24/7 MOMS

Friday, July 31, 2009

Getting Organized; Affordable and Effectively


By: Amy Hannold, SavingCentsEveryday.blogspot.com

Getting organized may seem to some, a “To-Do” task, or a dream that everyday life puts constantly out of reach. As with any other life change or new task, gathering the tools and implementing them into your daily life takes time. Long term changes often start with small, short term steps.

Determine what area of your life demands the most urgent improvement. List the parts of your day which cause you the most sweat and stress. Decide on one change that will bring you the greatest sense of satisfaction. Again, think small, so that you are neither disappointed nor overwhelmed.

Families can find a sense of both peace and accomplishment when they begin their organizing improvements with de-cluttering. Look around your home, room by room. Realize that many of the things that clutter your life and remain unused could be items someone else needs. Freecycle.org and Craigslist.org are great places to list items you could gift to someone else. Freecycle allows you to help another family, giving them items they can use. Craigslist offers you the opportunity to give away items, or to sell them at an affordable price to a neighbor. Books can be listed and traded at Bookmooch.com or Paperbackswap.com. Freepeats.org is the place to list and give maternity, kids items and equipment.

Once you’ve cleared a path to the corners of your home, there are affordable tools which help the daily search and store process. Recycling comes into play here as well, when you find ways to organize your belongings with items you may already own. Baskets, trays, drawer organizers, boxes of all sizes, shoe boxes and over the door racks may sit unused, but hold great potential for making life easier. These items are also found from neighbors, Freecycle, or second hand stores. Getting organized does not have to break your budget. Cereal boxes, for example, when sliced diagonally in half and covered with contact paper become great magazine (or paper) holders. Shoeboxes, reinforced with contact paper, beat the cost of more expensive store-bought storage boxes.

Search your local thrift store or yard sales Think “outside the box” for how items you see could be used to organize. Lazy Susans (those round rotating trays), vertical file shelves, baskets and tin cans can be your chaos solutions. Utilize Google for organizing solutions and ideas from others. Think homemade, affordable and creative.

When you’ve completed the de-cluttering process and found new ways to store your things, reconsider how you get things done during the day. Flylady.net is an inspiring resource for streamlining household tasks. Many of her tools and daily emails of knowledge are free of charge.

Free, printable tools for menu planning, “To-Do” reminder lists and other life-organizing forms are available online. File and store these forms in a place that makes sense to find them when needed. Some of the best websites are:

FamilyManager.com

Menus4moms.com

OrganizedHome.com

TheHomeSchoolmom.com

Talk with your friends and encourage one another. Swap organizing ideas and resources. Encourage one another and hold each other accountable; it may go a long way towards serenity in your world.

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24/7 MOMS Chat It Up!!!!!

Each week after the 24/7 MOMS LIVE webcast we chat it up for 24 minutes - OK sometimes longer but the MOMversation is so AMAZING and our viewers (chatters) have such great tips ideas and resources to share not only during the after the show chat-tin it up time but also during the show. So, each week Amy Hannold takes notes and creates a recap of the chatting that goes on during the weekly 24/7 MOMS Live webcast (TV show o your computer).
Here is the recap from the July 21,2009 show.

Books Suggested:

The Song of Solomon
101 nights of great romance
Authors Les and Leslie Parrott’s books
Created to Be His Help Meet
The Karma Sutra
The goofy sex books at stores like Spencers
Tickle His pickle
Sheet Music
Danny Akin has a great site on marriage
Ride Em Cowgirl
Night Lights for Parents and Night Lights for Couples
What's He Really Thinking, by Paula Rinehart
Books by Author Dr. Kevin Lehman"For Women only" and "For Men Only"
Men are Like Waffles, Women are Like Spaghetti (the book and the study guide/workbook)

Ways to Up the Sizzle: (in your marriage)
Write sexy messages in the steam on the mirror from the shower

When my husband was working nights I left him a sexy note on the counter and he loved that! And, I was in bed waiting for him to come home...

DH buys me flowers every couple weeks just because

Hubby does the chores and it's foreplay for me ;)

My hubby cleans and I take care of the kids then we have a date after the kids go to bed. Each week we take turns choosing the dinner. He might pick up sushi or I get fondue. Sex is the dessert!

The love dice are fun

One thing we learned Marriage Encounter is feelings are neither right nor wrong they just are

It's good for kids to see their parents showing affection

We keep our date night each week. We are very protective of that night

I start taking off my hubbies clothes when he comes home from work

Me and my hubby actually trade up on what we do on our date nights

Go out overnight without kids at least once a year

Our small group encourages and challenges all of us :)

I pat hubby’s butt when he walks by

Have "s word" pet names that the kids have no idea what you are talking about

Fix their favorite dish for dinner.

