Mail Call for March 26 - April 7

I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter weekend. I will put up post an update shortly...I got lots of goodies this past week ~ including freebies, samples and products for my reviews at Frugal Fabulous Finds!

• My Ubby blanket (PR for FFF)
• Clean Screen Spray/Cloth (PR for FFF)
• Children’s Claritin and coupons (BzzAgent PR for Twice is Nice)
• Gardening magazine
• Family Fun magazine (freebie)
• netTALK Duo WiFi (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• “The New Three Legged Stool” (BR for FFF)
• Rascal Flatts CD “Changed” (PR from One2One Network)
• Shadora Pearl Jewelry Set (including earrings, bracelet and necklace – gift/freebie)
• Tuckaroo Bib (PR & Giveaway for FFF)

Have a wonderful week everyone!

Mail Call for March 19 - 24

Wow! I got lots of goodies this past week, and can't wait to get started on writing up all of my reviews for Frugal Fabulous Finds!

• Mrs. Cubbison Stuffing, Croutons and a bunny egg holder and apron (PR for FFF)
• Mixbook 5x7 flat stationary photo cards (PR for FFF)
• $100 GC (prize I won for a FFF blog post via One2One Network)
• Aqua Notes (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• “The Psychology of Wealth” (BR for FFF)
• Flip Size box of clothes
• Kraft First Taste coupon for FREE Fresh Take product
• YoBaby coupons and tattoos from Moms Meet (for mom group)

• Easter Bunny Smiley Cookies (PR for FFF)
• Ooma Telo (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Tea’s Tea (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Quaker Oatmeal Squares cereal sample (freebie)
• Old Spice deodorant, body spray and body wash samples (freebie from P&G)
• Bag beautiful (PR for FFF)
• Patyka Face and Body Serum (PR &Giveaway for FFF)
• ShopItAgain.com Yellow Crystal Balls (freebie)
• FouFou Dog package of goodies (PR & Giveaway for FFF)

Mail Call for March 5 - 17

Before I forget...I wanted to post all my goodies that I received in my mail this week...

• Free Bag of Popchips coupon (freebie)
• Pssst…package with 2 boxes of Hamburger Helper and 10 coupons to give away (freebie)
• Copy Kids eat fruits and vegetables DVD (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Zarbees sample + coupon (my second one – a freebie)
• You Never Lose ~ 2 x AMC Movie Tickets (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Picasso Hairfeathers (PR for FFF)
• Tide Pods sample (freebie)
• “A Titanic Love Story” (BR for FFF)
• Simple Moisturizing Facial Wash from SheSpeaks (freebie)
• Parents magazine (freebie)
• Old ElPaso Torilla Stuffers (full sample – freebie)
• I See Me personalized birthday book (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Organic Valley – coupons, bumper sticker, coloring book & more (freebie)
• Organic Valley activity books x 2 (freebie)
• Thirty-One Gifts Mini Utility Tote in butterfly design (PR & Giveaway for FFF)

Yikes! Its been 4 weeks...

Wow! I cannot believe its been almost 4 weeks since I last wrote an update on my lovely blog...things have been crazy, between playdates, chicken pox, cold/flu/stomach bugs, celebrating Destin's 3rd birthday, working at Frugal Fabulous Finds, and more!

To catch up, I think I will focus on one topic at a time...and for this post, I thought I would just share all of the massive mail, including freebies, samples and products for reviews and giveaways on FFF.

• ITO EN Tea GenMai Green Tea Canister (PR for FFF)
• Shop Runner gift package (came w/coupons, booklet and a reusable grocery bag – freebie)
• Nursery Water Elmo luggage tag w/coupon (freebie)
• MegaRed sample & coupon (freebie)
• 3 x FREE Purex detergent coupons
• 3 x FREE Purex ultrapacks coupons
• Pourty potty chair (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Just Between Friends flyer
• AcneFree sample & coupon (freebie)
• Diamond earrings from SayHelloDiamonds (PR for FFF)
• Bruce Foods Chili Package (came w/chili mix, chili powder & hot sauce – PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Sams Club (baby) flyer
• Brothers Fruit Crisps package (came with 6 of each kind, a total of 12 – PR for FFF)
• Lipton Green Tea sample & coupon (freebie)
• FabNab package – they sent a Kidorable Cat Backpack & Pirate Umbrella (previous PR/Giveaway for FFF)
• E-Shakti custom made shirt (PR for FFF)
• 8 x 10 canvas from Canvastouch.com (PR for FFF)
• Box/Cooler from Square One Organics (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Box from STAR Fine Foods (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• P&G sample box – came with coupons and samples (freebie)
• Kraft Macaroni and Cheese Macsurance coupon (freebie)
• PottyCover (previous PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Purminerals makeup (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• “Everything Romance” (BR for FFF from Blogging for Books)
• Ghiarardelli Chocolate Squares and 2 coupons from SheSpeaks (freebie)
• Orijen dog food from Mr. Chewy (PR for FFF)
• Cheerios Dulce de Leche sample (freebie)
• Nail stickers (PR for FFF)
• “Save your Money, Save your Family” (BR for FFF)
• House Party Package for Pull Ups Big Kid Party (pic on FB)
• Zarbees sample & coupon (freebie)
• MOH band (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Childs Apron from Buy Cute Aprons (PR for FFF)
• Zumbox info (to eliminate mail)
• Celestial Seasonings Wellness Tea (sample)
• BabyChix 4 in 1 ceramic keepsake diaper (PR for FFF)
• Personalized stationary from Babadoo Designs (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• $1.50 coupons x 2 ~ on ONE package of new Philadelhia Indulgence Spreads
• Family Fun magazine (freebie)
• TigTagz (PR for FFF)
• Fit Moms for Life (BR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Barista Prima Coffeehouse K-Cup sample 4 pack (freebie)
• Parents magazine (freebie)
• Glam Natural Cream Blush (sample)
• Better Homes & Gardens magazine (freebie)
• M - magazine (freebie)
• National Consumer Panel Multi task opener (freebie/gift)

