All Summer long, my daughter and I have been having craft time together. One week we made Junie B. Jones Bookmarks. Another week, we made friendship bracelets with family and I can't forget the fun 4th of July Tiaras we made together.

I find it's great Mother/Daughter time, but I also get a bit aggravated because, out of all honesty, I am not a very creative person. I'm not crafty. I don't sew. I can barely use a hot glue gun, however, I try. I try for her because that's one thing she REALLY loves to do. So, when Family Fun asked me if I wanted to try their EASY Craft Kits, I couldn't pass that up. I'm ALL about EASY during craft time.

Read the full story

Yesterday a little someone knocked me back into reality. This little someone is very special to me. She encourages me when I'm overwhelmed. She takes care of me when I'm feeling under the weather. She always makes time for me and has always been my biggest fan.

She's my daughter.

My 6-yr-old, knows when Momma is overworked and, yesterday, she told me so. "Mom, when are you going to have a day off?" The last month, I have been busier than usual, but in the last month I've been blessed to have numerous opportunities to grow the Momma Findings Brand.... opportunities I've worked hard for the last 3 years. So, after feeling an overwhelming sense of imbalance, I posed a question to myself: How can I balance Family and Blogging?

Read the full story

This week I've been bringing you guys all things Back-To-School. Monday, I celebrated literacy with Scholastic and Tuesday I invited you to join me in the Back-To-School Meal Maker Challenge with HEB and ConAgra Foods. Today, however, I thought I'd address ways you, as Parents, can help relieve those "First Day Jitters" and help start the year off anxiety free.

If you know me, you're probably laughing at the title to this post, because I'm the Queen of Anxiety. My brain, literally, can't function when I feel anxious. Unfortunately, I've also passed down this condition to my 8-year-old son. His anxiety, often times, becomes a crutch to him socially. If your child suffers on the First Day of School, I've got some great ideas you can help using flyers, postcards, bookmarks, and a little creative thinking.

Read the full story

Last night was, probably, the most relaxed I've been in at least a month. My husband was at work. My children were nestled in the beds, sleeping peacefully. There was a quiet in the house that turned blissful. Our weeks have been crazy due, in large part, to projects and events I had planned through blogging. Kids were tired and Momma was overwhelmed. So, last night I did something about it.

I put them to bed and put myself in front of Netflix. If you know me, watching TV is not the norm. I'm not a television watcher because my brain usually can't turn off. Posts needs to be written. Emails need to be returned. Dishes. Laundry. Grocery shopping. You get the picture. After I put the kids to bed it was brainless television and Momma snack time. I reached for the NEW Milano Strawberry cookies. Good choice?

Read the full story

Last weekend, I had the privilege to join in with the WildSide Bloggers at SeaWorld San Antonio. We got a little wild, to say the least. More to come this week complete with more pictures, but for now here's two of our favorites from this visit.


***Click Below To Add Yours***

Read the full story

Friday evening we drove from Houston to San Antonio, just my sister and myself with three very anxious, very excited, very impatient children. We tried to keep them busy on the road trip, but only one thing seemed to suffice. Radio Disney.

Demi Lovato took over the mike as we listened in on all she has planned. Then we jammed out to All Star Weekend about a million times along with Selena Gomez. My sister couldn't believe that I ACTUALLY have "Round and Round" on my my running playlist!

So, all of this to tell you guys about our favorite Disney artists and Disney's 3rd annual U Rock Event on Disney Channel.

Read the full story

Yesterday, I celebrated the importance of reading, with Scholastic, to kick off the Back-To-School season here at Momma Findings. Today, I'm talking ways to make it easier on all of us parents when preparing meals during the busy days of the school week. I'd like to, kindly, invite you guys to go on this journey with me as I partner with both HEB Foods and ConAgra for the Back-To-School Meal Maker Challenge.

For the next six weeks, I'll bring you all kinds of fun stuff such as: recipes, HEB combo locos, coupons, and ideas to save you time in the kitchen. Oh, and lets not forget the fun giveaways I've got planned. The first meal maker challenge, hotdogs. Can you do more than just the norm?

Read the full story

All month long, girls everywhere, have been donating to charities by giving stars online at ShineOnNow.com. I'm happy to be a Parent Partner with American Girl to help spread the progress and goals of this program. On the very first day American Girl announced this initiative, I asked all of you to nominate a deserving girl to win a My American Girl doll of their own. It took weeks for me to read all the entries and decide on a winner. In my opinion, all the girls nominated deserve a special doll to call their own.

Today, I announce that lucky girl, but, most importantly, urge you guys to keep donating. American Girl has a goal of 1 million stars to give to deserving charities. This equates to $1 million in cash, clothes, books, and more. Can you imagine the difference this can make across the globe?

