Life with the Grover's

Downtown Charleston and Folly Beach

2010-06-25T17:18:00.000-05:00

We have been having an awesome time hanging out in Downtown Charleston, SC and Folly Beach.

A few highlights....

2010-06-16T10:09:00.000-05:00

Sea World at the Clyde and Seamore Show

The boys at underground viewing of dolphins

Dinner at the awesome T-rex restaurant in Downtown Disney.

Buzz Lightyear

Driving racecars

We all love the Pirates of the Caribbean!

Jackson and the castel

Jackson at the best ice cream store ever...Ghirardelli's!

Preston loves Lilo and Stitch.

The dino ride and the boys scary faces.

Jackson road Expedition Everest.

We are having a great time and we still have three days left!!

We made it...with a few bumps!

2010-06-12T09:54:00.000-05:00

We got here last night! It was a long drive but the boys where really great. Here is a picture of them when we were about to leave.

We stopped right before we got on the Florida Turnpike for gas and guess what...I left my wallet on top of the car! Its gone...I was so upset. After sleeping and praying I am hoping that no one finds it and our vacation can go on like it never happend. If you get a minute say a little prayer for my wallet and if anyone finds it they turn it in.

Hello!

2010-06-09T09:33:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to let everyone know that I might be MIA for a bit. We are taking off tomorrow for a month long trip! I have been looking forward to this trip for over a year and it is finally here!!! Here is what we are going to be doing

We will be at Disney World for seven nights. Going to Sea World for a day. My mom and youngest sister are coming with us on this part of the trip. Josh and I are renting a beach house in South Carolina for a week with no kiddos! Thank you mom for keeping my boys. After that we will be visiting family for a week and a half then spending five night in Valdosta, Georgia (where we are moving to). We are hoping to find a house while we are there. After that we will head home and three weeks later we will be moving from Texas. It is going to be a busy summer but and exciting one!

Winner!

2010-06-07T20:23:00.000-05:00

The winner of the Sweet and Salty Snack Pack is.........

Me and Leah

I like sweet and salty, but if I had to choose, it would be sweet.

Congratulations!

TGIF

2010-06-04T10:23:00.001-05:00

Happy Friday everyone! It has been a streeful week for me and I am so glad the weekend is here.

Welcome to Aloha Friday! In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that we take it easy and look forward to the weekend. So I thought that on Fridays I would take it easy on posting, too.

Therefore, I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response. If you’d like to participate, just post your own question on your blog and leave your link At An Island Life. Don’t forget to visit the other participants! It’s a great way to make new bloggy friends!

My question is:

How do you deal with stress?

It has been one of those weeks that it feels like its always something! I de-stress by escaping the situation and clearing my head. I either do something creative like painting, baking, sewing or I just go shopping. So what do you do to deal with stress??

Painting!

2010-06-02T11:22:00.004-05:00

I havent painted in years...here is what I painted this morning. What do you think? Does in need something is th lower right hand corner? Thanks for stopping by on my almost Wordless Wednesday!

Getting to know you!

2010-05-30T09:43:00.000-05:00

It's Sunday!
Let's make it a FUN DAY..So if you're not busy and want to play along to a super rad blog carnival..you won't be sorry..It's the bee's knees! (just my humble opinion);-) If you want to play along linkup by clicking on the button below.

1. Have you ever snooped around someone else's house?
Only at my own house growing up. I would always try to find gifts around Christmas and Birthday time.
2. Can guys and girls be friends?
Kind of but I think it becomes different once you get married. Its best to be friends with the same sex it just makes things less complicated. I think husbands when to be the only guy "best friend" in your life.
3. Can you curl your tongue?
Yes
4. Have you ever stolen anything?
Unforchantly to be honest I have to say yes. Never a good idea to steal!
5. Would you rather talk on the phone or text?
Depends on the person but normally talk. Emotion can get lost in text

6. Memorial Day plans?
Hangout with my family!
7. What do you do to relax?
Go somewhere alone. I need quiet to clear my head.
8. Do you do anything to honor those that have died fighting for our freedom?
My husband is in the military...its a daily thing.

Charleston Scrapbook Company 40% off storewide!

2010-05-29T00:36:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone Charleston Scrapbook Company is having a one day 40% off sale to celebrate Laurie's(the owner) birthday! Use code 52966 when checking out to save 40% off your order ALL DAY 5/29/10!! I also wanted to add that Chaleston Scrapbook Company ships Worldwide!

Here are some of the awesome things you can get!

Creative Imaginations By the Seashore Chipboard Stickers great for all those pictures that will be taken on vacation this summer!

$1.00 before 40% discount

This is Mudd Puddles Malibu Beach. It is really fun to work with and can be used on all kinds of projects.

The price is 4.99 before the 40% discount!

Here is a video of how you can use Mudd Puddles

This Melissa Frances 12x12 Wedding Album Kit would make a great bridal shower gift!

Priced at $19.00 before 40% discount.

Charleston Scrapbook Company has a large selection of paper and cardstock. Here is the Heidi Grace Sweetest Bug Fun Bouquet Cardstock only .70 cents before discount! I just love this paper!

Paper House Carnival Collection Tickets only .32 cents before discount!

I think these would be great for doing a camping or hiking projects!

Paper House Outdoor Adventure Collection Trail and Paper House Outdoor Adventure Collection Trail Markers both only .32 cent before discount!

I love these three guys! So cute and I am sure you could come up with more then a few thing to do with them! You can find all three and more here!

Head over and tell Laurie Happy Birthday on Charleston Scrapbook Company's Facebook page. Don't forget the 40% off discount is only good on May 29th! Use code 52966 at checkout. Happy shopping!

Aloha!

2010-05-28T09:51:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Aloha Friday! In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that we take it easy and look forward to the weekend. So I thought that on Fridays I would take it easy on posting, too.

Therefore, I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response. If you’d like to participate, just post your own question on your blog and leave your link At An Island Life. Don’t forget to visit the other participants! It’s a great way to make new bloggy friends!

Today's question:

Are you reading any good books? If so please share! I am looking for some books to take on our road trip.

I just went to the Library the other day and picked up Nora Roberts, Vision in White. Book one in the Bride Quartet series. I normally dont read books like this but it is pretty good so far. So what are you reading this summer??

Road trip prize pack GIVEAWAY!

2010-05-28T09:36:00.001-05:00

Are you are Sweet or Salty snacker??

General Mills has three new products to satisfy those road trip sweet and salty cravings. All three are sold exclusively at convenience stores. MyBlogSpark and General Mills sent us a Sweet & Salty prize pack! It included two of each new General Mills snacks, a Bugles tee and a really nice Nature Valley travel mug!

Let's talk about the snacks!

Cocoa Puffs Treats Triple Chocolate: An indulgent cereal bar that combines the great taste of Cocoa Puffs cereal and chocolate into one decadent treat, Cocoa Puffs Treats Triple Chocolate is perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.

Bugles Hot Buffalo: Need something salty with a bit of a kick? Look no further than Bugles Hot Buffalo Crisp Corn Snacks, which blends the taste of hot buffalo sauce with crispy corn Bugles.

Nature Valley Oats`N Dark Chocolate Crunchy Granola Bars: If you want the best of both worlds, give Nature Valley Oats`N Dark Chocolate Crunchy Granola Bars a try. These bars mix dark chocolate pieces, oats and crisp rice nuggets for a classic crunch and burst of whole grain goodness, making them a perfect natural snack that's high in fiber and protein, but low in saturated fat.

My kids loved the Cocoa Puffs Treats! I also had a bite they were pretty good...I am not sure they would be a great idea in a hot car ride with all the chocolate that could melt everywhere. They definitely satisfy the sweet, crunchy and even a chewy cravings!

My husband loves Bugles in Hot Buffalo. I tried one and they are smokin hot. Makesure you have a drink handy for these little guys! I really like the taste and crunch of Bugles in general. My husband will be picking up a few more bags from the convenience for our up coming road trip!

My favorite was the Nature Valley Oats'N Dark Chocolate. First off I love dark chocolate and granola so I knew this was going to be a hit. These would be great to through in a bag when you head out this summer. They dont seem like they would melt.

My husband is a salty snacker he loved the Bugles Hot Buffalo chips. I on the other hand am a sweet snacker. I like both the Cocoa Puffs treat and the Nature Valley Oats'N Dark Chocolate.

How would you like to win the a Sweet & Salty prize pack?? The rules are simple:
**Please leave your email in your comment so I can contact you if you win**
Leave a seperate comment for each entry

1. Are you a sweet or salty snacker? (1 entry)
2. Follow my blog through google connect (1 entry)
3. Follow me on twitter ( 1 entry)

Giveaway will end on Sunday June 6th at 11:59pm cst. Open to US only (sorry international followers I tried to get this open to everyone) I will contact winner via email.

