Living At The Whitehead's Zoo

Fitness Friday ~ Goals

2012-03-09T23:52:00.000-05:00

This week this is what I have been doing to move.

I've totally been slacking on my running goals this month.

Totally looking forward to some power walking on the beach.

Drinking my water pretty well. I'm happy that I'm making progress enough so that

people are starting to notice. Even if I don't feel it , it is always nice when someone else notices.

My tip this week comes from Dr. Jen on ABC's The Revolution

Natural Tips to help with sleeping:

Take a shot of unsweetened tart cherry juice (can mix with water)

I haven't tried it yet but am going to when I get the juice.

Now for a little Fitness Inspiration for the week:

Source: shrinkingjustine.com via Shrinking on Pinterest

Source: the-perfectshape.com via Esther on Pinterest

This last one just seemed so appropriate since I confessed I've totally slacked on my running goals so far this month.

See you back next week! Remember Keep Moving and Hydrating! What are your fitness goals this month?

Foto Friday "On The Water"

2012-03-09T23:07:00.000-05:00

This weeks theme "On The Water"

Next weeks theme "green"

Disney's John Carter In Theaters "NOW"

2012-03-09T22:17:00.000-05:00

Will you be going this weekend?

What is John Carter about?

Author Edgar Rice Burroughs wrote a sci/fi series years ago. The movie is based on this book series. John Carter is transported to Mars. When on Mars he discovers he has super abilities like leaping through the air (above photo). Already sounds COOL right?

Meet Woola ...I mean just look at that face.

I hear Woola is super fast too.

PG13

Will you be going to see it this weekend? If so come tell us what you thought!

"Like" JOHN CARTER on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JohnCarterMovie and visit the official site: http://www.disney.com/johncarter

John Carter In Theaters This FRIDAY!!

2012-03-08T10:13:00.002-05:00

If you are looking for some weekend fun. Disney's John Carter hits theaters March 9th

Meet Woola

Woola is an enormous creature who is loyal and sweet and looks like a cross between a dog and dinosaur that can move very fast.

JOHN CARTER is directed by 2-time Academy Award winner Andrew Stanton (“Finding Nemo” & “Wall-E”) and is based on the novels by Edgar Rice Burroughs which were the inspiration for such classic sci-fi adventure movies like “Star Wars” and “Avatar.”

"Like" JOHN CARTER on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/JohnCarterMovie and visit the official site: http://www.disney.com/johncarter

DIY Pantry Organizer

2012-03-08T00:27:00.002-05:00

Part of our kitchen makeover. My pantry has been awful forever. The shelves in it have NEVER worked well for canned goods. It hasn't worked out well for me.

Then I saw this by the fridge can organizer on Pinterest. I showed it to J and he was inspired.

He took down the bulletin board that once hung on the back of the door and put this up for me. Made with dowels and plywood. I'm thrilled it works perfectly for canned goods/small boxes and frees up my shelf space. Thank You honey!

We're considering adding a 2nd one under this one for spices etc. Plus it is all still hidden away in the pantry.

What's new in your home? Have you recently finished a DIY project?

linking up at:

Win A $25 Walmart Gift Card

2012-03-07T00:00:00.001-05:00

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

GOOD LUCK and if you zip code is not listed above enter to win Walmart Giftcards HERE.

Wordless Wednesday with Linky

2012-03-06T23:32:00.000-05:00

A perfect start to a chilly morning.

What's your favorite morning drink?

#FitFluential Adopt- A -Classroom Project

2012-03-06T16:19:00.002-05:00

Team FitFluential is traveling from Chicago to Austin as part of the SXSW Chevy Road Trip . Team FitFluential has adopted two classrooms . One classroom in need of help is in Joplin , MO and the other is in Dallas, TX. Team FitFluential is excited to be helping both very special classrooms. They will be stopping by to pay these classrooms a visit on this trip and sharing it with all of us along the way!

Team FitFluential's first stop is in Joplin, MO to Wendy Henady's 5th grade classroom. The school was destroyed by the tornadoes that devastated Joplin in 2011. Any money that we can raise will help them rebuild and, as Ms. Henady said, give them "a safe place to heal and learn."

Team FitFluential's second stop is in Dallas, TX to Terry Hogan's 4th grade class. This is a reading skills classroom for students in an area that have not been blessed with many resources. The students need contributions to access books and other classroom materials.

How can you help? If you would like to make a donation to these classrooms you can click on the link and do so. Tweet this post and spread the word. Maybe someone else you know would like to help out these classrooms.

Thanks You Rock!

Go Team FitFluential! Follow Team FitFluential on this trip on Twitter at #FFSXSW

Kids Weather Activity Hop

2012-03-06T07:00:00.000-05:00

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We've been lucky enough to have some really beautiful weather. The last two weekends it has been really windy. Which gave us the perfect opportunity to have some wind related fun.

We flew kites with Nana and Papa. Boy was that a loved activity. I had no idea the enjoyment this little boy would get from flying a kite. Our first weekend of kite flying was a fail. The kite ended up broken and in a tree after about 5 minutes if that. Our second attempt was quite successful. Nana and Papa bought an airplane kite which made it a hit from the start. He ran, he jumped, he hollered and played and he enjoyed his Nana and Papa . Isn't that what life is about?

What's In The Wind?

I found the idea for What 's In The Wind at Weather Wiz Kids. It was really easy to do but our results weren't anything spectacular. We took plastic lids, cut a hole in them and added a pipe cleaner to tie them outside. We smeared Vaseline on the lids and then hung them outside. After a few hours we collected them to see what was in the wind. Mostly dirt from what our lids said.

I took photos of the final product but when I pulled them off of the camera they were white squares. I'm not sure what happened. Sorry! Really all we collected was specks of dirt and some mossy looking stuff. Very little I thought compared to the amount of wind we had.

Cloud Watching

Spread A blanket or sheet in the yard and look at the clouds. See if you can find a picture in the clouds. Then come inside and use cotton balls to make your own cloud picture.
For our picture we just finger painted with blue paint, and glued cotton ball clouds on. It wasn't super cute but we enjoyed our activities today!

Catch A Rainbow

This is fun and great for coloring exploration. We found this project over at Kid Zone. There are printables available if you like them there. Here is what we did.

Pour one cup of milk in a bowl
Add 3 drops of food coloring of each separate colors at the edges of the bowl
add dish soap to center of the bowl

Then Watch!

The dish soap creates a barrier and the colors won't mix with it. The 2nd photo is after we decided to stir it with a spoon.

None of our projects this week were perfect but we enjoyed exploring weather and having time together!

These fabulous blogs will all be sharing weather activities for you and your children. I'm so happy to be a part of these ladies and can't wait to see all of their cool post.

NurtureStore :: The Golden Gleam :: Rainy Day Mum :: Mom to 2 Posh Lil Divas

Putti Prapancha :: Sun Hats & Wellie Boots :: Montessori Tidbits :: Kitchen Counter Chronicles

Reading Confetti :: Dilly-Dali Art :: Growing A Jeweled Rose :: The Iowa Farmer's Wife

AngeliqueFelix.com :: Kindergarten Basics :: Mommy With A Selective Memory

Glittering Muffins :: Creative Family Fun :: Living Montessori Now :: Toddler Approved

Living at the Whitehead's Zoo :: Sense of Wonder :: Make, Do & Friend :: Creative Connections for Kids

The Educators' Spin On It :: RainbowsWithinReach :: A Mom With A Lesson Plan :: Creativity my Passion

Mama Smiles :: Teach Preschool :: JDaniel4's Mom :: The Outlaw Mom Blog :: Mama Mia's Heart2Heart

Have you done a fun weather project with your child? Or shared some weather safety tips? Anything weather goes and we'd love to see your ideas. We are linking up for the Weather Hop and hope that you will join us.

As always thanks for stopping by!

Amber

Pin It Tuesday ~ #HungerGames

2012-03-06T01:06:00.001-05:00

Source: hungergamestrilogy.net via Amber on Pinterest

Source: google.com via Amber on Pinterest

Here in the Zoo we are extremely excited about Hunger Games in theaters March 23!
These Books were AWESOME!

Have you read them? Are you looking forward to the movie? What movie based on a book you've read are you looking forward to?

Mission Save Energy

2012-03-05T22:00:00.001-05:00

Mission Giveaway group is talking about saving energy this week. I know I would certainly love for my family to improve in this. Specially with summer around the corner. Our bill is terribly high even after an energy audit and a new air unit in. How do you save when it comes to energy? I'd love to hear about it. I'm looking forward to learning more about our sponsor Current Choice right along with you this week. Good Luck one of you will get to save at Walmart too!

Mission Giveaway started with the $100 Story where with $100 several people received the help they needed. We are on a mission to help people! We have gathered a group of bloggers that want to make a difference. Together we are the Mission Giveaway Group!

Saving money is something that most all of us love to do. We clip coupons, trim our budget where we can, maybe use hand me down clothes for the kids, etc. but what about saving on your energy bill? Sure we tell the kids to turn off the lights when they leave a room or close the refrigerator door but what if we had a choice on our energy provider that could save us money? I don't know about you but I'd love that!

Read this great post by Madame Deals to see how this is possible with Current Choice!

Speaking of saving money, our giveaway this week will save you a little money at Walmart!

Grand Prize: $50 Walmart Gift Card to WIN and $50 Walmat Gift Card to GIVE a friend!

About Our Sponsor: Current Choice

CurrentChoice is an online marketplace that helps residential and small business customers get the best deal by comparing offers from multiple energy suppliers. CurrentChoice lets you shop, compare plans, and sign up in one easy process.

Find out more about how Current Choice works on their website, blog or Facebook.

Here's How You Enter:

The Giveaway will open up on Tuesday 3/6 at 12:01 am EST and Close on Friday 3/9 at 11:59 pm EST.

1) Start at the Rafflecopter Giveaway form (below)

2) Complete the Mandatory entries.

3) Work your way through the links, entering contests at each blog as you go. These contests each have their own rules and end dates.

