tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71043445690556815582024-02-06T19:07:29.310-08:0011th Heaven's Product ReviewsMom2my10 @ 11th Heavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14813012011182498512noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7104344569055681558.post-87506189190492043402011-05-16T04:33:00.000-07:002011-06-17T16:47:31.633-07:00Orajel® Naturals Turned Baby Hippo's Frown Upside-Down!<script language="JavaScript1.1" src="http://oascentral.blogher.org/RealMedia/ads/adstream_jx.ads/blogher.org/BabyOrajel_Apr11_Review_001/@x13">
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When I heard about BlogHer’s <a href="http://goo.gl/xkkSn">Orajel</a><a href="http://goo.gl/xkkSn"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">®</span></a> Naturals review opportunity, I was so excited. Baby Hippo had been teething continuously for over two months and our lives were miserable. <br />
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Nothing seemed to help. He’s not one to hold in his hand a refrigerated teething ring and chew on it, and I’m not one to give an oral pain medication several times a day, for weeks on end. We were at a loss as to what to do. He had been working on cutting his sixth tooth in only a few short weeks and almost constantly went about with this expression...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=DSC_0331-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/DSC_0331-1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
...or worse, this....<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=CopyofCopyofDSC_0323.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/CopyofCopyofDSC_0323.jpg" /></a></div><br />
So the Orajel<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">®</span> Naturals tube came in the mail, and I started using it on what just so happened to be by far the worst night of his teething and can I just tell you….. WOW! Before I share with you the wonderful results I experienced with Orajel<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">®</span> Naturals, though, I'd like to share a couple of random thoughts I have about teething....<br />
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First, why was it necessary to God's plan that babies have so many random, unpleasant symptoms while growing teeth? Honestly, when it comes to the human body, I can understand why God did the things He did with it. They make sense to my minuscule mind. Teething symptoms don’t. In fact, in <a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/2009/08/dear-god-i-have-6-questions-for-you-in.html">one post</a> I did when I first started blogging I listed questions I would ask God when I saw him. This teething issue was one of the paramount questions on the list. Why so much pain? Why the runny noses? And most of all, why the fever? If anyone has any answers, I'm open. <br />
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Second, I’m always quite entertained when I explain to someone that my baby is growing teeth, then they proceed to place their finger in my baby's mouth to see. They promptly get bitten, hard, with that razor-sharp new growth, cry out in pain and rip their finger out in surprise and even exasperation, wondering what could have gone wrong, sometimes even glaring at me, as if I had something to do with it. I patiently explain to them that if they put their finger in a baby’s mouth with teeth, they should expect to be bitten. One of my all-time favorite youtube videos depicts just such an event. Take a look…<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="381" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/_OBlgSz8sSM" title="YouTube video player" width="468"></iframe></div><br />
I can't ever get enough of Charlie and his brother!<br />
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Okay, now back to Orajel<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">®</span> Naturals. As I said, it was during one of the most difficult nights with Baby Hippo that I first used Orajel<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">®</span> Naturals. Immediately upon squeezing out a little dollop onto my finger I could smell the clove oil. Clove oil! Why had no company ever thought of this before? For centuries clove oil has been used as a numbing agent and mothers throughout the world have used it for teething pain. Honestly, I had thought of using it for Baby Hippo myself, but clove oil can be very potent and irritating, and I wasn’t sure how to dilute it. Having clove oil as the active ingredient already conveniently packaged by a company we all know and trust made it so simple to take advantage of one of nature’s most potent pain relievers. And it smells so good, like Thanksgiving!<br />
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When I applied the gel to Baby Hippo’s gums he proceeded to try to suck my finger off, he loved the taste so much. Once it started taking effect he started smacking his lips, I think because it felt strange to have parts of his mouth numb, but after a time, he quieted and I was finally able to get him to sleep and lay him peacefully in his crib.<br />
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So yeah, Orajel<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">®</span> Naturals is something I'm going to have on hand at all times for the rest of my life. Strange as it may seem, although I currently have a small baby to raise, and many other little children, I've also raised two grown children, whom I hope will begin to give me grandchildren within the next few years. Surely they will want my advice on what to do with a teething baby when they come to visit, as they'll seek my advice on a daily basis for myriad issues, I'm certain, and I will have on hand Orajel<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">®</span> Naturals to sooth their babies and I will become the favored grandma.<br />
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Okay, I know, I might be behaving somewhat melodramatically, but I really love this stuff and I'm so grateful to have been given the opportunity to review this product! I can rest assured that when Baby Hippo develops a cantankerous demeanor due to teething, Orajel<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">®</span> Naturals will help his frown turn upside down...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=DSC_0368.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/DSC_0368.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Now for the fun part! As your reward for coming to read this review, BlogHer is offering one lucky winner a $100 Babies "r" Us Gift card! It's so, so easy to enter! Check it out...<br />
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o No duplicate comments.<br />
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o You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:<br />
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o a) Leave a comment in response to the sweepstakes prompt on this post<br />
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o b) Tweet about this promotion and leave the URL to that tweet in a comment on this post<br />
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o c) Blog about this promotion and leave the URL to that post in a comment on this post<br />
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o d) For those with no Twitter or blog, read the official rules to learn about an alternate form of entry.<br />
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o This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older.<br />
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o Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail.<br />
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o You have 72 hours to get back to me, otherwise a new winner will be selected.<br />
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o <i><a href="http://www.blogher.com/baby-smiles-rules" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Visit the Official Rules.</a></i><br />
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o <i><a href="http://goo.gl/xkkSn" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Visit the Official site.</a></i><br />
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If you'd like to check out the experiences other moms had with Orajel<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">®</span> Naturals, <a href="http://goo.gl/VcNBN" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">visit the Exclusive Offers section</a> and I wish you the best of luck winning the $100 Babies "r" Us giftcard. Giveaway runs from May 16th to June 16th. Thanks for listening!Mom2my10 @ 11th Heavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14813012011182498512noreply@blogger.com173tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7104344569055681558.post-11827760469903659112011-02-17T20:45:00.001-08:002011-02-17T20:45:31.235-08:00And the winner of the $100 CSNStores.com gift certificate is..........<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Gini</b></span>, commentator #22! Thanks so much, <i>EVERYONE</i>, for entering and good luck next time!<br />
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<a href="https://secure.vitamix.com/acb/stores/4/?COUPON=06-004422" target="_blank"><img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/going_green-1.gif" alt="goinggreen2" border="0" /></a>Mom2my10 @ 11th Heavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14813012011182498512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7104344569055681558.post-25633084378210276542011-01-17T03:09:00.000-08:002011-01-17T03:24:45.527-08:00$100 CSNStores.com Gift Certificate Giveaway!Welcome to the current CSNStores.com $100 Gift Certificate giveaway! <br />
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CSNStores.com is one of my all-time favorite places to go for anything for my home or office. They have everything! I love to browse the kitchen appliances, <a href="http://www.allbarstools.com/">counter height stools</a>, tableware, wall art and so, so much more! As you saw in the post on my main blog, I love to cook and would love to show you some of the amazing products from CSNStores.com I use or would love to have for my favorite kitchen creations!<br />
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The Bosch Universal Mixer Plus...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=cbosch.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/cbosch.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The Vitamix...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=cvitamix.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/cvitamix.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The Cuisinart Ice Cream Maker...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=cicecreammaker.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/cicecreammaker.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Le Creuset cookware...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=clecreuset.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/clecreuset.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The Pfalzgraff Patio Garden Dinnerware Collection...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=cdishes.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/cdishes.jpg" /></a></div><br />
And one of my favorite Flirty Aprons in which to serve my creations...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=capron2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/capron2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Can you feel the love?<br />
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Now for the fun part.....<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">It's easy to enter!</span> </div><br />
Just blog, facebook, and/or tweet this contest, linking back to the following URL....<br />
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http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/2011/01/homemaker-monday-100-gift-certificate.html<br />
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...and leave the links to where you did it in separate comments. You can do this every day if you want, leaving additional comments with the links to where you did it, but only once a day. Thanks so much and good luck!<br />
