Whatcha Think?

Find more Wordless Wednesday at http://www.5minutesformom.com/

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Hello Toothpaste, Meet Sink

Why does toothpaste have such a strong affection for the mirror and an aversion for the sink?

Okay, okay...the truth is actually that my children have these affections/aversions.

I'm sure I did it as a kid too.  But being that my mother is like OCD when it comes to a clean home, I'm sure I didn't do it often. :)

Well, enough whining.

I gave the boys' bathroom mirror a scrubbing for this weeks' Tackle It Tuesday hosted by 5 Minutes for Mom.

I realize this is a lame tackle, but it's warm out and we'd rather be outside.  Unfortunately, it's not warm enough yet for any outdoor tackles...unless you count mowing the yard, which I'm no longer allowed to do.  (Another story for another day.)

For today, the bathroom mirror looks nice.  The boys have been introduced to the sink...again.  I'm not counting on it lasting though. :(

Next week, maybe I'll work on teaching my boys to RINSE WELL and not use the towel to get the excess toothpaste off.  (Lame again, but important nonetheless!)

To see tackles that aren't as lame as mine, visit http://www.5minutesformom.com/.

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Somewhere Out There....

 

This week's challenge at I ♥ Faces is Dramatic Black and White.

Now that I have finally found a camera that I love, I'm ready to hone my skills in photography.

Unfortunately, that won't  necessarily be this week but I'll play along anyway.

Visit http://www.iheartfaces.com/ to see some beautiful photography based on this week's challenge.

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Drink Your Vitamins. Seriously.

Despite working at having a healthier diet, I'll admit I'm still struggling with the veggies.

Which, of course, means that I'm losing out on some very vital vitamins.

When I was approached by the makers of Ola Loa, I immediately jumped on board.

What exactly is Ola Loa, you ask?

Ola Loa is a powered source for a multitude of supplements.  Formulated by a medical doctor, Ola Loa is filled with nutrients, not sugar. 

These powered little packets of vitamins are easy to prepare.  Choose your flavor (Orange or Tropical) and just add water. 

As a consistent water drinker, I added it to a half liter bottle.  Shake well and you're ready to go.

My 14 year old so and I have been regular users of Ola Loa for almost 3 months now.  When everyone in our home got sick this season, we were the two that bounced back the quickest.

And I give much of the credit to having had our daily vitamins with Ola Loa.

Whether it's for vitamins, an energy boost, or replacing electrolytes lost during sports or exercise, Ola Loa has a tasty supplement for you.

AND....they have drinkable vitamins made for the little ones too:  Ola Loa Kids in Cran-Raspberry flavor.

Check them out for yourself with free samples at drinkyourvitamins.com.  And be sure to join Ola Loa's Facebook Fan page too for special offers!

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Hey Easter Bunny, I Want Surf Sweets Candy in My Basket This Year!

Why must every holiday result in aisle upon aisle of sweet-tasting droplets of heaven?

Can you tell I miss eating candy much?

Well, if you can't then let me just say it:  I DO!

But there is a great alternative:  Surf Sweets Natural and Organic Candy.

Free of Corn Syrup and GMOs and made with organic fruit juice and sweetners, I don't feel quite so guilty indulging now and then.

And for my kids who haven't completely had candy eliminated from their lives, it's great!  Neither my 14 or 5 year-old had any idea this was a "healthier" version of candy they were eating.

The best part?  They loved it!

The six bags of samples I received courtesy of Surf Sweets didn't last 24 hours between them, me and Brian.

Let me tell you something else I loved:  Surf Sweets are made in a nut-free facility.  That may not mean much to most; but to those who suffer peanut allergies or have children who do, you can understand what a big deal it is to find ANY product, much less candies, that haven't been exposed to those pesky little legumes.

Instead of filling up those Easter baskets this year with candy that has NO nutritional value, toss 100 percent of the kiddies' recommended daily value of Vitamin C by way of Gummy Worms, Fruity Bears, Jelly Beans and more from http://www.surfsweets.com/.  (Be sure to join the Surf Sweets' Facebook Fan page too!)

Oh, yeah....as a very proud American, I'm always happy to promote a product MADE IN THE USA!

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I Am Mean. You Are a Whiner.

I. HAVE. HAD. IT.

After the passing of the recent "Healthcare" (cough...insurance) Reform, seems the tree-hugging, vegetarian-eating, hand-holding Kumbaya'ers STILL aren't happy.