Look for more posts to come soon...until then, take care and have a wonderful Sunday!

Mail Call: Jan 16 - 28 {2 Weeks Worth of Goodies}

I am always getting mail and packages each day...Here's what came in my mailbox the past two weeks: 

• Stainless Steel roll from EZ Faux (PR and Giveaway for FFF) 
• Bacon T-shirt (PR and Giveaway for FFF) 
• Disney Family magazine – Feb (freebie) 
• Toilet Tree Fogless Shower Mirror (PR and Giveaway for FFF) 
• Coupon and Sample from La Roche-Posay (freebie) 
• Prom Dress from Promgirl.net (PR for FFF) 
• Cardstore.com Valentines card (freebie) 
• Smiley 360 box of Infants Advil product and coupons (freebie)
• Birthday stuff for Destin’s birthday in a couple weeks (I got free shipping using Shoprunner) 
• Max and Ruby rings from Amazon (free with my giftcards) 
• Dr. Sharp Dentistry package – came with toothpaste, mouthwash and more (PR for FFF) 
• Skincare by Feleciai cream x 2 (PR and Giveaway for FFF) 
• Dapper Snappers belt (PR and Giveaway for FFF) 
• “Ready to Rumble” green shirt (PR for FFF) 
• Box of goodies for Destin’s birthday from Amazon  
• Camera Coat (PR and Giveaway for FFF) 
• Frizz Ease samples (freebie) 
• Valentines card from TinyPrints (freebie) 
• Zevia t-shirt (part of my Moms Meet package) 
• “I’m Irish! Do I get a FREE Beer?” T-shirt (PR for FFF) 
• “Potty Time” DVD (PR for FFF) 
• FlipSize bag (to mail my girls' clothes in for points)
• Backpack from 03USA (PR and Giveaway for FFF) 
• Green Mountain Coffee K-Cup 12 pack – Hot Chocolate (freebie)

Our Weekend: BBQ and Chicken Pox x 2

Not a real eventful weekend...but it was a nice one. Saturday, we hung out most of the day, and Patrick and I went out to celebrate our anniversary (while my mom watched the girls for us).

We ended up going to Jack Stack BBQ, which is the place that Patrick and I went to 9 years ago (and he proposed to me afterwards on top of the Halls building on the Plaza). Ahh, memories. I cannot believe it has been almost 9 years!! Wow!

Last week, we discovered Destin had the Chicken Pox. They still look awful, and I am thinking that Arwen is getting them too. She has a few spots on her tummy, and one on her arm. So...we will probably be on lock down yet again this week.

It really stinks..but I can only hope that we won't have to go through this again. Anyways...I hope everyone out there had a wonderful weekend! Have a great week!

Here's what came in my mail box last week:

• 2 pair of Sunglasses from Sharp Shades (Free w/Voucher from SaveMore Daily)
• Thermal Cinch Tote from Thirty-One Gifts (Previous PR & Giveaway at FFF)
• Wine-Wall Wine Rack & No Drip Stop (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Personalized Photo Thank You card I made from CardStore.com (freebie)
• Parents magazine (February)
• Zevia Package from Moms Meet (came with a free cooler and coupons for free Zevia beverages)

What a week: Chicken Pox, Snow and Big Girl Beds!

This week has been full of events in our neck of the woods...first off, we have decided to get Destin a BIG girl bed (a twin size bed). We ordered last weekend from Nebraska Furniture Mart, and it is supposed to be delivered next week. I know its crazy...but maybe, just maybe this will encourage her to actually sleep in her own bed.