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Contest ends on January 31st at 11:59 PM MST.Mom2my10 @ 11th Heavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14813012011182498512noreply@blogger.com171tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7104344569055681558.post-54654470085883240672010-11-21T21:03:00.000-08:002010-11-21T21:03:27.323-08:00And the winner of the CSNStores.com$100 Gift Certificate is.......Cathy W! Send me a quick email Cathy, and I'll get you your code for the $100 <a href="http://csnstores.com/">CSNStores.com</a> gift certificate (mom2my9 (at) gmail (dot) com). Congratulations!Mom2my10 @ 11th Heavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14813012011182498512noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7104344569055681558.post-38614613827201590172010-11-09T21:18:00.000-08:002010-11-14T20:41:18.415-08:00My Top Ten Delicious Finger Foods for Game Day!<div style="float: left; margin-right: 5px;"><script language="javascript" src="http://ads.blogherads.com/reviews/nfl/5.js" type="text/javascript">
</script></div><div style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">This is a sponsored post by BlogHer and P&G.</div><div style="clear: both;"></div><br />
So honestly, I grew up disliking football. My mother and father would sit mesmerized in front of the TV Sundays and Monday nights, sitting forward on the edge of our sofa, snacking, yelling and throwing their arms up in the air over a bad play or a bad call, or jumping up to their feet, screaming, hugging, during a interception or as the running back was taking the ball in.<br />
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I remember just staring at them, or sometimes laughing at them, not with them. My father always told me that I didn't like football because I didn't understand it. I proved him wrong by explaining what down our team was on (the Dallas Cowboys, of course), how many yards they had to go to make a first again, and what a two-point conversion was. He never remembered my explanation, though, because the next week, he would again repeat, "Jennifer, you just don't understand the game. If you did, you would like it as much as we do." It's just that I liked playing the piano, and drawing and photography, not watching a bunch of grown men on a tiny screen run around with a ball. <br />
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That was then. This is now. For the past five years, my two oldest boys have been on their high school football teams. And I've calculated that with the five younger boys coming up quickly behind them, I will be attending football games every fall for the next eighteen years, literally, no joke.<br />
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And not only had I better learn to like watching it outside in the chilly fall air while chasing 2-year-old twins and a baby, in addition to a large number of grade school children, I had better learn to like watching it on TV, because that's what my sons long for.<br />
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Yes, I can force myself to like something if I must, but I can honestly say that there is something I <i>TRULY</i> love when it comes to watching football. I love making snacks for the big day. I remember that every Superbowl Sunday, my father would make his <a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/2010/08/what-ed-said-about-guacamole.html">famous guacamole</a>, a <i>HUGE</i> bowl of it, to take over to his best friend's house, who also happened to be his attorney, to whom my father always gave sufficient business. He's shown below, carefully covering a small serving of his coveted guacamole to keep it from going brown....<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=edguaca.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/edguaca.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Like a good daughter, I've followed in his footsteps. I love to make the people in my life happy with the food I prepare and nothing feels better than having my sons and their friends tell me how awesome the food I made was.<br />
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Below are my top ten finger foods that are perfect for Game Day. Really, none of them require utensils, which makes men feel more manly. Even though they are all vegetarian, I promise you your men won't miss the meat. Well maybe they will, but they'll still love this food and they'll be grateful for your efforts. That I <i>CAN</i> promise you.<br />
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And now, to make game day ever <i>MORE</i> exciting, don't forget to check out the <a href="http://www.blogher.com/take-it-house" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">BlogHer.com exclusive offers page</a> where you'll have the chance to win some AMAZING prizes and can read 19 other bloggers' game day stories! <i>(Here's the <a href="http://www.blogher.com/official-rules-holiday-traditions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">BlogHer.com official rules page</a>.)</i> More info on the prizes after the recipe cards..... Enjoy!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(NOTE: If <a href="http://keyingredient.com/">keyingredient.com</a> is down, please click <a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/2008/04/game-day-menu.html"><i>HERE</i></a> for the printable version of each recipe.)</span><br />
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Stuffed Mushrooms<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,0,0" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="370"> <param name="movie" value="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=2189013" /><!--[if !IE]><--><object width="370" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf"><!--<![endif]--> <param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=2189013" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff" /><!-- This will be shown if your viewer does not support flash --> <h3>Stuffed Mushroom Appetizers</h3><p>A delicious, healthy way to eat vegetables!</p> <p><a href="http://www.keyingredient.com/recipes/2189013/stuffed-mushroom-appetizers/" title="Stuffed Mushroom Appetizers">See <strong>Stuffed Mushroom Appetizers</strong> on Key Ingredient.</a> </p><!--[if !IE]><--></object><!--<![endif]--></object></div><br />
Potato Chips<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,0,0" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="370"> <param name="movie" value="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=3430026" /><!--[if !IE]><--><object width="370" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf"><!--<![endif]--> <param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=3430026" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff" /><!-- This will be shown if your viewer does not support flash --> <h3>Potato Chips</h3><p>A great alternative to store-bought chips!</p> <p><a href="http://www.keyingredient.com/recipes/3430026/potato-chips/" title="Potato Chips">See <strong>Potato Chips</strong> on Key Ingredient.</a> </p><!--[if !IE]><--></object><!--<![endif]--></object></div><br />
Vegan Nachos<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,0,0" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="370"> <param name="movie" value="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=3519013" /><!--[if !IE]><--><object width="370" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf"><!--<![endif]--> <param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=3519013" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff" /><!-- This will be shown if your viewer does not support flash --> <h3>Vegan Nachos</h3><p>Try this amazing recipe for your next football game!</p> <p><a href="http://www.keyingredient.com/recipes/3519013/vegan-nachos/" title="Vegan Nachos">See <strong>Vegan Nachos</strong> on Key Ingredient.</a> </p><!--[if !IE]><--></object><!--<![endif]--></object></div><br />
Whole Wheat Ceviche<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,0,0" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="370"> <param name="movie" value="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=2341009" /><!--[if !IE]><--><object width="370" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf"><!--<![endif]--> <param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=2341009" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff" /><!-- This will be shown if your viewer does not support flash --> <h3>Wheat Sprout Ceviche</h3><p></p><p><a href="http://www.keyingredient.com/recipes/2341009/wheat-sprout-ceviche/" title="Wheat Sprout Ceviche">See <strong>Wheat Sprout Ceviche</strong> on Key Ingredient.</a> </p><!--[if !IE]><--></object><!--<![endif]--></object></div><br />
Whole Wheat Pizza<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,0,0" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="370"> <param name="movie" value="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=3493022" /><!--[if !IE]><--><object width="370" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf"><!--<![endif]--> <param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=3493022" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff" /><!-- This will be shown if your viewer does not support flash --> <h3>Amazing Whole Wheat Pizza</h3><p>Try this nutritious alternative to white flour pizza crust!</p> <p><a href="http://www.keyingredient.com/recipes/3493022/amazing-whole-wheat-pizza/" title="Amazing Whole Wheat Pizza">See <strong>Amazing Whole Wheat Pizza</strong> on Key Ingredient.</a> </p><!--[if !IE]><--></object><!--<![endif]--></object></div><br />
Veggie Burgers<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,0,0" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="370"> <param name="movie" value="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=288236" /><!--[if !IE]><--><object width="370" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf"><!--<![endif]--> <param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=288236" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff" /><!-- This will be shown if your viewer does not support flash --> <h3>Veggie Burgers</h3><p>Great with whole wheat sesame seed buns!</p> <p><a href="http://www.keyingredient.com/recipes/288236/veggie-burgers/" title="Veggie Burgers">See <strong>Veggie Burgers</strong> on Key Ingredient.</a> </p><!--[if !IE]><--></object><!--<![endif]--></object></div><br />
Best Fudgy Brownies Ever<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,0,0" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="370"> <param name="movie" value="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=3412029" /><!--[if !IE]><--><object width="370" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf"><!--<![endif]--> <param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=3412029" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff" /><!-- This will be shown if your viewer does not support flash --> <h3>Best Fudgy Brownies Ever!</h3><p>Seriously, the best brownie recipe I have <span class="caps">EVER</span> tried!</p> <p><a href="http://www.keyingredient.com/recipes/3412029/best-fudgy-brownies-ever/" title="Best Fudgy Brownies Ever!">See <strong>Best Fudgy Brownies Ever!</strong> on Key Ingredient.</a> </p><!--[if !IE]><--></object><!--<![endif]--></object></div><br />
Vegan Carrot Cupcakes<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,0,0" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="370"> <param name="movie" value="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=3513018" /><!--[if !IE]><--><object width="370" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf"><!--<![endif]--> <param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=3513018" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff" /><!-- This will be shown if your viewer does not support flash --> <h3>Vegan Carrot Cupcakes</h3><p>One of the best cupcakes I&#8217;ve tried, vegan or not!</p> <p><a href="http://www.keyingredient.com/recipes/3513018/vegan-carrot-cupcakes/" title="Vegan Carrot Cupcakes">See <strong>Vegan Carrot Cupcakes</strong> on Key Ingredient.</a> </p><!--[if !IE]><--></object><!--<![endif]--></object></div><br />
Crispy Creamy Doughnuts<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,0,0" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="370"> <param name="movie" value="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=3382031" /><!--[if !IE]><--><object width="370" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf"><!--<![endif]--> <param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=3382031" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff" /><!-- This will be shown if your viewer does not support flash --> <h3>Crispy Creamy Doughnuts</h3><p>The <span class="caps">BEST</span> doughnut recipe I have ever tried!</p> <p><a href="http://www.keyingredient.com/recipes/3382031/crispy-creamy-doughnuts/" title="Crispy Creamy Doughnuts">See <strong>Crispy Creamy Doughnuts</strong> on Key Ingredient.</a> </p><!--[if !IE]><--></object><!--<![endif]--></object></div><br />