Oh no, now they are whining because those of us who didn't support this financially-crippling legislation are speaking out. 

What the %$#@ did you expect us to do?  Slap on a smile as soon as it passed and say, "Oh well, golly gee, we gave it a good shot"?

Well, if you'll indulge me for a moment and take off those rose colored glasses, I'll explain it to you.

First and foremost, we are ANGRY because the MAJORITY of people in this country did NOT want this bill that was being forced down our throats to be passed.

It's not that we're big ol' meanies who don't want to help others.  It's that our country CAN NOT afford this insurance reform.  It's that we do NOT like being ignored by the people elected to REPRESENT us in Washington.

But most of all we are angry about the SELF-CENTERED, SELF-PRESERVATION reasons behind why we were ignored.

We'll deal with this destructive health care crap just like we've dealt with other ridiculous taxes unduly placed on the people.  (If it sticks, that remains to be seen.)

But we will NOT forget this brazen arrogance that accompanied Congress' attitude that THEY know what's best for us.

I am NOT a child.  Do NOT pat me on the head and boldly make statements about cutting the deficet and saving money when it's a LIE.  Your (Congress) hoity toity politial science degree can't hold a candle to my common sense.  I  know better!

Now look-a-here, we don't go screaming at you while you're hugged up to your trees, stroking your puppy while gnawing on a carrot stick, or living in your sod house. 

You are who you are and we respect that.  Not that we necessarily agree with it, but you're entitled to do it.

And it's a two-way street.  We respected your thoughts, now you respect ours.

But if I hear ONE MORE person WHINE about Republicans (which is hilarious, because it's people from both parties; the ONLY bipartisan part of this bill) being angry and ugly, I swear I will go out and buy a HUMMER, STOP recycling, and CUT DOWN all the trees in my yard.

And my reward for my "bad" deeds?  STEAK followed by a CIGARETTE.

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The Facebook Guide Every Parent MUST Read!

I grew up in a time before the internet.

Before anyone had even heard the term "internet."

Now I'm raising children in an era that everything seems to revolve around the internet.

Ugh!  That's the only word to describe how I feel about it sometimes.

Did you know...according to the Crimes Against Children Research Center, 1 in 5 U.S. teens have received a unwanted sexual solicitation via the web.

Scary enough, huh?  Would you be even more frightened to learn that 75 percent of children are willing to share their personal information in exchange for goods or services?

And social networking sites such as Facebook are the perfect location for predators of all kinds.

It's with this in mind that SupremeSocial.com is introducing their latest ebook and videos:  Facebook Guide for Parents.

This easy-to-understand and use guide tells parents everything they need to know about establishing their own presence on Facebook and monitoring their children's accounts.

A no-muss, no-fuss guide that gets straight to the point.  No fluff. No filler.  Everything you need to know to get started on Facebook in under half an hour.

Need a visual step by step?  Although included in the ebook, Facebook Guide for Parents also includes videos that offers narrated videos with the same detailed instructions.

I didn't necessarily agree with some of what I deem "Politically Correct" tips on being Facebook friends (or not) with your child (I'm a dictator parent, I admit it); however, I found this well-written ebook to be a one I can highly recommend reading by any parent with a child online - especially those on Facebook.

To learn more about Facebook Guide for Parents from SupremeSocial.com, visit http://www.facebookguideforparents.com/.  Although not yet published, a release date is expected soon.

Facebook Guide for Parents and SupremeSocial.com are not affiliated with Facebook Corporation.  SupremeSocial.com provided a free copy of the aforementioned ebook to The Mom Trap in exchange for a honest, uncensored review.

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Capturing Beauty In All Its Forms

This week's I ♥ Faces Challenge is "Focus On Angles."  This photo was taken last week during the most beautiful weather we've seen here in middle Tennessee in 2010.  With clear skies and 70+ degree temps, it was a great opportunity to capture beauty...in all its forms.

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An Open Letter to the Members of the USA Government

Dear Representatives:

The title in which I address you in this letter is one that is dripping with sarcasm and utter disrespect, as you actions yesterday prove that you are NOT a representative of the American people but only of yourselves.



When it came to the Healthcare Reform bill (which is a misleading name considering that it is actually reform of INSURANCE), you voted against the wishes of the majority of your constituents knowing good and well that you will be replaced in November.

