Need Health Insurance?

Tonik Health Insurance by Blue Cross Blue Shield. All plans include dental, medical and vision.

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Nature Valley Nut Clusters Review & Giveaway!

I'm always looking for healthy snacks and was excited for a chance to try Nature Valley Nut Clusters.

When they arrived, I first noticed that the packaging gives all the appearances of being a natural, healthy snack.

But it's only packaging.

In reading the nutrition facts, I was mortified to learn that one serving (1 oz. / approximately 7 clusters), has 160 calories! Add that to the 14 grams of carbohydrates, 10 grams of fat, and only 4 grams of Protein.

On the plus side, there is 0mg of Cholesterol.

Yet as we all know, any food with such high "bad stuff" content is going to taste good.

Nature Valley Nut Clusters not only stated good, THEY WERE AWESOME!

Frankly, they could even become highly addictive.

And weighing it out between these tasty little tidbits or candy bar/potato chips/snack cake, the Nut Clusters definitely comes out ahead in offering at least some nutrition in a snack.

While I won't be adding these to my list of good-for-you snacks, I'll definitely be adding them to my occasionally-indulged treat menu.

You know what, though, don't just take my word for it - see for yourself! Nature Valley and My Blog Spark is generous enough to offer one of my readers this Nature Valley Nut Clusters Prize Pack!

Here's how to enter:

• Leave a comment with your name and valid email address (or at least have it available on your profile).

Want extra entries? (Please leave a separate comment for each additional entry)

• Follow this blog for 1 extra entry
  


• Subscribe via email to this blog for 1 extra entry
  


• Follow me on Twitter for 1 extra entry
  


• Tweet about this giveaway on and leave the URL for 1 extra entry
  


• Blog about this giveaway and leave the URL for 5 extra entries

Must be 18 or older to enter. Open to U.S. Residents only. Contest begins September 30, 2009, and ends at 11:59:59 p.m. on October 15, 2009. Winner will be notified within 24 hours and must supplied a valid USPS shipping address. Failure to provide a valid email and/or shipping address will result in forfeiture of prize.

Thank you to My Blog Spark for this fun and tasty opportunity!

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And A Star Was Born

This is Princess A in an advertisement for our local hospital's Family Birth Unit, along with midwife Robin Bell.

Find more Wordless Wednesday at 5 Minutes for Mom and MomDot.

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Funny Signs

Hey, at least he's honest...


It's important to focus on the real issue....


Consider yourself warned....



In case you don't understand, you are NOT welcome here....


Who said politics is boring?



And my favorite....

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Win $100 Borders Gift Card with #ThePerfectMurder Twitter Contest

To promote the release of her mystery suspense novel The Perfect Murder in paperback on September 29, 2009, author Brenda Novak is hosting a Twitter Contest between September 28 and October 3, 2009.

Each Day, Novak will tweet a question and followers re-tweet (RT) their answers to be entered to win.

Parents - especially Moms - will truly appreciate Novak's story of how she came into being a writer; which is, when she learned that her daycare provider was giving the children cough syrup to make them sleep while she watched soap operas, Novak quit her job as a loan officer and opted to join the ranks of the stay-at-home Moms. Out of a need to contribute to her home financially while fulfilling her new role, a writer was born.

In addition, Novak's youngest son is a diabetic. Each year, Novak works tirelessly in diabetic fundraisers working toward a cure.

Ssupport another Mom by purchasing her books! (See below) They're AWESOME books if you love mystery thrillers!

Click Here to follow author Brenda Novak at and read more about the #ThePerfectMurder Twitter Contest.

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Join Yoplait In The Fight Against Breast Cancer and Get $1 Coupon!

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Shop Silver Sky Imports for Unique Gifts from Tibet and Nepal!

I think it's a bit obvious that I'm on the prowl for unique holiday gifts with all the post I've made lately. :)

One more I'd like to add to my recommend list is Silver Sky Imports, a shopping site that offers unique handmade crafts from Tibet and Nepal.

Just one of the examples is the Crystal Singing Bowl you see here to the left.

With their beautiful sounds and interesting history, a crystal singing bowl would make an excellent holiday gift for your loved one.