4) Complete additional entries towards the bottom and come back for additional daily entries!

That's it! You have successfully entered this awesome giveaway! Side note...It's not mandatory that you enter all the giveaways at each blog. However, doing so not only increases your chances of WINNING the other prizes, it increases your chances of WINNING the Grand Prize!

Good luck!!

The amazing Blogs participating in the event this week are:
Slop Swap, Madame Deals , Become A Coupon Queen, Coupon Crazy in Kentucky, Coupon Savings In The South, Couponing to be Debt Free, Couponista Queen, Crunchy Frugalista, Cuponeando, Deal Hunting Diva, Frugal Experiments, Go Momma Coupons, Insights by April, Klippin' Krazy Koupons!, Living At The Whitehead's Zoo, Makobi Scribe, Meg's Moxie, Mommy's Money Saving Obsession, Moms Saving Money, Money Saving Michele, Money Savvy Michelle, More 4 Moms Buck, My UnEntitled Life, Organic Mommy Today, Planet Weidknecht, Put A Little Umbrella In Your Drink, Saving by Design, Stretching Your Budget, Taking Time for Mommy, Tammilee Tips, The Adventures of J-Man and MillerBug, The Centsible Family, The Interrupting Cow, The Sassy Christian, Utah Coupon Deals, Wishful Thinking 247

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Meal Plan Monday ~ March Menu Plus A Mom Tip

2012-03-04T23:01:00.001-05:00

MARCH

1. Chicken & Four Cheese Rice, Steamed Broccoli and Cauliflower, Mac and Cheese

2. Leftovers

3. BBQ Pork Chops, French Fries (LO Mac and cheese)

4. No Peek Beef Tips , Rice, Carrots, and rolls (Birthday Cake)

5. Fried Chicken Strips, potatoes and gravy, veggie

6. Crock Pot Spaghetti, salad

7. Pot Roast and Vegetables

8. Spaghetti Pie Bake , garlic toast (salad)

9. Chicken Alfredo, side salad, good bread

10. Baked pork chops & twice baked potato casserole, crock pot apples and biscuits

11. Cajun Steak Meal in one, side salads

12. Sausage / Veggie Bake , corn bread

13. Crispy Cheddar Chicken, steamed Veggies

14. Taco Bake/ Nachos

15. Leftovers or Sandwiches your choice

16. Crockpot BBQ chicken and hash brown casserole

17. Pan Fried Ham and left over HB casserole , roasted broccoli

18. Sandwiches/Soup

19. Breakfast

20. eating out

21. eating out

22. Fajitas

23. Homemade pizza

24. Fried Steak Sandwiches all the way

25. Meat Loaf Rice & Tomatoes , Candy Carrots Corn Muffins

26. Crock Pot Spaghetti

27. Crock Pot Minestrone Soup And Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

28. Fried Chicken Salads or left overs your choice!

29. 3 pack pot roast with mashed potatoes and green beans

30. Roast Beef sliders with caramelized onions and potato salad

31. Chili's Chicken, Baked Potatoes

Happy St. Patrick's Day & Spring Break!

Dessert:

Birthday Cake

Lemonade Cake

Kermit the frog or rainbow cupcakes

Coconut Cream cupcakes

Moms Handy Dandy Tip for the Week

Bake Cupcakes, let them cool

Before Icing

Freeze Half for next time.

You or your family probably does not need

to eat 2 dozen cupcakes.

This way your family avoids the access calories but

still gets a treat. Plus you have some for a quick and easy

treat on hand.

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SITE CONSTRUCTION

2012-03-03T19:51:00.002-05:00

Please Excuse Our Mess. We are currently working on a new design and have things a MESS this evening!

Thanks,
Amber

The House of the Scorpion ~ Nancy Farmer

2012-03-03T08:10:00.000-05:00

The House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nancy Farmer had an interesting plot to share when she wrote House of the Scorpion. Matteo Alacran was not born he was harvested. Now if you are like me you said "Do What?" Matteo grew inside a cow, to someone who does not know what he is he is a boy. To the many people in his world everyday he is a clone, a beast. Except for El Patron' he loves Matteo or that's what Matteo imagines? El Patron is quite the character who has had Matteo created in his image. Given him the Best education, the most wonderful life and he expects what in return?

The twist and turns show that Nancy Farmer has quite an imagination . Not my favorite book, but definitely not a bad read.

disclosure: I did not receive any compensation for this book. I read it because I wanted to.

Foto Friday "In A Basket"

2012-03-02T22:33:00.000-05:00

IN A BASKET

Spring Is In The Air!

See Ya Next Week for "On The Water"

A Run Around The Bat House

2012-03-02T00:00:00.002-05:00

Looking to get some exercise and enjoy a family outing too? For an enjoyable run in Gainesville Florida, take a jog around Lake Alice. Beware of alligators. Lake Alice is known for the many gators that call it home. Wind your way around the UF campus for some extra mileage if you'd like. You definitely won't be sorry that you did.

Time your run around bat watching at the UF Bat house. Some of you may be wondering why UF has a bat house to begin with. Bats have always loved the UF campus. In 1991 University of Florida took on the bat house project in an effort to successfully get rid of the bats on campus and safely relocate them. The bats did not take to the house at first. It took them several years to make the bat house home. Now the UF bat house is home to over 60,000 bats. A second house was put up in 2010. It is truly amazing to watch them come out at dusk. The best time to see them is early spring - early summer.

Some find them fascinating, others find bats scary. I personally find them fascinating.

If you are planning on family time at the bat house you can teach your children a thing or two about bats before the outing. Make it a mini field trip for them. Read Stellaluna with them one of my favorite "bat" children's books. Mostly just enjoy the experience.

Remind them never pick up a bat, NO TOUCHING, use quiet voices while watching, no littering and BEWARE bats may pee and poop while in flight.

And if you decide to do the run and leave the family home ENJOY!

UF map to plan your run.

Well what do you think?

You can find out more about the bats from the Florida Museum of Natural History.

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Marvel's The Avengers new iTunes trailer

2012-03-01T23:34:00.000-05:00

Hits Theaters May 4th

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FOLLOW THE AVENGERS on facebook and twitter !

Safety Signs For Decorating, Gifting AND Safety

2012-03-01T23:22:00.000-05:00

Lately, I've been thinking about a new big boy room for C. Or maybe his playroom. Of course the first theme that comes to mind for him is all kinds of automobiles (planes, boats, trains, cars) are what this little boy loves. SafetySigns.com has real life signs for sell.

Traffic signs such as slow, one way, or my favorite hurricane evacuation route. They have street signs which I think are great fun. You can customize or personalize them. These would be great for my driveway or how about C's Train Stop? The selection of road signs available present endless decorating possibilities.

Of course Safety Signs is not really for decorating purposes. They provide OSHA compliant safety signs to keep you safe. They also have a custom option which you can load your own photo, play with colors, etc. which are great for novelty gifts. Prices vary.

disclosure: This is a sponsored post by Safetysigns.com . All opinions shared are my own.

New Trailer for Disney's FRAKENWEENIE

2012-03-01T23:04:00.000-05:00

FRAKENWEENIE will be in theaters October 5th

Here is a new trailer and some photos for you to enjoy and get excited about.

Like "FRAKENWEENIE" on Facebook

Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss, Crafts, Activities, and a Linky

2012-03-01T00:10:00.003-05:00

Dr. Seuss Birthday is March 2nd. We have been doing all kinds of Seuss activities to celebrate. Not only that , we are joining a group of fabulous bloggers who are also posting Dr. Seuss activities . Cool beans right?

First off here is what's on our book shelves this week.

I hid Dr. Seuss books all over the house and we did a book hunt scavenger hunt.

Once we found the books we enjoyed reading them.

Isn't he just too cute?

We made a Cat In The Hat HAT . That was a big hit and easy. Google cat in the hat printable and you'll find a ton. I printed a hat, and gave him some red paint to paint stripes. Then I cut up some paper lunch sacks and stapled together in a circle to go around his hat and also stapled the coloring sheet to it.

We also painted some coloring sheets , glued them to paper bags and had a puppet show.

We used our Little Tikes Playhouse and pretended we were In A People House.

Here's a story to give you a giggle. I was in the play house playing with C, and I called my daughter in to take some photos of our puppet show. When I got ready to write this post I looked through them and thought what on Earth did she think I wanted pictures of? She thought I had gotten in the house simply to avoid having my picture taken. Ha!

How About some Horton Hears A Who Love.

Horton Hears A Who Cupcakes...bake a cake mix and ice cupcakes regularly. Add Pink Cotton Candy. We had some left over Horton Hears A Who from our Seuss Baby Shower so we cut them in circles and glued them to the front. Fun Right? And Yummy!

Next we made Elephant Ears... =) These are perfect to get kids Cooking in The Kitchen.

Thanks for joining us to say Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss! I hope you enjoyed our activities.

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If you have a Dr. Seuss post link up below we want to see.

Here is the list of fabulous bloggers we have joined to post and party Dr. Seuss style:

Mom to 2 Posh Lil Divas

Ready. Set. Read!

Reading Confetti

Montessori Tidbits

Make, Do & Friend

Putti Prapancha

Kitchen Counter Chronicles

Living at the Whitehead's Zoo

Mama Mia's Heart2Heart

Living Montessori Now

Kindergarten for Teachers and Parents

Toddler Approved

You might also like our Dr.Seuss Baby Shower .

Link up Your Seuss ideas old and new, and Let's have FUN!

Horton Hears A Who "Elephant Ears" Recipe

2012-02-29T20:55:00.000-05:00

We've spent this week doing fun things in celebration of Dr.Seuss and his Birthday (March 2nd).

This post goes with one of our favorites here at the Zoo. Horton Hears A Who!

We made elephant ear snacks. These are like funnel cakes and I'm sure you've seen them here and there before.

Here is what you need:

Tortillas
cinnamon sugar
2 Tbsp oil
zip lock bag

You can fry them whole. Or if your child can use centers they can cut them. They cut very easily. I cut them into fourths.