How can you face yourself in the mirror today and call yourself a man or a woman knowing that you gave in to the most arrogant, egotistical, self-centered person this country has ever elected as a president. You call yourself defenders of the republic?

YOU ARE AN EMBARRASSMENT TO THE REPUBLIC!

When you were giving in to the man and his Cruella-looking sidekick in the name of saving yourself, did you realize that there WILL come a day that you will have grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other loved ones who will be subjected to this "Healthcare" reform?

Probably not. It was all about you. Today. Living in the moment. Saving your behind right now.

Maybe you did help the American economy. After all, come the latter part of this year, there's going to be a lot of job vacancies on Capitol Hill. Maybe some good ol' boys with common sense and knack for listening can take your place.

And you think amnesty legislation will help you? Think again. It will only fuel the hate fed fires.

Once you've fallen from grace, it's hard to rise again. Face it, your fifteen minutes of fame is over.

Barack Obama USED you to further his own agenda. He will be remembered, oh yes. You, my washed-up friend, will never even be mentioned by name in a history book.

In closing, I just want to remind you that all of your efforts are most likely in vain. The American people are ones who are born fighters (remember our Founding Fathers?). We will not just accept this new legislation as gospel.

On January 16, 1920, the Eighteenth Amendment (Prohibition) became effective. In 1933, it was repealed.

What is done can be undone. Especially when it tramples all over our Constitutional rights.

Was it really worth it?

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LikeWear: A Great Work From Home Idea, Especially For Moms

In today's economy where unemployment rates are at record numbers, we have to think positive; that now is not a time of difficulty and hardships, but a time of opportunity.

And it's with that spirit that I would like to introduce you to LikeWear, who brands themselves as "Fun Clothes for Kids, Exciting Career Opportunities for Mom!"


First, let me tell you about their clothing...it's great!  Kids go nuts for the many prints, including their favorite candies, and these pieces practically sell themselves.

The kind folks at LikeWear sent my Littlest Guy a LikeWear Dude t-shirt to try and Mom to review.  He loved the design, style, and fit but Mom wanted to test durability.

After almost two months of wear and wash (at least once a week), I'm happy to say I was super impressed with the quality of this t-shirt.  It maintained it's shape; the print did not crack, peel or fade; and, best of all, it did not shrink!

Becoming a LikeWear representative means that you can earn money while selling a product that you feel confident in the quality.

LikeWear Reps earn a base 25 percent commission on their sales.  There is no inventory required.  It's easy to get started, just visit the LikeWear Opportunity page.

Not looking to make money, but interested in earning free and/or discounted clothing?  LikeWear has a plan for you too!

Hosts or Hostesses of LikeWear home parties earn 10 percent of their party sales in merchandise credit.  PLUS:  One 1/2 price item for hosting and another for every $300 in sales, a free white t-shirt customized with any LikeWear image for every $250 in sales, and LikeWear gift certifcates for each confirmed party bookings.

Wow!  That adds up to quite a bit of free stuff!

Visit http://www.likewear.com/ for more information about becoming a Representative or to browse their complete online catalog of fashionable kids' clothing and accessories.

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Window Box Ideas to Hide Bay Window of Garage Conversion

Two summers ago, we converted our garage into master bedroom and full bathroom.  And since the brick used to originally build our house was discontinued, we had to get creative with a bay window.


And I couldn't stand the asphalt driveway running right up to the window (what says, "We converted a garage" more than that, right?), we cut the drive.  Unfortunately, since the bay window used the drive as a foundation, we had to leave some of it for support.

And then last summer we tore out our wooden deck and replaced it with a larger concrete patio.  Now, as you can see in the photo, the small section of driveway is extremely noticeable.

Yuck!

So I've been searching for some unique ideas on how to remedy this eyesore; and I think I've finally decided on what is sure to be a great AND beautiful idea....window boxes.

My idea is to go with Nottingham style window box.  I think the black aluminum surrounding the white box would look very nice, but also distract from the asphalt base.

Of course, we'll anchor the boxes to the lower portion of the windows, somewhat resting on the asphalt.  We'll fill them with a combination of plants, flowers, and exotic grasses.

And even with our harsher winters and plants/grasses/flowers that go dormant, this is a look that will continue to hide the ugly.

I can picture it so clearly...and already loving it!

OR...a second idea that I'm considering is very similar, but using window box planters instead. 