Silver Sky Imports has a large variety of gifts that are sure to be pleasing as well special!

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American Girl Gussied Up Homelessness with Gwen Doll

"American Girl released an addition to its collection of sociologically accurate dolls this year -- and she's homeless." - ParentDish

Yep, that's right. The doll you see above is American Girl's recent release: Gwen, who is homeless.

According to the New York Post, Gwen's story is told through another doll's biography, specifically: Her father ran out on the family and her mother lost her job. By winter, the fatherless family is living in their car.

Amazing.

Despite living in their car, Gwen looks like she just walked off the pages of an American Girl magazine. With her shiny well-groomed hair and tidy white dress, I can only conjure up an image of an Escalade as the "car" this family is living in. And it must be parked outside of a Beverly Hills' mission.

Appearances aside, am I the only one who is appalled by the apparent blame being laid at the father's feet? It's so obvious he's to blame with the phrase fatherless family.

Not the economy that resulted in mom's job loss.

Or parents who bit off more than they could chew on a mortgage in this recent credit boom and got caught up in the foreclosure crisis?

No, the phrase fatherless family implies that it's all Daddy's fault.

Apparently when creating this meant-to-induce sympathy doll, AG set aside their feminist ideas of being strong women in trade for slam dunking men.

Or maybe this doll was to show all the other little homeless girls - or those who can cough up $95 - that it's okay to be homeless.

As long as you keep looking so pretty, right?

Although, AG is selling it as an effort to teach the more affluent children about homelessness.

Are you kidding me? You're trying to teach them about homelessness in this tidy, well-dressed, obviously well-fed and groomed package.

Yeah, okay. And their customers seem to be getting the message.

Out of 24 pages of reviews, I could not find ONE that mentioned learning anything about homelessness through Gwen.

And many of the reviews included statements about how they purchased more than one AG doll at the same time.

Yep, that's getting the message across.

A message that says, "We'll drop $200 for American Girl dolls while a little homeless girl sleeps in her car tonight."

But she'll look mighty fine in the morning time. And that's all that counts!

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Would You Be The Good Wife?

For many years, Americans have watched as the wives of politicians have followed Tammy Wynette's advice to "Stand By Your Man."

If you listen closely, you'll hear a lot of judgment passed on these women: "I would drop him so fast it would make his head spin, " "There's no way I would stay with a man who cheated on me," "Is she that stupid?"

I always get a little irritated as such judgments being passed because I know very well that they are being said by those who have never walked a mile in cheated spouses shoes.

I have.

Many of you may not realize that Briian is actually my second husband. My first husband, whom I was married to for 8 years, was a cheater.

When I learned of his indiscretions, I had numerous people tell me to get rid of him then, to kick him to the curb, to divorce him and take everything he had.

I stayed married to him for another 6 years after his first affair (actually a double since he was seeing two at one time. As a matter of fact, it was girlfriend no. 1 that ratted out girlfriend no. 2 to me. Can you say "crazy"?).

So why would I stay with someone like that?

First, we had a child together. And suddenly I saw this little boy's world about to crumble, and I couldn't bear the pain that it would cause him.

Secondly, I was afraid. It's as plain as that. Once you have established a life with someone, it's scary to think about starting over alone.

Third, my pride and anger refused to allow another woman (or women, in my case) to win. No way, no how was she going to take my man. And I was willing to do whatever it took to make sure she didn't take him.

Yeah, that's one of those deals where you cut off your nose to spite your face.

And that is a driving force behind these "good wives." If I felt humiliated over the ordeal, as a nobody, can you imagine how magnified their humiliation was when your husband's affair is displayed on the cover of every newspaper and magazine and broadcast on news programs around the world?

I can. And I understand their motivation.

I also understand that, for the years they remain with their cheating husband, they will never trust him again. And, short of being Mother Teresa, they will not love him as they once did.

For all intents and purposes, when his affair was exposed publicly, the marriage was over. Maybe not so much by way of divorce decree but through the end of love, trust, and security.

It was, however, America's fascination with how these women can stay with these men that CBS brought forth a new drama, The Good Wife starring Chris Noth and Julianna Margulies; airing Tuesday nights at 9/8c.