Now add your oil to pan, get it hot and popping , then add the tortillas.

See how they are getting bubbly. It only takes a few seconds on each side.
Remove them from pain and drain them on a paper towel to blot some of the oil off.

Here is the next step for the kiddos. Add cooked tortillas 2 fourths at a time and a good amount of cinnamon sugar to bag. Then shake them. My daughter is shaking some above.

Remove from bag and place on a plate. There you have them and they are yummy.
original recipe found at allrecipes.com.
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We joined this amazing group of bloggers to bring you this Dr. Seuss Linky. We hope you have fun and enjoy what you see.

Mom to 2 Posh Lil Divas / Ready. Set. Read! / Reading Confetti / Montessori Tidbits /
Make, Do & Friend / Putti Prapancha / Jen Hedges-Farr / Living at the Whitehead's Zoo
Mama Mia's Heart2Heart / Living Montessori Now / Kindergarten for Teachers and Parents
Toddler Approved / RainbowsWithinReach / PreK + K Sharing

Now link up, look around and have fun!

Do You Have Life Insurance?

2012-02-29T20:07:00.001-05:00

It is recommended that all individuals have life insurance. Why? In the event of your death your family is responsible to pay your funeral expense. These can add up to thousands of dollars. Even if you do not want a large policy, and want something to just cover these expenses affordable options are available.

What factors are considered when creating a life insurance plan for you? Your age, health, career, family history, standard of living, and income are all factors that come in to play when creating an insurance policy. If you live a conservative, healthier lifestyle your policy premium would be lower than someones who is deemed high risk.

Aptusinsurance.com is an online life insurance company. Aptus aims to give you great plans at affordable prices. How does it work? To begin with you feel out a simple online form and answer a few questions about yourself. Then Aptus will find the right plan for you and give you a quote.

disclosure: This post is brought to you today by AptusInsurance.com.

John Carter ARRIVES IN THEATERS MARCH 9th

2012-02-29T08:00:00.002-05:00

Check out this clip from the upcoming movie JOHN CARTER. I can not wait to see this one.

From Academy Award®–winning filmmaker Andrew Stanton comes “John Carter”—a
sweeping action‐adventure set on the mysterious and exotic planet of Barsoom
(Mars). “John Carter” is based on a classic novel by Edgar Rice Burroughs, whose
highly imaginative adventures served as inspiration for many filmmakers, both past
and present. The film tells the story of war‐weary, former military captain John Carter
(Taylor Kitsch), who is inexplicably transported to Mars where he becomes reluctantly
embroiled in a conflict of epic proportions amongst the inhabitants of the planet,
including Tars Tarkas (Willem Dafoe) and the captivating Princess Dejah Thoris (Lynn
Collins). In a world on the brink of collapse, Carter rediscovers his humanity when he
realizes that the survival of Barsoom and its people rests in his hands.

JOHN CARTER Los Angeles premiere

Don't Forget March 9th

"like" John Carter on Facebook

Visit the Official Site

Wordless Wednesday with Linky

2012-02-28T21:47:00.000-05:00

Walt Disney Pictures FRANKENWEENIE

2012-02-28T07:36:00.004-05:00

Disney's FRAKENWEENIE

A Film By Tim Burton

arrives in theaters October 5th

This move sounds like it will be another GREAT one from Disney. We can't wait! Tim Burton is behind some fantastic movies like Alice In The Wonderland and Nightmare Before Christmas.

Genre: Animated comedy

Rating: TBD

U.S. Release date: October 5, 2012

Voice Cast: Winona Ryder, Martin Short, Catherine O’Hara, Martin Landau, Charlie Tahan, Atticus Shaffer, Robert Capron, Conchata Ferrell

Director: Tim Burton

Producers: Tim Burton, Allison Abbate

Executive Producer: Don Hahn

Screenplay by: John August

Based on an original idea by: Tim Burton

From creative genius Tim Burton (“Alice in Wonderland,” The Nightmare Before Christmas”) comes “Frankenweenie,” a heartwarming tale about a boy and his dog. After unexpectedly losing his beloved dog Sparky, young Victor harnesses the power of science to bring his best friend back to life—with just a few minor adjustments. He tries to hide his home-sewn creation, but when Sparky gets out, Victor’s fellow students, teachers and the entire town all learn that getting a new “leash on life” can be monstrous.

A stop-motion animated film, “Frankenweenie” will be filmed in black and white and rendered in 3D, which will elevate the classic style to a whole new experience.

In Tim Burton’s “Frankenweenie” young Victor conducts a science experiment to bring his beloved dog Sparky back to life, only to face unintended, sometimes monstrous, consequences.

NOTES:

When Tim Burton originally conceived the idea for “Frankenweenie,” he envisioned it as a full-length, stop-motion animated film. Due to budget constraints, he instead directed it as a live-action short, released in 1984.
“Frankenweenie” follows in the footsteps of Tim Burton’s other stop-motion animated films “Corpse Bride” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas”—both of which were nominated for Academy Awards®.
Over 200 puppets and sets were created for the film.
The voice cast includes four actors who worked with Burton on previous films: Winona Ryder (“Beetlejuice,” “Edward Scissorhands”), Catherine O’Hara (“Beetlejuice,” “The Nightmare Before Christmas”), Martin Short (“Mars Attacks!”) and Martin Landau (“Ed Wood,” Sleepy Hollow”).
Several of the character names—Victor, Elsa Van Helsing, Edgar “E” Gore and Mr. Burgemeister— were inspired by classic horror films.

"LIKE" FRAKENWEENIE on Facebook

Disney Pixar Brave Coming This Summer

2012-02-27T23:06:00.001-05:00

I am so excited about all of these new movies from Disney ! I know I tell you how excited I am everyone I share. Honest I am though. I love Disney movies and Family Movie Time. There are movies coming out I think my big kids will watch and movies I know my little Mister will love. Like Brave!

Coming this Summer

Disney Pixar ~ Brave

In Theaters June 22

Love the red hair. This Disney Character is sure to have some style.

What does your child think of the trailer? Do they watch it over and over?

My Mr. Man grabs his toy bow and arrow and says AGAIN .

Like Brave on Facebook

Mission Shoes

2012-02-27T22:00:00.004-05:00

Do you love shoes? Can't resist buying them, or finding a great shoe sale? How about FREE shoes? If so Mission Giveaway Group is bringing a giveaway your going to love this week.

Mission Giveaway started with the $100 Story where with $100 several people received the help they needed. We are on a mission to help people! We have gathered a group of bloggers that want to make a difference. Together we are the Mission Giveaway Group!

We know how much you loved the TOMS ballet flats giveaway so we thought you'd like another chance to WIN a pair for you and a friend! So cute and comfortable!

Here's how this giveaway will work and the prizes we have to offer:

Grand Prize:

A Girls Dream - Shoes! The Winner will be able to pick out a pair of Tom's Ballet Flats for themselves and a pair to give to a friend!

About Our Sponsor: Autism United

Here at Autism United we are dedicated to raising Autism Awareness world wide. We work to help educate and bring information, research and specialist studies to one location giving you a highly researched, resourceful website for your Autism Awareness needs. While working hard, we also dedicate ourselves to speak out and reach others in need of assistance and help them be heard. Autism United will also work to stay on board with other Autism Awareness sites and resources reaching out and fundraising to help with research and those in need of some help.

Please check back often to see our rapidly growing site that will hopefully become a recognized source for Autism Awareness. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Autism, please feel free to contact Autism United and share your stories, information or just to say hello. We’d love to hear from you!

Here's How You Enter:

The Giveaway will open up on Tuesday 2/28 at 12:01 am EST and Close on Friday 3/2 at 11:59 pm EST.

1) Start at the Rafflecopter Giveaway form below.

2) Complete the Mandatory entries.

3) Work your way through the links, entering contests at each blog as you go. These contests each have their own rules and end dates.

4) Complete additional entries towards the bottom and come back for additional daily entries!

That's it! You have successfully entered this awesome giveaway! Side note...It's not mandatory that you enter all the giveaways at each blog. However, doing so not only increases your chances of WINNING the other prizes, it increases your chances of WINNING the Grand Prize!

Good luck!!

The amazing Blogs participating in the event this week are:
Slop Swap, Madame Deals , Become A Coupon Queen, Coupon Crazy in Kentucky, Coupon Savings In The South, Couponing to be Debt Free, Couponista Queen, Deal Hunting Diva, Frugal Experiments, Go Momma Coupons, Have Kids Will Coupon, Heavenly Savings, Insights by April, Klippin' Krazy Koupons, Living At The Whitehead's Zoo, Makobi Scribe, Meg's Moxie, Moms Saving Money, Money Saving Michele, Money Savvy Michelle, More 4 Mom's Buck, My UnEntitled Life, Planet Weidknecht, Put A Little Umbrella In Your Drink, Saving by Design, Stretching Your Budget, The Adventures of J-Man and MillerBug, The Centsible Family, The Interrupting Cow, Utah Coupon Deals, Wishful Thinking 247

To inquire about becoming a sponsor, please contact Amee at missiongiveaway@yahoo.com for details. Take a look at our Media Kit to see what Mission Giveaway has to offer.

Are you a blogger that would like to participate in Mission Giveaway? Find out how you can join us.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Nature's Sleep Memory Foam Slippers Review/Giveaway

2012-02-27T00:43:00.005-05:00

When I hear memory foam and slipper in a sentence I automatically think these must be comfy.

Comfy does not even begin to describe how soft and warm these are . We have wood floors and tile which both get cold. So, I like a good slipper or sock to wear when I'm walking around the house. Plus I'm just not a barefoot girl I want something on my feet indoors or out. I can’t stand to get something on the bottom of my feet. A good quality slipper is important to me, because I'll be wearing them a good bit of the time. My slippers arrived on a dreary rainy day. Perfect timing !

disclosure: I received these slippers for FREE in exchange
for an honest opinion and review.