Disclosure :Life with the Grover's was provided with a Sweet & Salty prize pack from General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

Disney Fever

2010-05-26T07:41:00.001-05:00

Happy Wordless Wednesday! 15 days till Disney!

Question?

2010-05-21T09:56:00.001-05:00

This is my first time taking part in Aloha Friday! If you want to take part click on the button below.

Here is how it works: I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response. If you’d like to participate, just post your own question on your blog and leave your link at An Island Life. Don’t forget to visit the other participants! It’s a great way to make new bloggy friends!

My question
What is your least favorite chore?
Laundry! Its a vicious cycle of never ending washing, drying, folding and putting away...blah! I think the putting away part is my least favorite part. Sometimes I just dont feel like putting up clothes!

So what is your least favorite chore? Leave me a comment...I love getting them!

Sewing update!

2010-05-21T09:20:00.001-05:00

I finshed two blankets for my boys! I did have to pickup a few things to make it easier. I went the cheap way and got a yard stick to help keep my lines straight. I wasnt ready to spend 50 plus dollars on getting a cutting mat and rotary cutter. I got a water saluble pencil but it was crap and didnt write on any of the fabric that I have! I just used a pen on the backside of the fabric to mark my lines.

Here is my little guy with his new blanket! Its not prefect but he loves it! **I got my swimsuit all cut and pined. I just have to pickup some elastic and I can start sewing!**

Recipe...

2010-05-20T17:41:00.001-05:00

I entered this in a recipe contest head over here to vote for me!
This is a great recipe for those long hot summer months!

Ingredients
1- 12oz box of Tri-color Rotini

12 small slices of Turkey Pepperoni (Regular Pepperoni works also)

5 large slices of Deli Salami

4oz Mozzarella

1/4 cup Parmesan

3/4 cup Lite Italian Dressing divided

1- 4oz can of sliced button mushrooms

1/2 cup sliced Black Olives

Cook pasta per box al' dente directions. This is normally about 8 minutes. Strain pasta in a colander and place hot pasta in a mixing bowl. Cover warm pasta with 1/4 cup Italian dressing. Mix to insure that all pasta is coated. This will help the pasta not stick together while cooling. Cover pasta and place in refrigerator until completely cool.

While pasta is cooling cut pepperonis into fourths, cut up salami into pieces that are about the same size as your pepperonis, cut mozzarella into small bite size cubes, drain the black olives and mushrooms. Once pasta is cooled incorporate all ingredients that you perpared into pasta. Cover with the last 1/2 cup Italian dressing and 1/4 cup parmesan. Fold all ingredients together gently. Serve right away or after flavors have had time to marry. You may need to add more Italian dressing as the pasta might soak up some of it.
Makes a large bowl great for a summer picnics, BBQ or even a lunch! I hope you all enjoy my recipe!

Graduation!

2010-05-18T22:59:00.002-05:00

I am so proud of you Jackson! You have turned into a wonderful child. Happy Wordless Wednesday.

Happy Tuesday!

2010-05-18T09:12:00.002-05:00

Welcome to Life with the Grover's! Feel free to checkout my blog and leave me a comment that you did. I would be happy to checkout your blog back! I am looking forward to making somemore blogging friends.

I will be posting soon how my sewing is coming along!

Sewing along...

2010-05-15T09:36:00.001-05:00

So I made it to the fabric store yesterday. I am going to make a few simple blankets for my boys, and then I am going to try to make a swimsuit. Yes I know its going to be challenging, but dont worry I bought extra fabric! Are you think why a swimsuit? Well I always have a hard time finding a bottom that fits right. One size is to small so I go to the next and its to big. Its really irritating! Wish me luck...im going to need it. I will be posting how it truns out.

This is the pattern I am going to be using its by Kwik Sew...I will be trying to make B.

Q and A about HomeScan

2010-05-14T11:31:00.001-05:00

Im sure most everyone has heard of National Consumer Panel(NCP) HomeScan and it used to be called Nielson. They have opened up space for more applicants. Last time they did this I signed up and I was picked. I started about four months ago, and its really simple. Anytime I buy something I just scan the barcode with the scanner and tell it where it was bought, and then I transmit the data. You can do multiple trips at a time if you have gone to more than one place.

The scanner is cordless so you can take it where ever you need to. The base does need to be plugged in. The customer support is awesome. If you have any questions they are willing to help. I got a letter after my first month thanking me and at my three month mark I got a little gift. NCP wants you to scan every trip you take, but if you dont its not a big deal you just might not get all your points. You can use your points to get all kinds of gifts, and if you qualify you can be entered in drawnings. If you are intersted in applying just click on the picture below.

Hopping along...

2010-05-14T00:28:00.002-05:00

Hop, Hop and a few more blog hops! Welcome to Life with the Grover's. Im so happy you desided to hop over and checkout my blog. Feel free to stay as long as you want, and if you like it here let me know. I would be happy to checkout your blog just leave me a comment.

My Little Life- Five question Friday

1. Take your pick...date night, girls night out, or night out alone?
Date night, or shopping trip alone.
2. Can you touch your nose with your tongue?
No
3. What is your favorite flower and why?
Daisy, its such a happy flower.
4. If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself?
Dont be in a rush to growup...have all the fun you can now because later you will have a lot more responsibilities.
5. If you won the lottery, what is the very first thing you would do?
Pay all debt, and then go on an awesome vacation!

The Girl Creative- New Friend Friday

The Trendy Treehouse- Follow me Friday

Hearts Make Families, Midday Escapades, One 2 Try

Thanks to all the blogs that put these hops on!

Calling all handbag lovers!

2010-05-13T15:56:00.001-05:00

Head over to Debbiedoos and checkout her awesome handbag giveaway! Im talking Coach people!

Thank you very much!

2010-05-13T09:30:00.000-05:00

This is my first Thank You Very Much Thursday.

The way it works is that you take out all your frustrations on people/things that peeved you off during the week and thank them in a very sarcastic way, for being who or what they are/doing what they did. I know everyone can use some free therapy, so go ahead and type yours out. Then head over to The Daily Dribbles and linkup.

1. I would like to thank the company who promised us that my husband would have his transmission the begining of last week and we actually got everything yesterday...nothing like eight days late!
2. A special shoutout to the ants who have invaded our upstairs.
3. Dear Power Wheels, after I paid 400 dollars for a Jeep I didnt think it would break a year and half later. Thanks for the 150 dollar bill to get it fixed!
4. To the realtor, if you dont start emailing me back im going to fire you!

I really didnt have a bad week, just a few bumps in the road. Feel free to share your bumps.

Sew What!

2010-05-12T17:15:00.002-05:00

I have a confession...about three and half years ago I got a sewing machine and I have never used it! Yes, yes I know you are thinking why not? Well I got it right before I had Preston, and then there was always something taking up my time...until now! I decided to learn how to use it. Last night I got it all threaded and ready to go. I didnt get a chance to sew anything...I got called out to the garage to help work on the car. Yes I said work on the car. My husband has been rebuilding his car and its FINALLY done! But thats a different post.
Anyways I would love it if you guys that do sew give me some pointers. Are there any products that I should pickup? I basically have the machine, and a little sewing kit. Any projects that I should start with? Looking forward to seeing what you guys have to say.

Skateboarding

2010-05-11T23:14:00.001-05:00

This is my first Wordless Wednesday! Enjoy!

Tag-Along!

2010-05-11T12:28:00.003-05:00

Welcome to Life with the Grover's. This is my first time playing the Tag-Along Tuesday hop. Feel free to checkout my blog and leave me a comment that you did. I would be happy to checkout your blog back! I am looking forward to making somemore blogging friends.

Twee Poppets

Birthday Cake and a Linky!

2010-05-10T16:43:00.008-05:00

Do any of you guys make your kids birthday cakes? I started making birthday cakes two years ago...just for my family. I had not idea what I was doing so I took a class to learn the basics. There are a lot of classes offered at craft stores. I took mine at Michael's. Here are a few of the cakes I made

My first cake! I made this just by reading online.

First cake I made in class.

My clown cake. We learned how make the bodys.

There was a final cake where we learned how to make roses, but I had surgery and missed the class. Lucky for me I have boys and will not need roses for there cakes!

Preston's Monster Truck cake. I did a post on this you can read it here.

This is the cake I made last night. It was my first 3-D cake. I think it turned out pretty good.

I would love to see what kind of cakes or other goodies you guys have made. Linkup and share with all of us!

