Want a free Amazon Giftcard?

There is a site called Viewpoints. Founded in 2006, Viewpoints Network is a social technology and media company focused on helping consumers make smarter decisions. Viewpoints specializes in building communities and motivating "social influencers" to share their experiences by writing reviews, blogs, and how to guides while also participating in forums and contributing ideas that can be voted on. The Viewpoints Technology Platform helps to organize and present those contributions to enable other consumers to make smarter purchase decisions. Viewpoints Network, LLC is a privately held company headquartered in Chicago.

I love this site. I go to it if I want to find out information about items before I buy them. Also of course I love giving my opinion and so I write for them as well. Right now they have TWO promotions going on.

Write 5 Reviews get a $25.00 Restaurant.com gift card

and

Write 10 Reviews and get a $10.00 Amazon Gift Card

Thursday and Friday is Swagbucks Day!

Every Thursday there's a new Swagcode in Special Offers again!  Here's how to get it:

Go to the Toolbar at the top of the Swagbucks homepage and click on "Ways to Earn"Click on "Special Offers"

Click on the blue box to the right that says "No Obligation Offers"You will see the first offer. 

Click "Skip" or "See next offer" for each offer until you get to the swagcode.

And, don't forget, tomorrow is MEGA Swagbucks Day!  Maybe you'll get a 20, 50, or 100! 

Also I just noticed yet a new feature to Swagbucks.... go here to see what I mean. I know I love easy ways to earn any amount!

Not sure what Swagbucks is, check out this post!
Interested in signing up, go here!

A Little Bit of Change and news

I wanted to let you all know a few things that are going on right now in my life and what it will mean in the coming days for my blog. First I want to thank each and every one of you for supporting me in this blog. I hope to continue to grow and change every time I post. I welcome each and every one of you to email or comment on each post about anything you think about my blog. Good or bad I read each and every comment.  I also encourage you to share your ideas with me on anything you would like to see on this blog. I am looking for posting ideas for Friday and then Saturday/Sunday combined. 

Monday I have to have surgery. I went to the surgeon last week about a spot on the back of my head.

He said I have a cyst/tumor/mass and it is very deep. I have had it for some time but it is now getting bigger and painful. I have been suffering from migraines and they are getting worse. My eye sight is now messing up as well. Needless to say I am having it removed and biopsied Monday. He is not sure what it is but does feel some nerves are being messed with by it for the very least. I am putting everything in God's hands and staying as strong and steadfast as possible. 

For this reason Monday's Giveaways will be a pre written post on Sunday and will come out on Monday. For that reason the Golden Moon Tea giveaway will have some extra time added to it. I will pick a winner Tuesday or Wednesday. I am sorry that the posts will not be frequent over the first of the week. My husband took Monday off to help me and my Mother in Law took Tuesday off to watch the kids. Wednesday I am back on my own; so I have to rest until then. 

I will also be in the process of moving over the next few weeks. So please forgive me. I promise to bring you as much as possible even with all this craziness. When we make it through it I promise some new changes to the blog. For one will be a blog makeover. I am contacting someone tonight or tomorrow to help make this possible. I promise a more defined and clean layout will be forthcoming!

Again thank you for everything. Please continue to let people know about this blog. The more people I get coming and reading my posts the better content I can bring you. As always "It's all about the Savings"

One more thing..... April 1st - 17th will be 'It's all about Mom' week. I will be featuring reviews and giveaways centered around Mother's day. Yes it is early but this will give you plenty of time to prepare. If you would like to be featured during this week please email me at your convenience. I am looking for sponsers for reviews, giveaways, and possibly guest writers!

Free Book Offer from Pampers

Pampers Easy Ups Trainers™, Kandoo®, and Scholastic have teamed up to bring you Let’s Get Ready for Preschool, a set of valuable resources to help you assess your child’s readiness for preschool and get him or her ready for this important life change.If your child is still in diapers, Pampers Easy Ups Trainers™ can help you and your child through the potty training transition time. The You Can Do It! Countdown outlines the phases you and your child will experience on the path to being potty trained. Once you’re there, the “I Did It!” certificate is a great way to celebrate your child’s achievement. To watch the MommyCast episode on potty training, click here.

Pampers has a new mail in offer. You can get a free Scholastic book (pic below). For details go here to find out more! 

This offer begins Today and is good for 2,500 books or May 31st. I would mail for this soon because this is a deal that won't last! Also pick up a free potty training kit here. It comes with stickers, coupons, and coloring pages. What a neat package to get in the mail!

Babies R Us Free $5.00 eGift

Become a fan of Babies R Us on Facebook and you will get a $5 eGift Card today only (comes in email)! You will be asked for personal information!. Can be used in-store or online. It will expire 2/20/10.

Thanks Couponing to Disney for the heads up!

Arts Cow `5` 8x10 prints $1.99

Dear Jessica, Do you have any special photos sitting around waiting to be blown up? Back by popular demand we have a promotion to whet the appetites of all those who love taking photos. For just 10 days, we are offering you the opportunity to print five 8” x 10” photos* for an irresistible price of just $1.99, including free shipping. Coupon :   Coupon code: 8X10PRINTS199 Expires on: 02/06/2010 Offer applies to first 2,000 customers only, so take advantage now. http://www.artscow.com/photo-printing Coupon code can also be with 8” x 10” collage prints. http://www.artscow.com/photo-gifts/Collage/Collage-8-x-10-318 *applies to matte finish only.

