My oldest son and daughter got in BIG time trouble last week. We told them to go to their room and think about their behavior and what a fair punishment should be. This is what I found in the hallway, slid underneath my daughter's door.

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Okay, who doesn't love the Llama Llama Books? Now pair those with soft, matching plush and you've got yourself a drooling Momma. No, seriously. I'm addicted to the Kohl's Cares for Kids plush dolls they feature each season because my daughter (who's 7-yrs-old now) fell in love with a sweet pink Kohl's piggie when she was a baby. That little pig went everywhere she went and, ultimately, became a member of our family. I've heard similar stories of other families and their love for Kohl's plush.

I like to think that a child out there will fall in love the way my daughter did and that's why I'm such a big fan of the Kohl's Cares for Kids program. The program is committed to children's health and education in the community AND they feature favorites such as Dr. Suess and Winnie the Pooh. This season's lineup, however, is all about the Llama.

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This Summer deems to be a very busy, yet exciting, time for our little family. I'm headed to LA in a few weeks to attend the Red Carpet Premiere of CARS 2, but before that we've got another trip to SeaWorld San Antonio planned with the Wildside Bloggers. Last year we had such a great time and this year I'm looking forward to a reunion with all the great friends I met.

Summer at SeaWorld can be a little rough. The heat in Texas is crazy so when we get overwhelmed by the sun, we head indoors to see the Penguins. My kids LOVE watching them slide around and, it never fails, they start acting like penguins right after we walk through. They are fascinated with these animals and I think that's why they are DYING to see Mr. Popper's Penguins. Have you seen the trailer for it? The movie hits theaters June 17th and it looks to be HILARIOUS. I mean, Jim Carrey stars in it so how could it not be?

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It feels like Summer already. The sun is shining bright, kids are playing in the Sprinkler, and we're busy picking veggies from our garden. It makes for a good salad on those hot afternoons and it's one of my favorite things to eat when I come inside to take a break from the heat.

If you love eating salad as much as I do, you may or may not have heard of Wendys new Berry Almond Chicken Salad. My family and I had the wonderful opportunity to try it out at a local Wendys with an amazing group of Houston Bloggers. We got to mingle with the Blogger's families then we headed to a nearby park to let the kids play. 

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A few months ago, my youngest son hit my daughter with a toy. He's 4-yrs-old and learning how to deal with his frustration when he gets angry. Countless times we've reiterated that hitting is just not acceptable. Hitting hurts people, but, moreover, it hurts their heart each time you do it.

One afternoon after school he did it again. I talked with him then sent him over to his sister to apologize and ask for forgiveness. My sweet daughter, bless her heart, she told him, "No. I won't forgive you. You've hurt me WAY too many times." When those words came out of her mouth, my heart silently broke on the outside and violently shattered on the inside because I'm guilty for saying those VERY words to someone I love. No. I won't forgive you. You've hurt me too many times.

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After today, we officially have three more days of school. I tell ya, our School Year has gone by SUPER fast. We're kicking off our Summer with a small end of the year party for my kids and their friends to encourage them to participate in a Summer Reading program. This is all sponsored by PBS Kids and iVillage so our goodie bags are JAM PACKED with fun books to read. One particular series my daughter is DYING to get her hands on are Megan McDonald's Judy Moody series. In fact, she BEGGED me to buy her all the Judy Moody books. She's my little bookworm and I love every bit of it!

For all the Judy Moody fans out there, you'll be excited to know that now this beloved character is hitting the big screen to kick of the Not So Bummer Summer!! Yes, on June 10th Judy Moody and the Not So Bummer Summer will have kids seeking thrill points of their own.... which is kind of scary for me, but hey, we all need a little thrill now and again. In fact, my thrill points will come in the form of red carpet and Owen Wilson.

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Really. It's all right there in the title. I live in the small town of Baytown. I am a Mom. I am a blogger and I'M GOING TO HOLLYWOOD!! Please refrain from rolling your eyes, because I already got that look from my husband and others when they asked, "Didn't you JUST get back from there?" You would be correct. I was in Hollywood for the 2nd Annual Hispanicize Social Media Conference in April, but thanks to the folks over at Disney & Dreamworks I'm heading back to the land of glam, as a guest, at the red carpet Hollywood premiere for CARS 2! I'll be spending four days with 19 other Mom Bloggers across the nation as we learn more about CARS 2, Winnie the Pooh, and Dreamworks The Help. Lots of fun stuff lined up and I'm thrilled beyond measure!