If you have read this blog for awhile, you know that my oldest has never enjoyed sleeping in her own bed, let alone her own room. This has been something we have struggled with since Day One with her. Around Thanksgiving time (I think??) something clicked, and she wanted to sleep in her toddler bed (IN HER ROOM), which lasted for about two weeks.

And for whatever reason...be it, not enough encouragement; or realizing she has complete control, Destin is now BACK in our bed every night. Ugh!! I love that she wants to be with us, but really wish she would find that INDEPENDENCE to sleep in her own bed. So...we will just see what happens when we get the NEW big girl bed.

In other news this week...Destin has the Chicken Pox. Yikes! Both girls have been vaccinated, but thanks to our niece having them at New Years (and no one knew it then)...Destin now has them. They aren't really bad, and to my surprise she hasn't been itching them as much as I thought she would. She has hardly any symptoms (no fever, sickness, other than just a cold/cough - which we are all still trying to get over). It just stinks. We literally don't go anywhere, or see anyone, and then when we finally do...coughing, sneezing, runny noses, and now...chicken pox. :(

Hopefully after another week or so, the spots will go away (which are only on her back right now). Has anyone ever heard of people selling suckers with chicken pox infested children who licked them? Its true. But don't come knocking on our door for a platdate, or used cup/lollipop! No, we are staying inside, and locking the door!! Oh, and play the waiting game for Arwen to get it.

Sometimes I really wonder if vaccines truly do what they are supposed to do. In this situation, our Doctor (who did NOT want us to come in) told us that they will just get a mild case of the chicken pox.

Do you remember when you had them? How old were you? I remember getting them when I was about 9 or 10 years old. Of course, back then they didn't have a vaccine. They were awful! I was staying with my Gma in Kansas, and she thought they were just bug bites (as it was summer, and I was always outside).

Here are some pics of the girls I took this morning...chicken pox and all. They don't seem to be bothering Destin...

One last tidbit to share, before I find something productive to do around the house...It snowed! So much in fact, that they closed our local school district today! Patrick said the roads were pretty slick driving into work this AM, and he could understand why they closed our schools. But what's really strange?? NO other school closed but ours. I mean, we don't live in the country, we are considered the city...and have thousands of children in our school system. I just wonder why no other "sister" districts closed today.

Destin was pretty excited about the snow. She has been begging me to build a snowman, but there really isn't enough to make anything. Plus, she is sick. Plus, its freezing outside. And last, staying inside is MUCH nicer than trailing outdoors I think.

OH! And how, could I forget...today is our 5th Wedding Anniversary. Patrick and I got married today on January 12, 2007 in Destin, Florida. Yes, that is why we named our daughter Destin.

I am so much in love with Patrick. He is my soulmate, my best friend, and my partner in everything. It's hard to believe that 5 years have gone by since we said our vows on the beach that day...I will never forget.

And for those of you who are interested, here is what came in my mailbox last week (1/2 ~ 1/7):

• Octopus Legs from Inredibum (PR & Giveaway for FFF) 
• Raise Armpit Stain Remover (large 12 oz bottle ~ PR & Giveaway for FFF) 
• “Thriving Family” magazine (freebie) 
• Stickers from Rafflecopter (freebie)

A New Year...A New Look!

Happy New Year! Over the weekend, we remembered our favorite (and not-so favorite) memories of 2011, and brought in the New Year ~ 2012. We stayed home on New Years Eve, watched Dick Clark for a few minutes and then went to bed. Then the next day celebrated Christmas with Patrick's mom and family. It was nice to see everyone...it had been almost 2 years since we saw all of his aunts, uncles, cousins and grandma. {Not the best picture of us below, but its the most recent one we have}

In 2011, our family had many highlights to remember...our beautiful daughter, Destin Paisley turned 2 years old. Patrick went on his first vacation (by himself) to Colorado, where he skied the weekend away. Our (very furry) twin "babies" turned 4 years old. Our many, many trips to the Zoo (we definitely put our "Friends of the Zoo" membership to good use!). Our summer playdates with friends. Our first family vacation to Colorado, to visit Grandpa Todd and Grandma Julie. Our baby girl, Arwen Kinsley turned 1 year old. My plunge to finally get Lasik Eye Surgery (something I have wanted for the past 10 years!). And many more memories I don't ever want to forget.

Now as we bring in the year 2012, we have so much to look forward to...and I hope that I will be able to just keep up. The whole point of this blog was to share my thoughts, experiences and of course keep track of the daily adventures of my life. And although they aren't exciting, they are mine - and that's what keeps me going. My life as a mommy and a wife.