It's an awesome show. One that I'm already addicted to as I love Margulies character and the strength she exhibits - not to mention some of the take-that lines she has!

In my personal opinion, this is one of the new dramas that will be around for many seasons!

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Harry Connick Jr. Your Songs Album Review

Harry Connick Jr. is so dreamy! (Yes, I know that sounds old. Don't care! lol)

I have absolutely loved him in television and movies; but I had NO idea he's such a talented singer too!

When given the opportunity to try Connick Jr.'s new album Your Songs, I'll admit I was a bit hesitant. But the oh-so-hot cover convinced me to give it a shot.

Your Songs really takes youback to the big band era with Connick Jr. performing classic songs by some of the greatest musicians of all times; including:

• All The Way (Frank Sinatra)
  
  
• Just The Way You Are (Billy Joel)
  
  
• Can’t Help Falling In Love With You (Elvis Presley)
  
  
• And I Love Her (The Beatles)
  
  
• (They Long To Be) Close To You (The Carpenters)
  
  
• Besame Mucho
  
  
• The Way You Look Tonight
  
  
• First Time Ever I Saw Your Face (Roberta Flack)
  
  
• Your Song (Elton John)
  
  
• Some Enchanted Evening
  
  
• And I Love You So (Don McLean)
  
  
• Who Can I Turn To? (Tony Bennett)
  
  
• Smile (Charlie Chaplin)
  
  
• Mona Lisa (Nat King Cole)

It was definitely a trip down a memory lane created even before my time, but a beautiful era nonetheless.

While I really enjoyed the album, if forced to be truthful I have to admit that I still prefer seeing Harry on the screen versus just hearing him on an album.

Although he has a beautiful voice to match those blessed looks, I'm just not sure it would be as enticing if the music wasn't from musicians who have already instilled a love of their songs; enticing you to listen to and love them irregardless of who is performing.

But why not give it a try for yourself?

Be sure to also check out Harry Connick Jr. at his website and on Facebook!

Buy It! This album is now available for purchase!

Also be sure to check out Harry's upcoming television appearances:

• 9/25 – Oprah “Live Friday”
  
  
• 9/28 – Today Show9/29 – The View
  
  
• 9/30 – Imus in the Morning
  
  
• 9/30 – Letterman
  
  
• 10/1 – Today Show
  
  
• Week of 10/5 – Rachael Ray

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When Did Tacky Kill Class?

The photo at right is from the intended Kings Island (Cinncinati, Ohio) Halloween Haunt display for 2009.

This skeleton represents Farah Fawcett, who was but one of many "guests" to the now defunct (after much public outcry) display which also included the "likeness" of Billy Mays, Dave Thomas, Michael Jackson, and Steve McNair and his mistress/murderer Saleh Kazemi. (Photo below)

After pushing the boundaries and creating a massive public outcry, Kings Island has yanked their "celebrity line-up" from their Halloween display with a statement by spokesperson Don Helbig that they never intended "to be distasteful."

Are you kidding me??

In my opinion, a blind monkey could see that the displays were not only distasteful but out right rude, crude, and offensive to families - especially those celebrities with young children.

My Question:

Do you think this display was tacky? and why or why not?

Find More Aloha Friday at Island Life

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Product Review: Purex 3-in-1 Laundry Sheets - Coupon & Giveaway too!

I'll admit, I was intrigued when Purex first introduced this new laundry product.

But I wasn't real keen on trying it. I live by a philosphy, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."

And my old-fashioned way of doing laundry wasn't broke.

But then I was afforded the opportunity to try it at no cost.

Nothing changes my mind quicker than a freebie.

All I can say is, "Wow!" My old laundry way was broke. Um, err, not so much broke but one too many steps.

I LOVE PUREX SHEETS!

I find that they actually get my clothes clean, keep them softened, and remove any static cling.

Everything I had before - just 1 step versus 3!

You've gotta try 'em - you'll love 'em!

Coupon & Giveaway! Click the button below to visit Purex and download a $1 coupon AND Find out how you can win a YEAR's supply of Purex 3-in-1 Laundry Sheets!