Cupcake Tuesday at Hoosier Homemade

Mother's Day???

2010-05-08T17:46:00.001-05:00

I was wondering what everyone was doing for Mother's Day. We don't have any plans right now. I was asked what I wanted to do, but I have no idea...well the whole day to myself would be great but I dont think my kids or husband would like that. Shoot me some ideas and help me have a fun Mother's Day!

Hop on over!

2010-05-06T23:34:00.003-05:00

Its finally Friday! I am looking forward to Mother's Day how about you? Please feel free to checkout my blog and leave me a comment that you did and I will checkout yours! I cant wait to make so new blogging buddies!
My Little Life

1. What is your worst memory of your siblings?

I have three sisters so there was a lot of fighting over things

2. What was YOUR naughtiest childhood memory? (Must be something YOU did, no pawning it off on someone else!)

I broke my moms cookie jar because I was mad at her! She still talks about it...I cant remember what the fight was about!
3. Where do you like to go to relax?

On a walk, or to the mall

4. What was the last thing you won?

I cant remember its been a while
5. If you could be on a game show, which would you choose?
I think it would be so fun to be on the Newlywed Game

The Creative Girl

One 2 Try, Midday Escapade and Hearts Make Families

The Trendy Treehouse

A special thanks to all the blogs that put these hops on.

Happy Birthday Mr. Jackson!

2010-05-06T09:34:00.001-05:00

My little guy is 5 today!! Where does the time go? He has grown into a great little guy. He is really interested in learning about animals and dinosaurs. When we go to the library he checks out science books, no cartoon books...his little mind is filled with knowledge about snakes and sharks. He loves to watch the discovery channel especialy during shark week!

Jackson has been into cars since he was a little, little guy. Mustangs, and 350Z are his favorite cars. He has stated many times that he is going to be a driver when he gets older. Recently he decided that he wanted to be a Monster Truck driver! I am hoping that this will change but we will just have to wait and see.

Happy 5th Birthday Jackson! I can't wait to see how you grow and change over the next year.

This Friday...

2010-05-05T16:11:00.002-05:00

BABIES will be out this Friday!

Click on any of the pictures of movies to see more about the BABIES movie.

Check out my other posts on this movie here and here

Thanks to BzzAgent and Feature Films for providing all the information on the movie. By clicking on the pictures it helps me in a contest.

A month of FREE samples!

2010-05-05T08:52:00.002-05:00

All You.com is having free sample a day event in the month of May! Just head over to All You.com and click on the calendar. You are able to go back a request earlier dates samples. How awesome is that! I am looking forward to see what all they have to offer. So go here and request those FREE samples!

**Looks like most of the current offers are for USA and Canada**

Winner!

2010-05-03T09:28:00.001-05:00

Thank you all for taking part in my Bath and Body Works giveaway! Okay so here is the winner:

Lower Number: 1
Upper Number: 436

Random Number: 348

lin3arossa said...

I'm a follower

ghainskom at xxxxxxxxdot com

April 29, 2010 7:42 AM
Congratulations lin3arossa! I will be emailing her, and if I dont hear back in 24 hours I will pick a new winner.

Its Friday!!!

2010-04-29T22:57:00.001-05:00

Its finally Friday! I have had a long couple of weeks and things are starting to look up! Please feel free to checkout my blog and leave me a comment that you did and I will checkout yours! I cant wait to make so new blogging buddies! Feel free to enter my current giveaway for a Bath and Body Works giftcard and some of there products!

My Little Life

1. If you could, would you go back to high school?

Yes, and not do half the dumb things I did!
2. If a genie appeared and granted you two wishes, what would they be? (And, no saying "more wishes".)
A maid, and free month long vacation

3. What kids show do you secretly like?
Spongebob
4. What is your beverage of choice?
Diet Coke...I cant remember a time when I didnt drink it...my mom always had it in the house.

5. What is something that you would change about yourself (or are working to change in yourself)?
How I think about food...I have been working for years to over come eating when bored, happy, sad, to celebrate...you get the picture if anything happens...well lets eat! I have done well at times and other times not so well...its a vicious cycle! Working on this daily.

The Girl Creative

One 2 Try Hearts Make Families Midday Escapades

I want to thank all the blogs that put these blog hops on!

What do you think??

2010-04-29T20:19:00.001-05:00

I was thinking of extending the Bath and Body Works giveaway until Monday May 3...if I do I will add an extra $20 giftcard to Bath and Body Works if the winner has been placing daily votes. So what do you think? Two extra days of voting for an extra $20 Bath and Body giftcard...leave me some comments so I know how everyone feels. Thanks for all your voting you guys have been really doing a great job!

Help Wanted!

2010-04-27T22:10:00.001-05:00

Blogging Buddies I need some help getting my mom some more votes! She has entered a Mother's Day Makeover contest and is currently in first place....(im sure you are think why does she need more votes!) The lady that is in second place has come out of no where and is raking in the votes while my moms votes have slowed way down. If you go here and vote for my mom can get a chance to win my current giveaway going on here for a $20 Bath and Body Works giftcard and some other great products from there.

This is my mom and I right before I had my youngest son Preston. I lived with my mom and sisters the last couple of months of both my pregnancies and a month or two after. Yes people she had to put up with a lot! My husband could not be there do to work, and I knew she would be there for me no matter what. She has given my three sister and I so much I would love for her to win this Mother's Day Makeover. Please head over and vote...and even vote daily if you could! The contest ends May 4th. If you do vote be sure to put your entry into my giveaway!

This picture is a little dated but this is all five of us together!

BABIES!

2010-04-23T17:56:00.001-05:00

A few weeks ago I wrote a post about the movie BABIES.(Click here to read)

BABIES is directed by award-winning filmmaker Thomas Balmès, from an original idea by producer Alain Chabat, Babies simultaneously follows four babies around the world – from birth to first steps. The children are, respectively, in order of on-screen introduction: Ponijao, who lives with her family near Opuwo, Namibia; Bayarjargal, who resides with his family in Mongolia, near Bayanchandmani; Mari, who lives with her family in Tokyo, Japan; and Hattie, who resides with her family in the United States, in San Francisco.

I wanted to write a follow up post and show you guys baby number four Hattie.

Hattie was born to very ecological, “green” parents in San Francisco. When we first meet Hattie, she is in the hospital, but it’s not for long before she is back home with her parents. For Hattie’s family, it’s all about “How can I be good with the world?” The family’s diet focuses on fruits and vegetables. Both of Hattie’s parents are equally involved in her day-to-day life, fixing her meals, taking her to play groups, and spending time with her around the house. Hattie seems much like an old soul trapped in a very young body; she is much more cautious and analytical than the other three babies, evaluating her surroundings and what’s in her field of vision.

BABIES will be in theaters Mother's Day weekend May 7th. Click on the picture of Hattie and it will take you to more pictures and infomation about the movie BABIES. Also below is the offical trailer...check it out!

I can't wait to see the whole movie...Who doesn't love BABIES!
A special thanks to BuzzAgent and Focus Features Films for providing information and pictures from the movie BABIES. By clicking on the pictures it helps me in a contest.

Enter the Nestlé Mother's Day to Remember Sweepstakes

2010-04-18T00:10:00.000-05:00

Enter the Nestlé Mother's Day to Remember Sweepstakes

Mr. Preston

2010-04-14T10:07:00.001-05:00

Here are some things Preston says that I just have to laugh at....

Preston: Mom your not the boss

Me: Well who is the boss

Preston: I am

Me: Your to little to be the boss, mommy is the boss

Preston: Well your too big to be the boss

In the car...

Me: Talking to my husband, and singing along to the radio

Preston: Mom you are giving me a headache

Me: You give me a headache too

Sneaking in a piece of chocolate

Me...hiding in the kitchen

Preston...walks in the kitchen

Me...i hide the chocolate

Preston...mom i smell chocolate, are you eating chocolate?

Me...thinking in my head how does he know this and dang it i have been cought!

Preston: chocolate bar please

We're painting the roses red....

2010-04-14T09:01:00.001-05:00

It has been a little crazy here on base lately....the big guys are coming! You know when the boss is coming every little thing that you have been putting off you want to get done so you dont get the "talk". Yesterday I saw guys painting the street posts, putting up street signs that have been missing for months, bike paths have been painted, the grass has finally been mowed at the parks, and im sure that there has been major cleaning/fixing going on in the buildings. I'm sure this happens at most places of business...I know that when the owner is going to be coming where I work we do extra cleaning. It's just funny to see it on such a large scale.

Bath and Body Works Giveaway!!