So since it is a New Year, I thought I would change up the look of my blog a little bit. Its still a little bit in-progress, as the header (located at the top) looks a little blurry for some reason. I will have to work on that later this week. And maybe this post will encourage me to get a "new look" for myself as well. What do you think? {I am finding it really hard to believe that I have over 100 followers, since no one ever comments or shares their thoughts. Maybe I need to work on that for this year...see my media goals below!}

I have had such a hard time finding the right motivation to lose weight, eat healthy and really value myself as a person. I find myself wearing makeup only a couple times a month, and becoming more of a hermit. I really hope that this new year allows me to open up a little bit more, explore more about myself, and encourage me to interact more with the world. Maybe that can be one of my resolutions?

Does anyone keep track of resolutions any more? Maybe if you write them down, you are more pressured/challenged to finish them. Well, here a few of mine: 1) Eat healthy & lose some weight; 2) Get out of debt (slowly but surely we will find a way); 3) Be a more patient and understanding person (with the girls, Patrick and everyone in my life). I think sometimes I take life too seriously, which is why I can be some what of a %#!*@. But then again, maybe everyone is.

Also, I know that many may think its boring...but I do like to share/keep track of my weekly mail calls. So I may just include a snip-it at the end of a weekly post, for the sake of my job at Frugal Fabulous Finds. I really enjoy working with that blog, and hope to continue to do so during this year as well. Most of our Christmas, birthdays and parties were success because of career as the Product Review and Giveaway Specialist. I am so excited to get the mail everyday, and I love being able to share new products/companies with my friends and family, and of course my readers.

What came in the mail this week?"How We Love Our Kids" (BR via Blogging for Books at FFF), MotoGP 10/11 PS3 game (payment for a blog post via FFF via IMS), 2 packages from SAMHSA.gov (a large box of kid activities & 2 big Books about healthy living), Necklace I ordered (back in October via Accessories Direct ~ a freebie I received via SaveMore Daily), Foldable/recyclable grocery bag from National Consumer Panel (freebie), AND Carefree samples and coupons from SheSpeaks.

Media GoalsMy (Social) media goals for this year are to get more fans on FB, more followers on Twitter, and more comments/interactions for my so-called followers via Google Friend Connect. I would also like to challenge myself to comment more on the blogs I follow. I know that I don't always share what I am thinking with others, and I need to do that more.

I am also going to challenge myself to write more on the blog. Last year, I only posted about an average of 4 posts/month. I would like to at least double that if possible. I may even get a few blog prompts via BloggyMoms. They have 366 challenge going on right now, which I may take participate in.

If you have a blog, and would like me to check it out - please share it in a comment below! I would love to read about your life, as a mommy, dad, grandma, teacher, whatever...

Professional GoalsI hope that this year I will be able to finally take my place in an educational setting. I have had lots of pep talks from family (mostly, my dad) and friends. And I know that my Bachelors and Masters in Education need to put to good use someday/year...and this might be the year. I would really like to find a job that I love as a teacher, whether that be online, in a classroom, or in some other format...I know that it would be good for me as a teacher, a mom, and a person to have those goals in place/practice.

Family GoalsFor many reasons, my family (on both sides) has become strained. We no longer communicate. I would really like to talk with my family (cousins, aunts, grandparents) more often. I miss them, and wonder sometimes if they do too. I also would like to challenge myself to work on the Family Tree more. I started a personal site via Shutterfly all about family history (for both Patrick and I) and would really like to find some answers. Maybe someone out there can help me figure out a way to find things out (without having to pay a lot of money - which we don't have!).

Until next time, I hope you have a wonderful week. I am off to my 3 Month Lasik checkup tomorrow and library story time with the girls...

Mail Call: Dec 19 - 24

Good Afternoon! I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas with their families!! Ours went really well...the girls were so excited for Santa Claus to come. We put cookies (which Destin and I made) and pink lemonade out. He brought all kinds of gifts for the girls...clothes, baby dolls, a MobiGo game system, Elmo, board games and more!

Then that morning we celebrated with Patrick's dad, brothers and families. They got more cute clothes, and toys to enjoy. Then later on that afternoon we celebrated with my mom, stepdad and little brother...where they got a new kitchen set and many other fun toys/clothes/etc. Busy, busy! And we still have ONE more Christmas to celebrate this coming up weekend with Patrick's mom in Osceola :D

We are so incredibly thankful for everything we received from all of our family, but most of all we are thankful for each other, and having such incredible loved ones to call our own.

As far as this week with the mail, I got lots of fun goodies...