Great Giveaway Just Found

Okay I know it's not Monday but I ran across this giveaway and had to share it with all of you!

The Penny-Pinching Mama is giving away a Beige Classic Bag, which includes a Beige/Black Slim Scarf and Logo Charm, all valued at $250.00; from Parazul. Parazul handbags were previously only available to cruise line vacationers, but are now available for sale online!  Use their fun Build-a-Bag feature and design your own customized handbag based on your style and personality! I made mine in their build-a-bag feature (which is so easy to use) and I am in love.

So what are you waiting for? Head here to see why I think you will forgive me for posting this today!

Hurry quick though, this giveaway ends 1/31!

While your there be sure to check out all the action:

Word of Warning: Phone Scam!

OT PHONE SCAM~809 Area Code
We actually received a call last week from the
809 area code. The woman said 'Hey, this is Karen . Sorry I missed you--get back to us quickly.. I have something important to tell you.' Then she repeated a phone number beginning with 809.   We didn't respond.

Then this week, we received the following e-mail:

Do Not DIAL AREA CODES:  809, 284, AND 876

THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT INFORMATION PROVIDED TO US BY AT&T. DON'T EVER DIAL AREA CODE 809

This one is being distributed all over the US . This is pretty scary, especially given the way they try to get you to call. Be sure you read this and pass it on.

They get you to call by telling you that it is information about a family member who has been ill or to tell you someone has been arrested, died, or to let you know you have won a wonderful prize, etc.
In each case, you are told to call he 809 number right away. Since there are so many new area codes these days, people unknowingly return these calls.

If you call from the  U.S. , you will apparently be charged $2425 per  minute. Or, you'll get a long recorded message.. The point is, they will try to keep you on the phone as long as possible to increase the charges.

WHY IT WORKS:

The 809  area code is located in the Dominican Republic . The charges afterward can become a real nightmare. That's because you did actually make the call.  If you complain, both your local phone company and your long distance carrier will not want to get involved and will most likely tell you that they are simply providing the billing for the foreign company. You'll end up dealing with a foreign company that argues they have done nothing wrong. Please forward this entire message to your friends, family and colleagues to help them become aware of this scam..

AT&T VERIFIES IT'S TRUE:


SNOPES VERIFIES IT 'S TRUE:

15% off coupon for Staples

Head here to print this great coupon! Not valid on any desktop or laptop computers, netbooks, services, custom printing orders placed online, promotional products, Bose products, Apple products, gift cards, phone cards, postage stamps, prior purchases or Staples Industrial purchases.

 

What's Cooking Wednesday 1/27

Corn Casserole

1-2 pounds Beef, Turkey, or Ground Pork (I usually use one pound beef and 1/2 each Turkey and Pork) (aprox. 4.50)

5-6 Mediun sized Potatoes (.50)

2 Cans Cream Style Corn (.60)

1 package Favorite Shredded Cheese (.99)

 
Brown your meat in a skillet. Season with favorite spices
Layer sliced potatoes and meat in a greased cake pan.
Dot with Butter and add 2 cans of cream style corn on top. Cover with favorite shredded cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 1hour (or until potatoes cooked) at 350 degrees.

*TIP* This recipe also works great with sausage as a breakfast casserole.

I also love serving this with crescent rolls or homemade bread

Serves 4 Total meal cost: $6.50 (could be less if you have things on hand) Cost per person: $1.64

Not your cup of tea? Not in the mood for this: Try what Hannah has for her What's Cooking Wednesday over at preparing for our childrens future!

Kotex Panty Challenge & Contest

Plain Pursuit Book Review

I just finished reading Plain Pursuit by Beth Wiseman. This is a Daughters of the Promise Novel.
This is the first book by Beth Wiseman I have ever read. This is a christian fiction set in present time
surrounding the Amish customs. I was very impressed with the way the author could draw me in and not only
teach me things I did not know about the Amish, but also make me feel like I knew them personally.
The main character in this book is Carley Marek. Carley experiences a terrible tragedy and loss in the beginning of the book. She losses her mother in a car accident and is forced on a vacation by her boss to help her deal with the tragedy. Carley decided to leave Houston and visit her friend who had recently married into an Amish family.

Carley takes a one month vacation and figures she will write a story for her newspaper while she is on vacation.After only a day of being in the Amish community Lillian's (Carley's friend) step son falls ill. The only person that can help is a doctor who has been shunned by the Amish community. Carley is caught in the middle of a battle of Amish traditions and medical procedures. Both have a way of making Carley feel uneasy.


This month tests Carley in every way possible. He relationship with God is determined as well as her future.
You learn alot about the Amish and the author makes you feel a connection to each character she introduces you to. I could not put this book down as it challenged my own thinking on God's will for my life. I am not unlike Carley and have often found my relationship with God on shaky rocks.


Beth Wiseman is a brilliant writer who allows the reader to not only live in her book; yet also examine in depth
their own relationship and thoughts about our heavenly father. I would recommend this book to anyone. I love
how although completely Christian writing I do not feel it was a book that was boring and flat. This was a true
real to life book that I feel could be a real life story for anyone. I also enjoyed that it was easy reading; which is a plus when you have two children!

This book was provided to me for review. For more information please see my disclosure policy.