2010-04-12T10:58:00.000-05:00

Who does not love Bath and Body Works? I know I do! They have great products and even better sale! I am giving away a 20 dollar giftcard, lotion, body wash and a jar candle from Bath and Body Works!! I am sure you are asking why are you giving all this away? This is to honor Mother's Day and my mom. She has entered a Mother's Day Mom Makeover. I would love to see her win! I am sure all the mom's out there would love to have a makeover and be pampered for the day.

Like most mom's out there my mom(Laurie Capps) has put her kids need and wants before hers. My mom has four girls ages ranging from 26 to 13. She is now a Grammy and has two little boys to spoil...which is does very well!! My boys think every box that comes in the mail is for them! To read a little bit more about my mom you can go here.

Okay, now for how to win this great Bath and Body gift pack! Please leave your email so I can contact you if you win and a separate comment for each entry.

Manditory Entry
Go and vote for my mom(Laurie Ann (Ennis) Capps) and in your comment let me know what vote number you are. (1 entry)
http://www.hybridmom.com/mothers-day-contest/laurie-ann-ennis-capps

Extra Entries
Go back and vote again daily...please leave what your vote number is and this is worth (2 extra entries daily)
http://www.hybridmom.com/mothers-day-contest/laurie-ann-ennis-capps

Follow me on twitter @amalgrover and tweet this: Please go vote for Laurie Capps here http://bit.ly/b2FijX she need your help to win a mom makeover!
(2 extra entries and can be done once daily)

Follow my blog...new and old followers! (1 entry)

The giveaway will end on May 1st at 11:59pm cst, and I will contact the winner via email. If the winner does not repond to the email and new winner will be drawn. This giveaway is open to everyone...international bloggers welcome!

This is my mom and I

Awesome giveaway coming your way!

2010-04-12T08:43:00.000-05:00

I am working on an awesome giveaway and I will have it ready this afternoon! Come back in a few hours and see what goodies I have lined up for you!!!

Yoplait Yoplus Giveaway!

2010-04-08T16:19:00.001-05:00

Yoplait Yoplus is offering 50 of my readers a coupon to try Yoplait Plus for free! How awesome is that, and after all 50 are taken you will be able to get a $1.00 off coupon...which I just bought two packs of four at Wal-mart with this coupon because they were on sale for a $1.50...only .50 cents after the coupon!

Yoplait Yoplus yogurt comes in six flavors including Blackberry Pomegranate, Blueberry Acai, Strawberry, Vanilla, Peach and Cherry

I tried the Strawberry the other night after work...it was good and I liked this small bits of strawberry in the yogurt. I did think the texture was a little grain, but it did not effect the taste.

The newly reformulated Yoplait YoPlus yogurt now has 20% of the Daily Value of antioxidant vitamins A and E, a blend of special probiotic cultures and fiber for digestive health, as well as calcium and vitamin D for bone health, YoPlus offers a delicious way to get three steps closer to healthy, balanced living.

Okay, now onto how to get the FREE Yoplus coupon! To receive a coupon for a free 4-pack of YoPlus yogurt through the ‘Free Yogurt’ tab (you will be required to fill out an easy form)

Simply click on the link below and see if you are one of the first 50 to get a FREE 4-pack of Yoplus! If you are not dont worry you will still get a $1.00 off...and remember they are on sale now at Wal-mart for $1.50. Good luck and let me know if you are one of the luck 50!!

A special thanks to Yoplait for hosting this giveaway! This review and giveaway is my honest opinion, and if I liked or disliked the product I will alway tell you. Thank you being one of my readers!

FREE Cookies!

2010-04-05T02:20:00.000-05:00

Head over to Nabisco's Facebook page and get a coupon for Free cookies....buy a gallon of milk and Nabisco cookies and get a second bag of cookies free. Coupon is good through April 23rd!

Click on the Cookies and Milk tab to find the coupon....oh and the coupon will only be available to print today! (4/5)

Check these out!

2010-04-01T16:10:00.001-05:00

Born in Mongolia, Bayarjargal, usually called “Bayar” for short, lives with his mother, father, and older brother Delgerjargal (“Degi”). Bayar is two years younger than Degi, who is very curious about (and slightly jealous of) his newborn brother. This baby’s good nature and easygoing personality make for some very funny brotherly interactions! Bayar’s family lives on their small family farm, where Bayar wanders around on his own from a very young age, playing with animals and exploring his surroundings – but his parents are never very far away.

Mari lives with her mother and father in Shibuya, a busy metropolitan area within Tokyo, at the center of all of the city’s noise and excitement. Mari is an only child and lives the contemporary urban lifestyle, walking around city streets when not in the family’s apartment that has a view of the city skyline. Mari loves to visit toy stores, play with the family’s pet cat, and go to baby play groups. In the movie, she is notable for her dramatic reactions to, and frustrations with, everyday life.

Ponijao lives in Namibia with her family, including her parents and eight older brothers and sisters. Ponijao’s family is part of the Himba tribe, and lives in a small village with other families, following traditions including speaking their own (Himba) language. The men in the Himba tribe are generally off looking after the cattle and searching for grass, so Ponijao is most often with her mother and other female relatives; she plays, eats, and is bathed through the traditional method of mixing concrete red ochre with oil. Ponijao’s favorite things to do are dance and play with other children in the tribe.

The TODAY Show features BABIES as "the movie trailer that makes hearts melt" and the trailer as "just under 3 minutes of pure pleasure". Featuring Jeff Gardere, Clinical Pschyologist giving his expert opinion of why it's so important for a movie like this to hit theatres now

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

I think it is really cool to see how different cultures raise there children. Different in many ways but still in some way the same. I am writing this post for BuzzAgent and the movie BABIES. Click on the pictures or video above and it helps me in a contest...it will also take you to more information and the fourth baby in the movie! I cant wait to see the whole movie!

Winner, Winner Pancake Dinner!

2010-03-30T23:46:00.001-05:00

The winner of the Breakfast Gift Pack is number 50....Deb K I am a new follower :-)
Congratulations Deb K, and thank you to everyone who became new followers...if you did not win this time you might next time!
True Random Number Generator
Min: 1

Max: 144

Result:
50
Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Reminder

2010-03-30T16:12:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone!

I just want to remind all my follower that my giveaway will be ending tonight at 11pm CST. Head over here to enter. I will email and post the winner tonight after I get home from work...can't wait to see who wins!

It's Friday!!

2010-03-26T00:07:00.000-05:00

Hello fellow bloggers! Thanks for stopping by Life with the Grovers! Feel free to stay and look around. Leave me a note that you are a new follower and I will swing by your blog and become a new follower! Happy Blog Hopping!!

If you want to enter my giveaway just click here you just have to be a follower!

1. Did you pass your driver's test on the first try?

Yes

2. What is your most embarrassing moment?
Not sure I will have to come back to this one...??
3. What TV show would you like to be on- Oprah, Biggest Loser, or What Not to Wear?
What not to wear...I want a makeover!
4. Would you ever get plastic surgery and what kind?
Yes if I ever had anything done I would want my boobs back the way they were before I had kids.
5. What are your favorite jeans to wear?
American Eagle

Click on any of the buttons above and it will take you to the host site. Thank you ladies for putting these blog hops on!

Calling all pancake lovers...and there is a giveaway!

2010-03-25T15:59:00.000-05:00

Doesn't this picture want to make you run to the kitchen and whip up some pancakes! We love pancakes at our house so much that we have them for breakfast and dinner!

I am sure you all have heard of Bisquick but if you havent head over to there website and check them out. You can get great recipes(for more than pancakes) and coupons over there.

Bisquick Pancake Nation is a national effort to inspire pancake lovers to unite through pancake breakfasts. Join the Bisquick Pancake Nation to find everything you need to know about planning and hosting a pancake breakfast fundraiser. From now through May 31st, you can apply for a $250.00 grant* for your qualified non-profit organization so that you can host your own pancake breakfast fundraiser in your local community.
In addition, when you visit the Bisquick Pancake Nation website, you can find:
Pancake Mix—customize a future Bisquick Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser with some fun tips on what to serve with pancakes
Calculator—plan shopping for just the right amount of ingredients for expected guests
Placemats—download and print so guests can share trivia and play games while they eat

If you don't want to host an event but you still want to help out can go here is find an event close to you.

I was given these goodies from Bisquick through MyBlogSpark for writing about this awesome Breakfast Fundraiser.

So now for the giveaway! You have a chance to win box of Bisquick, a large mixing bowl, a pancake spatula, and a Lodge cast iron pan.