• Karen Katz Christmas book for Arwen (Christmas gift via Amazon.com credit)



• Toys R Us $5 off $25 or more coupon


• $50 Check from Maggies Clubs (paid post on FFF)


• Christmas cards from family


• Maxim magazine (freebie)


• Philips Avent bottle (freebie)


• E-Pillow (PR & Giveaway at FFF)


• Calendar from our real estate agent


• Examine Yourself book by John MacArthur, Jr. (freebie)


• Free Hostess Frosted Devils Food Donettes coupon from Viewpoints


• Huggies Diaper sample from Sams Club


• Alpha Hydrox (PR for FFF)


• Totsy order for the girls’ Christmas


• Purex Insider box w/new product (which won’t be on shelves til Feb. 2012)


• DarkReds cd (PR & Giveaway for FFF)


• Woolite sample & coupon


• “Take Charge and Change your life Today” by Trevor Bolin (BR for FFF)


• A box of goodies from Hidden Variable (creators of Bag It!) (PR & Giveaway for FFF, completed earlier this month)


• “Daily Gifts of Grace” (BR for FFF)


• Yum Yum Dish/Bowl (PR & Giveaway for FFF)


• Nescafe samples (set of 6)


• Tena pad samples (freebie from Walmart)

Mail Call: Dec 12 - 17

Happy Monday! Time is just flying by...and in less than a week, Christmas Day will be here. Wrapped presents, cookies for Santa and a house filled with (more) laughter and smiles will be here soon...

I am really excited for this year, since Destin is the perfect age to really understand Christmas and all the fun songs/movies/books that go with it. I just know next year, when Arwen is over 2, she will be just as excited :D

This week we had a surprise visitor...Grandpa Todd (my dad) came from Colorado for the weekend. The girls absolutely LOVE him, and had so much fun playing with all day/night! We even had an adventure to Burr Oak Woods (a local nature center) one day, and a trip to Bass Pro Shops the next. We saw all sorts of animals, including snakes, birds, turtles, deer and more! And on Sunday, we went shopping just the two of us...and spoiled everyone in the family. New shirts for Patrick, new clothes/toys for the girls, new clothes for me, and treats/toys for Daisy & Duke. :D

I only wish that he could have stayed longer...and I wish he could have brought my step-mom, Grandma Julie. Destin asked me every day where she was, and pointed out everything that Gma Julie had bought her. She has such a good memory!

My next project, I think...needs to be a photo/memory book for the girls with all the family members that love them. I think they would really like something like that, and would definitely put a "face to a name" or vice versa. I have seen these online on various sites, and would love to invest some time into making one for them.

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! And if I don't post before this weekend, please have a safe and very Merry Christmas with your family!!

Here is what came in my mailbox this week...

• Ralph Lauren {orange, white & purple striped} belt (freebie from Nomorerack)



• 2 rubber bracelets from OpenDoors (freebie)


• Parents magazine for January


• $50 Visa GC that I won from One2OneNetwork


• Totsy.com order (Christmas gifts for the girls)


• Cowgirl boots for Destin & Arwen (Christmas gift from Gma & Gpa Sowerby)


• $25 Gift Certificate to ALDI (payment for PR & Giveaway at FFF)


• Earrings from DarcusTori.com


• Christmas cards from family


• Photo Ornament from Snapily.com (freebie I made)

Mail Call: Dec. 5 - 10

Not a super exciting weekend...we went to a birthday party for an old friend on Saturday, and Gma Melanie came for a visit on Sunday. Right now we are getting ready to wrap presents and prepare for the holidays (which is less than 12 days away!!!). EEK!

Here is what came in my mailbox this week:
• Show Stoppers (nude strips for clothing ~ freebie/sample)• “Sleeper’s Run” (Book Review for FFF)

• Vicks Honey Cold/Flu coupon for $4.00 off (freebie from Vocalpoint)

• M – magazine (freebie)

• John Frieda Sheer Blonde sample pack – came w/shampoo, conditioner and spray (freebie)

• Skindinavia (make up setting spray – as seen here ~ PR & Giveaway for FFF)

• Homegating w/Wholly Guacamole set – came inside a small cooler w/7 different kinds of guacamole, 2 kinds of salsa, and lots of party ideas/favors (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• 3 pair of earrings from DarcusTori.com (Paid Post for FFF)

• Photobook from PhotoBin (PR & Giveaway for FFF)

• Learn n’ Turn Utensils (PR & Giveaway for FFF)

• Silver money clip from Daily Steals.com (freebie)

• Holiday cards from Amy Adele.com (PR for FFF)

Mail Call: November 28 - December 3rd

Good Morning! I hope everyone had a wonderful week/weekend! We had hopes of getting our Christmas shopping finished, but still have a couple more people on our list to buy for...so I am planning on going one night this week (by myself - YAY!).

Oh, and since I didn't post a picture last week when we went to see Santa...here is one:

Over the weekend, we had lots of events going on. On Thursday, the girls and I went to the library for story time (where Arwen tried to run out the door a total of three times - AHH!). On Friday, we went to Paradise Park (for FREE) thanks to our local Parents as Teachers. Destin just loves it there - but she put up quite a fight when we had to leave (REALLY NOT FUN for me!).