These are certainly the nicest slippers I have ever owned. I love that each time I slide them on they still cushion and feel fluffy. They don't flatten out like some slippers do. They are warming and comfortable . These slippers literally hug your feet. The rubber soles are nice and supportive. Pllus I can toss them in the washing machine when needed.

Memory Foam slippers come in closed and open toe, and are also available in unisex sizes. So, make sure if you want a woman's shoe size you select a size smaller than your normal shoe size. They are available in blue, pink, lavender and sand.

Nature's Sleep does not only have comfy slippers. They also have memory foam mattresses and pillows . Both can be purchased online at http://www.naturessleep.com . I can only imagine how comfortable they must be. I usually have a three year old in the bed with me, a comfy bed and pillow and a good nights rest sounds most heavenly to this Mama. I'm super excited to share an AWESOME deal with you . This is perfect if you are looking at buying a new mattress or other memory foam product.

Shop Online at Natures Sleep and receive 50% off of any purchase from the website

use code BEARS50

Find Nature's Sleep on
Facebook / Twitter / Google + / Website

Now if you'd like to WIN a pair of Natures Sleep Memory Foam Slippers
fill out the easy rafflecopter form below. Only the first entry is mandatory per sponsor. All of the others are bonuses to increase your chances of winning.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Thank you for entering ! Good Luck Everyone!

Super C by Vidazorb

2012-02-26T22:50:00.002-05:00

Vidazorb Super C is used to enhance your immune system and for digestive support.

I am a big believer that vitamin C helps your immune system fight off illness and keeps you well. When I received my bottle of Super C I couldn't wait to try it out. I showed my Mom (my vitamin expert) she read through the ingredients and gave it a thumbs up. So, try it I did. Vidazorb has a variety of other products that aide in digestive health , so if Super C is not what you are looking for be sure and browse around.

About Super C

Enhanced antioxidant support with L. acidophilus, LA-5® (50 milligrams – approximating 5 billion CFU), Bifidobacterium, BB-12® (50 milligrams – approximating 5 billion CFU), Masquelier’s® OPC and Vitamin C.

Maximize immunity and digestive wellness with antioxidant-rich Vidazorb® SuperC. Clinically substantiated L. acidophilus, LA-5® and Bifidobacterium, BB-12® work synergistic ally with Masquelier’s® Original OPC and Vitamin C to significantly boost overall immune strength. Perfect for travelers. Beneficial probiotic bacteria are essential in helping maintain overall health.*

This easy to take chewable tablets come in a orange pineapple flavor. Adults take one tablet 3 times daily. The orange pineapple flavor is not bad , but a little bit sour. It is recommended that you take these with your meals which makes the three times a day pretty easy to remember. I am not a huge fan of chewable pills I'd rather swallow it and be done with it. However, I can totally see the benefit and having them chewable and no need for a liquid to wash them down. They remind me of a sour candy. I have not had any tummy issues, bloating, or bathroom troubles since I began taking Super C .

Vidazorb Super C is beneficial for both athletes and travelers.

It helps ward off unwanted tummy troubles and helps immunity.

Vidazorb is gluten, soy, corn, and lactose free.

Super C does not need to be refrigerated. It's chewable and easy to take, so you can even take it on the go. I think if you decide to try it you'll find it is not an unpleasant vitamin to take at all.

Find out more about Vidazorb Super C Here:

Website / Facebook / Twitter

Disclosure: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. I received a FREE product in exchange for an honest review. The opinions I shared are 100% my own.

Winners Annouced

2012-02-26T13:21:00.000-05:00

Thanks for following the Zoo and Entering our Giveaways!

Congratulations You're a Winner!

ARNICARE WINNER ~ Kathleen Quinlan

Flash Giveaway Purex Ultra Pack Winner ~ Sarah L

Check your emails ladies and be sure to reply with shipping information with in 48 hours.

Share At The Zoo Saturday #3 Join Us

2012-02-25T06:00:00.003-05:00

Our Featured Post from Last week

Is Rainy Day Mum Pretend Play In The KitchenThis is a super fun activity to do with your child. C loves to mix stuff in our kitchen. Reading this post has totally inspired me to set up a mixing station for him to explore next week. Thanks Rainy Day Mum!
You can also find Rainy Day Mom onFacebook / Twitter / Google + / Pinterest

My Favorite Post this Week is:Ode to the Potty it's a sponsored post by Clorox Lounge,but I share some potty training funnies in it.
My Favorite photo from this week is from the baseball field:

Next week we have 3 games. Wish us luck. We're excited to be 3-0 right now.
Now join us. No rules really keep it family friendly and share your favorite post, photo or both from the week! We want to see, share and enjoy it. Next Saturday we will feature a post from the link up.

Win Purex Ultra Packs ~ Flash Giveaway ~

2012-02-24T19:55:00.001-05:00

ConAgra Foods sent out an amazing message to attendees of Blissdom that they are going to donate up to 40,000 meals to stop child hunger during Blissdom. ConAgra Foods will donate one meal for every tweet during the conference that includes the #childhunger hashtag. This of course caught our attention because WOW, what a great thing to do! The Mission Giveaway Group is focused on making sure that all 40,000 meals are donated because that is what we are all about and we have amazing readers that can help us achieve this goal. Together we can move mountains!

Here is how you can help!
Mission Giveaway will be a bit different this week. For one week only, we're changing the dates of the event to Thursday - Saturday to help end child hunger. You give, we give. It is a great concept and we hope to continue to spread the message. We are holding flash giveaways every hour on the hour during Blissdom to help support this event. The giveaways will each run for 24 hours with the first one going live at 12:00 am EST Thursday 2/23 and the last one going live at 11:00 pm EST Saturday 2/25. You can join these giveaways by tweeting out messages, entering codes from specially marked ConAgra Products on the Child Hunger Ends Here site, and sharing this mission with friends and family members. We really want to help this mission succeed and show the impact our readers and bloggers can have in helping others in need. We all know that there are more hungry children than ever before so let's make a difference and Stop Child Hunger!

Get entered in the giveaway below and work to stop child hunger by doing so. For every tweet sent out {see Rafflecopter for directions} and ConAgra Products code entered, ConAgra will donate a meal. It really is that easy. Not only are you going to be helping others by simply sending a tweet but you will also be given the opportunity to win TONS of awesome prizes all brought to you by the Mission Giveaway. To stay in the loop on all of the great giveaways and when they go live the easiest thing to do is to follow the Mission Angel Facebook page where all of the giveaways will be posted.

Thanks to these Participating Blogs:
Meg's Moxie, Slop Swap, Tammilee Tips, Put A Little Umbrella In Your Drink, Frugal Experiments, Moms Saving Money, SlickHousewives, The Adventures of J-Man and MillerBug, Must Love Coupons, Taking Time for Mommy, Pirates of the Supermarket, Go Momma Coupons, Living at the Whiteheads Zoo, Organic Mommy Today, Coupon Savings In The South, Couponista Queen, Planet Weidknecht, Money Savvy Michelle, Become A Coupon Queen, Momondealz, Deal Hunting Diva, Money Saving Michele , Saving by Design, Adventures of 8, Insights by April, MyCouponLady, iSave A2Z, Mystery Shopping Teacher, Utah Coupon Deals, Wishful Thinking 247, Madame Deals, Wheel N Deal Mama,

Get Entered In My Flash Giveaway!

Enter to win a Free Purex Ultra Tabs coupon
1 for you

and 1 to give a friend!

Here is my review on Purex Ultra Packs in case you missed it.

I LOVE these Ultra Packs. They are super awesome and they make laundry a little bit faster and easier .

Fill out the EASY Rafflecopter form below

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Don't forget to follow the Mission Angel Facebook page to stay up to date on all 72 flash giveaways! Remember, a new one will begin at the top of the hour every hour for 24 hours a day Thursday to Saturday. Good luck and most importantly - Thank You for helping us help others. Together we can end child hunger!

disclosure: Living at the Whitehead's Zoo received a Free Purex product for our honest review.
All opinions shared about the products are my own HONEST opinions.
Thank you. '

Fitness Friday~The Diet Devil

2012-02-24T00:40:00.007-05:00

DIET stands for Did I Eat That?

I'm not really dieting. I am trying to lead a healthier lifestyle, which includes losing weight .Diet. weight loss, healthier lifestyle they kind of go hand in hand when you need to shed a few pounds. The main difference being that a lifestyle change will hopefully be a forever change.

I know when it comes to food I am my own worse enemy. I think about what I'm going to eat, and use food for purposes other than fueling my body way to often.

This little diet devil is always in my mind. Every day when I pick the kids up from school he whispers, " hey wouldn't a Banana Milk Shake be tasty today? Why don't you treat the kids to ice cream."

So, far I have not given into my to that little voice. No Banana Milk Shake for me this week. I am stronger than the voice in my head or I want to be anyway.

Who knows, maybe one of these days my diet devil will ditch the ice cream and wear a pair of running shoes?

Do you have a little devil constantly challenging you on your weight loss, fitness journey?

Pin It

Foto Friday "Emotion"

2012-02-24T00:01:00.001-05:00

Linking up at:

Marvel's The Avengers...Coming This May

2012-02-23T23:19:00.000-05:00

Hits Theaters May 4th

“Like” MARVEL’S THE AVENGERS on Facebook

What do you think? Are you excited to see The Avengers?

Toddler Talk Thursday~ Toddler Songs

2012-02-23T00:45:00.001-05:00

This weeks Topic: Toddler's Favorite Songs

** If you want to follow this on twitter or plan on tweeting your post, please use hashtag:#toddlertalk**

C is very temperamental when it comes to music. He absolutely hates the ABC's. I know crazy right. He'll say hush Mama. Silly boy. There are a few songs he enjoys though.

He likes Old MacDonald some days.

He loves Happy Birthday.

You are my sunshine he likes that when he is sleepy.

If your happy & you know it he's liked that since he was a baby.

The wheels on the bus (sometimes)

Hot dog Hot dog Hot Diggity Dog

(I don't know if that is really the name or not? It's the song off of Mickey Mouse and he goes around singing it so cute)

He loves Your Elmo and You Know It

What songs does your toddler like?