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Do You Remember Etan Patz?

30 years later, a mother struggles with the loss of her son. {Read More...}

Find more Wordless Wednesday at 5 Minutes for Mom and the WW HQ.

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Kudos and Applause for CBS Monday Night Comedy Line Up

If you missed CBS' Fall Monday night comedy line-up, then you missed two hours of some serious knee-slapping laughs.

How I Met Your Mother (8/7c) started out its season premier with Robin and Barney playing around - physically and with the idea of forming a relationship; all the while Lily and Marshall was doing all they could to make "the talk" happen. Ted, in his usual manner, screws up his first day as a college professor.

Accidentally On Purpose (8:30/7:30c) is one of CBS' new comedies that's expected to be a big hit (which easily explains why it make its debut on CBS' biggest night for comedy). This very contemporary comedy stars Jenna Elfman as a single woman who gets pregnant after a one-night-stand. After a bit of mental juggling, she moves the baby daddy in with her. How can this plot not create a lot of laughs. (See previous review)

Two and a Half Men (9/8c) began it's seventh season with the gut-busting laughs that can only come from Charlie Sheen. I swear that man has to go in to the writers each day and say, "Ok, this is what I did last night..." and then they write it. Which is what makes viewers laugh so hard they about wet their pants! Question on my mind: Is Charlie Harper really ready to settle down with one woman? If so, does this signal the end of my favorite television sitcom? I hope not!

Big Bang Theory (9:30/8:30c) brings the motley crew home, and the craziness that could surround only this little band of nerds. Nerds you can't help but to love! Penny seems very exicted to see Leonard return, but her affections lean toward Sheldon when he learns that his experiments in the North Pole were sabatoged with false reports from his cohorts. Is the writers of BBT preparing us for a possible romantic interlude between Sheldon and Penny? Sure looks that way!

If you ask me, CBS is making the other networks look like they should be heading for cable service only.

To compete with the ratings that CBS is sure to produce this season, NBC and ABC better dream up something better than what they've presented so far.

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I WILL NOT Feel Guilty Because I'm A White Girl

Let me warn you: if you don't think a Mom blogger has any business spouting off her political views, then you need to leave now and return your head to the sand because I'm fixing to unload right here, right now.

I am so sick and tired of the race card being played every time I turn around.

You'd think by now that race card would be rather tattered having been pulled from the deck so much.

I used to have a lot of respect for Bill Cosby.

Not so anymore.

Sure, I wasn't so blind as to see how his very popular sitcom made white people out to be idiots. And it irritated the fool out of me.

But then he gained tons of respect from me when he laid out the facts for people of his own race on why they were holding themselves back, not the white man.

While his own race was talking smack about him, the white man applauded his efforts and gained a new found respect for someone who could see it for what was.

Then he has to go and back up former President Jimmy Carter's statements that the protestations of late over Obama's spending and healthcare idealization is centered on racism.

What the-??!!

Can people actually be this stupid??!!

Apparently so.

It doesn't matter that a vast majority of the American people hated Jimmy Carter for what he did to this country, because a black man (only half-black, mind you) is doing it and we still hate it, then - as a white - it must be because we are racist.

What exactly were we white folk when people were protesting Jimmy Carter and his stupid, country-crippling policies?

Does any of these race-card playing liberal socialist ever stop to think that the reason most Americans dislike Obama is because he's so flippin' arrogant to come on fast and strong in the spending department? That he is insistent on shoving his policies down our throat?

That's exactly why I despise Obama, and the exact same reasons that I hated Carter's sissy-style politics.

Yet now I should feel bad because I am white and therefore my disgust is mostly based on my hatred of the black race?

Get over yourself!

I will not be made to feel bad because I was born a white girl. I am proud to be Caucasian. That is my heritage, that is who I am.

Stop thinking that because a white person disagrees with a black President it's centered in racism.

Remember, plenty of us "racist" white folk didn't like George Bush (Daddy and Baby), Bill Clinton, or Jimmy Carter.

We weren't racist then, why are we now?

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CBS Revives Medium: Airs Friday, September 25, 2009

Ever since Medium aired on NBC in January 2005, I've been a HUGE fan! And like many other avid viewers, I was heartbroken when NBC announced the show's cancellation.