Vegan Mayan Chocolate Milk<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=9,0,0,0" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="370"> <param name="movie" value="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=2345044" /><!--[if !IE]><--><object width="370" height="470" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" data="http://static.keyingredient.com/keyRecipe.swf"><!--<![endif]--> <param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="flashvars" value="id=2345044" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#ffffff" /><!-- This will be shown if your viewer does not support flash --> <h3>Almond Milk or Chocolate Mayan Milk</h3><p>A delicious milk substitute!</p> <p><a href="http://www.keyingredient.com/recipes/2345044/almond-milk-or-chocolate-mayan-milk/" title="Almond Milk or Chocolate Mayan Milk">See <strong>Almond Milk or Chocolate Mayan Milk</strong> on Key Ingredient.</a> </p><!--[if !IE]><--></object><!--<![endif]--></object></div><br />
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1. Here’s a great opportunity to get some great prizes from one of the NFL’s sponsors, Procter & Gamble. Check out their “Take it to the House” program and photo contest, where prizes include a $10,000 community donation to support NFL PLAY 60 and an at-home visit from a local NFL legend! One lucky Grand Prize Winner will even win a trip to the 2011 Pro Bowl in Hawaii. Show us how you and your football family bring NFL game day to life at home at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TakeItToTheHouse">www.facebook.com/TakeItToTheHouse</a> (click on the contest tab)!<br />
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2. Facebook contest info:<br />
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This football season, YOU have a chance to win some amazing prizes! In football speak, “Taking it to the House” means scoring a long touchdown, but this season, Procter & Gamble, one of NFL’s sponsors, wants to help you take it to the house as part of their Facebook photo contest. Prizes include an at-home visit from a local team legend, a $10,000 community donation in support of NFL PLAY 60 and P&G products.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/takeittothehouse" style="color: #3b5998; font-family: "lucida grande",tahoma,verdana,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none;" target="_TOP" title="Take it to the House">Take it to the House</a><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/takeittothehouse" target="_TOP" title="Take it to the House"><img height="288" src="http://badge.facebook.com/badge/125683237462331.1521.35448092.png" style="border: 0px none;" width="120" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/business/dashboard/" style="color: #3b5998; font-family: "lucida grande",tahoma,verdana,arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none;" target="_TOP" title="Make your own badge!">Promote Your Page Too</a></div><br />
Show P&G how you bring NFL game day to life at home with your football family for an opportunity to meet an NFL legend, win awesome P&G products and get a $10,000 donation for a children’s health and wellness organization in your community in support of NFL PLAY 60. One lucky Grand Prize Winner will even win a trip to the 2011 Pro Bowl in Hawaii!<br />
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It’s easy, moms! Just submit a photo of your “football family” on NFL game day. For more information on “Take it to the House” and to enter the photo contest, visit <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TakeItToTheHouse">www.facebook.com/TakeItToTheHouse</a> and click the contest tab.Mom2my10 @ 11th Heavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14813012011182498512noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7104344569055681558.post-59696373806818805142010-11-03T21:24:00.000-07:002010-11-21T16:46:37.460-08:00$100 CSNStores.com Gift Certificate Giveaway!Can I just tell you how much I love this place? CSN stores has thousands and thousands of products for your home and office and I am lucky enough to have been selected to give away a $100 CSNStores.com gift certificate! Just check out all this awesome stuff you can get for under $100 to use today or during your holiday season! <br />
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First, how about having your holiday dinner guests visit with you while you prepare hours devours on a set of <a href="http://www.allbarstools.com/Extra-Tall-Bar-Stools-C14695.html">extra tall bar stools</a>, like the <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/Great-American-Barstools-SS30-MP-YV1399.html">Great American Barstools 29" Eco-Friendly Brick Red Saddle Stool</a>...<br />
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You would be making your Christmas cheese ball using the <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/Kalorik-HA-33143-R-RIK1153.html">Kalorik Red Metallic Food Processor</a>...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=Kalorik-Red-Metallic-Food-Processor.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/Kalorik-Red-Metallic-Food-Processor.jpg" /></a></div><br />
...and baking your apple crisp in the <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/Le-Creuset-L2129-2567-LEC1178.html">Le Creuset 2-Quart Tatin Dish in Cherry</a>...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=2-QuartTatinDishinCherry.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/2-QuartTatinDishinCherry.jpg" /></a></div><br />
After your meal is prepared, you could serve it on the 4-piece set of <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/Certified-International-19630-Set-CEI1489.html">Certified International Holiday Magic Dinnerware</a>...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=Certified-International-Holiday-Magic-Dinnerware-Collection.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/Certified-International-Holiday-Magic-Dinnerware-Collection.jpg" /></a></div><br />
...on a candlelit table over a <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/Capel-Rugs-0103-550-CB20052.html">Capel Songbird Cardinal Braided Rug</a>...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=Capel-Rugs-Songbird-Cardinal-Braided-RugMachine-made-braided-rugMachine-made-braided-rug.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/Capel-Rugs-Songbird-Cardinal-Braided-RugMachine-made-braided-rugMachine-made-braided-rug.jpg" /></a></div><br />
After dinner, why not sit by the fireplace over which is hung the <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/Windsor-Vanguard-VC3089-WRV1344.html">Windsor Vanguard American Farmer</a> and enjoy some after-dinner conversation...<br />
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After a successful dinner party, you can now relax in long, hot bubble bath, then wrap yourself in a <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/Home-Source-International-10102R90-HMU1509.html">Home Source International Microcotton Luxury Body Towel in Claret</a>...<br />
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So how about you? What would <i>YOU</i> do with a $100 gift certificate to <a href="http://csnstores.com/">CSNStores.com</a>? <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">It's easy to enter!</span> </div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><br />
Just blog, facebook, and/or tweet this contest, linking back to this post, and leave the links to where you did it in separate comments. You can do this every day if you want, leaving additional comments that you did, but only once a day. Thanks so much and good luck!<br />
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Contest ends on Saturday, November 20th at 11:59 PM MST.Mom2my10 @ 11th Heavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14813012011182498512noreply@blogger.com177tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7104344569055681558.post-71225748427633728242010-10-12T20:53:00.000-07:002010-10-12T20:53:03.292-07:00And the winner of the $100 Visa Gift Card is......<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://chisumscrew.blogspot.com/"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-large;">Chisums Crew! </span></b></a></div><br />
Congratulations, Chisums Crew! You will be contacted by <a href="http://blogher.com/">BlogHer</a> with further instructions on how to claim your prize. Enjoy and thanks to all who participated!Mom2my10 @ 11th Heavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14813012011182498512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7104344569055681558.post-24545211835002575282010-09-20T07:55:00.000-07:002010-10-12T20:49:59.168-07:00Contest is over! ...I may not have traveled a racetrack like Penny Chenery from "Secretariat", but...<div style="float: left; margin-right: 5px;"><script language="javascript" src="http://ads.blogherads.com/reviews/secretariat/4.js" type="text/javascript">
</script></div><div style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">This is a sponsored post from Disney and BlogHer.</div><div style="clear: both;"></div><br />
...I traveled the road to recovery after my husband of sixteen years committed suicide...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=Copy_of_rob3.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/Copy_of_rob3.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The true story of Secretariat is an inspiration to so many because it depicts the seemingly insurmountable struggles a young woman faces before accomplishing one of the most amazing feats ever recorded in horse-racing history. Learning about and internalizing stories like hers can inspire us to reach for something greater, to be proactive and not reactive, and to dream of something better, and make it happen.<br />
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This is one of the reasons I have written my story. I hope to inspire those who have had to endure tragedy and remind them that faith, love, charity, and time can heal even the deepest wounds.</div><br />
I remember sitting close to my husband on my mother's couch the evening before it happened. We had recently moved in with her and my father due to circumstances related to the cause of his suicide. It was late, and he had fallen asleep. Some of our six children were sitting on the couch as well, enjoying the conversation that had earlier ensued, and as I looked at him, I said to my mother, "He looks like an angel when he's sleeping."<br />
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She laughed, realizing that that comment was usually reserved for sleeping babies. I laughed, too. He didn't laugh, though, and that's how I knew he was asleep; either that or he didn't think it was funny and was just closing his eyes. What I didn't realize was that he would indeed be an angel just a few short hours later. </div><br />
I've written about how I found him and some of the events that occurred surrounding his suicide <a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/2009/08/this-is-my-life.html" target="_blank"><i>HERE</i></a>, so I won't recap them in this writing, but what I would like to share today is how I went on; how I mustered the strength to drag myself out of bed each day and survive; and not only survive, but <i>live</i>.<br />
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The very first help I got was from acquaintances, friends, family and other loved ones who had heard the heart-sickening news. The visits and meals began pouring in only minutes after the suicide became known. My children, mother, brother, and father were all given priesthood blessings of comfort only hours after I found my husband's body, and it helped. The women's leader at my church printed out and hand-delivered scripture and other writings by prophets that inspired me more than almost anything could that day. My phone rang off the hook with calls from well-wishers who just wanted to express their sorrow, that they cared, and that they would do anything for me and the children, and I knew they would. </div><br />
And the food..... so much food was brought over that it became impossible to refrigerate it and keep it fresh. We actually got to the point where we had to start giving it away to those who came to offer support and sympathy. People brought casseroles, of course, and cheese platters, and dishes we could freeze for later, and cakes and cookies, and individually-wrapped popcorn balls for each child, and fruit and vegetable platters and shrimp platters and all manner of any other kind of platter the mind can imagine. One dear friend brought over an entire breakfast for the whole family the morning of the funeral. I had never felt so loved as I did as I welcomed what seemed like hundreds of well-wishers into our home those first few days after my husband's suicide.<br />
