I've gotten SO many questions from readers and followers about what kind of laundry detergent to use with their High Efficiency Washer. You guys remember when I visited the Whirlpool headquarters? I got to talk to the scientists and experts behind the Whirlpool brand, more specifically fabric expert Tre Mitchell Wright. He gave us so many tips on fabric care, but he said if there is one thing he needs to emphasize, first hand, is you can ONLY use HE Detergent in HE Washers. "It's the law."

Okay, maybe not the law, but there are reasons why you do this and today? I'm showing my favorite HE detergents and fabric softeners. You said, they're hard to find and I'm here to show nope.. not so much.

Read the full story

In 2011 alone, I've traveled quite a bit for Social Media events. Blogging Conferences and Brand Events are steady throughout the year and I find myself learning more and more about how to make it easy for, not only my husband and children, but also myself. Traveling can be so stressful for me, as a Mom, and if there is one thing I HAVE to have while I'm away? My iPhone.

My iPhone is the vital organ that keeps me connected to my family at home, potential clients, AND the awesome bloggers I've come to know and love online. It also holds my itinerary and keeps me organized. OutfitYours.com has, quickly, become one of my favorite sites to order iPhone accessories. Three items, in particular, will make my traveling a WHOLE lot easier.

Read the full story

Hispanic Heritage Month has proved to be full of family events. From Birthday parties, to dinners, and back to a games of Mexican Bingo con la familia. My cup overflows from all the great food and awesome memories we're making for my children. In fact, we've been having so much fun that my Papi turns to me and my sister and says, "I want you two to do something for me. I want you to help me plan a Family Reunion for June."

Looking at each other, my sister and I KNEW that would take lots of time, lots of organization, and LOTS of funds. We have une grande familia and funding the entire thing would be impossible. Smuckers, a brand I've come to love in the mornings with my babies, has families like mine in mind, as they unroll the Smuckers Recipe and Essay Contest putting family reunions center stage for Hispanic Heritage Month.

Read the full story

Last night my preschooler decided that he was NOT going to take a bath. Granted, we've had a really busy week and he's borderline exhausted by 5:00pm, but he's just not interested in bathing and I've found myself coming up with creative ways to get that boy in the bath and have a joyful attitude about it. The LAST thing I need is a meltdown right before bed.

What is it that I need to do to get this child in the tub without a fight? Does he need more bath toys? Fun body wash for kids? So, I asked him, "Honey. What would make the bath MORE fun for you? What will make you want to take a bath every night?" With a smile, he listed out five things and a few aren't what I expected AT ALL.

Read the full story

This year, more than 180,000 women in the United States will learn that they have breast cancer. Some 41,000 women will lose the fight this year against this dreaded disease. Most, if not all of us, know at least one person impacted by breast cancer. My Aunt fought and won. One of my dear friends in Charlotte, fought and won.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and we're kicking it off early by highlighting a partnership that shows support and raises breast cancer awareness through the Giving Hope a Hand initiative. Cottonelle brand and additional partner companies will assist Kroger in raising $3 million for breast cancer awareness, treatment and research in the communities we share. We can help others fight and win the fight against breast cancer.

Read the full story

Finished with our Back to School Shopping, we continue through the 2011 School Year with my children actively engaging both in and out of the classroom. If you remember, earlier this month I shared the goals of two of my children, Zachary 4th grade and Abby 2nd grade. Both have small goals, but big expectations.

Read the full story

Being a parent is so hard, especially when you rarely get time away with your spouse. Well, we finally got that date night we've been waiting for and my guy took me to pick a new silver wedding band. My original wedding ring is too small for my finger. So, I opted for simplicity.

Have you replaced your wedding band? If so, what caused you to make that emotional decision?

Read the full story

My little guy turns to me and says, "Mufasa! Oooooh. Say it again!" Giggling, he goes on and on about this NEW movie called The King Lion. Correcting him on the name of the movie, I couldn't help but smile. It brings joy to my heart to see my 4-yr-old so excited about the Disney Classic I came to love as a child, The Lion King. To him, it's brand new and he's so excited to learn all about the Pride Land with characters such as Simba, Nala, Scar, Timon, Pumbaa, and of course those crazy Hyenas.