Arts Cow 12" x 18" Canvas, from $6.99 Including Shipping

Dear Jessica, Are you still short of ideas for next month’s Valentine’s Day? Well if you are, why not use your holiday snaps to create exquisite looking canvas prints for your other half. Use your warm pictures taken from vacations, honeymoon and getaways and transform them onto our ultra-thick and durable canvas material. Printed using the latest color blend and match techniques, our canvases are guaranteed to represent a perfect clone in terms of detail and texture. For just $9.99 (and $6.99 each thereafter), with free shipping, this can be your Valentine’s gift for your dear beloved. Coupon : Coupon code: 12X18CANVAS Expires on: 02/14/2010 Dig out your photos and make canvas prints now. http://www.artscow.com/photo-gifts/Canvas/Canvas-12-x-18-346

Gold Canyon Candle Winner Announced

 

Amy said...

Cherry Pie Baking Line!!! I would LOVE to try this scent - it sounds DELICIOUS!!! This is a fantastic giveaway!!! Thanks. Amy at aesnyder@suddenlink.net Winner has 48 hours to claim prize or another winner will be announced. Thank you Everyone and I look forward to bringing you more giveaways!

Baby's First Phone Call Review and Giveaway

I can imagine how hectic things are around the birth of a baby. How can I imagine it? Well six short months ago I experienced it (for the second time). I don't remember much to be honest and every day gets fuzzier and fuzzier. I will say I still get told that such and such had to hear about Caleb being born from such and such.... 'blah blah blah'! I mean it's not like new mom's and dad's don't have enough on their plate but they have to try to remember to call everyone and to tell every little detail. Well life is about to get alot easier for mom's and dad's.

~Baby's First Phone Call is an automated call tree that allows you to notify all of your friends and family of the arrival of your bundle of joy without the hassle of making dozens of individual phone calls, or leaving some friends and family to find out second- or third-hand.

~With Baby's First Phone Call, you set up an account before your baby is born—when you still have a moment of time to yourself—and enter the names and phone numbers of all the people you want to notify when the baby arrives. Then, after the baby is born, you make a single phone call and leave a personal voice-mail message of any length with all the details you want to share.
Not only can you tell your friends and family when your little bundle arrived, you can share information such as the hospital and room number you're in and whether and when you'd like to receive visitors.

~Our system places calls to each of the phone numbers in your account. If the person answers the phone they hear your happy message. If they don't answer, the message is left on their voicemail or answering machine. In either case, there is an option for them to leave you a return message that you can pick up at your convenience.

~It's really that easy! You're doing all the hard work; let us make spreading the good news easy for you. Use Baby's First Phone Call to notify your book group, your friends from Lamaze class, your co-workers and your extended family. Now you have the perfect way to send a personal message with your joyous news to everyone in your network!With Baby's First Phone Call, you won't forget to notify anyone of your news and nobody will be the last to know! Call the toll-free number to record your outgoing message: 866-505-0815

I sure wish I had known about this service when Caleb was born!

WIN IT!

Mandatory entry:

Baby's First Phone Call has decided to give (4) of my readers a $50.00 gift certificate to use when your baby is born or to give to a friend. (Would make a great shower gift) To enter you MUST go to Baby's First Phone Call and tell me the package you would choose AND tell me if it's for you or a gift.

Don't forget to leave your email address in your comment, unless I'm able to get in touch with you by clicking on your profile.

Extra entries:

These can only be done if you have completed the mandatory entry. Any entries submitted without having met the proper criteria will be subsequently deleted.
(Each entry is worth one, unless otherwise stated, & please leave a separate comment for each)

+1- Follow my blog.

+1-Subscribe by email (must be verified)

+1-Twitter follow Baby's first phone call

+1-Twitter follow me

+1-Tweet this (can be done daily)

WIN a $50.00 gc to Baby's first phone call! Enter It's all about the Savings giveaway! http://bit.ly/4VDjFC @all_about_savin @FirstPhoneCall

+3-Become a Fan of Baby's First Phone call on Facebook (post 3 comments)

+1-Blog about this giveaway

+1-Grab my button and post where I can find it. 

Giveaway ends February 8, 2009 at 12:00am
Winner will be drawn via Random.org

Winning entrant will have their entry checked, and have 48 hours to respond or giveaway will be re-drawn.

see my disclosure policy for information on my review and giveaways!

Here is right after Caleb came home Being loved on by his Big Brother!

 

Giveaway Monday 1/25

Here are the giveaways I have ran across this week. I would love to know if any of you win any. I'll also post if I do. Here is good wishes to all of us!

• Frugal Mommy of 2 girls has a great giveaway for those that love pictures. Go here to find out more. I have a picture of my boys I would love to use this service on! Ends 1/30
  
• I love jewelry, especially handmade personalized ones. Well Frugal Mommy of 2 girls has my heart with this one! Ends 1/31
• Winning mommys has a ton of giveaways posted on here blog. But this one for my son would be perfect... he is just learning letters. Ends 2/6  She also has one that touches my heart. Anyone that has suffered a childs loss needs to check out this giveaway! You wont be sorry you did. Ends 2/2
• Frugal mommy of 2 girls has another great Valentine's day giveaway here. I just love hand stamped silver anything.  But hurry for this one it ends tonight!
• Winning mommy has a giveaway that reaches to the deepest part of my heart. Here it is. If you have ever suffered from a loss of a pregnancy, baby, or child; go to her giveaway! Ends 2/2
• Audrey's Giveaways is featuring a great Etsy shop giveaway. Go here to find out more. Ends 2/12
• A busy mommy is giving one of her readers a Fluid Toddler Cup and Groovey Interlocking plate as well! Ends 2/4 
• Traveling with baby has a great giveaway for a recycled planner. I know us busy saving mommies could use help with planning. Go here to enter. Ends 1/27
  

Also don't forget the two giveaways I currently have going on.  I will give you to tonight to finish entering the Gold Canyon Giveaway. The Golden Moon Tea giveaway ends next Monday! Also be on the lookput for another giveaway today especially for you if your pregnant, know someone who is, or looking for a baby shower gift!