Read the full story

Welcome to the Scholastic Children's Dictionary Back-To-School Blog Tour. I've partnered with Scholastic and 15 amazing bloggers to bring you all things Back-To-School and I'm excited to be stop #2 on this awesome tour. I know, you're probably thinking Is she off her rocker?! It's still Summer! Let's not stay in denial Mommas. I'm actually counting down the days until school starts. Anxious? Why, yes I am.

Today, I'm talking literacy, books, and encouraging your children to enjoy reading. Scholastic is a name I trust when I look to purchase new books for my children and they've developed a Brand New Children's Dictionary that has my 8 and 6-year-old eager to discover the world around them.

Read the full story

We are HUGE Veg Heads over here in my house. I mean, how can Larry the Cucumber NOT make you laugh? "It's a lip, It's a lip, It's a lip, lip, lip!"

The Veggie Tales series by Big Idea, Inc. has played a large part in developing my children in their Christian walk and gives them real LIVE ways to live with purpose. Because of that, we're anticipating Veggie Tales newest DVD debuting later this month Sweetpea Beauty – A Girl After God’s Own Heart, available on DVD at Christian retail July 31, 2010 and everywhere August 3, 2010. That's not the only exciting VeggieTales buzz I've got for you though. Another awesome event for all of you locals in the Houston Area is the Princess and SuperHero Day at Lifeway Christian Store Baybrook.

Read the full story

Today I hit the road with my children and sister to San Antonio. You see, we have this favorite spot there. It's a place where sea life comes alive right before your eyes. It's a place where my children can't stop smiling and their hugs alone are tighter than before. It's full of adventure. It's full of happiness, but most of all, it's full of memories we've started creating since Spring Break 2010, when we first stepped into this magical place.

We head out to make more memories at the place my children can't stop talking about: SeaWorld San Antonio. Shamu has now become a household name along with Azul, Journey to Atlantis, Rio Loco, Lost Lagoon, and Steel Eel. This time it's going to be a tad different. THIS time, I'm going to have LOTS of amazing bloggers to enjoy it with during the Wildside Bloggers Event. Some of these sweet bloggers have become great friends of mine, so I'm pretty giddy.

Yup. I'm excited. So, to celebrate my giddiness, I'm giving you guys 10 reasons I'm going back.

Read the full story

Yesterday, I talked about Summer grilling. Today, I've got home-made treats for the family for ya. I love me some cookies. There's nothing like serving them up hot and ready for my children and their friends complete with a glass of milk. I, actually, live for the times my children give me the look of You're so awesome! Or when their friends whisper to them, "I LOVE your Mom."

Summertime is the best time for home baked treats after a long day of swimming or during those fun sleepovers, but it's also a time I'd rather spend away from the hot oven as much as possible. I'm in South East Texas where the heat outside really puts a damper on turning on that oven.

Well, imagine my excitement when I found ready-to-bake cookie dough from Ice Box Bakery. This isn't just ANY cookie dough, it's made from wholesome ingredients, perfect for busy families such as mine.

Read the full story

Summer is a time for fun in the sun, but what that means for me is little time in the kitchen and little time planning our meals. Lately, we've been so sun-drenched from the Water Park or time constrained from fun activities that we end up picking something up from a fast-food restaurant. It's definitely not a healthy eating life-style and takes a toll on our pocketbook.

Have you been looking to break-out of the same ole'- same ole' for dinner? Well, I've discovered great ways to sizzle up your Summer meals with Lawry's Marinades and Seasonings. New ides and recipes can spice up any family meal with everything from Grilled Corn with Smokehouse Maple Chipotle Butter to Applewood Grilled Shrimp. Ready to break out?

Read the full story

Only in Texas do you find full size horse statues at the gas station. Just one more reason I love being a Southern Girl.


***Click Below To Add Yours***

Read the full story

My children have had a complete transformation in the last few days. All three of them (and myself) have gotten about 10 shades darker than we were 3 weeks ago. Why? Because we, recently, received the gift of Season Passes to our Local Houston Area Water Park. There's nothing better than swimming all day long, coming home for a nap, and waking up to grab up some icecream, right?

With all the fun we've been having, I've gotten a little concerned about the health of our skin and ears (my 3-year-old is having issues of ear pain). We use sunscreen, but it doesn't change the fact that our skin feels really dry, rough, and scratchy. Recently, I took the Healthy Skin Pledge with Eucerin. Having done this, reminds me that our skin, especially during Summer, needs extra loving care and maybe a little extra SPF 30 wouldn't hurt.

Read the full story

My favorite Summer Holiday has come and gone, but that doesn't mean I can't let you guys in on how Good Ole' Southern Fun is made in a small town like my own. Throw in funnel cake, parades, fireworks, and family and it makes me quite the happy Momma.