Brace yourself folks, because on October 4th The Lion King debuts on Blu-ray 3D & Blu-ray Hi-Def in it's Diamond Edition. Have you heard your child singing Hakuna Matata?

Read the full story

We're not your typical Texas family. Although I grew up playing sports, my oldest children have been very vocal in their distaste for these Texas Traditions, such as football or baseball. Heck... even Soccer. While I dreamed of my boys taking center stage as a Super-Star Quarterback or All-Star Pitcher, it's just not in our cards right now. So, we did the next best thing. We studied their habits, personality, and asked them what THEY want to do.

My oldest son is at the age where he's trying to find himself, his interests, and where he fits in. Throwing him on a team of big bad football players or intense Little League families, just wouldn't be conducive for his social growth. Instead, we opted for a sport that is pretty rare, yet engaging.... Karate.

Read the full story

Online gaming has always been one of my children's favorite pass times. From Webkinz to the virtual world of American Girl and back to some of our favorite online games for kids, it's been a joy to teach my kids how much fun technology can be.

A few weeks ago, we discovered a NEW computer game for boys that brings the online world into the REAL world with RC Robotic toys through cloud computing. Now. That sounds a little technologically confusing, but all in all? It's a robotic toy that kids can enjoy both on and off.

Read the full story

September has zoomed on by and October will be here before you know it. I am SO proud of how my children have handled the school year. We've changed schools (again). So, they've had to deal with a new campus, new teachers, new friends, new structure, and a new routine. It's getting kind of intense here with our schedule, but all in all? We're set to have a GREAT year.

Thanks to Nestle Family, we've set some New School Year resolutions to get us through it and we're celebrating by donating $300 worth of books to our new school. We've ALSO got a really cool Nestle Family Prize Pack for one lucky reader that includes a Nook e-Reader! I'm, seriously, jealous because I've been DYING for a Nook.

Read the full story

I sat down to write everything I face, day to day, that requires courage, how I struggle, how I fall, how I'm never enough. Instead, I sat here at my computer, the screen shining on my face, my arms lifted high, tears rolling down my face, as I just listened to this song. Then the silence surrounded me, as I sat talking to my God.

Today, on Music Monday, I'm not praying for myself or the courage that I, often, lack. Today, I'm listening to Courageous, by Casting Crowns, and I'm praying for all the men in my life..

Read the full story

I've enjoyed celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with bloggers online and with my family offline. Sunday, after Church, I have a huge Mexican Meal planned for my husband and children and I look forward to celebrating my culture with the ones I love.

This month, I was SO excited to discover the Hearts For Hearts Girls Doll Collection, which celebrates different Cultures across the globe with inspiring stories, stylish fashions, and a heart for their families, community, and culture. We met Rahel, from Ethiopia and fell in love with her story and giving heart. Today, I'm letting you guys in on all the girls in the Hearts for Hearts Girls doll collection, plus a chance to win one!

Read the full story

Click to Enlarge

Over a year ago, I worked closely with a PR rep for a big campaign. At the time, it was one of the biggest campaigns I'd EVER worked on and he was a HUGE help in collaborating ways for me to successfully "pull it off" and learn the software for the product I was promoting. I felt like we had become friends and I let him in on what it is I do outside of blogging and the different dynamics of my husband and children. It was over six months later, that he finally states he has two children of his own.

What? Six months later I learn you're a Dad as well? I assumed that would have come up in our discussions about parenthood, family, and "Mom" blogging, yet it never did. When I asked him why he never mentioned it, he said something that struck me, for a variety of reasons, "I never define myself as JUST a Dad, or JUST their father, or JUST a parent. I'm more than that dammit."

Read the full story

We're raising a new generation of children with the latest and greatest technology. Back in June, I visited LA to meet with the animators and team that created the NEW Winnie the Pooh Movie, I kept thinking to myself My kids don't know THIS kind of animation. It's a beautiful thing.