But thanks to CBS, the heartbreak is over.

CBS will premier Medium on Friday, September 25, 2009, following Ghost Whisperer.

What an awesome combination for the paranormal curious!

I was offered an opportunity to be one of the first to view CBS' premier episode of Medium, wherein Allison Dubois (Patricia Arquette) suffers a brain tumor that could lead to loss of her supernatural gift while trying to protect her family from the Mexican drug cartel.

Faithfully watchers will recognize this episode as the series finale episode from NBC.

However, being that CBS has signed on Medium for their fall line-up, it's safe to assume that Allison Dubois will continue her dreaming of past and future events.

And I'll be there watching every minute of it!

Join me, won't you?

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The Driveway Streaker

July 2006

Earlier in the day of this photo, we had purchased and set up a small snap pool set for Big Brother to play in.

After just a short stint of playing in the water - where it was too cold and he only wanted to play naked, which doesn't go hand-in-hand - he decided it was time to streak down our driveway for the whole neighborhood to see.

I did, fortunately, catch him long enough to put a towel around him. And it was cute the way it turned out - he looks like a mini (streaker) man!

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Los Angeles Moving Company

Movers Los Angeles - Los Angeles Moving Company - Moving Company Los Angeles

Call Melrose Moving for free moving quote 1-800-431-3920

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Save Money with Free Coupons Free eBook

Who isn't looking to save money as we suffer through this global recession?

One of the fastest, easiest ways to save is with coupons.

And to simplify the process even more, there's FreeCoupons!


Join today and receive the Free Coupons Free eBook!

While you're there, also check out the FreeCoupons Forums and Editor's Blog for even more savings tips!

This is a paid advertisement. Please scroll down to the lower portion of this page for full disclosure policy.

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Doh! I'm Not The Only One Who Should Have Had A V-8

Lately I have just completely lost my every-lovin' flippin' mind!

I live in a small little Tennessee town where there is NOTHING to do.

So when the carnival (or, as we call it, fair) makes its annual pilgrimage into town, it's a BIG deal.

Part of the week long festivities includes a Baby Show. Anybody who has had a baby within the last 3 years enters this dang pageant.

Yeah, even me.

When Big Brother was a tot, I entered him two years in a row.

Even after I swore after the first year I wouldn't do it again.

Why?

Because he won.

And when your kid wins, you have to wait around for what seems like forever for the "Best of Show." (Sounds like a dog show, huh?)

By that time, your little bit is hot, cranky, and could care less if they are The Best - they just want to get the heck out of dodge and so do you.

He won both times. But not the best of show. Any guesses why?

But four years has caused me to have a memory lapse.

Until the other day.

After I had paid my $25 entry fee and told our family when to be there.

Doh! What have I done??!!

Now I am dreading this dog-and-pony show with every ounce of my being.

I don't want to do it.

But I will because, well, I'm too cheap to waste my entry fee.

I am, however, hoping that we don't win.

Isn't that insane?

Yet I am. That way I can show Princess A off then high tail it back to the house and the air conditioning.

Wish us luck - or not. How exactly would that work in this case?

And I'm apparently not the only one suffering from Doh moments.

What was that with Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-R) yelling out "You Lie!" at Obama during his speech last week?

I'm about as Republican as they come and Congressman Wilson was dead-on with his accusation, but, man, that's like yelling out the F-bomb in the middle of a church sermon.

You. Just. Don't. Do. It.

I did think it was classy of him to apologize to Obama - it's more than I would have done - but, unfortunately, the damage is done.

Of course, not as much damage as ACORN has done to themselves with the recent unveiling of undercover video footage of them promoting illegal immigration and prostitution.

When you figure out you've been secretly video taped doing those kind of crazy, ILLEGAL things, that's really gotta be a DOH! moment.

Here's a V-8. Bottoms up, boys!

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How To Clean Baby Drool Off The Couch With Resolve Carpet Cleaner

I can't exactly explain where my mind was when I decided to purchase a cream colored couch with four kids in the house.

I must have taken a leave of absense from sanity.