Saturday, we did shop shopping w/the girls at Target, Walmart, and Sears Grand - too many places at once, but we made it! Then that evening, we went to Destin's best friends house for a Princess Birthday Party! Oh my goodness! That was so much fun! My very good friend Holly even hired a REAL princess to come to the party ~ Rapunzel. I just could not believe how awe-stricken all of the little girls were! Destin just loved it!!

Sunday, grocery shopping, cleaning, laundry and then we celebrated Patrick's brothers' 20th birthday. Happy Birthday Eric! Its crazy to believe how much he has grown since Patrick and I started dating back in 2003.

Overall, a crazy packed weekend! This week, we really don't have much going on - other than the usual library time and cleaning house. I hope you al have a wonderful week ahead of you!

Here is what came in my mailbox this week:
• Cappuccino machine from Whole Latte Love (PR & Giveaway for FFF)



• VTech MobiGo system & game (PR & Giveaway for FFF)


• Baby doll for Arwen from Amazon (Christmas gift ~ free w/credit)


• Teas’ Tea bag, pen and 2 Teas’ Tea sample bottles & pen (PR & Giveaway for FFF)


• “Zero” board game (PR for FFF)


• Washable Overall Dog Diaper (PR for FFF)


• Stadium Jerkey sample (freebie)


• The Princess and the Pee underwear (PR & Giveaway for FFF – comes w/eBook too)


• Shutterfly photo mugs and calendar (Christmas gifts I ordered)


• Personalized New Years cards from Mixbook (PR for FFF)


• Thriving Family magazine (December – freebie)


• Fijit for Destin from Amazon (Christmas gift ~ free w/credit)


• Tylers coffee (PR & Giveaway for FFF)


• Teacarina (PR & Giveaway for FFF)


• Ear Peace (PR & Giveaway for FFF)

Mail Call: Nov. 21 - 26

Good Afternoon! I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend! I am very thankful for my beautiful family and friends who make life worth living for.

We went to Bass Pro Shops this past week, and got to see Santa Claus. And neither one of the girls cried! I couldn't believe it! We also got some great pics which I will post later on.

Here is what came in my mail box this week, feel free to share yours too:

• $10 Target Giftcard that I got for hosting a MAM party
• My National Consumer Panel hand scanner kit
• 10 free cards from MyPublisher

• 9 free PINK shirts (Variety Pack) from Hanes (contest I won via One2OneNetwork.com) and a $50 GC to Hanes catalog - Woo hoo!

• Decorative Ceiling Tile (PR for FFF)

• Pine Bros Softish Throat Drops (freebie)
• Canale Orignials Bracelet Mate (PR & Giveaway for FFF0
• Tiny Prints birthday card (freebie)
• Chiefs Dog Jersey from Pet Super Store.com (PR & Giveaway for FFF)

Until next time, have a wonderful week!

Mail Call: Nov 14 - 19

Good Morning! I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! The girls have both caught a cough/cold again...so we have been dealing with that! Yuck! I am planning on writing up an update for the blog, so that is all I am going to share for now. Here is what came in my mail box this week:

• LL’s Magnetic Clay (PR & Giveaway for FFF)


• 2 Gray Shirts from Cheapetees.com (PR for FFF)


• Shutterfly Christmas cards (freebie – just had to pay S&H)


• Shutterfly holiday book w/coupons


• USPS holiday info


• Skintactix – set of 3 (PR for FFF)


• MyPublisher holiday info w/code for 10 free cards


• Babiators Sunglasses (PR & Giveaway for FFF)


• Snuggle Exhilarations (full bottle from Smile.ly – freebie)


• Style Me Up Diamond Tags (PR for FFF)


• Promdress from Promgirl (PR for FFF)


• “His Little Princess” (BR for FFF from Blogging for Books)


• Cookbook kit from Morris Press Books (freebie) – came w/three sample cookbooks and a “how-to” make your own cookbook


• Parents Magazine (December 2011)


• QwikShower Big Wet Wipes (PR & Giveaway for FFF)


• Boot Stroot (PR for FFF)


• Slowcolor Scarf (PR for FFF)


• Tom’s toothpaste sample (freebie)


• $25 Am. Express GC (payment for a post on FFF)


• 2 bags from Reuseit.com (PR for FFF)


• “The Way of the Happy Woman” (BR for FFF)


I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving week! Take care, Melissa

Mail Call: November 7 - 12

We really didn't have a super exciting week...Pat got rained out a couple times. On Tuesday, I voted in this week's election (one right that I will never take for granted). Funny thing is, there was only one thing on the ballot ~ Tax Increase for the KC Zoo. Which was passed - yay! Our family absolutely loves the Zoo, and this means we will get all sorts of NEW exhibits, animals and more! Thursday, we did our weekly visit to the Library and story time.