**Please include you email address in your entries so I can contact you if you win.**
Manditory entry
Be a follower for Life with the Grover's blog (two entries)

For extra entries
Follow me on Twitter and tweet with a link back to the giveaway (two entries)

Tell me your favorite pancake recipe (one entry)

Host your own Pancake Nation Fundraiser (five entries)

Check out my sponsor Charleston Scrapbook Company and tell me something you love at her store
(one entry)

Well thats eleven possible entries! Good luck and the giveaway will end Tuesday March 30th at 11pm central standard time. Oh and its open to everyone!!

Bring back family movie night!

2010-03-24T08:30:00.001-05:00

Finally, there’s a movie the whole family can dare to watch together. “Secrets of the Mountain” combines family-friendly entertainment with adventure and mystery for a night of pure family fun.

Watch the trailer, and tune in on April 16th, 8/7c on NBC to bring back family movie night!

Happy 3rd Birthday Mr. Preston!

2010-03-20T00:23:00.001-05:00

I really can not believe that my little guy is three today! Where did the time go??

This is Mr. Preston right after I had him! He looked like Josh right from the start. Right after he was born my mom said if I did not know better I would have thought you just gave birth to Josh! Gross thought but you get the picture.

Preston has beautiful eyes...they are intoxicating!

Here is Mr. Preston on this 3rd birthday morning!

I love you with all my heart little one.

Fantastic Bath and Body coupon

2010-03-19T16:59:00.001-05:00

I love a good deal and with this 20% off coupon I am sure you can find one. So if you are heading out to the mall this weekend you might want to print this baby off...you never know what you might find!
**This coupon is only good until March 21st** Here is the code of online purchases Spring20

Thanks Thrifty and Thriving

Stacy's Pita Chips

2010-03-19T16:50:00.000-05:00

Hey guess what...Stacy's Pita Chips has a great coupon out for buy one get one!! I first tried these when Stacy's facebook page was offering a free bag. I tried the Parmesan Garlic and Herb pita chips...yummy! I want to try the Cinnamon Sugar.

Thanks Hip2Save

Its Friday...lets get hopping!

2010-03-19T01:52:00.000-05:00

Hello fellow bloggers! Thanks for stopping by Life with the Grovers! Feel free to stay and look around. Leave me a note that you are a new follower and I will swing by your blog and become a new follower! Happy Blog Hopping!!

1. Have you ever had a celeb sighting?
Nope
2. What temperature do you keep your house?
70ish
3. Do you notice dust at other peoples homes?
Yes

4. What's the worst job you ever had?
Never really had a bad job, but I have had a couple bad bosses!!

5. What is your most sentimental possession?
Quilts my great-grandma's made, flowers from my wedding, family pictures

Free Starbucks Pastry

2010-03-18T17:02:00.000-05:00

From their fan page:
"Free Pastry Day is back next Tuesday the 23rd! From open - 10:30am, buy any handcrafted beverage or drip coffee and receive a free pastry, while supplies last. Print or show the coupon on your mobile device."

I love Starbucks! They have a really yummy new flavor out Dark Chocolate Cherry Mocha...and I had them make it into a Frappachino! You will love it if you like dark chocolate. Anyways here is the coupon you will need to get your free pastry...remember the coupon is only good until 10:30am!

American Eagle

2010-03-16T11:25:00.001-05:00

Today is AE Fan Appreciation Day! Take 20% off your entire order only at AE.com. Use discount code 92567411. Also you can sign up for AEREWARDS and get extra coupons throughout the year. They recently changed the point system and I have to say I am a little disappointed that they made it harder to get the higher percentage coupons. Overall, I love the AE Brand and have been shopping with them since I was a teenager.

This is strictly my opinion and I was not compensated in anyway. I just love AE and thought you might too!

Catalina Machines at Target

2010-03-14T00:48:00.000-06:00

I went to Target and guess what we have Catalina machines! I bought two of the Johnsons Buddy bars of soap and got a $2.50/3 on any Johnsons baby products from the Catalina machine. Let me know if you have a Catalina machine at your Target.

Free Aveda products!!

2010-03-14T00:42:00.000-06:00

I love Aveda salons and there products. We do not have an Aveda salon close to us but I hope when we move I might be able to find one close by!

Go HERE to print a coupon for a FREE Aveda Color Conserve Hair Care 3-Pack. The coupon is good through June 30, 2010.

Get a $20 Hair Color Gift Certificate for Aveda HERE!

Thanks, Money Saving Madness

Target

2010-03-13T08:35:00.000-06:00

Hey guys I wanted to let you know that I found Extra Strength Tylenol on clearance yesterday for 4.41 and you can use the dollar off coupon Target has on there website to get an even better deal! Also they have Veet hair removal on sale for seven and some change...with the three dollar off coupon on the Target website it makes and even better deal! Im not sure if these deals will be at all Target but it might be worth a check. Have a great weekend!

2010-03-12T00:28:00.002-06:00

It's Friday Follow again!

1. How much time do you spend on the computer a day?

A few hours during the day, and about one hour after I get off work...helps me become sleepy!

2. Will you pay for your children's college or raise them to pay for their own way?
Im going to try to do both. I had some help but did a lot on my own...and its really hard to work part time, go to college full time and still have some kind of social life.

3. Have you ever been in a car accident?
Yes three. The first one I hit someones back end while turning in the rain. Second one I was t-boned. Third I was hit in the back end while it was raining.
4. What is your favorite book?
I dont have one...sad I know but I am not a big reader of adult books...I read a lot of childrens books to my kids...I hope they like to read more than I do.

5. Do you make your bed everyday?
Nope...never have! But I do like the way a made bed looks.

Follow me and I will follow you!! Here are the blogs that make this blog hopping possible:
Midday Escapedes
One 2 Try
Hearts make families
The tready treehouse
The Girl Creative
My Little Life
Have fun hopping around!!

Trucking along

2010-03-11T11:47:00.001-06:00

I want to applogize for not blogging much lately...back in late January I got a part-time job. It has turned into more like a full timeish job now! I am working nights trying to save up money to fix my husbands car and we are going on a big family trip starting in June...extra spending money is aways nice.

Families who have two working parents who are on two different shifts how do you do it for long? I have only been at this for a month and a half and I can tell it is taking a toll on the family. I keep reminding myself and them that its only until June...its only until June! I dont want to sound like a cry baby but it stinks not being able to spend evenings and weekends with my family.

Here is what I am using as my motovation to keep trucking along!

1. We are going to Disney World for a week! I can not wait...it is going to be so much fun!!

2. My husband I are renting this beach house for a week...and it gets better...with no kids!!

3. We are going to be spending a few days in our soon to be new place for residence.

4. Going to be visiting family...this is my mom!

This is Josh's dad and Jackson (he was only two). We are going to be splitting the rest of the time with both families.

My hats off to families who have two working parents on different shifts...it stinks!

Sorry

2010-03-05T14:21:00.002-06:00

I know that my blog colors are crazy right now but I was trying to change somethings up...but I have run out of time!! Im not going to be able to get them fixed until tomorrow:( I hope you all have a great weekend!

2010-02-26T09:27:00.000-06:00

Its Friday again and that means it time for Friday Followers!! Welcome blog hoppers...feel free to check out my blog and I will do the same for you! Leave me a note that you stopped by and a I will stop by your blog back!

Look forward to meeting all my new blog buddies:)

2010-02-26T09:14:00.005-06:00

Hey everyone...I hope you all had a great week! I wanted to share the new Vera Bradley line with you guys. I just got an email from them and I really thought there stuff was cute...and I thought you might think so too!

Here are some colors that I like.

Sittin' in a tree

Carnaby

Poppy Fields

Bali Gold

Symphony in Hue

Puccini

Here are a few pieces I really liked!

This is the Birdie Wallet...isnt it super cute!

This is the Darling Clutch...I really, really love this!

This is the baby bag in Sittin' in a tree. I had a baby bag for both my boys and really loved them!

I hope you enjoyed this sampling of Vera Bradley. I have been a long time fan, and always like supporting great companies. This post is just my opinion, I was not compensated, and I am not affiliated with Vera Bradley...just a fan! All pictures are from the Vera Bradley site.

Exciting news!

2010-02-23T14:54:00.000-06:00

Durm roll please....we are moving! Many of you know that Josh is in the military and with the military comes moving. I am pretty used to moving because my father and step-father were/are in the military. It does not feel natural to stay in one place for more than four years...never lived anywhere more than five years at a time. It was not easy as I got older infact when I started high school I told my parents I did not want to move during those four years. Well I never moved high schools but I did move twice!

Josh has been in for five years this coming Monday and this move will be the third base for us. I am really happy that we will be moving closer to family....oh you might be wondering where it is we are moving to...Georgia. We have family in Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida...sorry grandma still not much closer to Indiana. A five hour drive to my moms seems way better than a twenty-four hour drive!