When I heard that Disney's Dumbo was celebrating it's 70th Anniversary and releasing a digitally restored movie on BluRay, I KNEW I wanted to be the first to show my children this timeless classic and introduce them to the magic of Disney before their time with a Family Movie Night. To know Disney movies is to know ALL of them, old and new. Right? For added excitement, we made Dumbo themed snacks and printed Dumbo activities.

Read the full story

In the real world of today, Moms face mountains of laundry. We face unfounded stains on our children's clothing and most of all? We face this never ending chore of washing, drying, and putting away clothes. Seriously. It never ends, espescially with three children and a husband who is very particular about changing his socks a million times a day.

Recently, I made a visit to the Real Whirled Whirlpool Condo in Benton Harbor, Michigan. There, I met with the experts and scientists (yes, they are scientists) to learn more about laundry, how to get out those tough stains, AND the best practices for my new Whirlpool Duet Washer and Dryer Set. We even did a little cooking. Ok... a LOT of cooking all with Whirlpool Appliances. I left the Real Whirled House with knowledge I didn't even know existed. I mean, I'm pretty savvy in the kitchen and laundry room, so I was in shock at all the little things the Real Whirled House taught me to make life easier as a real world Mom. 

Read the full story

Read the full story

To say our mornings have been insane would be an understatement. Getting used to our new Back-to-School routine has been tough than the year's past, probably because we've change our transportation method and it's hard to get the kids moving.

When it's crazy in the morning, it's easy to skip breakfast, but we all know it's the most important meal of the day and vital to our children receiving the energy and nutrients they need to have a productive day while learning. So, today, I want your family to enjoy the most important meal of the day while finding great savings on your favorite breakfasts with a little help from Big G cereals.

Read the full story

I started back at the gym this week. I'll be honest, starting after a WHOLE Summer of not going? Well... It's hard, but I walked in with my 4-yr-old son and it was like riding a bike, literally. Once you know how and when to workout, you'll always know. It's up to you to get there and encourage yourself to be consistent.

While I was jogging on the treadmill, I looked up and saw a talk show discussing how Moms can easily manage their daughter's weight. Am I there? Is it MY job to manage my daughter's weight? Well. Yeah. It is. I'm not only her Mom, but I HAVE to be her "Nutritionist" too if I want her to grow up healthy, active, and most importantly, happy. So, today, I'm bringing you guys another post on raising healthy girls and my personal struggles.

Read the full story

It's Hispanic Heritage Month and the last few weeks I've been celebrating with family. In fact, last weekend, we all got together at my house for some good food and a came of Chalupa. Celebrating our Hispanic Heritage is a whole lot more than embracing our Culture, it's about showing our children lo que realmente significa la familia {what family really means}.

As a Latina Mom blogger myself, I'm embracing our culture, language, and heritage by showcasing one of our favorite Latinas Dora the Explorer! She's a 7-year-old Latina heroine whose adventures take place in an imaginative, tropical world filled with jungles, beaches and rainforests. She explores her world just as preschoolers do everyday, and the show is designed to actively engage its audience in an interactive quest using a variety of learning techniques. Now you can find her in her newest DVD, Dora's Ballet Adventures!

Read the full story

My daughter has a new friend in the neighborhood who has been over almost every day since they met. It's been a joy to have her embrace such a friendship. Moreover, it's been exciting for me, as her Mother, to plan activities for them such as crafts, games, and baking.

Last week, we dived into baking cupcakes with a new mix from Betty Crocker called Fun da-middles. The girls were over-the-moon-thrilled at the thought of baking together and picking out which apron to wear. These sweet treats took a little extra time to make, but that was the fun part of it all when baking with giggly 7-yr-old girls.

Read the full story

I was talking to a dear friend of mine a few days ago and we mentioned how tired we both are and how sometimes we feel all we do, whether that be at home or work, just isn't enough, causing us to feel like we're running on an empty tank.

So, I thought about that statement all weekend long. I DO feel like I'm running on an empty tank. I DO feel like I go and go and go, yet I'm not seeing any fulfillment. I know my head is telling me to focus on success, but my heart is telling me I've been a bit selfish driven. What if all this "going" and all this "ambition" is actually leading me astray? This Music Monday, I have an older song in my heart, that is helping me get through this feeling of what I can only describe as emptiness.