This week we also got Destin's TV set (which was an adventure...of driving to three different places, ordering it online, then taking it back, then traveling some more, and then finally buying the set at Best Buy), and set up Dish Network for her room. Yeah, shes only 2...but its nice to have her watch her favorite shows in her OWN bedroom. I did want to give her an ultimatum of sleeping in her room to earn the TV, but that has not worked so far. :( I am just hoping that by the time her birthday gets her, she will be ready.

Now for this week's mail call...

• Mederma Gift “basket” w/Mederma Stretch Marks cream, Mederma Scar Gel, Mederma Scar Cream + SPF, and Mederma for Kids (Giveaway for FFF)
• Shirt from FiveFingerTees.com (PR for FFF)
• SweetPea3 MP3 Player (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Mediflow Pillow (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Uglee Pens (PR for FFF)
• Skincare for Athletes (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• “Train Your Brain to Get Rich” (BR for FFF)
• Crest complete sample from VocalPoint
• Jet Dry (full size) w/coupon (freebie)
• $10 Visa Giftcards x 3 from State Farm
• Shutterfly birthday card for a friend (freebie)
• Canker Spanker ~ cold sore pills/chapstick (PR for FFF)
• Longshot Golf samples (freebie)
• Natural House Trashy, Stinky & Flushy (PR & Giveaway for FFF)

Hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend! Take care!

Mail Call: Oct 31 - Nov 5

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! We drove out to Cabellas and drooled over furniture at Nebraska Furniture Mart with the girls on Saturday. Other than that, we just stayed home :)

Here is what I got in mailbox this week:

• Personalized Christmas board book for Arwen from I See Me (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• LL Bean catalog
• Disney princess vitamin gummy sample (freebie)
• Coupon for a FREE Kefir product (freebie)
• Post it super sticky notes (freebie)
• Twinings of London tea samples x 3 (freebie)
• Colorforms Magic Fashion Show toy (PR for FFF)
• Alaska catalog (freebie)
• Christmas card for Veteran from TinyPrints (freebie)
• Bracelets & pens I ordered from Pure (deal from SaveMore that I purchased & got for FREE w/referrals)
• Bracelets from Live Worldly (PR for FFF)
• Slice Safety cutter (PR for FFF)
• Bracelet from my cousin Denise to promote Breast Cancer Awareness :D
• Puzzle from Piczzle (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Mrs. Cubbison’s stuffing & crispy onions (PR for FFF)
• Star of David necklace from Alef Bet by Paula (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Story Harbour Vol. 1 CD (PR for FFF)

I hope everyone has a wonderful week!

Take care, Melissa

Mail Call: October 24 - 29

Happy November! I know this post is coming out a little late, but better late than never, right? My mailbox was pretty full this week - mostly products up for review w/FFF, but great ones nonetheless :D I hope everyone has a wonderful week! Check out what goodies I got in my mailbox this week:

• Vegetarian Journal magazine (Vol. XXX, No. 4)
• Mini Paper Shredder & Pencil Sharpener from Karma Kiss (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Little Pim Spanish Gift Set (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• OB Tampon container w/tampons (freebie)
• All Terrain Herbal Armor Insect Repellent DEET-FREE Pump Spray (PR for FFF)
• Candy containers w/girls pic on them from Partybeans (PR for FFF)
• Lighten Up (BR for FFF)
• Roots Only (PR for FFF)
• Fan Stamp Instant Press On Eye Shadow (PR for FFF)
• Elle Décor Magazine (freebie)
• Bookmarks from the author of “Go For It” (BR for FFF)
• My Caring Cross (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Bully Free It Starts with Me kit, which came w/pin, sticker and poster (freebie)
• Birthday card from Cards Direct (freebie)
• Vajazzling.com stickers & info (PR for FFF)

Mail Call: October 17 - 22

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! We drove to Wichita on Saturday to visit my dad's family ~ my Great Gma Mary, Gma Reta and Aunt Tracie. We had a pretty good visit and even got to go to a local pumpkin patch :D

As far as my mailbox goes, I got lots of great freebies and products to review - check it out:

• Pink Ribbon pin (freebie from OneSaleADay.com) 
• Package from Hail Merry which included: a pin, Chocolate Macaroons, and Blonde Macaroons, and brochure (PR for FFF) 
• Inflatable Hair Wig from AlwaysFits.com (PR for FFF) 
• Gift Tag To/From Stickers from Disney Movie Club (freebie) 
• Autograph “plates”x 6 from Gretchen Robin (freebie)
• Basa Body Stick & Lotion (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• “Heaven is for Real for kids” (BR for FFF)
• Tub Plug x 2 (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• “The Nametag Principle” (BR for FFF) w/ my name written on it and signed by the author
• Gold Fleur Di Lis earrings from Darcus Tori.com (PR for FFF)
• Kleenex Cool Touch sample from Target (freebie)
• Loopeez shoe tying aid & laces (PR for FFF)
• A package from Smile.ly which included: a freebie coupon for Hunts tomatoes, a freebie coupon for PAM spray, a spatula and a pyrex dish
• 100 x my custom stickers w/the girls’ pics on them (freebie for doing a PR/Giveaway for CustomizedStickers.com)

Mail Call: October 10 - 15

I know that I haven't posted any pictures lately...so here is one that I hope you all enjoy! Don't you just love Destin's outfit, that she picked out all by herself? :)

This weekend we didn't really do a whole lot...we went to a wedding on Saturday (where the pic was taken above), then to our very LAME Greenwood festival afterwards (the first one ever). Then Sunday, we had lunch with my mom (Gma Melanie) to celebrate her birthday - where Arwen screamed happily the entire time, and Destin complained of a tummy ache (did I mention she threw up about 8 times this weekend??).

I am not really sure why she got sick, but it was mostly clear and just happened after drinking a lot of milk from her cup. I am thinking we may have to be more careful about cleaning her cups - they just don't seem to get as clean as they need to be. Or maybe just use the throw away cups? Dealing with a child that is throwing up is definitely not fun - I just hope that whatever it is - it goes away soon!

This afternoon after eating lunch, and Arwen taking her nap...we walked to the park and watched daddy "practice" catching/hitting softballs for his game tonight. I think he is supposed to play another two weeks, and then he will be finished until next year.

Now for this week's mail call...

• Shadora sent me a necklace for doing a PR/Giveaway w/them via FFF (freebie)
• M magazine for KC moms (freebie)
• Lovable Labels holiday pack (PR/Giveaway for FFF)
• Digiorno coupon for $2.00 off
• L&M cigarette coupons (YUCK!)
• MyClyns (PR/Giveaway for FFF)
• Free Halloween card that I made from Tinyprints.com (sent to my Great Gma Mary)
• Solutions magazine/catalog
• I-Say package ~ shampoo & conditioner (full bottles to try out ~ freebie)
• "Healing with Words" (BR for FFF)

Mail Call: October 3 - 8

Hello! I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend! On Monday (last week), I went for my 1 month checkup on my Lasik eye surgery ~ and they said I am seeing 20/10 in both eyes! Which is better than what I was seeing before the surgery - absolutely amazing!! Then the girls and I went to the park for about an hour to play. I am loving this Fall weather here! Its a mix between spring/summer - not too hot, not too cold.

Tuesday, our friends came over for a Burrito Party (sponsored by Reds - a PR/Giveaway I am hosting for FFF). It was nice to spend some time with them :D The rest of the week was pretty laid back - the girls and I went to the park a couple times. The weather here has been in the upper 70s to low 80s all week. Its crazy to think that in Colorado (where my Dad & Stepmom live) it is SNOWING!!! WOW!

I hope everyone out there had a wonderful week/weekend! We went to our niece's 9th birthday - I still remember her 1st :( I just know that our girls are growing to grow up that fast too...sigh...

Check out all the great stuff that came in the mail this week...

• Copper bracelet from DarcusTori.com (freebie)
• Heart shaped diamond earrings from DarcusTori.com (freebie)
• Incredibum's Package ~ came with 1 cloth diaper, 1 wipe and 1 wetbag (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Spike Your Juice (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Muscle Soak Bath Salts from SF Bath Salt Comp. (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• "When God Whispers Your Name" (BR for FFF)
• "Save our species" Coloring book from EPA (freebie)
• T-shirt for Destin from 2chix.com (PR & Giveaway for FFF)
• Tommee Tippee Manual Breast Pump (freebie - I won this in a giveaway!)
• Shutterfly books x 2 (freebies - one for me, and one for my mom as a surprise bday gift)
• Tiny Prints birthday card for my mom (freebie)
• Smilely Halloween Cookies (PR for FFF)
• My Canvas from CanvasPeople (freebie - just had to pay S&H)
• House Party package ~ Everybody Dance PS3 party...it came with: 1 Everybody Dance game, 1 demo disc, 18 cups, 18 coasters, 18 bracelets, 18 Glitter tubes, 18 coupons and as a BONUS 10 magic decoders
• Darcus Tori Round Black Onyx Stud Earrings (PR for FFF)
• "Unions = Jobs" bumper stickers x 2

I am sure I am forgetting something...but had a really great week :D Feel free to comment and tell me what you got in your mailbox this week!