My one concern is Jackson. He will be going into Kindergarden and with us moving so late in the summer I am not going to have much time to check out schools. We are going to be going on a trip this summer and we are now going to add a stop and check everything out...but schools are normally closed. So if anyone has any information about schools around Moody AFB in Valdosta, GA please pass it my way.

I hope we dont look like this:)

Turn snack time into show and tell time!

2010-02-23T13:54:00.002-06:00

Hey moms, see how Kellogg’s® Clever Kids™ can turn snack time into show and tell time. These new letter and number shaped snacks will have your kids wanting to show off their love of learning and tell you all about it! Go here to get a coupon:)

Follow me Fridays!!

2010-02-19T10:49:00.001-06:00

I just found this fun way to meet bloggers and get new followers...add your blog and be part of the fun!

Pull-Ups vs. Easy Ups

2010-02-19T08:52:00.003-06:00

My son Preston is almost three and we have been potty training him for about six months now. He has it down but naptime and bed time he still needs to wear something. We have been using Pull-Ups because I had some coupons for them, but the last time I went to the store I bought Easy Ups simply because it was the coupon I had. I was really disappointed with them. They bunched up while he was sleeping, the material was not as good as Pull-Ups, they leaked multiple times, and they did not have the reclosable sides. I will say that I used Pampers diapers almost exclusively with both my boys, and really never had any problems with them. I am sure this is why it was hard to understand why Easy Ups where not holding up as well as Pull-Ups had. Here is Pull-Ups and Easy Ups websites take a look at both and see what you think.

I was not compensated by either company this is strictly my opinion.

The gray tooth

2010-02-18T15:34:00.001-06:00

A couple of weeks ago Jackson can home from school and said that he got hit in the mouth with a toy car. I took a look at his teeth a tiny little chip was was missing from a tooth, and he was in a little pain but nothing to worry about. Well last week I noticed that his front tooth looked a little gray...I thought oh great he has a "dead tooth"! We went to the dentist today and the dentist explained that when a tooth has trama it can cause the vein to bleed into the tooth causing the gray color. Luckly the tooth is not wingling, there isnt any abscess, and he is not in really any pain so he gets to keep his tooth. There is a chance that the tooth will go back to white, but it could stay gray.

Here is Jackson smiling. I love that his gap is the same on top and bottom!

Here is a little side note about another gray tooth. One of my youger sisters hit her mouth when she was around three, and the same thing happened to her. For years I teased her calling her "dead tooth...I guess what comes around goes around!

Breakfast

2010-02-18T09:29:00.000-06:00

We are a family of convenience when it comes to breakfast. My kiddos normally have cereal and milk. We do not favor one brand over the others, we love them all! Thanks to My Blog Spark and General Mills we were able to try out some of GM's cereals for free. I let me kids pick out what they wanted to try and we ended up with two boxes of Lucky Charms, Reeses Puffs, and Cinnamon Toast Crunch. What can I say they know the goods when they see them! My youngest son loves Lucky Charms he of course eats all the marshmallows first then goes back and has the cereal part. Below are some nutritional facts, and of course a coupon for General Mills cereal. Also if you have not signed up for My Blog Spark go over to there website and check them out!

Did you know that ready-to-eat cereal eaters consume less fat, less cholesterol and more fiber than non-cereal eaters? Cereals also deliver important vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients, making cereal a top source of key nutrients in children’s diets.

Target now has retro boxes of General Mills cereal.

Other cereal benefits:
Ready-to-eat cereals, including presweetened cereals, account for only 5% of sugar in children’s diets.
Ready-to-eat cereal is the No. 1 source of whole grains in a child’s diet today.
More frequent cereal eaters tend to have healthier body weights and lower Body Mass Index measures.

Studies also demonstrate the benefits of eating breakfast. A 1998 study showed that children who eat breakfast tend to perform better at school. Compared to children who skip breakfast, children who eat breakfast score higher on tests, are less likely to miss class or be tardy, have fewer reported discipline problems, and make fewer trips to the office.

For more information about kids and cereals, please visit Cereal Health and Wellness.

Right now if you visit here you will find a $1 off coupon for one of four General Mills cereals.

Dang pizza boxes!

2010-02-17T14:23:00.000-06:00

Okay...so those of you who are really into recycling you might not want to read this post. This morning my husband texted me that the contractors where no longer going to pick up our trash if we do not start to recycle. First we live on a military base so the trash people are contracted out to come to our house to collect our trash. Second that means that someone is coming around looking in our trash cans to see what we are throwing out! We do have a recycling can but in the past if we did not have it full it would sit and sit and sit some more. I got tired of putting the recycling out and not having it picked up. So I just gave up! This afternoon I heard the trash truck...thanks to our dog she always lets me know when the mail or trash guys are around! I looked out the window saw the guy look in our can take the top bag out and leave the rest. I was a little more than ticked. I went right out there and asked why my trash was not going to be taken. He stated that we had recycling in with our trash. By the way our "recycling" is just cardboard, and paper...they don’t want to mess with the other stuff apparently. We walked over to my can and there were cardboard pizza boxes and one post office box in the can...other than that it was trash and yes there were a few pop tart boxes in the bags. I explained that other than the pizza boxes the majority was trash, and asked that they please take the bags and leave the other things and I would move them to the recycling can. Then the guy actually asked me if I knew how to read!! I thought are you kidding me are you really going to do this over some pizza boxes...that was all I could take I said yes I can read that it is a trash can...can you read? I pulled out the bags and handed them to the other guy and said that I would put my pizza boxes in the recycling but please take the bags. So my questions is....Is this happening off military bases? I do not believe the recycling a law so why are there random people coming around checking in my trash before its even picked up! So just so I do not start trouble for my husband we will be putting all our cardboard in the recycling....and they better pick it up!!

Get a REEL deal.

2010-02-16T13:36:00.001-06:00

Great-tasting tuna doesn’t have to come wrapped in butcher paper…or cost a fin and a tail. While supplies last, save $1 on StarKist Creations™, which is sealed in a Flavor Fresh Pouch.

I am back!

2010-02-13T09:49:00.000-06:00

We finally got a computer! Our "new" laptop could not be repared so thanks to Best Buy we were able to get a "newer" better laptop! I cant wait to catch up on everything!!

Computer is down

2010-01-19T21:05:00.000-06:00

My laptop is at the shop right now so I will not be on much until it is up and running again:( Thanks for all of you who voted this past week at the Fantastic Asstastic competition. The voting for week 3 will start on Thursday so be sure to vote again!

What are you waiting for??

2010-01-15T12:56:00.000-06:00

Hi blogging friends! Do you want to have a good laugh?? Go here and take a look at all the contestants that are doing the Fantastic Asstastic Challenge. And please vote for me...im the first one on the list! I have been getting up at 5am and running!! So what are you waiting on go check out those buns!

How cool is this!!

2010-01-12T16:35:00.000-06:00

Over at the Nesting Place (which I love) is having a really awesome giveaway! The Studio by Danielson Designs is offering TWO people 50 dollar certificates to there shop! The have really awesome customizable signs! Check out the one I put together, go over and play around and make your own sign!

Vote for me!!

2010-01-12T15:39:00.001-06:00

Starting tomorrow (Wednesday the 12th) voting opens over at Fantastic Asstastic Gallery of 2010! Go over and vote for my butt! I haven't had the best week but I did drop 2lbs!! That is eight sticks of butter people! Wish me luck!

Aveeno Baby

2010-01-12T15:39:00.000-06:00

Have any of you tried Aveeno Baby products? I had the chance to try out the Wash and Shampoo thanks to Buzzagent. I used this on my two year old son. I thought it worked great, and was gentle on his skin. He does have longer hair for a boy so typically I use a shampoo that has some conditioners. This shampoo is not a 2-1, but still preformed well with his hair. This average cost is a little pricey, but Aveeno normally has coupons available through there website. Here is a link to the Aveeno Baby site.

Guess what???

2010-01-07T21:08:00.000-06:00

I am super excited to be receiving my first three awards!! I actually can't believe I was chosen. JDaniele4' Mom gave me the Sunshine award and the Happy 101 award. Then over at Crafty Chic Mommy gave me the Lemonade Stand award.

The Sunshine Award is awarded to bloggers whose positivity & creativity inspires others in the blogworld!

The rules for accepting this award are:

Put the logo on your blog.
Pass the award on to 10 bloggers.
Link the nominees within your post.
Let the nominees know that they have received this award by commenting on their blog.
Share the love and link to the person from whom you received this award.