Free Book of Your Choice From Publisher

I love to read; I have decided to start do a blog review on books I read. The problem is I can often get lost in a book for hours when the house is quiet and everyone is in bed. Books can start to add up in terms of money. So I am always on the lookout for ways to read books cheaply. 
The Crown Publishing Group has a "Read It Forward" program. It's simple. Choose the book you want to read, read it when it arrives and then pass it on to a friend and ask them to do the same. Go here to sign up. You can click on an excerpt and then when you know which book you want, click on the book's name under "Request A Copy". Hurry! These go fast.

White Castle + Valentine's Day?

Do you live in Chicago, Cincinnati, Columbus, Detroit, Indianapolis, Louisville, Minneapolis, Nashville, Murfreesboro, Clarksville, New Jersey, New York, Northeast Ohio, or St. Louis? 
This could be a really fun and unique Valentine's Day dinner. I know this year with trying to move, a new baby, bills, tough economic times, and a poor economy Ken and I have decided no Valentine's night for us. I mean yes getting a nice gift, dressing up, going out.... is fun. Yet who can truly afford it right now. I look at everything else I have going on and I do not have the extra money for things like that this year. Then I ran across this offer..... Yes it is a little silly but.... it's still dinner, flowers, and just the two of us!

White Castle Restaurants are conscious that those who have caviar tastes may have to resort to a burger budget this year, which is why they decided to turn participating restaurants into a romantic Valentine’s Day dining experience with candlelight, tableside service and themed decorations. Can we say this describe's me to a tee!

Want to surprise your sweetie with something on Valentine's day? Reserve a romantic, candlelit dinner for two that includes 10 White Castle e Slyder® hamburgers, two 21-oz. soft drinks and two regular French fries. You will also receive a complimentary digital photo that can be viewed later from the White Castle Web site. This is a HUGE savings for as little as $10.49. (price is regional please check with your participating store)

Want to know more or make a reservation?  Visit White Castle !

Arts Cow two great gifts!

Dear Jessica , For many of us the words “Valentine’s Day” can be frightening with the thought of choosing the right gift for the other half. It’s usually either you have bought it for them or they already have what you had planned to get. So to ease your worries, we have two bumper offers for all those Romeos and Juliets out there. Offer 1 For Him: Customized Photo Necktie - $9.99 for 2 with free shipping http://www.artscow.com/photo-gifts/Necktie/Necktie-Two-Side-391 Offer 2 For Her: Personalized Photo Cushion Case - $9.99 for 2 with free shipping http://www.artscow.com/photo-gifts/Case/Cushion-Case-Two-Sides-406 Coupon :   Coupon code: USD10VDAY Expires on: 02/14/2010 Tip: when placing your order insert 2 as quantity to enjoy this buy get one free offer.

My new favorite Book

The last couple of nights I have stayed up way past when I should. I crawled into bed every night and read a wonderful book. Time Traveler's Wife is now my new favorite book as of right now. It was my escape from my daily life and was extremely hard to put down. I feel in love with both Henery and Clare in the book. You can really feel the joy and sorrow each character felt and endured in the story. I must say it was very hard to follow at first. You keep jumping time and in no apparent sequence. The writer hints at events then moves on and leaves you waiting till later in the book to take you back and fill in the gapes.

I will say I could not read this with kids or a husband around. You have to submerge your entire being into the story of these two people. I think though that's how it should be! 

This book delves into life's real issues and complexes. Marriage, life before marriage, fertility issues, survival, and so much more. So where this is fiction be prepared to have to delve so much deeper.

February 6th is the day this comes out on dvd. I have not seen the movie. I will write a review after I watch it.

What's Cooking Wednesday 1/20

Tonight we are taking left over meatballs from the freezer and having sandwiches. So I decided to post one of my families favorite recipes.

Under-Cover Chicken

2-3 skinless, boneless chicken breast or tenders (tenders are cheaper usually about .99 a pound)

2 Tbsp.butter or Extra Virgin Olive oil

8oz softened cream cheese ( .50 - 1.00 for 8oz)

1 package fresh mushrooms(1.50)

4 green onions- chopped(.99 will have left overs)

1/4 tsp. salt

2-3 gloves garlic chopped fine(.99 buy a full garlic to get add. meal)

1 tube refrigerated crescent rolls(.50 w/sale and coupon)
(you could also add 1 package of your favorite shredded cheese if you love cheese)

Cut chicken into bite sized pieces and cook in butter. *TIP* I like to saute my garlic in the butter for about 30 seconds before I add the chicken. Leave chicken under cooked slightly.  Place chicken in greased casserole dish. In a large bowl, combine cream cheese, mushrooms, onion, and salt. Spoon mixture over chicken. Unroll douch into one rectangle; seal seams at perforations. Place dough over chicken and seal against dish. Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes or until crescent roll is cooked.

Serves 4 Total meal cost: $6.48 (could be less if you have things on hand) Cost per person: $1.62

This week I was asked by someone if I would be including a Mr. Linky..... I will invest in one (would cost me) if I get enough people wanting to link up. So if you would like to feature this on your blog post a comment. Until I make a decision about a linky..... post a link to your blog 'What's Cooking' and I will add a link in post!