What I envision with this idea is to set them around the base of the window and fill with the same combination as I mentioned above.

Of course, this option doesn't always hide as well as the other; but it is a simpler solution.

Irregardless of which route we opt for, I think it's a great idea and will end up looking just beautiful.

Of course, anything will look better than what we have now.  Wouldn't you agree?

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Beco Baby Carrier Should Be On Your List of Must Haves for Baby

While my boys enjoyed being held, they were also content to sit in bouncers or swings while I tended to household chores.

Not our little princess though. 

Until she walked, she wanted to be held.  I cooked, cleaned, everything with her attached to me.

With her, I understood the need for a baby carrier!

And that's when I was introduced to the beco baby carrier.  These trendy, quality-made baby carriers are the most comfortable baby carrier I've ever used. 


They are a MUST for any parent who wishes to have their hands free while still being close to baby.

You can find the latest Beco Baby Carrier styles at La Stella Blu (http://www.lastellablu.com/).

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Grandma Knew Best When It Came to Teething Babies

I recently updated my Facebook status to read, "I know why OBs and Pediatricians want to be paid up front...the only thing to repo if you default is the child(ren)...and some days there is just no incentive to pay the bill."

That pretty much sums up my day yesterday...and today.


Seems my little princess is cutting some back teeth.  Between the super-drool and the crankiness, she's enjoying following me around from room to room crying at me.

And you know what horrible thought is crossing my mind?  That I understand why my grandparents' generation used Jack Daniels on a baby's gums.

It wasn't to numb it.   It was to give them just enough to souse them up.  And let's face it...a baby is either going to be happy drunk or a sleepy drunk.

Either one works for me right now.

But don't get your panties in a wad.  I'm not giving her Jack Daniels for teething.  As a matter of fact, not even giving her Tylenol (since it don't work anyway).

No, I'm toughing it out like a good Mommy. 

Albeit a stressed, teetering-on-the-edge of craziness Mommy.

Find More Random Thoughts Tuesday at The UnMom.

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Buzzed Driving IS Drunk Driving. Celebrate St Patricks Day Safely!

St. Patrick's Day is right around the corner, and it's not the luck of the Irish that will keep the roads safe. It's planning now for a safe and sober way home.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2008, 1,179 people in other vehicles were killed in crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers.

And did you know....Buzzed drivers drink and drive, but do not consider themselves a hazard on the roadway because they have had only a few drinks?


WRONG!

If you're headed out to celebrate St. Patrick's Day this Wednesday, March 17, The Mom Trap, Global Influence along with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Ad Council wants to remind you about these important safety tips:

• Designate a sober driver before you leave for your event.
• Be ready to take alternate transportation such as a bus or taxi. Have the phone number of a taxi service stored in your phone before you leave for the party.

Even if you're not when you and your family are on the road headed to choir practice, a t-ball game, or coming home from school, you may be sharing the road with those returning from a fun St. Patrick's Day event.

To learn more about the impact buzzed driving can have on a life, please watch this important video about the financial and personal repercussions of getting a DUI:






REMEMBER: Buzzed Driving IS Drunk Driving. Plan ahead and ask your loved ones to do the same.
For more information, visit Buzzed Driving Is Drunk Driving on Facebook and Twitter http://www.twitter.com/buzzeddriving)

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Win a $25 Dollar Kroger Gift Card Because I Had An AWESOME Savings Day!

I just have to brag about the day I have had.  When it comes to saving money (one of my top 3 hobbies), this day couldn't have gotten ANY better.

Savings number 1:  Promo code for a free movie at Walgreen's Redbox.

Savings number 2:  Free Route 44 drink from Sonic for taking a less-than-1-minute telephone survey about service.



But it's savings number 3 that you really want to hear about...

I was contacted by My Blog Spark™ about Kroger's week long Cart Buster Savings event along with a $25 gift card courtesy of Kroger and General Mills.

From now through March 14th, shop the Cart Buster Savings Event and find the hottest prices around on your favorite name-brand products in over 60 categories at the Kroger Family of Stores, which includes Kroger, Ralph’s, King Soopers, City Market, Dillons, Smith’s, Fry’s, QFC, Baker’s, Owen’s, Jay C Food Stores, Hilander, Gerbes, Food4Less, Pay Less Super Markets and Scott’s Food & Pharmacy.