Toddler Talk is hosted by:

Family and Life in Las Vegas – Emily and Squishy (2.5)

Crazy About My Baybah – Lolo and Baybah (2.5)

The Life of a Sippy Cup Mom - Melissa & Hayden(4)

Rainy Day Sensory Play

2012-02-23T00:00:00.000-05:00

Sometimes, on a rainy day we need something different. Something, to challenge our mind to play and have fun even though we're stuck indoors. Sometimes, it is time for Mom to use her imagination, and find just the perfect play time activity for this rainy day.

It has been raining on and off the last week or so here. Can you say Spring is in the air? This is how we filled one rainy afternoon here at the Zoo.

I brought the sand and water table inside. I really should have cleaned it up, but we were ready to play.

I added a bag of popcorn . Then gave him some plastic cups, spoons and containers and his very favorite thing my sifter.

This kept him busy on and off for HOURS...I know really.

He added Cars and Trucks and drove them around and around the table.

We scooped, we poured, we dug, we sifted, we drove cars , we threw corn, we picked up corn , we played. No boredom at the Zoo on this rainy day.

Now I need an idea for our next rainy day activity. Suggestions welcome leave me a comment below !

Pin It

Today we are linking up at:

#MissionGiveaway supports Child Hunger Ends Here!

2012-02-22T23:36:00.000-05:00

Flash Giveaways on the hour beginning at Midnight 12/23. Are you ready? That's less than 30 minutes away. Why? The Mission Giveaway Group is a bit different this week. Read the details below. Thanks Everyone!

ConAgra Foods sent out an amazing message to attendees of Blissdom that they are going to donate up to 40,000 meals to stop child hunger during Blissdom. ConAgra Foods will donate one meal for every tweet during the conference that includes the #childhunger hashtag. This of course caught our attention because WOW, what a great thing to do! The Mission Giveaway Group is focused on making sure that all 40,000 meals are donated because that is what we are all about and we have amazing readers that can help us achieve this goal. Together we can move mountains!

Here is how you can help!
Mission Giveaway will be a bit different this week. For one week only, we're changing the dates of the event to Thursday - Saturday to help end child hunger. You give, we give. It is a great concept and we hope to continue to spread the message. We are holding flash giveaways every hour on the hour during Blissdom to help support this event. The giveaways will each run for 24 hours with the first one going live at 12:00 am EST Thursday 2/23 and the last one going live at 11:00 pm EST Saturday 2/25. You can join these giveaways by tweeting out messages, entering codes from specially marked ConAgra Products on the Child Hunger Ends Here site, and sharing this mission with friends and family members. We really want to help this mission succeed and show the impact our readers and bloggers can have in helping others in need. We all know that there are more hungry children than ever before so let's make a difference and Stop Child Hunger!

VISIT Mission Angel Facebook page where all of the giveaways will be posted. Visit me on Friday for a giveaway here at Living at the Whitehead's Zoo.

Thanks to these Participating Blogs:

Become A Coupon Queen, Coupon Savings In The South, Couponing to be Debt Free, Couponista Queen, Deal Hunting Diva, Frugal Experiments, Go Momma Coupons, Insights by April, iSave A2Z, Klippin' Krazy Koupons!,
Living at the Whiteheads Zoo, Madame Deals, Mama's-Spot, Meg's Moxie, Momondealz, Moms Saving Money, Money Saving Michele , Money Savvy Michelle, Must Love Coupons, MyCouponLady, Mystery Shopping Teacher, Organic Mommy Today, Pirates of the Supermarket, Planet Weidknecht, Put A Little Umbrella In Your Drink, Saving by Design, SlickHousewives, Slop Swap, Tammilee Tips, The Adventures of J-Man and MillerBug, Adventures of 8, The Interrupting Cow, Utah Coupon Deals, Wheel n Deal Mama, Wishful Thinking 247

Ode to Potty Training and The Clorox Lounge

2012-02-22T22:31:00.002-05:00

Are you ready to have some laughs? Share some laughs? Who doesn't want to have a good laugh? How about laugh for a chance to win some money? Head on over to the Clorox Lounge to have a good laugh and enter a sweepstakes for $10,000. First, hang out here and laugh with me.

It's Potty time. Mr. Man baby #3 has had me standing on my head to get him over the potty. Seriously, my husband began teasing me that he would begin school before I got him potty trained , and I began to panic. Why is this so hard? I have danced, I have sang, high fived, given stickers, bribed and so much more. One day I even danced with underwear on my head. My cheers have carried on so loudly that my teenage daughter storms out of her room one afternoon to tell me that all of her friends on Skype are wondering why we are always cheering about pee and poop. Could I please be quieter? . Ha did you laugh with me? Now, finally my guy has pretty much got the potty thing down. Yippee, picture me doing a happy dance.

I am still expected to give a sticker , high five, and do a little dance each time he does the deed. This can be quite entertaining when you are at the store. For some unknown reason mommy is the only one he will go to the potty with. Sigh! Lucky lucky girl I am. I have had my shoe peed on , the shower curtain hosed down, and oh boy a turd put in my hand. How gross and I still cheered LOUDLY. Just ask the older kids . The Clorox Lounge is turning the bathroom into the laugh room.

Hosted by comedian and mom Sheri Shepherd, TheCloroxLounge.com features hilarious anecdotes, fun contests and exciting give-a-ways, coupons and just the right amount of comic relief. Now for some AWESOMENESS! You have the opportunity to WIN $10,000. Beginning on February 27, 2012 The Last Comic Sitting Competition Sweepstakes kicks off. Visit the Clorox Lounge and sign up for a chance.

Visit here for more information:

Website / Facebook / Twitter

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Clorox® blogging program, for 8,000 My SocialMoms Rewards Points. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

Wordless Wednesday with Linky

2012-02-22T01:31:00.000-05:00

Playing at Nana and Papa's house is so much fun!

OOPS Our kite lasted about 5 minutes before it found a tree.

Playing in his fort!

And the very best part of the day...

riding the lawn mower with Papa!

Pin It Tuesday ~ Words

2012-02-21T02:13:00.001-05:00

Source: images.easyart.com via Amber on Pinterest

Source: procrastinationmama.blogspot.com via Amber on Pinterest

Source: tumblr.com via Amber on Pinterest

Eye Make Up Leave It or Love it?

2012-02-21T00:37:00.000-05:00

If you don't wear make up often. It really seems a little shocking when you decide to. Their are so many brands/ choices available. You look so different. Do you look like a clown? That is always what I am thinking when I play/apply different make up. When someone else does it or I see it on someone else I usually like it. However, for the most part I leave it.
Eye Make up what is the proper way to apply it? Lucky for us their are tons of help sites online and how to photos on Pinterest. First things first you need to pick your colors. Start with a simple more neutral pallet. You can always spice it up and add color to it as you get use to what your doing.
Pick three colors from the same color family. First apply the lightest and cover the entire eye lid.Next apply the medium share and cover the eye lid to the crease.Add the darkest shadow into the crease. Now Blend your colors.

Source: makeupandbeautyblog.com via Amber on Pinterest

What do you think will you give your eyes a try in a bit? I fully intended to go by new make up for this post and let my daughter and her friend play one me. That didn't happen though ...maybe the next time?

Check out these eyes they are Crazy.

Source: makeupandbeautyblog.com via Amber on Pinterest

Source: Uploaded by user via Amber on Pinterest

They are super fun right! When I asked my daughter and her friend about eye make up this is what they said. "Google it Mom" you'll find tons you can do with eye make up. Then they mentioned Smokey eyes. You can find some great Smokey eye tips at Loreal Paris.

I think playing with our look is part of the fun of being a girl. Even though I rarely do it I know I can if I want to.

OK I feel old. Have you used a shadow stick? Shadow sticks are a quick application, you just swipe it across your lids. Neat OH!

What about eye liner, pencil or liquid? I use both. When applying eye liner you want to get it closest to your lash line working from the inside to outer corner.

Mascara...Mascara is my #1 must have in the make up box. I rarely use it , but I love it when I do. Even without a painted face mascara just makes my eyes pop.

What about you do you have a must have product in your make up kit? How about the eye make up do you leave it or love it?

Meal Plan Monday ~ Taco Bake Recipe

2012-02-20T01:00:00.000-05:00

Here's what's left of February's Menu. Wow, guys we are 1/2 way through February.

LO ham, hash brown casserole, Green Beans
Breakfast
BBQ pork chops and Red Robin Seasoned Fries (new), broccoli
HoBo Meatball Stew over Rice, Bread Machine Wheat Bread
Crock Pot Lasagna and Olive Garden Bread Sticks (New)
Meat Loaf Muffins , Rice and Tomatoes, Green Beans
Crock Pot Spaghetti, salad
BLT's and Minestrone Soup
BBQ Pulled Pork, mac and cheese, oven fries
Pulled Pork Sandwiches Texas Toast
Left Overs

Now I have a tasty new recipe for you. We had this on our January menu a new recipe from Two Maids a Milking . It's a tasty Taco Bake.

Here is what you will need:

hamburger
taco seasoning
8 oz sour cream
crescent rolls
tomato sauce
diced tomatoes
shredded cheese
Doritos chips(I used the Taco Flavored Doritos)

Brown your hamburger, drain. Add taco seasoning, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes and simmer. This smells so yummy already. (I forgot to take a photo of this step but you know what to do).

In a 9X13 casserole dish spread out your crescent rolls to make a crust.

Now add the hamburger mixture.

I think I could bake it jut like this and eat it but it gets even yummier.

Next add your layer of sour cream and a layer of cheese.

Then lastly crunch up a bag of Doritos and layer that over the top like this.

Now Bake it at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

Then it looks like this and it is mmm mmm Good!

Have you tried a new recipe lately? I want to hear about it.