Also if you try this recipe I would love to hear what you think, family thinks, or do different. 

Want another recipe try my friend preparing for our childrens future.

HOT~Amazon Watch Sale

Amazon Currently has a great sale on watches; look at just some of the great deals: Some of these are 70% off.... this is a great way to use you swagbucks! Go here to see more deals!

Organization 101 links

So I stumbled on a great mommy blog talking about organization in your craft room...... wow I need this. “craft organizer”
So what kind of “scrapbooking furniture”do you own or want? Do you have different “craft room furniture” or do you keep everything together?
She has tips on:

• get-organized step one~ plan  
• get-organized step 2 ~ sort 
• organizing-tip 3~strategize 
• organizing tip 4~analyze 
•  organizing tip 5 ~attack

Let me know if you follow her plans and if they help you at all.While your there check out her current scrapbooking giveaway. You will really need “craft room organization” then.

What do you do with YOUR expired Coupons?

If your like many of us when you clean out your coupons you throw them in the garbage/recycling. I know I clean out my bider on the first of every month. I also pick out any I see that have expired as I am hunting for my coupons. I used to throw them in with my Sunday papers to take to the city to recycle. But WAIT there is a better way. Did you know that military families that are stationed overseas can use expired coupons at their commissary?? Even after your coupons are no longer good to you, they can be VERY helpful to families of our servicemen and women overseas.The prices for things are often way higher over there and this is something that could help off set that.

Here's some tips for participating in sending coupons to troops:

•      Any manufacturer coupons can be used up to 6 months past it's expiration date.
•      Store coupons (that specify Target, Publix or CVS, etc.) cannot be used. Rlle of thumb: Look at the barcode it it starts with a 5 then send it!
•     It is recommended that you not send any coupons more then 3 months expired. This will allow the coupons time to get to the families and give them time to use them.
•     Baby coupons are in VERY high demand.

Where can you send your coupons?

•      Grocery Saving Tips has a great list of commissaries that accept coupons and give out to families or have a "coupon swap table" set up where they can put the coupons out. You can see that list here. They do a great job keeping that list up-to-date. You can pick a base, country or specific branch of the military to send your coupons to.
•      Ask around. Someone you know may know someone that's stationed overseas. Even call your local recruiting office. They may have a way to let you know where some of your local service men/women are and you send send them.

It's a small thing we can do to help people who give up so much for us. I suggest keeping a manilla envelope where ever you keep your couponing supplies and just add expired's as you find them.
Then at the start of the month mail them out. I think I can give up $5.00 or $6.00 to help our service families... can you?

Special thanks to saving toward a better life. Thank you for your inspiring post which helped me write this one.

Swagbucks Charity At it Again! $5.00 Amazon giveaway! DEAD

I have to say everyday I am more and more thrilled to be a part of Swagbucks. Here is whats on their blog today.

Hey guys, not sure if you knew but Chase has partnered with Facebook to give away $5,000,000 to worthy charities in the U.S. Team Swagbucks and myself have a charity we'd like you to consider.

Now I know what you might be thinking, "TSG, I'm putting all my charitable efforts and Swag Bucks toward Haiti, I don't know if I can afford to help another cause". This doesn't cost you anything at all, not even Swag Bucks! And, you don't have to text anyone either.

Here's who you'll be helping:

Friendship Circle is an organization who's mission is to provide individuals with special needs critical life skills training, advocacy to promote awareness, and play-therapy by pairing them with friends & mentors who will change their lives forever. This also creates a lifelong bond and a special relationship that anyone deserves at least once in their life.

Here's how you can help:

Simply go to VoteFC.com and this page will give you instructions on how to help. Essentially, they'll direct you to a Facebook application where you can become a fan of Chase Community Giving and you'll then be able to vote for a charity. Here's where you vote for Friendship Circle.

Make sure you vote today because later this week, we'll be doing a Swag Code pulled from the confirmation screen you see after you vote. So, if you vote, you'll have the inside track on the Swag Code.

In addition to that, tell people about this cause on Twitter. You've probably noticed that TSG has been randomly rewarding people for their #swagbucks tweets on Twitter. Well, now I'll be awarding people every day this week, starting tomorrow for including #swagbucks AND #votefc tags in tweets. I'll be picking 5 winners a day randomly who included those tags in their tweets.

Please help Friendship Circle now, they do plenty of good and deserve the chance to do even more.

TSG

I supported them did you? If you did post a link to your facebook with the comment that you did; At the end of the week I will choose two people to recieve a code for 5.00 at Amazon! (if your facebook is set to friends only make sure you request me (angelface041206) so I can see that you voted)

This giveaway is closed. Winners have been notified! 

Golden Moon Tea Review and Giveaway DEAD

I contacted Golden Moon Tea because I wanted to do a review of their products, I was delighted when they agreed to send me a tin of earl grey tea to try. I am not a huge tea drinker ,unless it is raspberry, but both my husband and mother in law are. When I say they are tea drinkers I mean we have on cupboard with three shelves stacked full of tea. Anyways I figured they would love it and I would try it. Well let me replay the day I recieved the tea to try.