Read the full story

My family loves taking road trips and whether it is a longer trip for vacation or a shorter day trips, I like to be prepared with snacks for my kids. When I am deciding what to pack for the car ride, I know I need snacks that are portable and easily shared between my two kids.

I don’t mind taking the time to divide snacks up into Ziploc bags for my kids but I love that Pringles Grab & Go cans are ready to go and like the full size Pringle cans come with resealable lids. Another reason I love the smaller size can? My son and daughter can each pick their favorite flavor of Pringles and keep it in their cup holder for easy access.

Read the full story

I keep hearing people talk about how they are so sad that Summer is over and that they aren't ready for the cooler temperatures. I get a little teeny tiny bit aggravated as we're still in triple digit temps here in Texas. The heat has become such a problem that wild fires are blasting through the state due to such dry conditions. I mean, the ground is dry, parched, and cracking everywhere you step. It's insane!

As I dream of cooler temps, I'm not dreaming of my skin and lips being dry, parched, and cracking. As a member of the Carmex Blog Squad, I'll be bringing you all kinds of reviews and tips straight from the brand that keeps lips moisturized all year long with their awesome lip balms. Today, it's all about their new Click Sticks. They come in two great flavors Vanilla and Lime Twist.

Read the full story

I've always battled with my coarse curly head of hair. Only recently, did I realize, if I kept it long the curls would be ringlets, whereas, if I keep a shorter haircut, the curls are very kinky.

Keeping long hair is a thing of patience. I mean, you use more shampoo. You use more conditioner (a LOT of conditioner in my case), and overall? There's just more maintenance involved. Me and hair maintenance just don't mix. I'm a Mom of three children working full time from home. I loathe long hair treatments that take all day at the salon, but that's probably why I'm in LOVE with our Beauty Pick of the Month for September, Pantene Pro-V Split End Repair. It's a curly haired curls best friend. Trust me. Plus, I've got your chance to win some for yourself! 

Read the full story

Did you know that elephants are the largest land animals on earth? They are the one of the most fascinating animals, especially to a young child. So, imagine my excitement when I heard that the beloved Disney Classic, Dumbo, is hitting DVD, Blu-Ray, and Digital Download for it's 70th Anniversary?!

The inspirational tale of Dumbo, the courageous baby elephant who uses his sensational ears to soar to fame with the help of this clever best friend Timothy Q. Mouse, will thrill and elight audiences of all ages. This empowering message about friendship and belief in yourself will resonate with this new generation of children, just as it did when I was kid. So, why not have a Family Movie Night to celebrate?

Read the full story

Yesterday, my youngest son made mention that Dad and I never go on dates. While I beg to differ, I did notice that it had been awhile since we went out together. I mean, I had a few days worth of travel, school started, husband's work schedule became more demanding. There just hasn't been enough time.

So, I decided to change that in my mission to break out of the marriage routine. I called him up, asked him out for a date, at Italian De La Casa {Hey - The name of our restaurant was created by a 4-yr-old so go with me, mmmk?}. Each child had a job in order to create the PERFECT date night for my husband and I. My 4-yr-old became the waiter, my 7-yr-old was a beautiful hostess, and our 9-yr-old was the best chef a girl can ask for helping me cook with Barilla's Piccolini Rich in Fiber White Pasta.

Read the full story

Yesterday, I made after-school snack time fun by making fruit kabobs with a cold glass of milk. We've been experimenting with different ways to eat healthy and I just KNEW my children would love this new twist on eating fruit.

Another change we've made is trading in juice boxes for BOOST Kid Essentials drink boxes. I understand my children need proper nutrition, especially at school, when I'm not there to help them make healthy choices. So, they've been getting a BOOST Kids Essentials drink box in their school lunch. We've also experimented on different recipes here at home, like our new found favorite, Banana Berry Smoothies!