Pin It

Clipix ~ Organize Your Family Life

2012-02-20T00:56:00.002-05:00

What is clipix? Clipix is a way to organize the things you find online. Clipix allows you to organize online and still maintain your privacy. Your boards will only be available to people you share them with. I really like the privacy feature.
How's it work? You drag a Clip button to your tool bar. You are then allowed to easily clip things you want to from the web to your page. You can make clipboards for everything and anything. There are also Syncboards. Syncboards are boards you can collaborate with your friends.

I began a Clipix page and found it very easy to navigate. You can recllip other peoples clips or clip your own from websites. I began a vacation board. Here is one of my clips. Check it out below.

Clilpix is a great way to plan that vacation, organize recipes and so much more. Drop by and try it out you might just love it. You will find so many uses for it and ways to organize your likes and dislikes. Clipix also is available with an iphone app. What ways would you use Clipix?

Clipix offers you a variety of ways to organize the posts and images you find useful on the web. They offer you several privacy measures and it is all up to you what you use and don't. I think you will ifnd it to be a useful and timesaving tool in online time management. With Clipix you are able to share your post. You can easly share your boards amongst each other.

Promoted Post

Kitchen Makeover ~ Tile Shopping

2012-02-19T01:05:00.000-05:00

If you have ever shopped for tile you know how many choices their are out there. I find tile shopping to be overwhelming. I really am not a decorator and I have a horrible time making a decision when it comes to this sort of thing. It's hard for me to know if I will like it until I see everything together.

We have visited Home Depot, Lowe's, and a store that sales only Tile looking for that perfect look for my back splash. It gets a bit frustrating, I am not a woman of patience. Once we start something I want it done that day and with our projects they seem to be ongoing or always need just one more thing . Anyone been there?

If you missed it here is my countertop post. I am still loving my Ginai Granite Paint countertops. We have also added a new sink (love) and I redid my cabinets. You'll have to catch that post in the next few weeks. Hopefully, our new back splash will be done soon.

Here are a few of the samples I brought home. As you can see they VARY greatly lol.

When we began shopping I just new glass tiles like the ones above were exactly what I wanted. But I changed my mind.

From Glass tiles I picked out these... LOVED them but they just didn't go with what I have.

Next I couldn't choose a big tile but I loved these little tiny ones I found and just knew we could incorporate them some way some how.

And then after two weekends of tile shopping we decided tile was not right for us at all.

We moved on to Fasade . Fasade thermoplastic panels come in a variety of cool designs. I picked out and purchased 3 different panels and brought home to look at and decide. I must say once I got them up I honestly loved all three and we had a VERY hard job narrowing it down.

Here are the three we were looking at last weekend.

all three different designs ...I want them all

AND this is the one we went with. It's about 80% installed and I think I LOVE it.

Of course as projects always go at this Zoo we are short of supplies and did not get finished. We must make another trip to Home Depot first but we are close and getting there. I'll be posting a finished kitchen soon.

What about you do you love or hate tile shopping? Have a DIY project story for me? Leave me a comment.

Share At the Zoo Saturday #2 JOIN US!

2012-02-18T09:33:00.002-05:00

Thanks to everyone who linked up with us last week. If you missed it we're trying something new here at the Zoo. This is week 2 of Share at the Zoo Saturday. How does it work? Link up your favorite post , photo or both from the week. That's it . We'll pick a favorite and feature it here next week.

Here are my favorites from the week.

Favorite Post are Fitness Friday and Meal Plan Monday

Favorite Photo:

Featured Pick from last week is How to Build a Snowman from Rainy Day Mum. Thanks for linking up Rainy Day Mum. You can grab our featured button on the right side bar.

Foto Friday "Edit"

2012-02-17T14:09:00.000-05:00

This weeks theme "Edit" Link up any photo you have edited!

BEFORE EDIT

AFTER EDIT

What did I do? I applied a warming effect, and softened the focus.

Which one do you like best?

also linking up at :

Fitness Friday

2012-02-17T00:18:00.001-05:00

Are you a fan of college sports? Is their a sport you just can't resist cheering for? Mine would be BASEBALL & GYMNASTICS.

Last Friday I tagged along with the Girl Scouts Troop to the UF / LSU LINK 2 PINK Match. A match fundraising for breast cancer. The Girl Scouts participated in a banner contest, a coloring contest, and the many kid friendly activities that were available.

Some of the Banners in the Banner Contest

Way to go Girl Scouts they all looked great.

The Floor is my Favorite part of the competition . Which is yours?

I LOVE THE TEAM SPIRIT

I think the UF choreography is Awesome . There is a gator chomp in every routine. Us Fans know to look for it and get ready to cheer them on. Go Gators!

The Secret World of Arriety In Theaters Friday 2/17

2012-02-16T01:03:00.001-05:00

Residing quietly beneath the floorboards are little people who live undetected in a secret world to be discovered, where the smallest may stand tallest of all. From the legendary Studio Ghibli (“Spirited Away,” “Ponyo”) comes “The Secret World of Arrietty,” an animated adventure based on Mary Norton’s acclaimed children’s book series “The Borrowers.”

Arrietty (voice of Bridgit Mendler), a tiny, but tenacious 14-year-old, lives with her parents (voices of Will Arnett and Amy Poehler) in the recesses of a suburban garden home, unbeknownst to the homeowner and her housekeeper (voice of Carol Burnett). Like all little people, Arrietty (AIR-ee-ett-ee) remains hidden from view, except during occasional covert ventures beyond the floorboards to “borrow” scrap supplies like sugar cubes from her human hosts. But when 12-year-old Shawn (voice of David Henrie), a human boy who comes to stay in the home, discovers his mysterious housemate one evening, a secret friendship blossoms. If discovered, their relationship could drive Arrietty’s family from the home and straight into danger. The English language version of “The Secret World of Arrietty” was executive produced by Kathleen Kennedy and Frank Marshall, and directed by Gary Rydstrom. The film hits theaters Feb. 17, 2012.

Hayao Miyazaki is one of the most influential and admired filmmakers working in animation today and is a major figure in the Japanese cinematic landscape. His films have inspired moviegoers and colleagues around the world, from Pixar's John Lasseter to fantasist Guillermo del Toro to Chinese director Tsui Hark, and consistently top the box office in his native Japan.

Director Hiromasa Yonebayashi, a top animator at Studio Ghibli, was responsible for the animation in a signature scene in “Ponyo,” in which Ponyo runs atop ocean waves.

English language voice talent director Gary Rydstrom is a seven-time Academy Award^Òwinning sound designer/mixer (“Terminator 2: Judgment Day”). He joined Pixar Animation Studios as an animation film director in 2003. His directorial debut for the studio was the Academy Award^®-nominated short film “Lifted,” and he directed the short film “Hawaiian Vacation,” which was released with “Cars 2” in June 2011.

Kathleen Kennedy and Frank Marshall are highly successful producing partners whose films, separately and together, include “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” “E.T.,” “Who Framed Roger Rabbit?,” the Indiana Jones films and the Jurassic Park films. In total, Kennedy and Marshall have earned 11 Oscar® nominations.

English language screenplay writer Karey Kirkpatrick’s credits include “Spiderwick Chronicles” and “Over the Hedge,” which he also directed (with Tim Johnson).

Will You be Heading to Theaters this Weekend to Watch ?

Like The Secret World of Arriety On Facebook

Valentine Swaps Results

2012-02-16T00:42:00.001-05:00

I hope you all had a lovely Valentine's Day. A big thanks to everyone who participated in the Valentine's Swap here at the Zoo & the one in the Kid Blogger Network. We really enjoyed going through them. I put them in C's valentine mailbox as they came in the mail. Then we went through the mailbox all at once on Valentine's Day.

Our super cute Valentines from swaps...

What are we going to do with the Valentine's now that Valentine's Day is over?

I have a few ideas to play with and reuse Valentines this month:

*make collages

*cut them out, add them to a craft stick and make puppets

*make character magnets

*play hide the Valentine

*Valentine Matching Game

This is C's favorite thing to do with his cards. He likes putting them in and out of his Valentine Mailbox. Silly boy.

We exchanged Valentines with some of these lovely bloggers and their kiddos:

Dinosaurs & Octopuses http://dinosaursandoctopuses.com

Dilly Dali Art http://dillydaliart.com

My Creative Family http://creativefamilyfun.net/

Kitchen Counter Chronicles http://www.kitchencounterchronicle.com/

PlayDrMom http://blog.playdrhutch.com/

The Golden Gleam http://thegoldengleam.blogspot.com/

Crayon Freckles http://crayonfreckles.blogspot.com

Jamie’s Jumble http://www.jamiesjumble.com

Glittering Muffins http://glitteringmuffins.com

Thanks Everyone for making our Valentine's Day special!

Purex Giveaway

2012-02-15T01:13:00.002-05:00

Do you remember my review of Purex Triple Action Laundry detergent? If not you can find it here. Just so you know I think its a fabulous detergent.

Now I'd like to share with you two fun ways to WIN some! Can you say YES , I"d love to WIN FREE laundry detergent.

Purex is giving away 2,500 bottles of Purex Triple Action ...until 3/31

One entry per day and as many entries as you'd like...

And

I get to giveaway some too.

Just fill out the rafflecopter form below.

disclosure: I received a free full sized Purex Triple Action at the time of my review.

All opinions shared are my own.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Beyond Molasses Creek by Nicole Seitz Book Tour

2012-02-15T01:07:00.035-05:00

About the book:

Three lives are bound by a single book . . . and the cleansing waters of Molasses Creek.

Having traveled to the ends of the earth as a flight attendant, Ally Green has finally returned to the Lowcountry to bury her father as well as the past. But Vesey Washington is still living across the creek, and theirs is a complicated relationship—he was once her best friend . . . and also part of the reason she’s stayed away so long. When Ally discovers a message her father left behind asking her to quit running, it seems her past isn’t through with her yet.

As Ally’s wandering spirit wrestles with a deep longing to flee again, a young woman on the other side of the world escapes her life of slavery in the rock quarries of Nepal. A mysterious sketchbook leads Sunila Kunari to believe there’s more to her story than she’s ever been told, and she’s determined to follow the truth wherever it leads her.