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Then the letters and packages began arriving. Some were messages of love and sympathy, others were anonymous, and included hard-back books on how to find peace after suicide. Many had cash or checks folded within the cards. Some had gift certificates to McDonald's for the kids, and others had gift certificates to massage therapy studios for me. Cards came from the 4th-grade students at the elementary school where my mother teaches, many telling of the friends and loved ones they had lost.<br />
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Then there were the twelve days before Christmas (which arrived quickly after his death, which occurred the last week in November), when a large sturdy box was placed at our doorstep with a note attached telling us that each night before Christmas, at exactly 9:00 PM, a package would be placed in the box. We were to make sure we were nowhere to be seen or to see who would drop off the package, as the deliverers were to remain anonymous. We were obedient, and every night, between 9:30 and 10:00, to make sure we gave enough time for the late deliverers to remain anonymous, my mother, the kids and I would go outside and peek into the box to have a look at our new gift. Sometimes the box would contain six gifts, one for each child, from someone who knew them well, as each gift would be tailor-chosen for each child's hobbies, talents, or interests. Other times the box would contain something for me in particular, such as Bath and Body lotion and body spray. And one time, to my utter shock, left in the box was a 42" TV and DVD player.<br />
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Those hundreds of acts of kindness I will never forget. And people all over the world, people in congregations of other faiths, in other states, but who had connections to friends and family who knew us, prayed for us. And you know what? I could feel it. I felt so much peace and comfort during those first few days after my husband's suicide that it was almost as if I were under the influence of some form of anesthesia. I only wanted to love and serve others and God and The Spirit were so strong inside me. I know it was because of the prayers that were offered on my behalf.<br />
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As visits and calls from friends and acquaintances gradually began to decrease, my family continued to be a rock to me as I emerged from the cloud of shock and disbelief, to the horrendous realization that I was now a widow with six children... at the age of thirty-four. There is one particular incident I remember so vividly, as if I lived it yesterday, in which my family's love pierced so deep into my heart that I know this memory will stay with me for the rest of eternity. It's <a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/2009/09/memory-8-year-old-boys-questions-about.html" target="_blank"><i>HERE</i></a> if you would like to read it. Just the fact that my family <i>ALWAYS, 100% of the time</i>, made themselves available for me to talk to, and sometimes even initiated difficult, but necessary conversations with me and my children, and encouraged me to get out of bed and keep living, were nudges on the road to recovery more than almost anything else. I remember lying in bed six days after he died, listening to the sounds of my mother making Sunday breakfast for the kids, knowing that if I didn't attend church just this one Sunday that people would understand. I stayed in bed as the kids finished breakfast and I listened to the dishes clink as she rinsed them and put them into the dishwasher. Then I heard her walk towards my bedroom. She entered, sat on my bed, and said it was time to get up, that I was going to be late. I told her that I didn't want to go to church, I didn't want to face the sympathetic faces of hundreds of people who felt so sorry for me, and surely they would understand. My mother said, "Jennifer, you are going to church. Church is where we need to be and you know it. Now get dressed. We're going." She was right, and I did.<br />
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Christmas came and went, and January arrived. I was still walking through every day as if I was in a dirty haze, caring for the children, because I had to, but zombie-like. One day my mother stood in the doorway of the bathroom as I was fixing my hair and said, "Jennifer, it's time to get some help. You need to call the therapist." She was right, and I did.<br />
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Going to therapy was one of the most life-changing experiences I have ever had. Not only did a compassionate man help me get through a horrific tragedy, but he helped me realize that I had some other problems, too, and that fixing these issues would help in raising my children alone. I would highly recommend therapy for anyone who has problems of any kind with any relationship. Yes, that means you.</div><br />
And so I went to therapy every week, and I moved out of my mother's home into a quaint little four-bedroom rental only four houses down the road. I got up every morning at 5:45 and drove my teen-aged daughter to seminary, then came home and got the other five children up for home school. I cooked, I cleaned, I tried to be the mom and the dad, and because my therapist told me to, I cried in front of my family, because he said they needed to know my pain, and that I needed to stop hiding it. I lay in bed awake at night and imagined how it would be to be alone for years to come, for surely no one would want to marry a woman with six kids. I yearned to be touched, have my shoulders rubbed, kissed, and to press next to someone as we were sleeping. I felt this was not to be, though, so each night, instead of going to bed early, I would do puzzles. Yes, I had decided that I would do puzzles to keep my mind busy and focused on things other than my loneliness. While I worked on my first puzzle I listened to all of my favorite music, and momentarily forgot that I would never get a break from disciplining the kids, that I would be the mom and the dad for the rest of their growing-up years.<br />
<div class="im"><br />
And I decided that we would travel. When summer came, we would all seven hop in the van and go any place we wanted. We would stop wherever we wanted to and never rush to get there, and shop and eat and watch movies in hotel rooms.</div><br />
But God had different plans. Before I was even able to finish one puzzle, John came into my life only five months after my husband died. We fell in love immediately, as if we'd known each other before we were born. If you want to read a bit of how it happened, you can go to the aforementioned link <a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/2009/08/this-is-my-life.html" target="_blank"><i>HERE</i></a>. Long story short, we are now married...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=johnandjenwedding.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/johnandjenwedding.jpg" /></a></div><br />
...and in the five years we've been together, we have added four rambunctious boys to our already large family.<br />
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I remember once driving down the road about two weeks after my husband died. I was in such emotional agony, my stomach turning every time I thought of what had happened, and I wondered how I would feel five weeks after he had died, or five months, or five years. What I didn't know was that at the five-month mark, I would be madly in love with my soul mate, and that at the five-year mark, I would be remarried and have four more sons, including a set of identical twins, something I'd dreamed of all my life.<br />
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The story of Secretariat reminds me of my own challenges because just as Penny could not have succeeded without the help of veteran trainer Lucien Laurin, I could not have overcome the tragedy I was asked to endure without the love, support, and kindness of my family and friends.<br />
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Secretariat stars Diane Lane, John Malkovich, Dylan Walsh, and James Cromwell and will be released in theaters <b>Friday, October 8th</b>. To learn more, check out Secretariat via the following venues...<br />
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<div align="center" style="line-height: 18pt; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="border-bottom-color: windowtext; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: windowtext; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: windowtext; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: windowtext; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 1pt; color: #333333; font-size: 9pt; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;"><br />
</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-size: 9pt;"></span></div><div align="center" style="line-height: 18pt; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="border-bottom-color: windowtext; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: windowtext; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: windowtext; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: windowtext; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 1pt; color: #333333; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;">For more information:</span></b></span></div><div align="center" style="line-height: 18pt; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</div><div align="center" style="line-height: 18pt; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #333333;"><a href="http://www.blogher.com/Disney.com/Secretariat" target="_blank"><span style="border-bottom-color: windowtext; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: windowtext; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: windowtext; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: windowtext; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 1pt; color: #516bb3; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;">Official Site</span></a></span></span></div><div align="center" style="line-height: 18pt; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</div><div align="center" style="line-height: 18pt; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #333333;">Like on <a href="http://www.blogher.com/Facebook.com/Secretariat" target="_blank"><span style="border-bottom-color: windowtext; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: windowtext; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: windowtext; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: windowtext; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 1pt; color: #516bb3; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;">Facebook</span></a>.</span></span></div><div align="center" style="line-height: 18pt; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</div><div align="center" style="line-height: 18pt; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #333333;">Follow on <a href="http://twitter.com/secretariatfilm" target="_blank"><span style="border-bottom-color: windowtext; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: windowtext; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: windowtext; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: windowtext; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 1pt; color: #516bb3; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;">Twitter</span></a>.</span></span></div><div align="center" style="line-height: 18pt; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</div><div align="center" style="line-height: 18pt; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #333333;">Watch on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/disneymovietrailers" target="_blank"><span style="border-bottom-color: windowtext; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-width: 1pt; border-left-color: windowtext; border-left-style: none; border-left-width: 1pt; border-right-color: windowtext; border-right-style: none; border-right-width: 1pt; border-top-color: windowtext; border-top-style: none; border-top-width: 1pt; color: #516bb3; padding-bottom: 0in; padding-left: 0in; padding-right: 0in; padding-top: 0in;">YouTube</span></a>.</span></span></div><br />
And guess what? If you would like a little help in realizing your dream of overcoming a challenge, why not enter the $100 Visa Gift Card Giveaway Sponsored by <a href="http://www.blogher.com/eo-secretariat">BlogHer</a>.<br />
<br />
There are 3 ways to enter (2 valid entries per person only, US resident, must be 18+ to enter): <br />
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<b>1. Leave a comment on this post.</b><br />
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<b>2. Tweet about the post & leave a direct url to the tweet as an additional comment on this post.</b><br />