Read the full story

The 10 year anniversary of September 11th, brought back a lot of memories for my husband and I. Ten years ago we were six months into our marriage. We were FAR from being in any kind of routine and still learning to live together as a married couple. I was used to going where I wanted, when I wanted. He was used to working when he needed to and sleeping for as long as he wanted. We had zero children and an uncertain life ahead of ourselves.

Fast forward ten years and we're here. Together. Routinely. With Children. He still works when he needs to, but as far as sleep? We get none. We have settled into a sacrificial routine for the sake of our children and, last night as we went to bed, I realized this routine? Is a little TOO routine.

Read the full story

Last August, we posted a Moon Dough Playset Review and had a LOT to say about our experience. If you remember, my kids absolutely loved the set, however, this Momma didn't like the fact that I spent more time cleaning that enjoying it with my children.

Well, we're back with ANOTHER Moon Dough review and this time? We're testing the New and Improved Moon Dough formula. Spin Master, the makers of Moon Dough, listened to Moms everywhere crying that we needed it to be less crumbly, easy-to-clean, AND easy-to-store. So, how do you think it faired in the Momma Findings home?

Read the full story

This is my second time to go to Chicago. Oh, how I love it! This is the view from the clock tower of the World of Whirlpool Headquarters building.

Read the full story

I struggled to write this post. How could I? I've turned into one of those parents. You know which ones I'm talking about. The parent with the child who throws a fit in the cereal aisle of the grocery store. The one who is struggling to convince him to get in the car. The one who silently screams when her child tells her no and runs away. The one who tries to keep it together while others are watching, yet feels helpless inside to stop it.

Yeah. That's me. While I've hit a parenting phase worth blogging about, I haven't changed my parenting style and I think that's the problem. I can't parent THIS child the way I parented the OTHER children. My 4-yr-old is strong willed, which will be an asset when he's older, but for now? It's tearing our family apart.

Read the full story

Growing up, we didn't eat out much. We Papi {my Dad} took us out for dinner it was usually for Mom's Birthday or on a VERY special occasion, like he just got that big promotion at work. Either way, our restaurant of choice was ALWAYS Red Lobster. As a family of six on one income, I KNOW that wasn't easy to swallow, but looking back at those times in my childhood, I have such fond memories.

A few years ago, I wanted to reignite those fuzzy family feelings, by taking MY little family out to Red Lobster. Needless to say, we left there more than frustrated. I vowed to never go back, until just recently when I learned Red Lobster has a new look, new revamped menu options, and a whole new dining experience.

Read the full story

What is it about a typical school day that makes my children famished? As soon as they walk through the door, they are raiding the fridge and pantry looking for something tasty and something filling.

I've stocked up on lots of snacks, fruit, cheese, crackers, yogurt, but sometimes? Sometimes they want something different. Last week, I surprised them with a new snack in the form of a cereal treats bar. They are jam packed with flavorsome favorites like Lucky Charms and Golden Grahams. Before sending your child back to school this year, help them get "back to cool" with a fun snack they are sure to love and won´t trade during lunch.

Read the full story

To say last week was emotional, is understatement. I've hit a phase with my 4-yr-old that I never thought I'd hit. While I can't really say much about his actions, I will say we have behavioral issue that is tearing our household apart. I have this huge blog post in the works describing our struggles. So, I don't want to say too much, but I'm fit to quit. I'm tired. I'm emotionally drained as I parent this child.

The other day, I sent him to his room then locked myself in my bedroom just furious over how he's been acting lately. When I say I was furious, I was FURIOUS. I had to spend time away from my child in order to gain balance in my head and my heart for discipline, but underneath all those "furious" feelings was a love that runs fierce. So, today on Music Monday I have the perfect song blaring through my earbuds... Furious, Jeremy Riddle's newest song.

Read the full story

I've never been obsessed with makeup like some of my friends. In fact, I had this horrible incident as a child, where my sister and aunt thought it was funny to put nail polish on my eyelids as eye shadow. Talk about traumatizing.

I'm 30-yrs-old now and feel I've grown into a classic look all my own. So much so, that I feel confident in teaching my very curious daughter all about basic makeup application and when and where it's appropriate to wear certain colors. There are a few basics I hold on to in my cosmetic bag that I think every stylish Momma should have, especially when teaching their daughter's about a simple beauty regimen.