Here are just a few of the great brands participating in the event: Honey Nut Cheerios, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Pillsbury, Betty Crocker, Hamburger Helper, Yoplait, Progresso, Totino’s, Green Giant, Cascadian Farm, Tide, Charmin, Bounty, Pampers, Pantene, Crest, Iams, Febreze, Old Spice and many more!
I downloaded my local weekly sales ad at Kroger.com, grabbed a calculator, and pulled out my coupon organizer.

For a grand total of $7.09, I was able to accumulate all the items seen in the photo to the right.

How?  Well, first there was the complimentary $25.00 gift card.  Add to that $7.34 in coupons plus $3.60 in bonus coupon savings (double coupons).

PLUS, I received 2 $1.00 off next Kroger purchase coupons.

So, technically, my GRAND total spent would be $5.09.

Oh yeah, that's sweet!

And the deal gets better.....FOR YOU!

Kroger and General Mills through My Blog Spark™ is offer ONE lucky reader of The Mom Trap to save money on their next Kroger shopping trip with a $25.00 Kroger gift card.

Here's how to enter:

• Leave a comment here and tell me your favorite grocery savings tip. Be sure to include your email address (or have on your profile). This portion of the contest is mandatory.

Want extra entries?

• Become a fan of The Mom Trap on Facebook (2 extra entries)
• Become a Facebook Fan of Kroger. (2 extra entries)
• Follow The Mom Trap on Twitter. (1 extra entry)
• Retweet this giveaway on Twitter; clude status URL here and be sure to include @kdcantrell in your Tweet. (3 extra entries)
• Follow The Mom Trap via Google Friend Connect (1 extra entry)
• Add The Mom Trap button to your site or blog. (3 extra entries)
• Blog about this giveaway and include your post URL in your comment. (5 extra entries) 

The Fine Print: Contest ends at 11:59:59 PM Central Time on Friday, March 19, 2010. Winner will be chosen by random number generator. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Open to U.S. and territories residents only. Void where prohibited. Winner will be announced here and notified via email on Saturday, March 20, 2010, and will have 48 hours to claim their prize or an alternate winner will be chosen.

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Olay Total Effects Body Wash More Than Meets Expectations (Review and Giveaway)

Let’s face it; we all want our skin to look as youthful as possible at any age. With so many moisturizing and anti-aging products available, knowing which one will really keep your skin looking and feeling its best may be overwhelming.

I can agree with that statement, can't you?



When My Blog Spark™ generously offered a chance for me to try the recently introduced (February 2010) Olay® Total Effects Body Wash, I couldn't say yes fast enough.

And after try it, I have just two words for you:  TRY IT!

Regular readers of this blog know that I have a penchant for scents; if it smells good, you've cleared a major hurdle with me.

Not only does Olay® Total Effects body wash have the most heavenly scent, but the moisturizing qualities are AWESOME.

After using this new body wash for week, I have truly noticed an improvement in the overall feel of my skin.   It is softer, smoother.

My skins just feels better.  You know what I mean?

Olay’s most advanced body wash, Total Effects goes beyond cleansing to deeply moisturize and fight 7 signs of aging all over your body by helping to improve elasticity, relieve dryness, deeply moisturize, brighten dull skin, even skin tone, smooth rough skin, and minimize the appearance of dry lines. I'll have to be honest and say that I haven't noticed a difference in skin tone; but considering that all the other claims have more than exceeded my expectations, then I have no doubt that, with extended use, I will indeed see a bright, more even skin tone.

This is a product you HAVE to try.

Olay Total Effects body wash is available at Walmart and other major retailers.   Suggested retail price is $7.99. 

Consider that a little pricey?  Me too, but this one that quality is well worth the price.

After snatching a free sample from Walmart, register for your chance to win a $10 Walmart Gift Card courtesy of My Blog Spark™ and Olay®!

Here's How To Enter:

• Leave a comment here and tell me what brand of body wash you typical use.  Be sure to include your email address (or have on your profile).  This portion of the contest is mandatory.