So now here I am constantly struggling to keep it clean.

I got a little neglectful lately with our hectic schedules.

Now there are spots. Baby drool spots. Everywhere!


So out comes on the Resolves carpet cleaner. The ONLY thing I use to clean upholstery because it does such an AWESOME job!

Foam it up, wait three minutes. Some gentle scrubbing with a sponge where needed.



Blot dry with a towel or wash rag. Turn on the ceiling fan for 15 minutes. And voilà -

Then start all over again about 5 minutes after it's dry because the baby left another wet surprise. ;)

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Your Kid Can Be A Star with the Ed Hardy Kid's Collection

...or they can at least dress like the stars' kids!

Michael Jackson once said, "Ed Hardy by Christian Audigier is the KING OF FASHION!"

Many celebrities sport Ed Hardy wear; from Heidi Klum's family to Larry King's son - THEY'RE WEARING IT!

Hoodies, Tees, Caps, Jackets - you'll find the latest, coolest, trendiest baby and kids clothes!

And don't forget: Christmas is just around the corner and here's a great place to start a little early holiday shopping!

Free shipping in the US! (Awesome, huh?) And use coupon code DEHK on your first order to receive 15% off.

Free shipping and first order savings? Yeah, you gotta check it out!

Whatcha waitin' for? Visit The Official Ed Hardy Kids Store.

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Introducing Stride Rite SRT Shoes and Giveaway!

With four kids, I have purchased many, many pairs of Stride Rite shoes over the 17 years I have been a mother.

When the offer came to try and review a pair of Stride Rite SRTs for my baby girl, I jumped on it!

Who can turn down a chance to promote a product they already know and love!?

Stride Rite SRT (Sensory Response Technology) is a new line from this quality, affordable brand.

This revolutionary children's footwear technology, developed in conjunction with the Leon Root, M.D. Motion Analysis Laboratory at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York, improves the way a child learns to walk via a sensory feedback system, an ultra-flexible design that allows for more freedom of movement, and a unique construction that reduces the number of stumbles and falls.

While we anxiously await the first independent steps of our little princess - in her new Stride Rite SRTs, of course! - I often reflect back to my three boys' first steps; especially my youngest son's.

Born nine weeks premature at only 3 pounds 9.7 ounces, we were well aware that many of those first year milestones could be delayed; possibly needing extensive therapy to even reach them.

As the first birthday rolled around and he was still crawling, I forced myself to remember that his adjusted age was only 10 months.

And as we neared 18 months, my heart began to break thinking that physical therapy would be required for walking; despite having overcome developmental delays in all other areas.

Sure enough, our next pediatric visit we were told that he was referring us to a physical therapists.

This pediatric physical therapy group actually came to the baby's home for each session.

On the Sunday before they were scheduled to arrive for the first session on Tuesday, our 18 month and 1 week old son toddled out on his own.

I'm not exaggerating when I say this: within hours, he was toddling around like he had been walking for months!

While I was thrilled each and every time my two oldest boys took their first steps, this was an occasion for me to literally cry tears of joy!

You couldn't have found a happier, prouder (and more relieved) mother than I!

The physical therapist never had to come; and I'm pretty sure my little guy was just testing his Mommy's stress limits by waiting until the 11th hour.

And the funny part: he was wearing a pair of Stride Rite first walking shoes! (I searched everywhere for a photo, but in the course of trying to scrapbook I've misplaced them!)

If you've never tried Stride Rite shoes, this mom of four highly recommends them.

And if you have and loved them like I do, be sure to become a Stride Rite fan on Facebook.

GIVEAWAY! Stride Rite and Momfluence is teaming up to offer 5 lucky winners to receive one pair of SRT shoes, available in sizes 3 to 8 infant/toddler (including medium and wide). Each pair is a retail value of $50.

To enter, just complete the entry form at http://bit.ly/zb2Qb

The Fine Print: This contest is open to legal U.S. residents 18 years or older. Contest begins at 12:00 a.m. ET September 14th and ends at 11:59 p.m. ET September 28th. Five winners will be chosen to receive a pair of SRT shoes – toddler size only.

Thank you to Momfluence for this wonderful opportunity!

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