We do “date-ins“sometimes

Be spontaneous

Sit on the couch together and send Facebook messages to each other.

We don't go out as much but we have nights at home... games, movies, etc

I send text messages to my hubby

Keep his favorite soap in good supply and always have a secret stash of his "must haves"

My hubby travels every week...I send text and IMs while he is working...also put notes in his luggage

Call hubby from the CELL phone on the HOME line and talk phone sex when the kids are still awake

My hubby calls me every day when he's on his way from work. This gives us time to talk a little before he gets home and thing get wild.

Give a 10 second kiss when hubby comes home

If you dress up and start making yourself look good. You will start feeling good about yourself. Exercise will help you feel better too and sexier.

Unplug the TV (especially when he's not a “techy” and cant fix it)

Blindfold your husband, take his hand, walk him around the house, then sit him down on your couch in your house then watch a movie

We talk every night after the kids are in bed and before I go to bed

My husband loves suggestive texts for what is to happen when he goes to bed that night

Know his "Love Language” Is he a time person? Is he a gift person or a service person?

I read romance novels that keep me a little romantic. Reading warms me up before he gets home.

We take long drives, picnics

There is no perfect marriage. Two imperfect people can't make it perfect they make it real.

Sexy pictures of yourself

My husband loves it when I get pedicures

Set an “appointment” (write it on the family calendar), then arrange for a sitter. When you're all dressed up for your “appointment”, announce to him that he's the "client"

Love and Respect

Fighting naked sounds fun

My hubby likes me to bathe him

Online, order him free samples of ky and trojans

We talk about when we met.

Hubby loves when I go get my nails done

I love taking a shower with my hubby
Products We 24/7 MOMS Love:
The Ped Egg
Reynolds Slow Cooker Liners
Flip-Flops
Sun and Earth has a new spot removal pen.
My Little Seat. It's a travel highchair
Helping Tame the Kids’ Video Gaming:
We do not let our play video games on the weekdays at ALL
For every minute of reading they get video games
Have them earn time. Use timer and when it goes off the game ends. Makes the timer the bad guy not the mommy
Hand out the poker chips; they spend the portions of time when/how they choose -- when the chips are gone, it's done. This teaches them budgeting and prioritizing.
At one time we gave them screen time tickets. They could use them for videos, TV or computer
Our son plays video games only when my husband can play. Not that we don't trust him, it is our way of limiting the game and it also keeps him interacting with people.
Always give the "Five more minutes"...for easier transitions

Any of you moms have experience with reflux babies
Take them to the chiropractor. We seriously did not believe in it but took my daughter at three weeks
You can also try a little rice cereal in their bottle
We gave my son some reflux drops from the doctor 2-3 times per day and it really helped (http://www.napnanny.com/)

There is also a product called a napnanny. It’s kind of pricey but WAY worth it
Do you prop your baby up while sleeping - that helps a ton
Use a swing it keeps them upright
There is a Boppy pillow (not a nursing one but it just a big round circle) that fits in the crib and it keeps them slightly elevated - works great!
You can adjust mattress in crib to be higher on one end than the other
Keeping the Kids Busy Ideas:
Tacoma Children's Museum is free first Friday of the month

Last, but certainly not least: We had a call for “Oprah” votes, for Trisha. Both TechTayna and TrishasMom: motioned for a chant of “Oprah, Oprah, Oprah”

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Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Back To School Event

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Back To School are 3 words I'm not ready to begin thinking about - I am enjoying the long summer nights, hours at the pool, no crazy schedules, allowing my kids to sleep in. However I know that soon it will be time to pack those lunches and watch my kids climb back onto the big yellow bus once again. Which means I have to begin planning and preparing for Back To School.

24/7 MOMS is ready to kick off a New School year with a 2 hour virtual Back To School party.

Join us for the 24/7 MOMS LIVE Virtual Party -(TV show on your computer). Put on your comfy sweats or PJ’s and let’s celebrate a new school year with 2 hours of Giveaways , Live MOMversation , Great MOM tips, and Tons of MOM fun. Invite your MOM friends to meet you online at the 24/7 MOMS Virtual party.

When: Tuesday August 11, 2009
Time: 7:00pm PST / 1o:00pm EST
Location: www.247moms.com



WIN : Be part of the 24/7 MOMS MOMtourage and be entered to WIN the MOMtourage Beach Bag FULL of great stuff during our Back To School event

Tell your MOM friends about the 24/7 MOMS Back To School event and you will be entered to WIN.

You can earn up to 4 entries by doing any of the below options, just be sure to come back and fill out the form after each entry!