Want Extra Entries?  (please leave a comment for each additional entry; i.e., 5 extra entries = 5 comments)

• Become a fan of The Mom Trap on Facebook (2 extra entries)
• Become a Facebook Fan of Olay. (2 extra entries)
• Follow The Mom Trap on Twitter. (1 extra entry)
• Retweet this giveaway on Twitter; clude status URL here and be sure to include @kdcantrell in your Tweet. (3 extra entries)
• Follow The Mom Trap via Google Friend Connect (1 extra entry)
• Add The Mom Trap button to your site or blog. (3 extra entries)
• Blog about this giveaway and include your post URL in your comment. (5 extra entries)

The Fine Print: Contest ends at 11:59:59 PM Central Time on Friday, March 26, 2010. Winner will be chosen by random number generator. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Open to U.S. and territories residents only. Void where prohibited. Winner will be announced here and notified via email on Saturday, March 27, 2010, and will have 48 hours to claim their prize or an alternate winner will be chosen.

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Fred Phelps and the Poltergist Movie Preacher

Well, it seems that Fred Phelps and his hate-spirited, judgmental clan is back in the news.

Seems that the U.S. Supreme Court has decided to hear a case filed by the father of a slain Marine on the issue of whether the protest held by Phelps' congregation crossed the line from freedom of speech to harrassment.



This could turn easily turn into a landmark case. And I fear the outcome.

While I think there is no doubt a special place in hell for the self-righteous, judgment-passing "Christians" that are more like dumb sheep following Phelps' every command in the name of religion, I still think they have the right to protest within the public confines.

My father, uncles, grandfather, and great-grandfathers gave years of their lives to this country for the freedoms we enjoy.  Including freedom of speech.

And even though I may HATE (and, yes, I understand that fine line between strong dislike and hate) what he is saying, where he is saying, and how he is saying it, I still believe he has a right to say it.

If we open the door to one government restriction, we open the door to many more.  Many, many more.

Like I said, I think Phelps and his "Christians" (I'm not referencing Christians in general here, notice I am referring to this specific group) will pay for their wicked acts in ways we will never know; but that is up to God, not us - and in the meantime I want to retain my freedom of speech.

Anyway....getting off my soapbox since that wasn't the point of my post anyway.

Am I the only one who thinks that Fred Phelps has an uncanny similarity to the preacher in the Poltergist movie?

Can you see it?  Isn't it just downright creepy? 

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Can I Get Chocolate to Go with My Cheese and Whine?

It's been a horribly long winter here.

Or so it seems. At least compared to places, like, um, California and Florida.  Maybe.

Anyway...



So when that annoying little weather man on WKRN said this past weekend was going to be temps were going to be reaching the 60s, I was ready to get OUT!

Then the little kids got sick.

Ugh.

I'm praying for all it's worth, "Dear God, please, oh, please, oh, please let them better by the weekend."

I should have been more specific.

They were better.  I wasn't.

And I'm still not.

I woke up Saturday morning with a sore throat so severe I thought I had strep throat.

Let me explain how bad it was:  I avoid doctors like the plague.  I go for two reasons:  I'm dying or I'm pregnant.

Saturday morning, it was so bad I thought it could lead to dying.

And, of course, it's the weekend.  Around here, that means the only doctor to see is at the ER; a place where you could die from old age before being seen.

So I trucked on over a couple of towns to one of those Walgreen's Take Care Clinics. (Did I mention those things are super handy?)

It's not strep throat.  Apparently just a vicious version of the common cold.

But I didn't get a day out.  Just a day (two, actually) in bed.  Doped up on Sudafed and orange juice.

I still feel like doody on a stick.  (Not sure what that is, but it's an ugly little saying I've gotten in the habit of saying.)

But the most wonderful husband in the world (mine, in case you were wondering) has promised to bring me home some chocolate.

I'm the luckiest, puniest crybaby in the world!

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Mirra Mirra On the Wall (Product Review and Giveaway)

Good morning everyone!  Are you ready to hear about another great product and geared up for a GIVE-A-WAY!

Today I want to tell you about a new, awesome beauty products line being introduced by Kroger called Mirra.

As a member of the Global Influence Network, I recently received, courtesy of The Kroger Company, a complimentary kit to try that included several of these natural ingredient products.  And here's my thoughts:

• Daily Shampoo and Conditioner:   Specifies that it smoothes and tames - which can SO apply to my hair! lol - but while the scent is AWESOME and my hair was very soft, it just couldn't control my unruly locks. 
  
• Daily Strong Sculpting Gel:  Again, the scent ROCKS!  And I loved this gel!  It gave my hair great shape without the icky stiffness or stickness you get from some gels.  
  