It was a cold dreary day here in Tennessee. I was all bundled up with a baby in tow. I left the house,  picked up the mail(threw it in passenger seat without looking at it), picked up my mother in law from work and my son from school, then headed home. I was was freezing that evening and sat down cuddled up under a blanket to go through the mail. I had several packages and one happened to be my tin of earl grey tea. I opened the package and opened the tin..... WOW the scent was love at first smell. Citrus and lavendar hit me begging to be mixed into a warm tea kettle. We steeped the tea in a diffuser for 3 minutes per directions. I added 1 pack of pure cane sugar, took a sip and fell in love! We forgot to take the diffuser out and 10 minutes later I poured my second cup. It was very strong and the lavender was very prominent. I added my one pack of sugar as well as some milk; I feel in love again.

 I am pleased to say This tea was a huge hit at my house. I have since made one pot a night and enjoy it as I wind down for the evening. (The caffeine amount is medium so if it effects you then you may not want to drink it in the evening.) This tea is loose tea leaves and needs to be used in a diffuser. I loved how the leaves are not so small they come out in my tea either. I look forward to trying other products by Golden Moon Tea very soon. I will also say this tin will last quite a while even with regular usage. It only takes a small amount to make a pot; so for the length of life as well as flavor I feel this tea is an exceptional value.

Tippy Earl Grey Description
Smoooth. And Something Of A Paradox. You, too?
Mood: For the free spirit living in a proper society
Time: Traditionally taken in the morning or afternoon, but break free and enjoy anytime.
Cuisine: Delightful with toast and strawberry preserves. An excellent afternoon tea to serve to guests with cream cheese sandwiches, scones, and fresh or dried fruit.
Price Per Cup: .11-.20
Caffeine: Medium

Win It: Golden Moon Tea has decided to give one my readers Tippy Earl Grey 4.0oz Tin (worth $12.99)

To Enter the Giveaway
MANDATORY: Visit Golden Moon Tea here  and tell me another item you would like to try. This is required and must be done before the extra entries count!


EXTRA ENTRIES: You can do any of these things for an extra entry. Make sure to leave a separate comment for EACH thing you do.

*Follow Golden Moon Tea on Facebook

*Follow (and post)Me on Twitter

*Subscribe to my blog via email (you must verify) (find on my sidebar)

*Follow my blog via Google/Friend Connect (find on my sidebar)

*Mention and link this giveaway in a blog post

*Use the neat little item below and do one thing in the box. Come back and comment what you did as well as a link.


Entrants from the US are eligible. Contest Ends on 2/1/10. Winners will be chosen by random.org. Winners will be notified by email with “You Have Won the Golden Moon Tea Giveaway” in the subject line. Winners will then have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen. Please review my disclosure policy for information on my reviews.

 

Gold Canyon Candle Review and Giveaway DEAD

I recently acquired a Mulled Cider Heritage Scented Candle. It arrived by Ups and I tore into the box as fast as I could. It was packaged very well with peanuts and bubble wrap. I immediately took it out and opened the lid. Wow it smelled so yummy. Now I love candles and well, anything that smells good and makes my house smell yummy. I could not wait to lite this candle and test it out. 

Within minutes I noticed not only did my kitchen smell so delicious of cider but my entire 1st floor of my house smelled so good. I must say this scent is so true to what a cider smells like. My husband came home and when he walked into the kitchen he was disappointed to see I had not made cider for him to enjoy.  I have burnt my candle several times since receiving it and I can barley tell it has been used. 


Gold Canyon Candles have so many scents in so many different categories that it took me forever to decide on the one I wanted to try. They ship by Ups ground as the standard delivery option and it is a flat rate of $6.99 for orders under $75.00. Right now they have a very neat promotion going. Strike It Gold and Win!

Find a golden coin inside a 26 oz. Heritage candle and you could win up to $5,000!
Plus, every 26 oz. Heritage Candle has an Instant Bonus Offer featuring discounts, free shipping and more valued at over 2.5 million.

Win It:

My friend Tara has decided to give one lucky reader a 26 oz Heritage candle of your choice. This will allow you to participate in the above offer going on.

To Enter the Giveaway
MANDATORY: Visit Gold Canyon Candles here (click on our products) and tell me which scent you would like to try. This is required and must be done before the extra entries count!


EXTRA ENTRIES: You can do any of these things for an extra entry. Make sure to leave a separate comment for EACH thing you do.

*Follow (and post) Me on Twitter


*Subscribe to my blog via email (you must verify) (find on my sidebar)

*Follow my blog via Google/Friend Connect (find on my sidebar)

*Mention and link this giveaway in a blog post

*Use the neat little item below and do one thing in the box. Come back and comment what you did as well as a link.


Entrants from the US are eligible. Contest Ends on 1/25/10. Winners will be chosen by random.org. Winners will be notified by email with “You Have Won the Gold Canyon Candle Giveaway” in the subject line. Winners will then have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is chosen. Please review my disclosure policy for information on my reviews.

This Giveaway is Closed. 

Giveaway Monday 1/18

Here are the giveaways I have ran across this week. I would love to know if any of you win any. I'll also post if I do. Here is good wishes to all of us!

• ToTheMax has a great giveaway right now. You can win a $165 basket of Burt's Bees stuff All you have to do is go to her blog and read all about it. She has several ways to earn extra entries. I know I LOVE these products and would be honored to win it. The contest will close on January 21, 2010. GOOD LUCK (to me lol)!
• Rockinmama has a great giveaway right now. You can win a Slice and Bake Cookies Play Food Set. All you have to do is go to her blog and read all about it. She has several ways to earn extra entries. Who knows you could be a child’s favorite gift giver real soon. The contest will close on February 1, 2010 at 10 PM PST. GOOD LUCK 
•  frugal mommy of 2 girls has tons of Valentines giveaways right now. Be sure to check out all the lovelyness here!
• in a kids world teamed up with yoplait to giveaway a great prize pack. Head here to find out more!
• this mama shops has teamed up with Country Bob's sauce to give not one but two readers free goodies. Go here for your chance to be one of the two!
  