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<b>3. Blog about the post & leave a direct url to the blog mention as an additional comment on this post. </b><br />
<br />
<br />
For the official rules, click <a href="http://www.blogher.com/rules-secretariat" target="_blank"><i>HERE</i></a>, and good luck on winning and realizing <i>your</i> dreams!<br />
<br />
Thanks for listening.Mom2my10 @ 11th Heavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14813012011182498512noreply@blogger.com285tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7104344569055681558.post-41105345587505946532010-07-23T23:02:00.000-07:002010-07-23T23:05:07.189-07:00We've got a Novica.com $50 Gift Certificate Winner!...and the winner is...<br />
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_2114688468"><br />
</a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://delshadduo.blogspot.com/">Ashlie and Albert of the Delshad Duo!</a></span></div><br />
Congratulations, Ashley and Albert. To receive your certificate, just email your mailing address to mom2my9 {at} gmail {dot} com. Congratulations, again, and thank you so much for entering!<br />
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P.S. I apologize for getting this announcement out late. I was on vacation and had a bit of a difficult time getting access to the internet. All is well now, though. Thanks again for your patience! <br />
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<a href="https://secure.vitamix.com/acb/stores/4/?COUPON=06-004422" target="_blank"><img alt="goinggreen2" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/going_green-1.gif" /></a>Mom2my10 @ 11th Heavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14813012011182498512noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7104344569055681558.post-54139217991745306522010-06-30T23:06:00.000-07:002010-07-24T17:04:23.399-07:00I'm giving away a $50 Gift Certificate to Novica.com!As most of you know, I live in Mexico and have the fortune of interacting on a regular basis with local artisans. So, when I was introduced to <a href="http://novica.com/">Novica.com</a>, I totally fell in love with the site. <br />
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Novica.com, in association with National Geographic, is a web store which promotes and sells products created by artisans all over the world. Here are some of my favorites...<br />
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<a href="http://eco-friendly.novica.com/">Green gifts</a> (recycled or reclaimed)...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=blueglasses.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/blueglasses.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<i>(<a href="http://www.novica.com/itemdetail/index.cfm?pid=14315">Drinking glasses</a>, created by Javier and Efren of Mexico)</i><br />
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<a href="http://unique-gifts.novica.com/">Unique gifts</a>...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=drinkcart-Copy.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/drinkcart-Copy.jpg" /></a><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=drinkcart-Copy-Copy.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/drinkcart-Copy-Copy.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<i>(<a href="http://www.novica.com/itemdetail/index.cfm?pid=153137">Drink cart</a>, and detail of the leather work on top of the tray, created by Abel Rios of Andes)</i><br />
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And <a href="http://corporate-gifts.novica.com/">Corporate gifts</a>...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=earrings.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/earrings.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<i>(<a href="http://www.novica.com/itemdetail/index.cfm?pid=139068">Pearl drop earrings</a>, created by by Nyoman Rena of Bali)</i><br />
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And now, let me show you what I ordered with the gift certificate Novica presented me...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=aluminumtray.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/aluminumtray.jpg" /></a></div><br />
This is an <a href="http://www.novica.com/itemdetail/index.cfm?pid=57090">aluminum tray</a> created by Luis Martinez of Mexico. I thought it was absolutely lovely because it's so simple and could be used for any number of things...a candle holder, a fruit dish, a lovely piece on which to place a newborn baby for a photo shoot. :) <i>(Go <a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/2010/06/tips-for-better-photographs-part-7.html">HERE</a> if you have no idea what I mean by that comment.) </i><br />
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Here's what Luis says about his products...<br />
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<i>"Hello, my name is Luis Martinez and in 1999 I started crafting aluminum products in my own workhshop. Since I began this project I have tried to infuse my products with a spark of Mexican style and ingenuity, while exploiting the beauty and strength of aluminum."</i><br />
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The other thing I love about Novica is that we, as consumers, are offered a way to help support these artisans by providing them with small loans. Novica's <a href="http://microfinance.novica.com/">microfinance</a> program makes it super-easy to become involved in a great cause by supporting the creation of <a href="http://corporate-gifts.novica.com/">fair trade corporate gifts</a>, household decor, tableware, rugs, paintings, and much more. This is something I feel honored to spread the word about. <br />
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So please, take a look at what Novica has to offer. You'll be glad you did.<br />
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Now for the giveaway details. In conjunction with Novica..., <span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">I am giving away a $50 Gift Certificate to Novica.com!</span><br />
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If you win, I will email you the code and then you can shop to your heart's content for the perfect gift! <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">So, you wanna win? Here's what you do...</span><br />
<br />
Just <b>Blog about this contest</b>, linking to <b>http://tinyurl.com/2322k9z</b>, either using your own words, or, if you're too lazy, busy, confused or tired, by copying and pasting this convenient HTML into a post and publishing it, then tell me you did by <b>leaving me a comment on <i>this</i> post</b>.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><form id="LinkForm" name="LinkForm"><textarea cols="32" rows="5">Jen at <a href="http://wholefoodkids.blogspot.com/">Whole Food Kids</a>, <a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/">11th Heaven's Homemaking Haven</a>, <a href="http://tvfreetoddlertime.blogspot.com/">365 Days of TV-Free Toddler Time</a>, <a href="http://megafamilies.blogspot.com/">Mega-Family Blogs</a>, and <a href="http://lifeinmex.blogspot.com/">life in mexico {and other places} a picture a day</a>, is giving away a $50 Gift Certificate to <a href="http://novica.com/">Novica.com</a>!<br /> <br /> Novica, in association with National Geographic, is an innovative web store which enables artisans all over the world to sell their creations. Put your certificates towards the purchase of something like this...,<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=pitcher2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/pitcher2.jpg" /></a></div><br /> ...this...,<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=jewelry.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/jewelry.jpg" /></a></div><br /> ...or even this...<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=tapestry.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/tapestry.jpg" /></a></div><br /> To enter, go <a href="http://11thheavensreviews.blogspot.com/2010/06/im-giving-away-50-gift-certificate-to.html"><i>HERE</i></a>.</textarea> </form></div><br />
Here's what your post will look like...<br />
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"Jen at <a href="http://wholefoodkids.blogspot.com/">Whole Food Kids</a>, <a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/">11th Heaven's Homemaking Haven</a>, <a href="http://tvfreetoddlertime.blogspot.com/">365 Days of TV-Free Toddler Time</a>, <a href="http://megafamilies.blogspot.com/">Mega-Family Blogs</a>, and <a href="http://lifeinmex.blogspot.com/">life in mexico {and other places} a picture a day</a>, is giving away a $50 Gift Certificate to <a href="http://novica.com/">Novica.com</a>!<br />
<br />
Novica, in association with National Geographic, is an innovative web store which enables artisans all over the world to sell their creations. Put your certificates towards the purchase of something like this...,<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=pitcher2.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/pitcher2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
...this...,<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=jewelry.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/jewelry.jpg" /></a></div><br />
...or even this...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/?action=view&current=tapestry.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/Album%202/tapestry.jpg" /></a></div><br />
To enter, go <a href="http://11thheavensreviews.blogspot.com/2010/06/im-giving-away-50-gift-certificate-to.html"><i>HERE</i></a>."<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Want more chances to win? Do these...</span><br />
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2. For a second entry, <b>leave a comment on my other blog</b>, <a href="http://tvfreetoddlertime.blogspot.com/">365 Days of TV-Free Toddler Time</a>, by clicking <a href="http://tvfreetoddlertime.blogspot.com/2010/07/giveaway-50-gift-certificate-to.html"><i>HERE</i></a>.<br />
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3. For a third entry, <b>leave a comment on my <i>other</i> other blog</b>, <a href="http://megafamilies.blogspot.com/">Mega-Family Blogs</a>, by clicking <a href="http://megafamilies.blogspot.com/2010/07/im-giving-away-50-gift-certificate-to.html"><i>HERE</i></a>.<br />
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4. For a fourth entry, <b>leave a comment on my yet other other blog</b>, <a href="http://lifeinmex.blogspot.cpm/">life in mexico {and other places} a picture a day</a>, by clicking <a href="http://lifeinmex.blogspot.com/2010/07/im-giving-away-50-gift-certificate-to.html"><i>HERE</i></a>.<br />
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5. For a fifth entry, <b>leave a comment on my main blog</b>, 11th Heaven's Homemaking Haven, by clicking <a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/2010/07/im-giving-away-50-gift-certificate-to.html"><i>HERE</i></a>. <br />
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6. For yet another entry, <b>tweet this contest</b>, linking back to <b>http://tinyurl.com/2628a4c</b>, and leave a comment here that you did.<br />
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7. For even more entries, <b>retweet this contest up to once a day</b>, and leave a comment here each day you do.<br />
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8. For yet <i>another</i> entry, <b>Facebook this contest</b>, linking back to <b>http://tinyurl.com/2628a4c</b>, and leave a comment here that you did.<br />
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So there you have it! This contest ends on July15th at midnight, so hurry and enter and GOOD LUCK TO <i>YOU</i>!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://secure.vitamix.com/acb/stores/4/?COUPON=06-004422" target="_blank"><img alt="goinggreen2" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/going_green-1.gif" /></a>Mom2my10 @ 11th Heavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14813012011182498512noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7104344569055681558.post-81033056322949606482010-04-07T15:29:00.001-07:002010-04-07T15:31:11.470-07:00Who Won the Hot Tamale Dinner Ware?Okay, if you entered the giveaway for these items...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/?action=view&current=pitcher.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/pitcher.jpg" /></a><a href="http://s943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/?action=view&current=HotTamaleChipandDipSet-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/HotTamaleChipandDipSet-1.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
...this is the day you've been waiting for!