A deep current intertwines the lives of these three souls, and a destiny of freedom, faith, and friendship awaits them all on the banks of Molasses Creek.

What I thought:

This book is a book of relationships. Ally Green has loved Vessy Washington her entire life. They could never be together because he was black and she white. A lifetime friendship they do share. Ally has a daughter who is kidnapped as an infant, and Ally is never the same after that loss. The story of Sunilla (Ally's daughter) is both touching and confusing to me. I would have liked it better had the book not jumped between Ally and Sunilla's stories so much.

Molasses Creek takes you with Ally as her life falls apart and as she rebuilds it. Love notes from heaven, tears, and compassion this book shares some emotional journeys. I personally did not care for the ending, but you might. I don't want to be a spoiler and share to much, but I will say it was unexpected.

About Nicole:

Nicole Seitz is the author of several critically acclaimed novels - The Inheritance of Beauty, Saving Cicadas, A Hundred Years of Happiness, Trouble the Water, and The Spirit of Sweetgrass. She is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's School of Journalism, and also has a degree in Illustration from Savannah College of Art & Design. Her paintings are featured on the covers of her books. Visit her at @NicoleSeitz, Facebook and www.nicoleseitz.com for more information.

BUY the Book

Find out what others have to say. Follow the Book Tour.

Nicole is celebrating the release of Beyond Molasses Creek with a fabulous "Friendship" Facebook party! She'll be giving away a ton of great stuff (KINDLE TOUCH, some of her own beautiful artwork, a Book Club Prize Pack (10 copies of the book for your small group/book club and a Live Skype Chat with Nicole), and more!

CLICK the button (below) to RSVP for the party - then join us on February 16th for a book chat, story sharing and prizes! Hope to see you there!

Save the Date! 2/16!

Disclosure: I received a copy of Beyond Molasses Creek Free of charge from Litfuse in exchange for an honest review. The opinions shared here are 100% my own.

Wordless Wednesday ~ Heart Breaker

2012-02-14T22:48:00.000-05:00

Online Shopping Made Easy

2012-02-14T21:40:00.000-05:00

I love online shopping because I can find exactly what I want without going to ten stores and without standing in a line. Become.com allows shoppers to do just that, but with comparison technology.

Become.com has an easy shop box where you will type in what you are looking for. Then there search engines do the rest for you. I just typed in ceiling fans at Lowes. Become.com found me several pages of ceiling fans with prices, availability, the ability to compare prices and photos. Next, I did a search for lunch bag purses. Become.com again pulled up several pages of options for me. Pages with really cute designer lunch totes for women .

On each search page I can choose to click on more options to get a detailed description of the pictured item. It also tells me what store the item is located at and gives a purchase price. Plus I have several different products I am looking for right there to compare.

If you are looking for a new online shopping experience drop in and check out Become.com.

disclosure: This post is a sponsored post brought to you by Become.com. Any opinions shared here are 100% my own. Thank you.

Pin It Tuesday ~ Re Purpose Projects

2012-02-14T07:00:00.003-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Do you totally love Pinterest? I do ! Here are some pins from my board on re purposing. I can not wait to try some of these out. Do you have a favorite re purpose project? Tell me about it .

I love this re purposed kitchen island by Small Place Style Blog

Source: smallplacestyle.blogspot.com via Amber on Pinterest

Source: icanfindthetime.blogspot.com via Amber on Pinterest

This bracelet from I Can Find The Time is GREAT. I must make this for my oldest son.

I am going to use this tutorial to make baby boy some shorts for Spring. He has tons of jeans and pants

that fit in the waist but are just to short. Thanks for sharing this handy information Make It Love It Blog.

Source: makeit-loveit.com via Amber on Pinterest

We are linking up at Pin It Tuesday and Perpetual Pinners this week. Thanks for stopping by.

Trendy Tuesday ~ Perfect and Not So Perfect Valentine's

2012-02-14T01:28:00.003-05:00

Happy Valentine's Day!
I must say I have had some not great ones in the past and some fantastic ones too. Valentine's Day the day we give extra special treats to the one we love. Do you find this difficult? How about this one after opening your Valentine you sit back and wonder does you man even know you at all? Why on Earth would he gift you with this monstrosity?
What gift is the right gift for you ladies this Valentine's Day?
FLOWERS?

http://www.proflowers.com/

Honestly, I use to throw a fit when my husband bought me flowers. This would be when I was young and had no since. I always said they'll just die and you'll have wasted all of that $. Then he stopped buying them (ouch). Then one day he surprised me at work with the lovely bouquet like the one shown in the photo above. I have since retracted my NO Flower policy. Flowers put a smile on my face. They may not last forever but they are pretty, traditional, and thoughtful.

CANDY?

This one probably depends on your girl. I like candy, but for example right now I am working hard to lose weight. If you know your significant other is on a diet don't torture her /him with candy. Think of something else to win their heart. On the other hand if you have a die hard candy lover it is definitely a nice way to say your special. I DON"T want a box of candy this Valentine's Day (for my honey). My daughter would be quite happy with a box of her favorite candies though.

Diamonds?

You know what they say Diamonds are a girls best friend. I don't really have anything negative about the gift of diamonds . I will say they represent forever. Most ladies don't want a diamond ring that represents nothing more than friendship. If your not serious about a lady don't give her a diamond ring for Valentine's day. The candy would be a better choice. If you are looking for something extra special though the right diamond will sing to a girls heart.

Vacuum Cleaner and other Household Appliances :(?

I can right now tell you 9 times out of 10 even if she really does need a new one this is not what a girl wants on Valentine's Day. The only time this really is OK for a gift is if the girl tells you 100% that is what she wants, and then I highly recommend you go ahead and pick that box of chocolates up to go with. Even if she says this is what she wants when you think about it how romantic is housework?

Stuffed Animal ?

This depends on your honey. In particular I think its a good gift for a young child, teenager, or perhaps an elderly loved one. This gift says casual relationship to me, good for the dating couple. This would not be a gift I'd be to thrilled with (sorry I know its the thought that counts RIGHT).

Lingerie

Is this for him or me? The right mood and this can be a great gift you both enjoy.

Romantic Getaway=)?

Centennial House B&B St. Augustine

Source: florida-inns.com via Amber on Pinterest

A romantic giveaway with my honey is always just what the Doctor orders. it is by far my favorite Valentine gift. One that I feel like he really takes the time to plan and make special. One that we will both enjoy. We do not get these get aways quite enough but when we do they are definitely special times.

No matter the gift you do or do not receive when it comes down to it Valentine's Day is just another day. If you stop to question does this man really know me at all don't worry tons of other ladies will be thinking the same thing this evening. If he totally screws up just remember that it is just one day and all of the right things he does every other day.

He:

Holds my head when I am sick

He puts up with me when I throw a fit

He works hard so I can stay at home with our baby

He is a good father

He listens most of the time

Holds my hand when I'm afraid

Most of all he loves me and he's mine

Mission Home Improvement

2012-02-13T21:57:00.001-05:00

This weeks mission is a Mission Home Improvement. I personally would love this one for myself. Organization is definitely one of my goals at the Whitehead's Zoo and I could use a closet make over times 5 here. One of you will be lucky enough to win a closet organizer for yourself and a Home Depot Gift Card to give a friend from the Mission Giveaway Group this week. Sigh...I'm jealous I've been to Home Depot 3 times this weekend and still must go back. Have fun and Good Luck to all of you.

Mission Giveaway started with the $100 Story where with $100 several people received the help they needed. We are on a mission to help people! We have gathered a group of bloggers that want to make a difference. Together we are the Mission Giveaway Group!

Isn't it every girl's dream to have an amazing closet? Whether it's a huge walk in closet or just one that is organized and fits all of your clothes and shoes! ;) And when you're a home owner, it seems like you're always doing some kind of home improvement, right? Well we've got the perfect Mission Giveaway for you this week!

Grand Prize: $197 Closet Organizer for you and a $25 Home Depot Gift Card to give to a friend!

About Our Sponsor: Genius Home Improvements

We help you through the confusing process of finding the solution that fits both your goal and budget. Our Genius Consultants are experienced and well informed. They will assist you through the buying process and then manage your project until it’s complete to YOUR satisfaction.

Our objective is to earn your future projects and obtain referrals that will benefit from our complete array of services.

Genius Home Improvements is not only the right choice, it’s your only choice.

You can find Genius Home Improvements on Facebook and Twitter.

Here’s How You Enter:

The Giveaway will open up on Tuesday 2/14 at 12:01 am EST and Close on Friday 2/17 at 11:59 pm EST.

1) Start at the Rafflecopter Giveaway form below .(remember does not open until 12:01am)

2) Complete the Mandatory entries.

3) Work your way through the links, entering contests at each blog as you go. These contests each have their own rules and end dates.

4) Complete additional entries towards the bottom and come back for any additional daily entries!

That’s it! You have successfully entered this awesome giveaway! Side note…It’s not mandatory that you enter all the giveaways at each blog. However, doing so not only increases your chances of WINNING the other prizes, it increases your chances of WINNING the Grand Prize!

Good luck!!

The amazing Blogs participating in the event this week are:
Slop Swap, Madame Deals, Become A Coupon Queen, Coupon Savings In The South, Couponing to be Debt Free, Couponista Queen, Go Momma Coupons, Have Kids Will Coupon, Heavenly Savings, Insights by April, Klippin' Krazy Koupons, Living at the Whiteheads Zoo, Meg's Moxie, Moms Saving Money, Money Saving Michele, Money Savvy Michelle, More 4 Moms Buck, More from Mom, Planet Weidknecht, Put A Little Umbrella In Your Drink, SlickHousewives, Spoiled but Not Rotten, Stretching Your Budget, Taking Time for Mommy, Tammilee Tips, The Adventures of J-Man and MillerBug, The Centsible Family, The Interrupting Cow, Utah Coupon Deals, Mystery Shopping Teacher, Sason and Pobi, Deal Hunting Diva

To inquire about becoming a sponsor, please contact Amee at missiongiveaway@yahoo.com for details. Take a look at our Media Kit to see what Mission Giveaway has to offer.