This year, we spent it at Bicentennial Park for Baytown's Annual 4th of July Celebration. Each year residents pack the park to check out all the vendors and the musical entertainment. This year? Joe Nichols. My sister wanted to see him so bad, but I insisted we park away from the "Epicenter" for the fireworks. as to avoid traffic and crowds. I'm always the planner and always take caution, so that can sometimes be a bummer, but nevertheless, we still had fun. Want an insider's look?

Read the full story

It's not a secret that I took my family to see Despicable Me and I went on for, literally, WEEKS about how much we loved it. I even went as far to say this very bold statement:

I'm going to give you a very honest opinion that you might or might not like. This month we've seen two new movies: Despicable Me and Toy Story 3. Our favorite, hands down, is Despicable Me. I know, it's a strong statement to give, because Toy Story is a classic, but we laughed over and over while watching Gru and his Army of Minions. It wasn't full of scary moments, but more with silly moments children can relate to.

Read that closely. It wasn't full of scary moments, but more with silly moments children can relate to. This is not the case for BlogHer writer Jenna Hatfield, who feels the theme of the movie IS scary to adoptive families and the theme? Just plain despicable.

Read the full story

You ever have so much fun with friends at a party that you don't want to leave? Well, that's how I feel today. I'm sad it's our last day of the Nestle Summer Block Party, but I had so much fun with The Not-So Blog, Cutie Booty Cakes, Classy Chaos, and 24/7 Moms and all of you guys that I know it was all worth it. Plus, I've gotten to know so many of ya'll on the Momma Findings Facebook Fan Page that I can always chat with you over Drumsticks Sundae Cones anytime!

So, all week long I've talked to you guys about Summer Fun that won't break the bank. To re-cap, Monday we talked about music fun indoors. Tuesday was music fun OUTdoors. Wednesday we discovered places where KIDS EAT FREE and Thursday we found ways to save when going to the Movies with the family. Today, it's water fun. Oh, I love me some WATER FUN!

Read the full story

My sweet little town has a new attraction that's got everyone buzzing around Houston, Pirate's Bay Water Park. I was pretty hesitant to check it out, wondering if it catered to young children like my own and if it was worth the money. I mean, we're a family of five, so paying $15.00 per person adds up. Definitely didn't want to shell out the money and leave within an hour because my children were restricted to the "kiddie pool".

This week my Mother-In-Law called us out of the blue and said, "You guys HAVE to come. It's so cool and the kids are going to love it!" She offered to pay (SCORE!) and I had the chance to be my "blogger self" and take pictures of all the attractions to bring to you guys.

So, Pirate's Bay Water Park in Baytown, is it worth it?

Read the full story

Welcome back to the coolest Summer Block Party EVER! If you didn't enter yesterday's giveaway, it's too late, but might I suggest you check out all the cool places my awesome readers suggested where KIDS EAT FREE?! You might just find your next outing and save a little money all at the same time.

We're talking Summer Fun that won't break the bank, but have you checked out some of the other amazing parties? Cutie Booty Cakes has some awesome health tips and Classy Chaos has some great ways to preserve those Summer Memories. Make sure you check em' out, but let's get started on more fun ways to have fun all within budget.

Read the full story

Whew! Is this a party or what?! I've definitely enjoyed reading how you guys have fun, especially out on picnics. Have you crashed some of the other Nestle Summer Block Parties? Bridgette at The Not-So Blog has gotten me itching to try some backyard experiments and 24/7 Moms has featured some REALLY yummy recipes that I'm tucking away for next week.

Each participating blogger who is hosting a Nestle Summer Block Party is giving away awesome prize packs, but more importantly dishing out all things Summer. So, don't forget to check 'em all out. Let's continues with the fun and talk about some more ways to have Summer Fun that won't break that bank of yours. Shall We?

Read the full story

So, last week I completely skipped Wordless Wednesday. I guess with the Holiday Weekend, my brain thought it was Tuesday. It was around 11:00pm before I realized there was no WW post. So, since I'm behind in pictures, I wanted to show you guys what MY 4th of July looked like. Today, there's only 2 pictures, later this week I'm recapping our whole day.

It started out like this:


Read the full story

What fun I had yesterday discovering new rockin' songs from you guys! Today is Day 2 of our Summer Block Party and, let me tell, you.... We're just getting started! I'm bringing you lots of Summer Fun Activities that won't break the bank, but I've still got music on the brain. Go figure. You guys gave me so many great suggestions.

My family knows that one of my favorite things to do is have a picnic. Lately, with this Texas heat that's hard to do, however, it still doesn't stop me in the evening hours when the kids are most excited to get out and enjoy some fresh air.