But first, let me thank everyone who blogged about this and entered the contest. I truly appreciate you!
And the winner is.....<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://frugalfinds.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Carol @ Frugal Finds From Your Frugal Friend!</span></a></div>
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Carol, congratulations! Just email me your mailing address as soon as you see this and we'll get your Hot Tamale Ware right off to you!(mom2my9@gmail.com)<br />
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And everyone, please don't forget to take a visit over to <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/">CSNSTORES.COM</a> as a thank you for this giveaway!<br />
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<a href="https://secure.vitamix.com/acb/stores/4/?COUPON=06-004422" target="_blank"><img alt="goinggreen2" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/going_green-1.gif" /></a>Mom2my10 @ 11th Heavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14813012011182498512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7104344569055681558.post-36791687549026171112010-03-23T15:27:00.000-07:002010-03-24T09:46:00.511-07:00I'm Giving Away Nearly $100 Worth of Hot Tamale Dinner Ware!I honestly have to say that this is the most exciting giveaway I've done yet! I am honored to be able to team up with CSN Stores to give away nearly $100 worth of products!
CSNStores.com is an internet superstore that features many different departments. Some of my faves are....<br />
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The Baby and Kids Department, where one can get <a href="http://www.allchildrensfurniture.com/Kids-Bedding-C24454.html">kids bedding</a> such as <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/Maxtrix-Kids-Maxtrix-Bedroom-Series-MKS1102.html">this</a>...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/toddler-6-1.jpg" /></div>
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<i>(Can't you just see four of these lined up in the 4 under 4's bedroom?)</i><br />
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The Shoes, Bags and Luggage Department, where one can get <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/Anuschka-357-PKF-ANU1009.html">hobo bags</a>, such as this...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/hobo.jpg" /></div>
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<i>(This is so, so me.)</i><br />
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The Home Decor Department, where one can get <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/New-Era-Publishing-KP100A-NEP2376.html">wall art</a>, such as this...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/flower-1.jpg" /></div>
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<i>(And it just so happens that I collect red poppy art!)</i><br />
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But my favorite is the Housewares Department! And my all-time favorite collection in the Housewares Department is <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/Certified-International-Hot-Tamale-Series-CEI1272.html"><i>THIS</i> collection</a>...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/HotTamaleDinnerwareCollection.jpg" /></div>
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Wouldn't this be wonderful to have on hand for the evenings you have friends over for tacos or enchiladas or nachos or just plain ole quesadillas?
And because I absolutely adore this collection, I am giving away two of the largest pieces!<br />
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Are you ready?<br />
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First we have the Hot Tamale Pitcher!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/pitcher.jpg" /></div>
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Just imagine whipping up a batch of horchata (a sweet Mexican rice milk drink) or fresh lime-aid and serving it up in this gorgeous pitcher!<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
And what is a good Mexican meal without chips and salsa for appetizers? I wouldn't leave you hanging without the proper dish set for that, so I am <i>also</i> giving away this <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/Certified-International-14285-CEI1173.html">Hot Tamale Chip and Dip set</a>!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/HotTamaleChipandDipSet-1.jpg" /></div>
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Whether you make you own salsa or open up a bottle of Pace, this would look great with white or blue corn chips and set on your coffee table for guests as they wait for the entree!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">So, you wanna win? Here's what you do...</span><br />
<br />
1. <b>Blog about this contest</b> either using your own words, or, if you're too lazy, busy, confused or tired, by copying and pasting this convenient HTML into a post and publishing it, then tell me you did by <b>leaving me a comment on <i>this</i> post</b>.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<form id="LinkForm" name="LinkForm">
<textarea cols="32" rows="5">Jen at <a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/">11th Heaven's Homemaking Haven</a>, <a href="http://lfeinmex.blogspot.com/">life in mexico {and other places} a picture a day</a>, <a href="http://tvfreetoddlertime.blogspot.com/">365 Days of TV-Free Toddler Time</a>, and <a href="http://megafamilies.blogspot.com/">Mega-Family Blogs</a> is giving away nearly $100 worth of Hot Tamale Dinner Ware...<br />
This, to be exact...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/pitcher.jpg" /></div>
...and this...<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/HotTamaleChipandDipSet-1.jpg" />
</div>
To enter, go <a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/2010/03/im-giving-away-nearly-100-worth-of-hot.html"><i>HERE</i></a>!
</textarea> </form>
</div>
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Here's what your post will look like...<br />
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"Jen at <a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/">11th Heaven's Homemaking Haven</a>, <a href="http://lfeinmex.blogspot.com/">life in mexico {and other places} a picture a day</a>, <a href="http://tvfreetoddlertime.blogspot.com/">365 Days of TV-Free Toddler Time</a>, and <a href="http://megafamilies.blogspot.com/">Mega-Family Blogs</a> is giving away nearly $100 worth of <a href="http://www.csnstores.com/Certified-International-Hot-Tamale-Series-CEI1272.html">Hot Tamale Dinner Ware</a>...<br />
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This, to be exact...<br />
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<img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/pitcher.jpg" /></div>
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...and this...<br />
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<img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/HotTamaleChipandDipSet-1.jpg" />
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To enter, go <a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/2010/03/im-giving-away-nearly-100-worth-of-hot.html"><i>HERE</i></a>!"<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Want more chances to win? Do these...</span><br />
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2. For a second entry, <b>leave a comment on my other blog</b>, <a href="http://tvfreetoddlertime.blogspot.com/">365 Days of TV-Free Toddler Time</a>, by clicking <i><a href="http://tvfreetoddlertime.blogspot.com/2010/03/jen-at-11th-heavens-homemaking-haven.html">HERE</a></i>.<br />
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3. For a third entry, <b>leave a comment on my <i>other</i> other blog</b>, <a href="http://megafamilies.blogspot.com/">Mega-Family Blogs</a>, by clicking <a href="http://megafamilies.blogspot.com/2010/03/jen-at-11th-heavens-homemaking-haven.html"><i>HERE</i></a>.<br />
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4. For a fourth entry, <b>leave a comment on my yet other other blog</b>, <a href="http://lifeinmex.blogspot.cpm/">life in mexico {and other places} a picture a day</a>, by clicking <a href="http://lifeinmex.blogspot.com/2010/03/giveawaynearly-100-worth-of-hot-tamale.html"><i>HERE</i></a>.<br />
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5. For yet another entry, <b>tweet this contest</b>, linking back to <i>this</i> post, and leave a comment here that you did.<br />
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6. For even more entries, <b>retweet this contest up to once a day</b>, and leave a comment here each day you do.<br />
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7. For yet <i>another</i> entry, <b>Facebook this contest</b>, linking back to this post, and leave a comment here that you did.<br />
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So there you have it! This contest ends on April 6th, so hurry and enter and GOOD LUCK TO <i>YOU</i>!<br />