For this award, you are to list 10 things that make you happy, then tag another 10 people.

Ten Things That Make ME Happy-not in any special order
1- My Husband
2- My Boys
3- My family
4- Seeing someones reaction when I give them a gift
5- Finding a great deal
6- Cooking/Baking
7- Shopping alone
8- Crafting, Painting, Blogging
9- Going on vacation
10- Christmas...I don't know what it is about Christmas but it makes me feel happy!

Okay so here are my award winners for the Sunshine and Happy 101...not in any special order:
1- Trey and Lucy
2- Craftaholics Anonymous
3- Make it and Love it

4- Inspiring Creations
5- Thrifty Decor Chick
6- Skip to my Lou
7- Room to Inspire
8- Living with Lindsey
9- Little Birdie Secrets
10- Lil Blue Boo

The award is called the Lemonade Stand Award and it is awarded to bloggers who show great attitude and gratitude. The rules for accepting this award:

* put the lemonade logo on your blog or within your post

* nominate at least ten blogs with great attitude or gratitude

* link the nominees within your post

* let the nominees know they have received this award by commenting on their blog

* share the love and link to the person from whom you received this award

Here are my award winners for the Lemonade Stand award...not in any special order
1- Life in the Pitts
2- Krafty Mum
3- Fireflies and Jellybeans
4- Brown Paper Packages
5- Blue Cricket Design
6- All Things Thrifty
7- 320 Sycamore
8- Seventh Smith
9- Sister Stuff
10- Someday Crafts

Check out all the award winners...they all have great blogs!!

Homemade Gummi Candy

2010-01-06T14:20:00.000-06:00

Look how cool these homemade gummi's look!! Over at Skip to my Lou has a great post at how to make them. All you need is jello, candy molds, unflavored gelatin, and some water. Click here to see how she made them!

She also has some other great projects listed on her blog...go check them out!!

A few more good coupons

2010-01-06T14:12:00.000-06:00

Here are some random coupons that I thought you all might like

This is a 1.50 off WD-40

Hobby Lobby 40% off coupon good through 1/9 on any regular priced product

Yankee Candle Coupon 10 dollars off a 25 dollars or more good through January 30th, 2010
**You can use this coupon at Bed Bath and Beyond**

Go here to get a dollar off Duck brand tape. Walmart has Duck brand tape priced at 1.08- 1.59.

A special thanks to Mojosaving.com who had these deals listed on there blog.

Bath and Body Works Coupon

2010-01-06T08:55:00.001-06:00

I love Bath and Body Works! I love them even more when they give me free products! Here is a coupon to get a free travel sized product from there signature collection with any purchase. These are great for your purse, car, desk drawer, or to give someone as a thank you. This is good for U.S and Canada stores!!

Challenge number 2 excepted!!

2010-01-05T21:39:00.004-06:00

So over at The Lawsons did Dallas! blog she is having a Fantastic Asstastic Photo Challenge 2010. During this challenge I have to submit photos of my asstastic butt (clothed of course) every week. There will be a vote to see whose fantastic butt has shrunk the most. This will go on until you are voted off and a winner has been announced. Here are the official rules listed on Amy's blog:

The contestants will have one week to improve the look of their rears. Walk, run, count points, find a better camera angle, squeeze yourself into a new set of Spanks--it doesn't matter to me. What matters to me is that you send a follow-up picture one week later. I'll post the new pictures in the Fantastic, Asstastic Gallery, and we'll let the voters decide...Who's ass is the most improved?

The votes will be tallied with technological precision, and the bums that fall in the bottom fourth will be eliminated.

We'll repeat this process on January 13th, January 20th, January 27th and February 3rd--when the Grand Champion will be revealed. Here is where you can see all the contestants in all there glory this is also where you will be able to vote for us starting next week!!

So without further a do here are my pictures....

Yes, I know I can't believe I am posting these pictures either! The first step to change is admitting there is a problem and as you can see my butt is barely fitting in those jeans!

I have lost and gained many times. Here is what I have learned works for me (when I do it)

Exercise.

Eat healthy, and let your self enjoy some special treats (this is so you don't feel deprived)

Track what you eat- I sometimes forget what little bits or snacks I eat so its important to write it down so I can see it (visual learner)

Weigh-in once a week- same day of the week and a similar outfit

The one thing I learned throughout my ups and downs with weight is to be honest. If you lie about working out or what you ate you will only be lying to yourself and cheating yourself.

I have also joined the Sisterhood of the Shrinking jeans. I am moving my treadmill out of the garage and into my living room. My husband isn't to excited about this now, but I think he will change his mind once I get going! I will need everyone's support...so start praying for me!!

Christmas pictures...sorry they are late!

2009-12-31T23:34:00.000-06:00

My in-laws didn't make it until late Christmas day do to the bad weather here in Texas. So here is what our Christmas morning looked like....

Our tree fill with gifts!

The cookie and milk.

Okay so this was the night before..."Santa" putting together a skateboard ramp.

My girl Lucy with her Christmas bow.

My three boys.

I love this picture of Preston.

Jackson getting his Ben Ten Omnitrix.

More gifts!

Josh with his new shirt...look at all the gifts to his left.

My gift from my sister Beth.

Well that is a sample of our Christmas. I hope you all had a great Christmas and a great New Years!!

It's our Anniversary!!

2009-12-31T11:01:00.000-06:00

This was our Engagement picture. I was four months pregnant with Mr. Jackson. I got pregnant with Jackson a month after we got Engaged! He was a big Surprise!!

The two of us got married in downtown Charleston, SC. Two days before we got married I tried on my dress and I couldn't get it zipped!! So we had to run out and get a dress that would fit...I guess that's what happens when you are almost six months pregnant! We had a great time and ate at our favorite restaurant The Boathouse on Isle of Palms...the next day we had both families get together for a small party. We didn't have the money to go on a honeymoon...still wanting to go on one, but the money still isn't there. We have had our ups and downs, but it has been a great five years! I love you babe and I pray that we have another 50 great years together!!

FREE Fresco Taco!!

2009-12-23T17:32:00.000-06:00

Hurry and grab this coupon while it lasts! No other purchase is required and is only good for the first million who print.

Thanks to Hip2save.com who spotted this first:)

A few great Christmas ideas....for next year!

2009-12-21T10:46:00.001-06:00

So every year the boys and I make a new homemade Christmas ornament. I just found this idea of a Time Capsule Ornament! Isn't this cool...I am totally doing this next year! Sorry grandparents try to forget that I said that.

Growth Tree

So I am not a big fan of hanging a growth chart all year around because it never gets used. However, I think this is a really fun idea.

I love the idea of being able to add on ornaments every year with the kids height on them. Check out how to make is here.

One last idea for next year

Wishing Spool

If you haven't noticed I like to reflect on how we change from year to year. I really like this idea because without pictures of past Christmas's I would have no idea what we got and what year we got it. Sad I know, but after having my boys my memory gone to you know what!

I hope you all have a great Christmas Week!

Wrapping and more wrapping!

2009-12-20T22:22:00.000-06:00

Well I finally got almost all my gifts wrapped! I have a few more to go...and one big one that I need to find a big bag for. It took me a lot longer than I wanted it to take...mostly because I had to start and then stop because of my boys. I want to put them under the tree but I am worried that my little ones will not be able to avoid the temptation, so for now they will be on the top shelves in my laundry room.

Here are my two little ones! I took this picture in our living room. All I did was dress them in matching colors, and hang up a blanket that went with the color schema. And do some praying that the would want to please photo shoot...well and tell them that they could use the camera when we were done to take a few pictures themselves. I think it turned out pretty good and I even made copies for Christmas gifts! I hope you all had a great weekend:)

O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree...

2009-12-15T20:46:00.002-06:00

Well here she is in all her glory! Our Christmas tree is full of memories...you see our theme is family and friends. All the ornaments on the tree were either given to us, bought for each other, and/or represent a time in our lives. Well I guess the candy canes that I added yesterday do not count, but you get the picture.
It is really hard not to buy cute ornaments that I see, but I really love the tradition we have started. Plus who to say in a few years I don't add a second big tree. Enjoy the closeups of some of my favorites!

This is my first Christmas ornament! I love it!!