Here is what I won this last week:

1. Hello Kitty Trio Set ($12 value)by Simply Couture. Thanks Sisters Stuff for this great giveaway.
2. One Month Supply of Cottonelle. Thanks Mom Bloggers Club!
3. Country Bob's Sauce. Thanks thismamashops!
   

Show Haiti we care!

Wow my heart is breaking for the people of Haiti. We as Americans have it rough right now... but not that rough. I know so many of us are struggling to put food on our table or a roof over our head, which is why this blog owner is my new hero. Common Sense with Money has pledged .25 for every comment left on this post up to $500.00  Her family will be donating it to the Red Cross for Haiti. Please I urge everyone of my readers to go post on her blog. It's your way of donating even if times are to tight for you to.

I will personally feel ashamed if we can't get her comments to top out and spill over her $500.00 Dollars. She has also linked up with blogs that are donating in some way. Be sure to check out all these wonderful bloggers and support their efforts please.

Go here to money saving mom who started this crusade.

Arts Cow Specials

Speaking of Arts cow. I just ran across a page that has all kinds of specials with FREE SHIPPING! They say they update the page with new offers now and again. Head here to check it out and see if something is for you!

~HOT~ Arts Cow 100% Free Mouse Pad!!!

Dear Jessica, Refer your friends to our ArtsCow Facebook fan page and claim a FREE personalized photo mousepad with FREE shipping included. Follow the simple steps below and get your free gift. Log into your Facebook account and visit http://apps.facebook.com/artscow/coupons/FBFREEMPD (you must become a fan of ArtsCow before you can access this page). Select your friends that you would like to invite to join ArtsCow. Click on the blue “Send Invitation” button and confirm. Return to the coupons page and retrieve your unique user-specific Coupon Checkout Code. Create your mousepad at www.artscow.com/photo-gifts/mousepad and use the Coupon Checkout Code to claim your free gift. Breaking News: Due to the popularity of this promotion we will be handing out an extra 2,000 free mousepads on top of the original quota. Hurry while stocks last. http://apps.facebook.com/artscow/coupons/FBFREEMPD

What team are you on?

Everyone has an opinion on the right way to roll – over or under – and both points-of-view have been argued in households for ages. This January, Cottonelle brand sets out to settle this Great Debate once and for all. Are you Team Over or Team Under?

The first 200 Mom Bloggers Club members who participate will win a month's worth of Cottonelle toilet tissue. That's 24 rolls!

I thought this would be fun. I am team over. Funny story. Ken (my dear husband) just puts the roll on how ever it happens to be in his hands. I kept threatening to do bad things to him if he kept doing it. Yet one day I walk in and there it is again. So I put just a dab of honey on the acbinet and the next time he went in and used the paper..... it stuck to the cabinet. Needless to say he is on TEAM OVER now.... lol! What are you? Show me by going here. Leave a comment on your here telling me what team your on to be entered to win 1 of 10 Cottonelle gift baskets randomly chosen on January 29, 2010 from all entries received on all mom bloggers club blogs. 

This post is me entering a contest for a month's worth of Cottonelle toilet paper as a member of the Mom Bloggers Club.

Thrifty Thursday: Thrifty with your time and money when shopping

So this week has just been so crazy for me. I have not been to the store once! Thankfully school started back today, Caleb is napping, and my mother in law is watching the kids tonight so I can go shopping. Needless to say I have my coupons cut and in my binder but no lists made. That got me to thinking about how to make the most of your shopping trips. So without further adu today is about being thrifty with your time and money when shopping.

~ One thing I have noticed is it is imperative to know your prices for the items you buy on a regular basis. There is nothing worse then going through a sales ad and finding Orange Juice on sale at store A for 1.99; and you have a .25 off coupon. Great Deal RIGHT? Well maybe, what if store B carries the same Orange juice for 1.75 not on sale. Hmmm now you can get a much better deal.
*TIP* get a small notebook and when your shopping next look at your regular purchases. Write down the non-sale price. Then when you find it on sale go back and add that price. This will give you a good hard copy of your price on normal buys.

~Break everything down store to store in your shopping list. I know before I got into couponing, I would make a shopping list and then next to it put which store. Needless to say I often forgot about something.

~Even more I break my list down by shopping isles. I know you think its a lot of work but if you follow this it wont be. The next time your at the store write down each isle number and what is contained in that isle. (you could just write what is on the sign, but I add anything I know I buy regularly) Then you will have a great way to make your list. Example: Tuna aisle 2, cereal aisle 5, flour aisle 6

~I recommend going down each isle of your store and scanning for clearance tags. I know all of my stores have a different color tag if it is on clearance, which makes it easy to spot.  If you take your coupons in with you always then you can score some cheap to free items each trip.

~I also keep a master list. Things I buy each and every time I go shopping. Milk, eggs, soda…. Etc this way I don’t forget them but I also save time from having to write them down.

~Go to multiple stores. I know this takes more time but I promise in the long run you will save so much more.  Yes walmart price matches, but they do not take competitors coupons, double coupons, or even have the sales that other stores have. Not only that but they will only price match for the first 4 of any item. Well that’s not helpful for stockpiling or taking advantage of some great deals.
Just remember that although it seems like a lot to do in the long run it will save time and money. And after all ‘It’s all about the Savings!’