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<a href="https://secure.vitamix.com/acb/stores/4/?COUPON=06-004422" target="_blank"><img alt="goinggreen2" border="0" src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/going_green-1.gif" /></a></div>Mom2my10 @ 11th Heavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14813012011182498512noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7104344569055681558.post-1998079732650745572009-12-15T07:10:00.001-08:002010-03-12T21:18:16.175-08:00HotSlings Baby Carrier Giveaway!I am honored to announce that I've been able to team up with <a href="http://hotslings.com/">Hotslings.com</a> to give away one of their most popular slings! I've used Hotslings for over four years now, for my newborns, infants, toddlers and even preschoolers, and I absolutely <span style="font-style: italic;">LOVE</span> them! In fact, almost every time I go out in one, someone asks me where I got it.<br />
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Recently, Hotslings developed a new line of slings, which are adjustable. One of the reasons I love my Hotslings so much is because of the unsurpassed comfort on the shoulder and hip. Hotslings new adjustable slings will be even <span style="font-style: italic;">MORE</span> comfortable, and I can't wait to try one with my new baby boy coming in March. This is the one I'm going to get...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/hotslings.jpg" /><br />
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It is called the <a href="http://www.hotslings.com/baby_slings/adjustable/ap_la_vie_en_rose">La Vie En Rose</a>, and I love it because the muted browns and rose colors go so well with a fall wardrobe, brown leather boots, and chilled rosy cheeks!<br />
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So guess what? <span style="font-size: 180%;">You, too, can win this sling</span>, or, if you'd like to choose another pattern for your sling, you can! Just go <a href="http://www.hotslings.com/baby_slings/adjustable"><span style="font-style: italic;">HERE</span></a> to see the other gorgeous fabric swatches.<br />
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Don't have any young children or are not expecting any? This sling would make an absolutely <span style="font-style: italic;">FABULOUS</span> Christmas gift for someone else! You will be honored and revered for gifting this, I promise. I know, believe me!<br />
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<span style="font-size: 180%;">To enter,</span> just post about this giveaway on our blog and let me know you did in a comment on this page. If you're too busy, confused, tired or lazy to write your own post, here, I'm written one up for you. All you have to do is copy and paste the following HTML into a post and publish it. I am that nice.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<form id="LinkForm" name="LinkForm"><br />
<textarea cols="50" name="LinkData" rows="5">11th Heaven's Homemaking Haven is giving away a gorgeous Hotslings baby carrier!<br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/hotslings.jpg" /><br /> </div><br /> To enter click <a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/2009/12/hotslings-baby-carrier-giveaway.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">HERE</span></a>. </textarea> <br />
</form></div><br />
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This is what your post will look like...<br />
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"11th Heaven's Homemaking Haven is giving away a gorgeous Hotslings baby carrier!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/hotslings.jpg" /><br />
</div><br />
To enter click <a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/2009/12/hotslings-baby-carrier-giveaway.html"><span style="font-style: italic;">HERE</span></a>."<br />
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For additional entries,</span> do the following...<br />
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-<span style="font-weight: bold;">Become a <a href="http://www.facebook.com/search/?q=hotslings&init=quick#/pages/Hotslings-Pouch-Style-Baby-Carriers/42027869904?ref=search&sid=550669752.654120795..1">Facebook fan</a></span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> and announce this giveaway</span> in your status, linking back to this post, and leave a separate comment that you did.<br />
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-<span style="font-weight: bold;">Follow <a href="http://twitter.com/Hotslings">Hotslings on Twitter</a> and Tweet</span> about this giveaway, linking back to this post, and leave a separate comment that you did.<br />
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-<span style="font-weight: bold;">Retweet</span> about this giveaway, and leave a separate comment that you did. (You can retweet once each day. Just leave a separate comment for each retweet.)<br />
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See? Easy, right?<br />
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Last chance to enter is midnight, December 19th (for U.S. residents only). Thanks for playing along and good luck!<br />
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<a href="https://secure.vitamix.com/acb/stores/4/?COUPON=06-004422" target="_blank"><img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/going_green-1.gif" alt="goinggreen2" border="0" /></a>Mom2my10 @ 11th Heavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14813012011182498512noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7104344569055681558.post-44540242794815854702009-10-06T15:16:00.000-07:002009-10-06T15:17:04.301-07:00Increase Your Blog Traffic by up to 40% with The Blog Frog!Hi Guys!<br /><br />Something people often ask me is how they can boost their blog traffic, especially if they want to start earning money from their blog. I recently wrote a post about a few things you can do to get more visitors to your blog (that's <em><a href="http://rtheyallyours.blogspot.com/2009/09/thinking-of-monetizing-your-blog-some.html">HERE</a></em>), but I would like to focus on one thing in particular today.<br /><br />It's called The Blog Frog and it is probably the one single thing I've done that has increased my blog traffic exponentially...<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjemDAVAyJb4j7GgT3-GrmLL3O0If5kuVrEG-dYyraQ6AMlPNy9REmYIPETi_bqqZ4MFy0hykiLjMgpW0lZ5xaIfEj1rAdYnu_4jEzhz4c_HKCtxJzpY8qnnqlCJXr6FhBn1GmWA4bclaw8/s1600-h/8.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388150312681292482" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; width: 400px; height: 64px; text-align: center;" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjemDAVAyJb4j7GgT3-GrmLL3O0If5kuVrEG-dYyraQ6AMlPNy9REmYIPETi_bqqZ4MFy0hykiLjMgpW0lZ5xaIfEj1rAdYnu_4jEzhz4c_HKCtxJzpY8qnnqlCJXr6FhBn1GmWA4bclaw8/s400/8.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div align="center"><em>"What if there was an easier way to grow your blog?"</em></div><br /><br />The Blog Frog is a place where people can join social communities and meet other bloggers who have similar interests. When you join a community, and there are hundreds of different communities, your blog posts and twitters show up on their feeds and that is one way traffic is generated. Another way is to make comments in their community forums. This is not only a fun way to boost traffic, but I have made many dear internet friends via these communities and I have even used them as an effective way of sharing my religious beliefs. To me, that has been the most amazing part, but I like the traffic increase I've gotten to my blog as well! To see <em>my</em> social forum, just go near the top of my blog on the right and you will see my Blog Frog widget. I'd love it if you'd join the conversations there or start one of your own!<br /><br />Right now, The Blog Frog is offering a premium membership to anyone who wants to get an even HIGHER traffic boost. This membership will expose your blog on hundreds of blogs in the blogosphere with at least 10,000 impressions a month. That is really something! It will also get your blog more attention when posting on social Blog Frog forums by showing a little tidbit under your blog's name telling readers what your blog is about.<br /><br />To me, though, the biggest bonus about signing up for the premium package is that you will receive newsletters teaching how to have a better blog. This is the thing I'm most excited about! The Blog Frog editors will discuss blog layout, content and much more. Who doesn't want to know how to have a better blog?<br /><br />You can get this premium package for $4.95, but if you sign up now, you will get the first 14 days FREE! Hope you love this as much as I have! Let me know how it goes~!<br /><br /><a href="https://secure.vitamix.com/acb/stores/4/?COUPON=06-004422" target="_blank"><img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/going_green-1.gif" alt="goinggreen2" border="0" /></a>Mom2my10 @ 11th Heavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14813012011182498512noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7104344569055681558.post-19335639473881828782009-08-18T18:17:00.000-07:002009-08-20T07:41:19.015-07:00The Activity Bus by Plan ToysI'm a toy tester, and it's the greatest job in the world, according to the 9-year-old boy! A toy website called ebeanstalk has a group of child experts that help select great <a href="http://www.ebeanstalk.com/">learning toys</a> and toys for kids of all ages, from baby toys, toys for 1 year olds, <a href="http://www.ebeanstalk.com/2-year-old-toys.php">toys for 2 year olds</a>, etc. They were kind enough to send us the Activity Bus from Plan Toys who makes green <a href="http://www.plantoysusa.com/">developmental toys</a> and here's how much we enjoyed the bus!