Read the full story

I walked out to my garage today and, although I go out there every day, I shook my head in aggravation. The whole left side is filled with junk. This is the abyss of nothingness and, since I use the garage to do my laundry, I hate looking at it.

We have the lawn equipment, boxes we haven't unpacked since moving, bikes, scooters, skateboards, tools, husband's work equipments and who KNOWS what else. While the garage serves the purpose of keeping all these things "out of the way" I really just need a day to either get rid of all this stuff or put it all away in storage units.

Read the full story

This last Friday, I drove with my 4-yr-old in the backseat of our family SUV. Our windows were rolled down and we felt the cool September air on our face. The sound of a Nickelback song came on the radio. I was heading to see my parents and then an ill eerie like feeling swept through my body.

My mind went back to that day almost 10 years ago. I drove on this same street, listening to this same song, to my local college.

Read the full story

Thank you to Fooz Kids for providing me with an All-In-One pack to review. The opinions I've expressed here are solely my own and represent my honest viewpoint.

I walked into the room, where my daughter and her friend were playing, and asked, "I hope you're only on the sites I approved. I don't want to walk in and see YouTube on the screen." With a smile, my 7-yr-old turns to me and says, "Mom, I know what website I can and cannot go on. Don't worry. You and Daddy taught me how to be safe online." While that makes me feel comfortable to hear, it doesn't make me feel secure. There's so many things she can "accidentally" click on and add in peer pressure from a friend? We're just asking for trouble. So, with her in mind, I decided to check out Fooz Kids. It's a downloadable software created to keep kids safe and secure online. How do you keep your kids safe online?

Read the full story

I have hosted, co-hosted, and attended a TON of Twitter Parties over the last few years, but I'm exceptionally excited to be selected as a co-host for the #CuriousGeorgeMoms Twitter Party because my 4-yr-old and I have been spending a lot of time reading Curious George books and enjoying the newly launched Curious George television season on PBS Kids. He's ALL about this curious monkey and and it's been a special time for just him and I on days his siblings are at school. On September 15th, join some of the most influential Latina Mom Bloggers as we celebrate the Arts and Hispanic Heritage Month with everyone's favorite monkey, Curious George! There will be LOADS of prizes to be won and some great conversation to be had as we discuss ways we can fully appreciate photography, opera, painting and more with our children and the Hispanic Community.

Read the full story

Tell me you guys had as much drama shopping for backpacks as we did? Am I the only one? This year, my oldest two children have REALLY come into their own, in regards to personality and style. My daughter, as I mentioned earlier in my American Living post, is very much into funky clothes and bright colors. She wants to stand out in a crowd. My son? Not so much. He's all about the sleek, classic look and would like to blend in as much as possible.

This year, I was excited to find a backpack for my daughter that was fun, bright, and all her own. Embroidery and Vinyl Creations specializes in custom monogrammed backpacks and I thought it would be PERFECT for both my daughter and youngest son.

Read the full story

As we continue to bring you guys Back-to-School finds, I rest in the fact that my children are confident in their "style" as they head to class. This year has been quite the transition as we went from a school with standardized dress code {uniform like} to a school that lets students wear just about anything they want. This posed a problem with our Back-to-School shopping, because my children are still very young and still trying to "figure out their style."

My daughter likes funky clothes and I like classic clothes. My son likes skater clothes and I like distinguished. Somehow, I KNEW we needed to come to an agreement on a style that we both liked and that's when JCPenney contacted me to ask if I wanted to try out their new line of American Living clothing, but to also help families online discover their own personal style while encouraging Back-to-School goals for the upcoming year.

Read the full story

School has started and the relaxing evenings of summer are over. My daughter gets out of school 4:15 this year so I not only do I need to be a good meal planner but I need simple recipes that my whole family will enjoy.