- Post about 24/7 MOMS Live web cast on your Facebook, with a link to www.247moms.com

- Add the 24/7 MOMS Live web cast button to your blog . Copy and paste link from the right side of this blog. ( receive a weekly entry every week you keep our button on your site)

- Tweet about the weekly 24/7 MOMS Live web cast . www.twitter.com

Sample tweet
- I'm Attending the @247moms Back To School Event 2 hours of Giveaways Aug 11th -7pm PST/ 10pm EST www.247moms.com JOIN ME 4 MOM FUN

- Blog about the Back To School Event with a link back to www.247moms.com

Once you have completed an entry method, fill out the form below! Be sure you fill out a form for each entry you do.



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WIN - LTD Chix Tee Shirt

The 24/7 MOMS Shirt of the month as seen on 24/7 MOMS Live this week is quickly becoming a favorite of MINE - The Color - The Fit - The fun graphics are why I love wearing these mom T-shirts.

LTDchix - which stands for "Living the Dream" chix. Did you ever “dream” life would be like this? Apparel for moms like you! Is the dream of raising a family turning out to be everything you’d expected? Or were you a bit shocked by the reality of Chuck E. Cheese calamities, diaper dilemmas and major mom mishaps in the mini-van like we were?

Back in the days when being a Mom was still just a dream for many of us, little did we know about the true realities of motherhood. We didn’t know that along with the beauty and rewards of watching our children grow, we’d also have to contend with the daily mind-numbing tasks that go along with it! But we’ve got to keep on smiling and persevere! And that's why they created LTDchix.com.

WIN: 24/7 MOMS and LTD Chix is giving away ONE of their Laundry T-Shirts. To enter for your chance to win:


1. Become a 24/7 MOMS Subscriber Enter your email address below then leave a comment that you subscribed.


2. If you are already a subscriber just leave a comment that you are a subscriber.US entries only and one entry per person. Winner will be chosen on August 9, 2009.


Enter your email address:

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Bloggy GIveaway - WIN Amy Knapp Planners

I have been using an Amy Knapp organizer for years now. My favorite part, the grocery list that tears off the side. My favorite style, the Christian Organizer. When Michigan native Amy Knapp was struggling to get her family organized after she became a full-time stay-at-home mom, she never imagined that her ideas would turn into a successful business venture.

Amy Knapp’s Family Organizer is Parenting ™ Tested and Mom Approved. The easy to use format helps even the busiest of families gain control of their active lifestyle.

Amy Knapp’s Christian Family Organizer - this uses the same basic format as the popular secular version, with the addition of a weekly Prayer and Praise section. The secular inspiration quotes are replaced by Bible Verses and Spiritual Quotes.

- Amy Knapp's Expecting Organizer - during pregnancy and the first months of
life, there are many different things you need to track: glasses of water,
baby movements, contractions, diapers, feeding, etc. With the ease of these
items worked into your daily schedule, your accurate monitoring will always
be at your finger tips and easily accessible for doctor appointments. In
additional to the tracking and monitoring grids, Amy Knapp’s Expecting
Family Organizer still offers the same great features as the original Family
Organizer.

- Big Grid Family Wall Organizer
is the ultimate organizing tool and a
perfect companion to Amy Knapp’s Family Organizer. With a large over sized
grid each month, there is plenty of writing room to accommodate even the
busiest of family’s schedules. The Big Grid keeps your family organized at
home, you stay on top of things while out and about!


Review by: Tanya Peila
24/7 MOMS Project Manager
tanya@247moms.com

WIN: 24/7 MOMS and Amy Knapp are giving away One each of the following :

Amy Knapp’s Family Organizer
Amy Knapp’s Christian Organizer
Amy Knapp's Expecting Organizer
Amy Knapp's Home school Organizer
Amy Knapp's Big Grid Family Wall Organizer

To enter for your chance to win:
1. Become a 24/7 MOMS Subscriber Enter your email address below then leave a comment that you subscribed (make sure you leave an email address to be contacted at).

2. If you are already a subscriber just leave a comment that you are a subscriber (make sure you leave an email address to be contacted at).. US entries only and one entry per person.

3. Please COMMENT to us WHICH Amy Knapp Planner you would like to WIN.

Winner will be chosen on August 9th.


Enter your email address:

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Tuesday, July 28, 2009

New at 24/7 MOMS - Techno Tuesdays - WIN - How many days ago

New at 24/7 MOMS - Each Tuesday we will feature "How Technology can simplify your Mom World" We will share our Tips, Resources, and Product finds that we have discovered.

If you have a Techno idea or product that has simplified your mom world- email us at trisha@247moms.com.

This weeks Techno Tuesday Feature is:

How many days ago did I change those batteries? How many days ago did I open that can? I often find myself wondering this and sometime smelling food to see if it is still "ok" to eat. Yes I know kind of gross! Well here is the solution to my problems and the last of smelling food too!

The DaysAgo digital daytimer answers the question, "How many days ago did I ...?" You can fill in the blank with anything from change the smoke-detector batteries to water the plants to feed the fish.