This is our first Christmas together ornament. Josh's mom and dad got this for us from Frankenmuth, Michigan. To the left is a beaded bell that my great-grandma made...it is not a great picture of it but it is very dear to my heart. On the right is Jackson's first Christmas ornament (the baby cradle)

At the top there is a Charleston, South Carolina sand dollar and it is painted with the Rainbow Row scene. Josh and I met in Charleston when we were both in college. We ended up working together at a horse and carriage company in downtown Charleston. We walked past this row of houses daily. Below that is a ceramic girl holding a candle. This was given to me by my grandma on our Christmas trip to Tennessee. The whole family...all twelve of us stayed in a log cabin together Christmas 2006. The snowman was also given to me by my grandma. Josh and I did not have a Christmas tree until the third Christmas we had together. We were really poor! So when we got a tree we did not have any ornaments...so thanks to my grandma she bought us a few and passed some down to us.

When I was a little girl we would cut down our tree. While at the tree farm my grandma and I would look for a birds nest to place in our tree...we thought it was good luck. So she got me a nest to place in our tree every year!

The Christmas ball looks like it has shredded paper in it, but in fact it is a hundred dollar bill. My husband was given this as a gag gift from his dad when he was younger. The santa is another ornament from my grandma on our trip to Tennessee. To the right of that is a ceramic baseball player. This is Josh's from when he played little league.

Well I hope you have enjoyed out tree as much as I have! Check out the other trees at A baby changes everything and visit Simply Sweet Home who is hosting the Holly Bloggy Christmas Bash!

I also added my tree to Today's Creative Blog: Get your craft on...check out all the others!

A few good deals!

2009-12-14T22:30:00.001-06:00

So I found some goodies for you guys! First Old Navy...this past Saturday I want to get to Old Navy to get some of their 5 dollar fleece jackets but by the time I got there they were all sold out! Little did I know that Old Navy does price matching for up to one week after the original purchase was made! So now on to this weeks super Saturday deal...Old Navy will have their Cozy Socks on sale for 1 dollar!!!

So if you are wanting to get this socks you can pick them up this week and take your receipt in to Old Navy on Saturday to get the price adjusted. Also here is a link to a 30% off coupon good through the 19th.

Deal number two.

If you are like me you will be have a few guest over this upcoming holiday and could use some help with the food budget. Here is a coupon for a BOGO Special K cereal...you will have to register with Special K, but im sure that means that you will get more great offers from them!

Deal Three!

2 dollar Holiday DVD's for the kiddos! Wal-mart this week will have Curious Gorge a very Monkey Chrstmas and How the Grinch stole Christmas on sale for 5 dollars. With this 3 dollar off coupon will make this DVD's only 2 dollars!

Update! Wal-mart currently does not have these two movies on sale. I went today to get them and they are 13 dollars each. I will check back on Sunday to see if they go on sale.
And last but not least

Here is a 30% off coupon code good at Kohls.com from December 15th through the 24th.
The code is CHRISTMAS30
Just enter it at the end then you are checking out and it will take off the 30%. Happy Shopping!!

I want to thank all the blogs that I pulled this information from

Moms By Heart

Deal Seeking Mom

The Bargain Jargon

Sara The Savvy Shopper

Homemade gifts

2009-12-14T17:21:00.003-06:00

So I have decided to join in on a few holiday blog activities. One of them is the Holly Bloggy Christmas Bash. Day one started today over at Tatertots and Jello with homemade gifts. I have made a few this year, and now I wish I would have taken better pictures! Here are some pictures of what I did....

So I bought these really ugly photo books at CVS for a dollar, and I covered them with scrapbook paper I got at Hobby Lobby. I filled each with pictures of my boys...sorry the pictures are not that great.

I bought some really cheap Christmas ornaments at Goodwill this year and here is what I did with a few of them.

I wish I could take credit for this idea, but I have seen this on many blogs. All I did was paint each one of my boys hands, press them on the ball, let them dry, then painted my snowmen faces, and then I sprayed them with a clear coat to protect the paint. I also put the year on the bottom...I do different kiddo ornaments every year. This is one of my favorites!

Once again I wish this was my idea but I have seen many different versions of these coasters on blogs.

Here is what you need to make these:

-small ceramic tiles (I got mine at Lowe's for 28 cents each)

-scrapbook paper

-Mod Podge

-hot glue gun

-cork backing

I cut the scrapbook paper a little smaller than the square and then Mod Podged it to the tile. Then I Mod Podged the top of the paper. I let it dry over night then I did another layer of Mod Podge on top. Once dry I hot glued the cut cork to the bottom of the tile (I wish I had a picture of this)...the cork was cut to be about the same size as the scrapbook paper. I really like the way they turned out, but I could change one thing I would use fine sandpaper on the edges before I mod Podged the top.

Here is a link to the Holly Bloggy Bash....check it out!

Also check out The Girl Creative to see some more cool homemade ideas!

Free Batteries

2009-12-13T09:03:00.000-06:00

Last night I went to Target and used this Rayovac coupon
The four packs are located in the dollar section in the store. When you go to print go to print preview first and change the scale to 100%. If you dont the coupon will be really small.

Who loves King's Hawaiian bread??

2009-12-11T12:28:00.003-06:00

If you love Hawaiian bread click here to get a coupon and click on the special offersbutton! Personally I really like King's brand the best...I tried Walmart's version of Hawaiian bread and I thought it was really bad. The King's site also has some great entertaining tips!

A fellow blogger needs our help!

2009-12-10T00:29:00.000-06:00

Cupcakes and Corsets is having a blog Holiday gift basket raffle. The money raised is going to go towards gifts for families over at wishuponahero.com The baskets are going to be filled with goodies from Etsy stores! So head over to her blog and get some tickets to support a fellow blogger!

Free Outback Blooming Onion

2009-12-09T06:32:00.000-06:00

My husband and I really love Outback Steakhouse! Become a fan of Outback on facebook and get a coupon to get a free blooming onion with the purchase of a meal. Click here to become a fan.
Thanks to Mom By Heart for finding this deal!

Glitter, Glitter, and more Glitter!

2009-12-06T23:10:00.000-06:00

Christmas is in full swing at the Grover house! I have been decorating and creating day after day. I did not have many decoration other than my tree and a few hand me downs...so this year I was determined to get my house decked out. After all Christmas is my favorite holiday! I look forward to sharing my pictures with you, but they will have to wait until after Wednesday do to my college finals!! I have a great week everyone:)

Movie Night

2009-12-05T00:53:00.000-06:00

Tonight my husband and I watched the New Moon movie. I have to say that I thought it was pretty good, but there were some cheesy and slow parts. If you have not seen any of the Twilight movies the main actors are Kristen Stewart who plays Bella Swan, Taylor Lautner who plays Jacob Black, and Robert Pattinson who plays Edward Cullen. If you have not seen Twilight I suggest watching that before seeing New Moon as you will understand the movie better.

I am not a "crazy fan" but I do enjoy watching the movies. I get drawn into the love story and really what girl wouldn't! Who doesn't want two good looking guys fight over them. I will say that the character Jacob is definitely taken advantage of throughout the movie...super sweet event though he is a werewolf. I do not think he will be so sweet in the next movie though!! Overall I did enjoyed the abs, and love story in New Moon. The main three played there parts very well, and whether you are a fan of Jacob or of Edward you will enjoy this movie!

I give this move three and a half stars!

The twelve days of Christmas

2009-12-01T09:07:00.000-06:00

I wanted to share this great offer I found at Whataburger...if you sign up here you will get coupons for FREE food in your email every other day until December 24th! The coupon could be anything from a burger, to one of there yummy shakes. Happy eating!

Bath and Body Works

2009-11-24T15:29:00.000-06:00

If your like me you love Bath and Body Works! They have great products and have even better sales. I have a great coupon to share with you. Click here to get a free product with any ten dollar purchuase!
I hope you can find something great for yourself or for someone on your chirstmas list.

PhotoWorks FREE Presonalized Photo albums!!

2009-11-24T15:23:00.001-06:00

Hey everyone head over to PhotoWorks site and click on the As seen on Tv button on the right hand side of the home page. This will take you to where you can make your book. This is almost a 50 dollar value (shipping is free also). Don't wait to long to take advantage of this offer its only for the first 25,000 people!
When checking out use the code BONNIE

HP

2009-11-24T00:11:00.000-06:00

Starting today Monday, November 23rd--Jolly Mom will be giving away an HP TouchSmart 600! HP graciously chose Jolly Mom as one of nine blogs who will be giving one away. If you've never heard of the HP TouchSmart 600, you will be blown away by the features of this computer.

Microsoft and HP collaborated to create best-in-class touch technology that melds the power of Windows 7 with HP’s revolutionary TouchSmart PCs. The HP TouchSmart 600 showcases this technology within its sleek design, HD widescreen, BluRay, adjustable webcam and more. It offers limitless potential for enhancing life at home.
Click here to check out her blog!
This will take you to HP http://www.hp.com/united-states/campaigns/touchsmart/