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For the last 9 years or so, we've been a Playhouse Disney family. We've thoroughly enjoyed all the preschool tv shows that have debuted on the Disney Channel, but, moreover, we've loved Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. Just recently, my 4-yr-old decided that Mickey Mouse Clubhouse was for babies. Sad. I know. My kids are growing up and quickly outgrowing preschool tv shows, but there is one thing keeping my child excited about this show........ the Mickey Mote.

Yes, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse DVDS are now including a Discovery Mode feature where children can use the Mickey Mote to experience the DVD on a whole other level. With that said, a new Mickey Mouse Clubhouse DVD hit store shelves yesterday. Mickey's Great Outdoors has my child excited to use his Mickey Mote and has his curiosity all abuzz for our next fishing adventure.

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Here lately, storms have gotten scarier and scarier. Maybe because I'm a Momma with babies to worry about. Here's what it looked like just a few weeks ago in the car line for pick up IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DAY:

If you're reading this, let's ban together and pray for Joplin, MO. They have experienced one scary storm this week.

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With the Summer heat knocking on our door, I'm arming myself for the effects. I'm not talking hot leather seats in my SUV or higher electricity bills (although I'm prepping for that too). I'm talking skincare for kids. My daughter and, now my youngest son, suffer from eczema. My daughter's is worse than my son's, but nevertheless, when the heat rolls in so do the eczema flare ups.

There are a few things we've done, throughout the seasons, to combat eczema. We've cut down on bubble baths, use natural detergents and bath soap, use a humidifier during the Fall and Winter, and during the Summer? We rely on ointments that keep moisture in allowing for faster healing. Aquaphor is a trusted Brand when it comes to lotions, bathwash, and ointment for eczema in my family and, today, I want to let you guys in on what ELSE Aquaphor can do.

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Countless times, I've told you guys how we're a HUGE VeggieTales fan. Since my 9-yr-old was a toddler, we've collected every VeggieTales release on, either VHS or DVD, and have enjoyed sharing with friends, play groups, and church classes along the way. Here at Momma Findings I've brought you guys lots of VeggieTales excitement with reviews and giveaways, right? I mean, you can't forget my little SweetPea singing the VeggieTales theme song, right?

Well, today, I'm excited to let you guys know that VeggieTales LIVE! can now be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home. Have you ever wanted to go to a VeggieTales LIVE show? Us too, but every time it comes to our city, we're either strapped for cash or have prior commitments. Now we get to see what a show ACTUALLY looks like!

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Every once in a while there's a new song that completely wins me over the VERY first time I hear it. It's not very often that I fall gaga within a matter of seconds, but it's happened before.

So, the other day my husband and I were driving and this song, that's been in my head the last few days, came on and I turned it up saying, I LOVE this song. Really. You have to listen." As the chorus sang through, my husband was already singing along.

I. Heart. This. Song.

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I come from a very creative family. Musician, cake decorators and photographers you name it. My children are even so creative that they can find so many ways to hide stuff in their room to make it look clean. It really isn't clean; just hidden very well. They would rather play outside in any case then be in the house.

Living in Texas can be challenging at times. We have days that are very hot and humid; some months we even have rain for days. We are sometimes better off staying in the house. Instead of watching tv for hours on end, I do make it a point to be useful with our time. I want my kids to use their head and unleash their creativeness. What better way to do this then with Wikki Stix Rainy Day Play?!

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My 4-yr-old son and I were having breakfast the other day when, out of the blue, he says, "Quick Mom! Kung Fu staring contest!" Without hesitation, I dropped my spoon, took my que, and quickly accepted the challenge. Within 10 seconds, his words moved me to laughter, "You guys look amazing by the way." Annnnnnd I lost.

My little guy is BEYOND excited about the Kung Fu Panda 2  movie that he's already mimicking the previews we've seen in theaters over the last few months. We just can't get enough Po and The Furious Five. Are you making plans to watch the sequel? If so, today I want to let you guys in on when to expect Kung Fu Panda 2 in theaters and offer up a little Kung Fu fun to celebrate it's debut!

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Thank you to BING for sponsoring my writing today. To learn more about BING Shopping Rewards, click here. I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective, which endorses Blog With Integrity, as I do.

I've got to say, I'm not a big time shopper. I used to be, but even back in the days where I had a sense of entitlement to brand new baby clothes every week, I never did much of it online. There's something about seeing, touching, and the actual physical shopping experience that makes it worth it. I never thought shopping online would be the route for me, however, lately it's the best way to get a good deal. Ladies... keeping within my budget is worth it and I'm discovering new ways to save online using rewards programs. Heck. Even Bing has rolled out incentives for shoppers.