• Replenshing Body Wash:  Made with a combination of honey extracts, bamboo, and glyceryl oleate, this body wash has the best scent you could ever hope for (are you seeing a pattern here?)!   While it replenishes my skin, the sweet smelling gives off a "sense of well-being."  I just felt more energetic.  Wow!
  
• Exfoliating and Detoxifying Cleanser:  With a blend of apricot (which smelled oh. so. good!) and oxygenated derma-beads, this product gently removes dead cells and nutures cell renewal.  This product was just what I expected; nothing more, nothing  less.  The results from it were comparable to other brands with the same claims.  But it smells good! lol
  
• Micro Remodeling Cream:  This product promises to firm you up in those saggy little spots like your chin, jaw line, and brows.  Well...after two weeks I didn't see any signs of firming, or even a little uplifting, but it did make skin incredibly smooth.  So I've decided to use it as a moisturizer instead; and if the firming ever comes along, then great.  (Oh, as for smell, it's okay but nothing like the other products in this line!)

Out of a score of 100, I'd readily give the Mirra beauty products a score of 85.  Keep in mind, everyone's skin is different so what may not have worked for me may very well work for you.

Try it and see!  And click here to save $5.00 off your purchase at any Kroger or Kroger brand store.

But that's not all....The Kroger Company is generously offering one lucky reader of The Mom Trap a kit similar to what I received.

Here's how you can win:

• Leave a comment here telling me why you would like to try Mirra beauty products.  (Mandatory entry)

Want extra entries? (please leave a comment for each additional entry; i.e., 5 extra entries = 5 comments)

• Become a fan of The Mom Trap on Facebook (2 extra entries)
• Follow The Mom Trap on Twitter. (1 extra entry)
• Retweet this giveaway on Twitter; clude status URL here and be sure to include @kdcantrell in your Tweet. (3 extra entries)
• Follow The Mom Trap via Google Friend Connect (1 extra entry)
• Add The Mom Trap button to your site or blog. (3 extra entries)
• Blog about this giveaway and include your post URL in your comment.  (5 extra entries)

The Fine Print: Contest ends at 11:59:59 PM Central Time on Friday, March 19 2010. Winner will be chosen by random number generator. Must be 18 years or older to enter. Open to U.S. and territories residents only. Void where prohibited.  Winner will be announced here and notified via email on Saturday, March 20, 2010, and will have 48 hours to claim their prize or an alternate winner will be chosen.

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Lexington SC Real Estate Professionals

Chapin Real Estate and Chapin Homes of Lexington, SC. Serving buyers and sellers. Online property search services available.

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Children Count Too in the 2010 Census

Every child loves a good game of hide and seek. There are the fun butterflies they get in their tummies when they're waiting to be discovered and the pride they feel when they're able to count to ten and then yelling, "Ready or not, here I come!"



But children who are hidden from the U.S. Census counts (taken only once every 10 years) are not a laughing matter. So, ready or not, here comes 2010 Census ... and you have an important role to play!

Many parents may not realize the importance of accurately reporting the number of children in their family, including newborns. The truth is that the undercount of children means that we do not get a true picture of our nation and our communities do not get their rightful share of public funds.

Why Children Count Too

Children have been undercounted in every census since the first one in 1790. Local communities rely on census information in planning for schools, child care, health and other critical services. Babies need to be counted today, so they can benefit tomorrow from community services.

Census counts are used, in whole or in part, for more than 140 programs that distribute more than $400 billion of federal funds to states and localities, including such child-focused programs as:

• Special Education Grants to states ($10.8 billion)
• Head Start ($6.9 billion)
• State Children's Health Insurance Program ($5.9 billion)
• Foster Care Title IV-E ($4.7 billion)
• Improving Teacher Quality State Grants ($2.9 billion)

Unlike adults, who may bear some responsibility for making sure they are counted in the Census, children are dependent on others to make sure they are included. Yet in 1980, 1990, and 2000, Census Bureau data show children, particularly young children, are one of the groups most likely to be missed in the Census. In fact, in the 2000 Census, there was a net undercount of more than 1 million children under age 10.

Global Influence is working with 2010 Census to help spread this important message for the next week to all of the parents who read our blogs. We need your help to make sure that every child is reported so they can receive the services they will need in the future.
When playing hide and seek your children have the opportunity to be found after ten seconds.

The Census only comes around every ten years. So when you receive your Census form in mid-March, make sure your child (no matter how old) is counted!

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