Read the full story

The first time I heard this song, I cried.... for awhile, right there in my kitchen, heart frozen, and hands on my chest. I can't remember when a song hit home the way this one did. I learned, not even a day later that a friend of mine felt the same way. She texted me with the words, Sanctus Real, "Lead Me" listen if you haven't heard it, amazing song.

With so many young marriages ending in divorce, I can see how wives can feel so alone because I was one of those wives, still am at times. I long for my husband to lead me and our children in the role God gave him. I need him to be strong, when I can't. I need him to stand up for our marriage, our children, and our spiritual well being.

Read the full story

Summer is just blasting right through and, although I'm counting down the days till school starts, I've committed to enjoying what Summer we have left. As a family, we've had a lot of fun the last month, but as a Mom to three young children, I understand we must stay on a budget to get ready for all the expenses school will bring. There are so many things to buy like: clothes, supplies, backpacks, and shoes. With all this in mind, you can still enjoy fun activities for the remaining of the Summer all on a budget.

To help you with some budget savvy summer fun ideas, I've partnered with Nestle for a Summer Block Party like no other. Starting Monday July 12th - July 16th, I'll bring you one idea each day on fun family-friendly activities that won't break the bank. Along with those ideas, will come a daily giveaway of a Nestle Prize Pack. The week-long excitement wraps up on Friday where I'll be giving away a $100 Visa Gift Card.

Read the full story

We've been getting a whole lot of rain here in the Houston area the last few weeks. Hurricane Season is upon us and Tropical Storms are steadily forming in the Gulf. With such storms, we're, often, bound indoors. Having three young children, it's definitely a chore to avoid those infamous words no mother wants to hear... I'm BORED!

To keep my kids moving and entertained we like to mix it up a bit. We have Nintendo Wii time. We have reading time. We have movie time. We have craft time. We have imagination time. We have board game time. We also have DANCE time. Yes, we like to turn up the music and jam to our favorite hits sung BY kids FOR kids with KidzBop Dance Party.

Read the full story

My kids remember the night Kung Zhu landed on our doorstep. We were out to the movies at an Advanced Screening of Despicable Me. When we arrived home a HUGE box awaited our arrival. Inside we found the Delta Forces Tribe and the Skull Tribe just itching to battle it out in the Kung Zhu Battle Arena.

After sifting through our box, I realized we had ever item in the Kung Zhu line and we would share the fun with our friends by throwing a Kung Zhu Summer Party. There isn't anything better than new toys with good friends, so we invited a few over to play, discover, battle, and leave with their very own pet. Thanks to Mom Select, this IS the Summer of Kung Zhu and we were happy to show our friends what exactly they can do.

Read the full story

Tuesday, I braved the heat and humidity all for three things: Great music, great fellowship, and a great dinner with my best friend. I, somehow, convinced him it would be worth it to drive from Baytown to Kemah to spend time with me and enjoy KSBJ's Summer Concert Series Boomin' by the Bay. Or was it him that convinced me?

Either way, we enjoyed a lot of fun over a great dinner and enjoyed watching young Christians unite together in prayer and music. Next week I vow to get there early and I vow to sign my best friend up for the Youth Pastor's Appreciation Dinner. He's a busy man so we shall see.

Read the full story

Fourth of July celebration take place this weekend and I'm sure most of you are planning to spend time with family having fun and eating great food. Oh, the food. It's my favorite part! I'm a sucker for Funnel Cakes and Cook Outs. What are you planning to bring to yours?

It's easy to pick up pre-made potato salad or cole slaw, but it's JUST as easy to whip up a batch of Betty Crocker Pasta Salad. In fact, it even gives you the opportunity to make it your very own with the ability to throw in extra ingredients, making it THAT much tastier.

Read the full story

My favorite thing about the 4th of July is the fireworks. They've always been a spectacular event no matter which city I celebrated in. If you're like me, you want to find the best place to sit, where you can spread out a blanket, gaze at the sky, and create memories with you children. You can soak in a little music, good food, and the light show. Oh, don't forget a little extra to buy those neon glow-in-the-dark necklaces. Those were always my favorite as a child to go nicely with my crafty tiara with ribbon hanging down. Man! My memories of 4th of July are so awesome!

So, where can you take the family for the 4th? I've got the scoop on 4th of July Celebrations in Houston and surrounding areas.

Read the full story

The Summer is heating up here in my little town. We've been having so much fun in the last month with trips to Sea World San Antonio, movie nights out with the family, and lots of swim time at my parents.

Although we haven't made any big, long trips, our day trips still require packing. Three kids aren't easy. I like to have the perfect tote for such occasions and Dress Barn has it! For every purchase of $100 or more you will receive a free straw tote. They are great for playdates at the park, day trips to the beach, or that short get away you've been planning. You know, that one that saves your sanity from screaming 3-yr-old's? Yeah. That one.

Read the full story