Are you a blogger that would like to participate in Mission Giveaway? Find out how you can join us.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Menu Plan Monday ~ Hershey Kiss Cookie Recipes

2012-02-13T00:29:00.000-05:00

Here is our February Monthly Menu

How do you meal plan by the month, weekly, bi weekly, not at all?

We plan our menu monthly.

With Valentine's Day in just a couple of days I thought it would be fun to share some

of our favorite recipes made with Hershey kisses.

My daughter loves to visit the different Hershey stores when we travel.

These photos were taken at Hershey in New York. We've also been to the one in Chicago.

She desperately wants to go to Hershey , Pennsylvania ...2012 road trip? Maybe.

First up Mouse Cookies Made from a kiss

These are fun to make with kids and very simple too.

Oreo cookies split in 1/2
One unwrapped Hershey Kiss
melted bakers chocolate
cherries
frosting for eyes

Dip your cherries in melted chocolate and place on the back of an Oreo.
Nest add your Hershey Kiss while the chocolate on the cherry is not yet set up.
Add your icing for eyes and there you have it mice cookies.

Another favorite of ours is to make peanut butter cookies and add a Hershey Kiss on top. Yummy. I may just have to do some baking tomorrow.

How about Cocoa Kiss Cookies? They already sound delightful don't they? We think they are pretty tasty.

For this recipe you need :
2 sticks of butter
2/3 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract (I always add a little bit more)
1 2/3 cup AP flour
1/4 cup Hershey's Cocoa
1 cup finely chopped pecans (I'm lucky we have a pecan grove so I usually have these in the freezer)
1 bag Hershey Kisses and Powdered Sugar

Beat butter, sugar, and vanilla until creamy. Stir together flour and coca, gradually adding to the butter mix. Add pecans and beat until blended. Refrigerate dough for an hour .

Preheat oven to 375.

While dough is in the fridge you can remove wrappers from kisses. Mold dough around each kiss covering completely into a ball. Place on cookie sheet and bake 10 minutes or until set. Cool then roll in powdered sugar.

This recipe comes form one of my old and loved cookbooks Santa's Favorite Cookies.

Do you have a favorite Valentine Recipe? I want to hear about it so leave me a comment.

Share At the Zoo Saturday JOIN US!

2012-02-11T01:52:00.001-05:00

We are trying something new this week. If you like it I'll make it a weekly thing.

Share your favorite post or photo from this week with us. How? Link it up below.

Here are mine for this week.

Favorite post was my Ginai Granite Countertop paint review

My favorite photo is from the playground this week

Next Saturday I'll pick my favorite to feature here with a link back to you.

Finding a General Contractor

2012-02-11T01:11:00.000-05:00

Are you remodeling, working on home improvements or construction projects? Do you need a general contractor? What is a general contractor anyway? General Contractors oversee the entire remodeling or construction project and facilitate all day-to-day tasks that move it towards completion.

I have personally never used a contractor. My Dad and husband are my go to "general contracting handy men." If I had a major project or was taking on renovating or building my dream house I would definitely want one on hand. Since, I have never hired a contractor I would not even know where to begin on the proper questions to ask before hiring. Here are a few good questions to ask as suggested by www.houzz.com.

Questions to ask a prospective general contractor:
How long have you been in the business?
How many projects like mine have you completed?
Who will be working on the project?
What qualities do you look for in your subcontractors?
Can you provide me with references?
Are you licensed and insured?
How do you charge and what does that include?
What happens when costs exceed budget whether due to materials or labor pricing changes? What about changes made by the client or by the professionals; what kinds of situations would cause those costs to be incurred?
Can you provide me a written estimate?
What do your services include?
When can your job get done?
What happens when cost exceeds the budget?
What will I need to provide?
Are there any important considerations or concerns you foresee with this project?

How does Houzz help you in the process? Houzz will help narrow your search for a general contractor by area. You will be able to see information about the contractor and view some of their work online. This can definitely help you out if you are looking for a specific type of work or architecture design. That's not all..if you are looking for a bathroom or kitchen contractor Houzz has a list for you with photos to go through. If you are looking for an idea book they have one. There is also a question page where you can write in questions and hopefully find the answer your looking for, a super product page for shopping and More on the Houzz website.

Whether you are looking for design inspiration or someone to do the work Houzz has a ton of information right at your fingertips.

Connect with Houzz
Facebook / Twitter / Website

disclosure: This is a sponsored post brought to you by http://www.houzz.com. Any opinions shared here are 100% my own. Thank You

Fitness Friday

2012-02-10T11:12:00.001-05:00

I'm down 4 lbs this week. Yah, that's something to celebrate. OK I'm celebrating anyway. Plus the sweat sister (exercise buddy) and I reached a goal point this week. Hooray for us! It's the little things in life right?
We finally found a schedule that's working for us. What did my SS go and do? Get a new job and a new schedule. Ohhh....seriously I am happy for her and it will only affect our work out schedule for two weeks. We can totally make that work , right?
Smoothies...calling for your favorite smoothie recipes. I made berry smoothies this week for an after school snack. My three year old gives them a high five . I've never really gotten into the smoothie thing so if you have a great recipe share it with me pretty please. I'd be happy to feature your smoothie here at the zoo. Message me or leave a comment.
Baseball Season is starting in full swing. We have two games this week (yay from the baseball mama). How do you keep your family eating healthy when on the run? I use the crock pot a lot but I must confess we grab fast food quite a bit also. Eating healthy when eating out is a challenge for me. Such temptation, but even more so would be to get the family to make healthier choices when out and about.
Tonight we're headed to the Link 2 Pink Gators Vs LSU gymnastics meet. Lots of fun should be happening there. I'm excited to see these girls compete they are so amazing to me.

I'm looking for a great beginning runner App do you have any suggestions for me? I'm currently checking out Couch to 5K. If you've used it let me know how it worked for you. I'd love to hear your story.

Some Inspiration for the week. Have a lovely weekend. Do something to get yourself moving this weekend!

Source: runners-high.tumblr.com via Alison on Pinterest

Source: google.ca via Sam on Pinterest

Foto Friday " Vivid"

2012-02-10T10:09:00.000-05:00

This weeks theme" vivid"

full of life; lively; animated: a vivid personality.

I think that describes Miss Lanie to a T.

strikingly bright or intense, as color, light, etc.: a vivid green.

These are some pretty vivid colors in a Valentine craft gone bad.

Happy Foto Friday Everyone. Hope you all have a lovely weekend.

The Sound of Red Returning Book Tour

2012-02-10T00:00:00.031-05:00

About the book:

After losing everyone she loves, concert pianist Liesl Bower has nowhere to go but to escape into her music. Searching for the peace she usually finds in her concertos and sonatas, Liesl can’t shake the feeling that she is being haunted by her past . . . and by someone following her. When she spots a familiar and eerie face in the audience of a concert she’s giving for the president in Washington, DC, the scariest day of her life comes back to her with a flash. It has been fifteen years since Liesl watched her beloved Harvard music mentor assaulted on a dark night in Moscow and just as long since the CIA disclosed to her that he’d been spying for Russia. She had seen that man--that eerie face--the night Professor Devoe was attacked. And now he’s back--and coming for her.

On the run and struggling to rely on the protection of CIA agent Ava Mullins and handsome newspaper reporter Cade O’Brien, Liesl learns she is the prey of an underground cell of Russian KGB agents determined to restore their country to its former Soviet might. But what she doesn’t know is that she is in possession of something--a piece of sheet music--that Russian intelligence is now frantic to find. Inside that music is a secret code, the hidden transcriptions of her deceased mentor, that clearly identify a Russian mole operating inside Israel’s Department of Defense, a mole with enough power and access to execute a daring assassination that no one would see coming.

Caught in a deadly conflict between American and Russian undercover agents, this innocent young pianist is just trying to survive her own personal trauma. Through it all, Liesl must learn that no matter how dark her world grows or how fiercely her enemies pursue her, God is still in control--if only she can yield herself to His grace. Read an excerpt here: http://www.sueduffybooks.com/#!vstc1=books

What I thought:

This book will grab your attention right from the beginning. Pianist Liesel Bower finds herself in some kind of trouble. She is being followed, the CIA are involved and the Russians. Are you read to sit up and pay attention. Spies, Killers, romance this book has some characters. This mystery is a great read for both young adult and adult. The story flows nicely and is full of suspense. You grip your seat as you try to solve the mystery who is the mole? Who is hunting Liesel? Sue Duffy did a great job with this one and I would gladly pick up another.

About the author:

Sue Duffy is an award-winning writer whose work has appeared in Moody Magazine, The Presbyterian Journal, Sunday Digest, and The Christian Reader. She is the author of Mortal Wounds (Barbour, 2001) and Fatal Loyalty (Kregel, 2010). Sue has also contributed to Stories for a Woman’s Heart (Multnomah). She and her husband, Mike, have three grown children.

Find out more at www.sueduffybooks.com.

You can BUY The Sound of Red Returning

You can WIN ...

Win a Kindle Fire from @SueDuffy2 and @KregelBooks in the "Red Returning" Giveaway!

Sue Duffy and her publisher, Kregel Publications, are celebrating the release of The Sound of Red Returning by giving away a Kindle Fire prize package worth over $200 to one lucky winner!!!! (1/23-2/11)

Enter the Sue Duffy’s Giveaway today and you could win:

* A brand new Kindle Fire with Wi-Fi

* The Sound of Red Returning (Book One in the Red Returning series) by Sue Duffy

To enter click one of the icons below. But, hurry! The giveway ends on 2/11. Sue will be announcing the winner of the “Red Returning” Giveaway on February 13th on the Litfuse website!

Tell your friends via FACEBOOK or TWITTER and increase your chances of winning.

Disclosure: I received a copy of The Sound of Red Returning FREE of charge in exchange for this review from Litfuse. These are 100% my own opinions. Thank You