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The kids walk in from school. More than hugs and more than kisses, they want a snack. Am I wrong? My kids seem like they are just FAMISHED when they walk in the door. Just a few days ago, I cleaned out our fridge from top to bottom, replacing a lot of the junk we had with healthier foods like fruits, vegetables, and cheeses. Yesterday, my kids came home and they were thrilled to see the fridge make-over and immediately gravitated to the yogurt. Surprise. Surprise.

So, today, I want to talk to you guys about Yoplait Kids and why we like it so much. It have to do a little with a character by the name of Lightening McQueen.

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Can you believe it's already May? We started featuring a Beauty Pick of the Month back in January alongside nine other bloggers in partnership with H-E-B. So far, we've highlight hair products, facial care, and even make-up. Today, however, we're looking into a product that you may or may not think is related to beauty. In fact, I wasn't sure it could be categorized as so, but after using it, I thought otherwise.

The Beauty Pick of the Month for May is Orchid Hand Soap and Sanitizer line, sold exclusively at H-E-B. We got to try it and I was pretty skeptical it would be more than just soap. So, today, I let you guys in on what I REALLY thought after trying it. 

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I was a little sad I didn't get to spend Mother's Day with my Mom, so I picked her up early that Friday morning and took her to breakfast. I let my Dad tag along too. I mean... I needed SOMEONE to take our picture, right? So.... meet my Mami. Do we look alike?

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For Mother's Day I committed to celebrating, not only myself and the fact that I'm still here and alive after giving birth to three children, but also the other balance factor that helps me keep my sanity day in and day out as a Work-At-Home-Mom.... My Husband. He balances me. He catches me. He encourages me.

Mother's Day was a day to embrace the job God has given me, but also to rejoice in the day that my husband was born. It was his birthday. So, we celebrated together at his parent's new house in the country. I came home refreshed and energized after a weekend full of nature's sounds. So much so, that I reflected on the sounds I heard when we arrived back home. Today, it's come full circle as I think about all the sounds of Motherhood. You Mommas know what I'm talking about.

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It's been really fun, as an adult, to see older television shows debut on DVD for my children to fall in love with as I did. For instance, I've been DYING for my daughter to watch Full House. Seriously. Full House. Who didn't love that show? Oh my gosh, I wanted to be Stephanie Tanner SO bad.

Don't Judge.

Anyhow, another TV series is hitting DVD at your local store in the form of Nickelodeon and The Wild Thornberrys! We're so excited to learn more about Eliza and the animals she talks to in Season One.

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Last weekend we celebrated Moms everywhere during Mother's Day. I, for one, enjoyed time with my husband's Granmother, Mother, and Sister, all women who give the most of themselves each and every day through love they show in this family. I wish there was a way I could honor all the special Moms in my life, from my own Mother to all my friends that are Mothers.

While I find it hard to honor each and every one, Nestle is taking the initiative to honor Moms across the globe while giving back to Charity using Social Media. Their Facebook program Honor a Mom invites you to honor the special Mom in your life and each time you do it, a $1.00 will be donated to Mercy Housing.

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It's Music Monday and I sit at my laptop, only NOW opening it since Friday. I've spent the weekend with my husband and children, working in the garden, running through the sprinkler, and thoroughly enjoying it. I did it because last week I took a step back and re-evaluated exactly where I feel God has led me in my Social Media venture.

I've committed a large amount of time to very specific projects, leaving less room for blogging, less room for gardening, less room for running (a sport I absolutely love), and less room for my family. So, I crunched the numbers. I crunched the liability and I came up with the notion that my priorities are placed on a path that I don't feel God led me to, simply because I never talked to Him about it and I never prayed for guidance along the way.

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This morning, as I drink my coffee and round up the kids for school, I've been listening to KSBJ, which isn't much of a surprise since I talk about it all the time, however, this morning I realized that one of my favorite contemporary Christian artists was at the studio talking about her new album. Mandisa has a new album out called What If We Were Real. While I KNOW you already know that (because I've talked about it the last few weeks), what you MAY not know is that she's in Houston and performing at a KSBJ Special Event at Chick-Fil-A!I sure home she's ready for the hot weather we've been getting.

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Today is Music Monday and I sure hope every Momma out there had a memorable Mother's Day. I sure did. Later this week, I'll show you pictures of the fun we had, but today I'm trying to transition back to the city sounds of school buses and chattering neighbors. I say transition because last weekend we sat in the country at my Father and Mother-In-Law's new home. It's nestled underneath a breathtaking sky and in the mornings? You hear a solitude of nature.

I kinda miss it.