I created this recipe because the ingredients are always ones I have on hand.  I also like the versatility of this recipe. This dish can be served over rice or in burritos. You could even add more chicken broth, black beans and turn into a hearty soup. If your schedule does not allow you to cook a 6 hour crock pot meal during the week, this is great to cook ahead on the weekend.  Just warm up and serve on Monday or Tuesday night. It also freezes great and you can double the recipe and freeze half for another dinner.
Read the full story

 School has been in session for two weeks, here in the Houston area, but I know a LOT of families who are just now starting this week. That's why we're continuing our Back-to-School Coverage with loads more tips, reviews, and giveaways.

Last week, when I met with my daughter's teacher I asked her what's on her wish list for the classroom. I feel every little bit, us parents, can do to help the school is worth doing, even if it's just cutting out a few Box Tops each week. I mean, we can do that, right?! Some of our favorite foods, such as Totino's products, are doubling their Box Tops on their packages AND giving two school the ultimate upgrade 250,000 Box Tops! We're joining in the fun, but letting you guys know all about it and helping your family make learning time into fun time!

Read the full story

My husband turned to me this morning and said, "It's like sleeping on a cloud." Forget the Good Morning or the regular How did you sleep? His first words after he opened his eyes were, "It's like sleeping on a cloud." He's referring to our new Sleep Number sheet set and, while I think a cloud would be more kooshy, I will admit that I've slept better the last week, than I have in a REALLY long time. Call it exhaustion or call it the wonderful world of Lyocell, whatever it is, I'm LOVIN the rest I'm finally getting.

Sleep Number read my post where I, lovingly mentioned that my husband snores and they thought they'd help out by giving this Momma a good night's rest. I'll be honest, I wasn't sure how "sheets" could do that, but after using our Lyocell sheets, I am a complete convert. So, check out what we thought about the sheet set Sleep Number sent and grab a chance at winning a set for youself!
Read the full story

Read the full story

When my oldest two children were younger, we were obsessed with Fisher Price Little People. No, seriously. It was an abnormal obsession that even I took part in. We had every set available, every Little People character, and EVEN had the Little People videos {Yes, videos}. We LOVED LOVED the toy sets and, as a Mom, I thought it really brought out their imagination.

Fast forward five years and we've donated the sets to other families as my children outgrew them, but in that time frame, my youngest child was born and he has YET to play with Little People. So, although he's 4-yrs-old, I thought I'd introduce these fun characters to him {and I think secretly I wanted to play with them again}. Fisher Price has unveiled the NEW Little People Zoo Talkers Animal Sounds Zoo playset and the Little People Animal Sounds contest giving you guys the chance to win cash prizes and a trip to Fisher-Price headquarters! Not only that, but they've given me an extra set to giveaway right here, right NOW!

Read the full story

This morning, we finally have a chance to breathe as the Labor Day Weekend has come to a close. It seems I've been gone the last week or so. I was traveling in Michigan and when I returned I was sick for quite awhile with Vertigo and then we left for Oklahoma City to celebrate with my husband's side of the family. It was great to be around family as we enjoyed a monumental 75th birthday celebration for my husband's grandmother. When I get together with his side, it's amazing to see the differences in our cultures. He's Caucasian. I'm Latina. While the differences are subtle, there is one thing we all have in common and that's the love for family.

Read the full story

School is in full swing and kids are inundated with homework and schedules. My daughter, does great with routine, but she's very much my dreamer. She's the one who draws picture of far away places with unicorns and rainbows. I can definitely see where she gets it from because I was very much like her. I always had my nose in a book and, although I was present in the room, I was far away in an adventure all my own. Yup. That was me and now, 25 years later, it's my daughter.

Her latest adventure takes place with a friend called Ladybug Girl as they use their imagination to turn every moment into an adventure in two of the latest books Ladybug Girl and the Bug Squad and Ladybug Girl at the Beach.  

Read the full story

I've been away for nearly 5 days and as I type that, it makes it sound like I've been on vacation. That's no where near being true. I've been sleeping since Saturday. If you know me at all, you know I don't usually sleep much. I'm ALL about utilizing the time I have in a typical day, but when I arrived back from the Whirlpool Event in Michigan, I started feeling dizzy and disoriented. My vision got blurry and I thought to myself Eh. I'm just tired. My husband gave me the day to rest and rest I did.

Read the full story