Want more info on stockpiling? Then head to Melissa’s Bargain Blog and read this weeks Thrifty Thursday post. I know it’s something I have copied and pasted!

What's Cooking Wednesday

I have decided to start a weekly special on Wednesday's called What's Cooking Wednesday. I am sorry it is being posted so late this week. School has been closed since Thursday, last week, and let me tell you I HATE snow days. Okay so back to what this series will be. Every Wednesday I will try to post a healthy, time saving, and cost saving meal for a family of four. I would also love to see posts from readers on their own healthy, time saving, and cost saving meal for a family of four. I will try to post these each Wednesday morning but as life can often get in the way.... it may be later.

Teryaki Pork Stir Fry

1 Tray of cubed pork. (I buy these in my managers special bins at my grocery store for about .50 - 1.00)

1 Bag of Stir Fry Veggies (You can get these on sale for .50 or less with coupons)

1/2 cup of Teryaki sauce or glaze (I love the glaze personally, I pay about 2.50 for a bottle that lasts for about 5 meals)

1 cup brown rice (about 1.50 for a bag with about 5 meals)

1. Cook rice according to directions on bag
2.  Cut pork into bite sized squares
   
3. Brown pork in about 2 tablespoon of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (takes about 2 min)
4. Add thawed bag stir fry veggies and Teryaki Sauce
5. Cook for 5 min and serve over rice

You can dress this up with any additional items in your pantry. Nuts, ginger, Chinese noodles, etc. Be creative. Also stir fry veggies can come in so many varieties; we love the asparagus one or even the asian with mushrooms.

(I will try to add calories next meal)
Total Cost for Meal: $1.80  Total per person: .45

Walgreens Free Collage

Arts Cow 2 makeup bags

Dear Jessica, The beauty secrets of a woman can be found within their makeup kit and accessories, so it’s only right that you can design and personalize your own cosmetic bag. This practical sized bag is made from a waterproof fabric and is fully customizable on both sides. Designed to fit into handbags and on your travels, you can now stylize your own cosmetic bags. To avoid envious eyes from your girlies, we’ve come up with a promotion that they can enjoy also. For just $8.99, you can make 2 bags (can be of different designs) with free shipping included, so treat your girlfriends too. Coupon : Coupon code: 899COSBAG2 Expires on: 02/12/2010 Wow your girlfriends with self-designed cosmetic bags. http://www.artscow.com/photo-gifts/Bag/Cosmetic-Bag-Medium-464

Random Review Tuesday

I have decided to go ahead and do a Random Review every Tuesday. What I review will be completely different every week. Why you ask? Well I figure you can find something at a great bargain price but if the product is not worth it.... then it was not such a bargain. This blog is designed to helping you save... Save by spending less, saving more, and having quality products. I will be ranking on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. % being the highest a product can get and one being the lowest.... do NOT buy.

Today's Review is on: Your Shape for the Wii.

     I recently had the honor of hosting a Fun, Fit and Guilt-Free houseparty. We had a blast.  The work out is intense yet not over complicated. When you first start Jenny walks you through a physical test to see where you stand. I made a C-, so need some improvements. Then a plan is made for you; when/how/how long you will work out. The basic workout is 15 minutes.... I mean who can't set aside 15 minutes. You do have to make sure you follow all instructions in setting up your work out area and clothing or the camera does not pick up your movements very well. My other complaint is even when you are seemingly following Jenny to a T it sometimes keeps lecturing that you are not. A nice thing about this is it is available in a pc version as well for those without a wii.

I would give Your Shape a rank of 3 stars.

Do you have a product you want reviewed? Maybe even a giveaway? Then feel free to email me at 

angelface041206 at yahoo dot com. I am always open to hearing from you. 

The opinions expressed in this post are mine and mine alone. I received no compensation to give this review. Any questions please review my disclosure policy.  

All You 1 Year 15.00

Amazon currently has a GREAT deal on All You Magazine. This magazine is found at Walmart for almost $3.00 apiece. Each month you will find great recipes, tips, but most important COUPONS! I would jump on this deal. Don't forget you can use your swagbucks to purchase this as well.

Giveaway Monday

I have decided to add Giveaway Monday to our blog. Every Monday I will post about giveaways I find all over my travels on the web. I will include links so you may get in on the things as well. I will also post updates if I win any of the giveaways. I encourage you to comment on this post if :

• You have a giveaway you would like me to feature/enter
• You have won a giveaway I have featured.

I will make changes to this post during the day as I find new giveaways to bring to you! Goodluck and on with the winning!

• Rockinmama has a great giveaway right now. You can win a Love Expandable Wire Bangle Set (RV $108). All you have to do is go to her blog and read all about it. She has several ways to earn extra entries. Who knows you could be sporting this new bracelet very soon. The contest will close on January 21, 2010 at 10 PM PST. GOOD LUCK
• Sisters Stuff is hosting a giveaway for the little girl in your life.  They will be selecting two winners for some cute little hairbows. Want to see these cute things then visit their blog. You won't be sorry!
• Caiafa Craziness Reviews and Giveaways currently has three giveaways going. orglamix-cosmetics , wat-aah , and a business card giveaway. Be sure you check these out!
• Everything Vinyl is giving away $25.00 worth of free vinyl. This is so fantastic! Go here to have your chance.