<br /><br />Almost everyone in the household wanted to be in on the review of this toy. Here is the capable 14-year-old girl opening the package with a sharp knife...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8vMrWxl7weWbZ55LxIjgJrqGThZFeTWipxoScBdHpmjAqXxObepoMAI-r-bpJ9aloCxn04htHj99B_ZHN9MaR7qROvLqtuXw_4vITqbywWOnqQZA8Vd0cGvrvbQKBP-BUIHWVpHsiHEg/s1600-h/101_0802.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 383px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371480673843669010" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8vMrWxl7weWbZ55LxIjgJrqGThZFeTWipxoScBdHpmjAqXxObepoMAI-r-bpJ9aloCxn04htHj99B_ZHN9MaR7qROvLqtuXw_4vITqbywWOnqQZA8Vd0cGvrvbQKBP-BUIHWVpHsiHEg/s400/101_0802.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnoIsT4lzn-mhWP1Rg6V_jUUbSJLp52ywX5DMtjzgyA0TV0Ap2NpxNwIx50N2PqGN3yXwa4KK-WLzRd8NoMr6fDTmV0cD9ksCWa1W2HUILj2FRO0zxfUGwtTQDcXvzEwy0CtS13dgs71A/s1600-h/101_0803.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 370px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371480684321292802" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnoIsT4lzn-mhWP1Rg6V_jUUbSJLp52ywX5DMtjzgyA0TV0Ap2NpxNwIx50N2PqGN3yXwa4KK-WLzRd8NoMr6fDTmV0cD9ksCWa1W2HUILj2FRO0zxfUGwtTQDcXvzEwy0CtS13dgs71A/s400/101_0803.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Here, she takes it to the entry way and is beginning to open the box. Look at the look of anticipation on Twin A's face...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDhw04M90Abh8I7g5BWT89BbYVSN6wy7ohi2ta6y2Y1UJ62k4ZrDDRAg3QEqCMkC4LoCSplbRAgPGiVcXs0O3OJl0liXAH-PdB6scNIYbqbE8feJT2-cSaaD_n5ZH-d2upZIkqPyqsaU8/s1600-h/101_0805.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371480694131862242" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDhw04M90Abh8I7g5BWT89BbYVSN6wy7ohi2ta6y2Y1UJ62k4ZrDDRAg3QEqCMkC4LoCSplbRAgPGiVcXs0O3OJl0liXAH-PdB6scNIYbqbE8feJT2-cSaaD_n5ZH-d2upZIkqPyqsaU8/s400/101_0805.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><em>(Not. He just doesn't understand the significance of what's about to happen here.)</em><br /><br />...and the look of expectation of the 3-year-old boy...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC5WyP6jTB6OiAg__AiFzXTa7eEFMsAdbKv5ruiGpV3e9WiN1JCMAr5kDCotlwq55Z3dyR53OUVvGEXDbQl256aK2DLTB9LFlxDXEb3bviUav51huTalDXSILMGMKFzLIDihdTz-JrDME/s1600-h/101_0807.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371480699795804514" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC5WyP6jTB6OiAg__AiFzXTa7eEFMsAdbKv5ruiGpV3e9WiN1JCMAr5kDCotlwq55Z3dyR53OUVvGEXDbQl256aK2DLTB9LFlxDXEb3bviUav51huTalDXSILMGMKFzLIDihdTz-JrDME/s400/101_0807.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><em>(Isn't he an angel?)</em><br /><br />Ah! Now the toy is finally opened! These are two little people who ride the bus. The twins loved them...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBU80UTp9LHxTqAEyQyfL42_kLuP2d0YI04Bfz0Qb3S7xhhz0Ju2iGpPWf8hsmjKYDGLIMOtILLeUhpK72r-bY6QuuBKARQKRsmjron1w7JeJKE8Hq4Aziiue8VUafONvgJTZInj9Axk/s1600-h/101_0812.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371480706551110034" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBU80UTp9LHxTqAEyQyfL42_kLuP2d0YI04Bfz0Qb3S7xhhz0Ju2iGpPWf8hsmjKYDGLIMOtILLeUhpK72r-bY6QuuBKARQKRsmjron1w7JeJKE8Hq4Aziiue8VUafONvgJTZInj9Axk/s400/101_0812.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />...but we quickly realized that this toy is meant for children 3 years of age or over, as there were little tiny wooden books for the little bus people to read. There is no photo of those, because they went away instantly, in order to avoid a choking hazard.<br /><br />Because all three little ones liked this bus - <em>A LOT</em>, we had to separate them and allow the 3-year-old boy to play with it uninterrupted. We placed him and the bus and the bus people on the kitchen table to accomplish that task. Here is the bus, with it's removable bus driver's seat, bus people, desks for the bus people and a chalk board, so that the bus people can learn while they are riding the bus...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmIqRiVD1UVdI78sUQ4yuNPH5C5451jnjwT4r1aiy6EpJTIpZr8jLwd4knCO32e0uGtBNdkFXHzhNpazAWcD1M6op2Bj48oQoyJjTpt2hj7B02Q78Oilu7ky7lo52-ooL5yqmIl_lqADQ/s1600-h/101_0815.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 348px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371486914011838482" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmIqRiVD1UVdI78sUQ4yuNPH5C5451jnjwT4r1aiy6EpJTIpZr8jLwd4knCO32e0uGtBNdkFXHzhNpazAWcD1M6op2Bj48oQoyJjTpt2hj7B02Q78Oilu7ky7lo52-ooL5yqmIl_lqADQ/s400/101_0815.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6-JwSRhE_-vWI_ul6Weizk94uEgbmAJk0gHULt9Ouq4btbypMK9XRlBVGlGnRp0PTwqWZDpxzq20UqY1ltw-ZeKTE1dIaBbgnKqa6KQuXEsmbqAU-dlftWJX9fbY8igS8p3MezhATQik/s1600-h/101_0823.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371486930307984914" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6-JwSRhE_-vWI_ul6Weizk94uEgbmAJk0gHULt9Ouq4btbypMK9XRlBVGlGnRp0PTwqWZDpxzq20UqY1ltw-ZeKTE1dIaBbgnKqa6KQuXEsmbqAU-dlftWJX9fbY8igS8p3MezhATQik/s400/101_0823.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Here they are, ready to learn...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzaWSqBHxVBskmYWUHu4VNYTihOqqIhsmB4uJxW5K4aJa9Bub6Avtt9JQ095T3Mfog7fikquYuvglWJ_OdsrDaKRpVhZzPE2CfUPOJbjLHhJpLFP3WUt_jvfzXSKrQEfb-M8xaL3WGqk4/s1600-h/101_0819.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 313px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371486924279508594" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzaWSqBHxVBskmYWUHu4VNYTihOqqIhsmB4uJxW5K4aJa9Bub6Avtt9JQ095T3Mfog7fikquYuvglWJ_OdsrDaKRpVhZzPE2CfUPOJbjLHhJpLFP3WUt_jvfzXSKrQEfb-M8xaL3WGqk4/s400/101_0819.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />...and with 3-year-old human propulsion, this bus goes fast!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKeH_U1O160ogfcvXd0cS-AzosAO27oWljrXufT8tPgobOJ56PlYtgljkL5xmPfbjBjrPgLd-gFWS9ZQZPhVrH3GyVR3XCUa0iaj6Qua_76F06m5I-9gn3TjWJN5VimNR4YlE-EldLHmU/s1600-h/101_0825.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371486945953725826" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKeH_U1O160ogfcvXd0cS-AzosAO27oWljrXufT8tPgobOJ56PlYtgljkL5xmPfbjBjrPgLd-gFWS9ZQZPhVrH3GyVR3XCUa0iaj6Qua_76F06m5I-9gn3TjWJN5VimNR4YlE-EldLHmU/s400/101_0825.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgq3uCezqt6tKEt2ErE32xJZoTVgV6pzZOU2qywIyzI-1QepNZelc1Oh87Hi1UliGQ0ItFYqd7vDL3A1GBBt4wfCv4JoLrQOdaKP-HZutcdMKpL5fB2u4XbhDaUSnuW0OncCplKke4upI/s1600-h/101_0824.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 300px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371486935140037042" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgq3uCezqt6tKEt2ErE32xJZoTVgV6pzZOU2qywIyzI-1QepNZelc1Oh87Hi1UliGQ0ItFYqd7vDL3A1GBBt4wfCv4JoLrQOdaKP-HZutcdMKpL5fB2u4XbhDaUSnuW0OncCplKke4upI/s400/101_0824.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />While this bus in and of itself is a cool toy, what I <em>REALLY</em> love is that it is only part of a set of a whole learning village!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8DcaIx2DDjxr7mOPJ9XGy-JIbxrZFo_56-DonS1pLH8DYE3tB0UqMAnO39iShpV4olGrf2fUJjksOAPE1SxC0OW0HPJmLIv46rfjfi2pST0MJEzWSk6_ENtsAXfQmtZ3nHZgk8xjtTtI/s1600-h/101_0831.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px; display: block; height: 240px;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5371490258790581506" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8DcaIx2DDjxr7mOPJ9XGy-JIbxrZFo_56-DonS1pLH8DYE3tB0UqMAnO39iShpV4olGrf2fUJjksOAPE1SxC0OW0HPJmLIv46rfjfi2pST0MJEzWSk6_ENtsAXfQmtZ3nHZgk8xjtTtI/s400/101_0831.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />If I were to purchase this bus, I would definitely plan on making the investment of purchasing the whole village along with it. When I showed the 3-year-old boy the potential of what we could have in addition to the bus, he began jumping up and down and saying that he wanted the really, really tall thing, which appears to be an apartment complex.<br /><br />Overall, the kids definitely enjoyed this toy and they continue to fight over it a lot. I love the fact that it's wooden, kind of German-esque, and that it is a toy that has the potential of fostering creativity. On the downside, it does come apart easily, so I'm often having to put the bus halves back together, which is inconvenient, but once the pins are put pack in place properly, I can hand it back to the children to fight over once more.<br /><br />I would definitely recommend that you go to <a href="http://plantoysusa.com/">plantoys.com</a> and check out all the great learning toys they have there! Thanks for listening!<br /><br /><a href="https://secure.vitamix.com/acb/stores/4/?COUPON=06-004422" target="_blank"><img src="http://i943.photobucket.com/albums/ad274/jenwhet/going_green-1.gif" alt="goinggreen2" border="0" /></a>Mom2my10 @ 11th Heavenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14813012011182498512noreply@blogger.com4