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The month of April was probably the busiest month for me as a blogger, but it was ALSO probably the most meaningful. Because of blogging and partnerships with networks and Brands, I was able to bring you guys lots of Green posts talking about ways we can go green at home, school, and EVEN in our beauty routine.

I also committed to taking a 4-Week Test Drive with Scott Naturals hybrid paper products. This was the ONLY paper product we used in our kitchen and bathroom, and guess what? I STILL have LOADS left over to continue another few weeks. That being said, I'd like to recap a few things I've, personally, learned AND struggled with as we try to conserve waste and energy.

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Today is Cinco De Mayo and like a lot of you guys, I've got a really delicious meal planned for the family. Heck, what am I talking about? Three days out of the week we have Mexican Food!

Last week, thanks to MAGGI, I had the chance to experiment a little with their line of products and create a very unique meal that's easy to make and the family couldn't get enough of. In fact, the kids liked it so much, I decided to make it again this Cinco De Mayo. It just made sense. They EVEN helped me name it!

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Mother's Day is Sunday and if you're looking for awesome ideas for that special Mom in your life, look no further. Momma Findings has partnered with PapiBlogger and Mama Contemporanea to create the 2011 Mother's Day Gift Guide!

Everything from books, fashion, home, and EVEN technology (that's right up my alley). Oh, and don't forget our Mother's Day Twitter Party is TONIGHT at 8pm-10pm EST. For all of you Texas gals, that's 7:00pm. Join us as we talk about Mother's Day traditions in the family and give away LOTS of cool prizes.

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Hanging with one of my FAVORITE H-E-B Beauty Bloggers, Crystal from Simply Being Mommy. Yeah. We're Texas girls and we rock the Revlon. Really. In all seriousness, last month we went to an H-E-B event and I had such a great time meeting ALL the bloggers and company staff.

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My two boys, ages 8 and 4-yrs-old, have this obsession. There is just something about collecting and trading Pokemon cards. Do your children do the whole "Pokemon thing"? In the beginning, it bugged me... like REALLY bugged me. How could an obsession like this be healthy? Today, however, I feel it's really brought the two boys together and given them common ground to bond, which can be VERY hard for 8 and a 4-yr-old brothers.

So, when I was asked to check out the new craze for kids, Gogo's Crazy Bones, I knew this was right up our alley and the boys would go... well... crazy! In fact, we didn't just "check them out", we had the ultimate Gogo's Crazy Bones party.

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Mother's Day is fast approaching and I'm getting really excited! Being a Mom has been the journey of a lifetime and I take every moment to breathe it all in. With that said, I've been working with Rory from Mama Contemporanea and Manny from Papi Blogger for the ultimate Mother's Day Gift Guide and we want to celebrate with you guys by hosting a Mother's Day Twitter Party!

That's right, we'll be talking Hispanic Mother's Day traditions, gift ideas, special memories, and we'll also be giving away tons of cool prizes along the way. In addition, we're doing this through our NEW community for bloggers called Latina Mom Bloggers. While we're still in prelaunch mode, we are excited to be on Twitter at @LatinaMomBlogs. Join us in joint partnership with Hispanicize and Latina Mom Bloggers this Wednesday, May 4th 2011, for a Twitter Party in honor of all the Moms out there!

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Last night I wrote a rather emotional post about Osama Bin Laden's death and then it dawned on me..... This is a historical moment and I'll need to talk to my children about this, but what do I say?

My kids are 8, 7, and 4. They weren't here on 9/11 and, if you remember from last night's post, my oldest is the product of that day. He was the hope we found when we sat holding each other and fearing what would come next. He's my 9/11 baby. So, this morning I prepared my heart and my mind to sit and talk to my children. I was limited on time, before school, but I feel confident they are prepared to listen to possible conversations from their teachers and/or friends at school with the knowledge I gave them about the events that unfolded last night and on 9/11. Are you planning on talking to your kids about Bin Laden's death?

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May 1, 2011 will forever be known as the day the world learned that Osama Bin Laden, the mastermind behind the 9/11 attacks, is officially dead. Apparently, President Obama interrupted popular television shows, to bring us the news, but I wouldn't know because I traded in TV watching for Social Media obsession. In fact, sometimes Social Media is just a tad bit quicker than TV. I mean, just minutes after we learned of his death, Osama bin Laden's Wiki page was updated. Shocking.

Tonight, I remember where I was on 9/11. In fact, I remember every second of the morning, how I felt, and what I was doing. Every tiny detail is etched into my heart. Although I was miles and miles away from NYC, in Texas, my heart shattered with the rest of the world. Now today, 5/1, I'll remember exactly where I was when I found out that Bin Laden is dead, but there is no celebration here. It just feels, well... wrong.

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