comments:

I had THREE bottles. Check yours today!
from webmd.com
By Daniel J. DeNoonWebMD Health News
Reviewed by Michael W. Smith, MD
May 2, 2010 -- Manufacturing defects have led to the recall of 43 child and infant liquid formulations of Tylenol, Motrin, Zyrtec, and Benadryl by McNeil, a division of Johnson & Johnson.
No injuries or deaths have yet been reported. The voluntary recall follows an April 19 FDA inspection of a McNeil plant in Fort Washington, Pa. that uncovered "manufacturing deficiencies," the Washington Post reports.
The company says the chances of injury from one of the recalled products are "remote." Yet consumers are warned not to use the recalled products.
"Some of the products included in the recall may contain a higher concentration of active ingredient than is specified; others may contain inactive ingredients that may not meet internal testing requirements; and others may contain tiny particles," a company news release states.
If children who have taken the recalled products have unusual symptoms, parents are urged to contact a health care professional.
Parents should not give children adult formulation of the medications. Alternative brands of the products, including generic medications, are available. Parents who have questions about alternative treatments should consult their child's pediatrician.
Recalled products may be returned for a refund or exchanged for a fresh product once manufacturing issues have been resolved.
McNeil did not say how many units were being recalled, but the number likely is huge. Recalled products were distributed in the U.S., Canada, Dominican Republic, Dubai (UAE), Fiji, Guam, Guatemala, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Panama, Trinidad & Tobago, and Kuwait.
List of Recalled Products: http://children.webmd.com/news/20100502/recall-of-kids-tylenol-motrin-zyrtec-benadryl
For refund or coupon for replacement see here: http://www.mcneilproductrecall.com/index.jhtml

BEST concert EVER! #tripsandpicks

By 8:47:00 AM No comments:

This past Saturday I went to the BEST concert EVER! It also helped that the artist was just 4' from me, good looking and MAN can HE sing!

Thanks to Country Financial, me and my cousin and BFF got to meet and experience backstage with Jason Aldean!

Jason is SUPER nice (nice smelling too!), down to earth guy, who in case you want to know prefers boxers. (YES we asked!)

When we arrived we were escorted backstage very the very nice staff at Country Financial. then we enjoyed drinks and appetizers.

Next we were ushered to a "secret" location, where we met and had our pictures taken with Jason.

Then we returned to our backstage room and Jason came out and sang "Big Green Tractor", literally 4' in front of us. He was AMAZING! You know some artists just don't sound the same as on their albums, well he DOES!

After that Jason we swept off to prepare for the show and we went and found our seats. He ROCKED the T-Dome! It was amazing.

During the Q & A I asked Jason what his favorite part about all of this was? He responded getting to go so many new places and meet so many new people. He said a couple years ago he had never been to the West Coast. Loved the answer because most artists would say "the fans". Yeah we know we are cool and you love us but the truth is WAY better!

Don't forget to check out the Road Trips and Guitar Picks website, music, games, and prizes! https://www.tripsandpicks.com/

The Blessing of Stewardship

By 8:43:00 AM No comments:

From: http://www.incourage.me/ (GREAT website!)
by Tsh, Simple Mom

I love springtime for so many reasons, but one of my favorites is that somehow, the cool breeze and warm sunshine motivate me to thrust open the curtains and get cleaning.

I write about this in my e-book, Spring Cleaning for Normal People, and in it, I share a three-step process to use in ten areas of your home over the span of two weeks. The idea is to work just a little bit each day for a few weeks, so that you don't burn out or get overwhelmed before finishing.
This process deals with the physical clutter. It gives you practical ideas for dealing with the stuff.
But spring cleaning is merely a band-aid unless you frequently take some time to evaluate your inner life and heart. This is because holding on to clutter is merely a symptom of a deeper heart issue -- and this is the place where the root needs to be nurtured and fertilized. And sometimes pruned.

As we manage the stuff in our homes that God has entrusted to us, the question for all of us is this -- "Where do I put my trust?"

Read the rest of the article here: http://www.incourage.me/2010/04/the-blessing-of-stewardship.html

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