How many days ago did I open that jar of baby food? How many days ago did I put those leftovers in the fridge? How many days ago did I get that fruit? By keeping track of food's freshness, we waste less, use more, and spend less money replacing what went bad.

The DaysAgo is small, inexpensive, and adaptable. The gadget attaches to items by suction, band, or magnet, so you can use it anywhere and for anything. A simple touch of the button starts the counting.

Review by: Tanya Peila
24/7 MOMS Project Manager


WIN: 24/7 MOMS and How Many Days Ago are giving away a How Many Days Ago to ONE lucky reader. To enter for your chance to win:


1. Become a 24/7 MOMS Subscriber Enter your email address below then leave a comment that you subscribed.


2. If you are already a subscriber just leave a comment that you are a subscriber.US entries only and one entry per person. Winner will be chosen on August 9, 2009.


Enter your email address:

Delivered by FeedBurner




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Deal Of The Day - B1G1 Jamba Juice Smoothie



Deal of the Day - My kids go crazy over Jamba Juice and Thanks to Jen at Thrifty Northwest Mom I found a great coupon. Buy 1 Get 1 Free Jamba Juice Smoothie now through August 9, 2009. Click here to get your coupon. Click here to find a location near you.

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Monday, July 27, 2009

MOM TV Show On Your Computer


Join us Tuesday Night 7pm PST / 10pm EST for 24/7 MOMS Live - The MOM TV show on your computer.


Surf over to www.247moms.com for your own MOM Time.

-Time Saving MOM Tips
- Organization IDEA Demo
- Giveaways
- Yummy Sweet of the week
- 24 minutes AFTER the show chat-tin it up with us.

Tweet, TXT, Facebook , invite all of your MOM friends to this weeks 24/7 MOMS Live web cast. ( TV Show on your computer).

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WIN - The Food Nanny Rescues Dinner

When I want a new cookbook for my family I look through the recipe pages and determine if there is a large selection that my Family might enjoy. The Food Nanny Rescue Dinner is one of those I found a whole list of YUMMY sounding recipes that I cant wait to try out on my family and allow the FOOD Nanny to rescue my Dinner Meal planning.
Easy Family Meals For every Day Of The Week from The Food Nanny
.

Turn off the TV! Turn off the computer! Even if there are only two of you home for dinner, eat together and reap the benefits of a stronger family bond. When families eat together consistently, everyone wins. Studies show that children who have regular meals with their families typically:

• Eat healthier.
• Are less likely to use drugs and alcohol.
• Get better grades.
• Are more likely to discuss serious issues with their parents.

As the Food Nanny, Liz Edmunds helps families with her theme-night solutions
and strategies for successful family dinner times:

• Get past the “Yes, buts…” that are keeping you from cooking.
• Plan meals the easy way: a template, pantry list, shopping advice.
• Involve family members in the preparations.
• Fill your home with the aromas that convey caring, safety, and comfort.
• Engage your kids in dinner conversations.
• Have a family homemade pizza night.

SEE THE RECIPE LIST...

TOP TEN EXCUSES...

ABOUT LIZ EDMUNDS...

A MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER...

DOWNLOAD AN 18-PAGE SAMPLER PDF

WIN: 24/7 MOMS and Liz Edmunds the Food Nanny are giving away one Cook book " The Food Nanny Rescues Dinner"To enter for your chance to win:

1. Become a 24/7 MOMS Subscriber Enter your email address below then leave a comment that you subscribed, make SURE you leave an email address we can contact you at.

2. If you are already a subscriber just leave a comment that you are a subscriber.US entries only and one entry per person. Winner will be chosen on August 9, 2009.

Enter your email address:

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TIP Talk- 25 Ways to Sizzle Up Your Marriage


This weeks TIP TALK on 24/7 MOMS Live web cast, we shared 25 tips to Sizzle Up Your Marriage.

1. Plan weekly date nights.

2. Daily date - be responsive to him, let him know you look forward to his coming home.

3. Clean up the bedroom, create a romantic atmosphere, music, candles, etc.

4. Send hubby fun emails/text messages.

5. Give romantic creative gifts.

6. Pick your battles, Ask- is it really worth it?

7. Designate a sex night or schedule intimacy.

8. Wear sexy underwear and let him know.

9. Consider fighting naked.

10 Put money in the budget for a sex life, lingerie, bedroom attire, etc.-spice it up.

11. Take bubble bathes/shower together.

12. Have a late night bedroom picnic.

13. Exchange foot massages or a back rub with special lotion.

14. Clean your wedding ring or look through your wedding pictures.

15. Take care of yourself; exercise, go for a walk, take a dance class.

16. Approach your marriage 100% not 50/50.

17. Read good marriage books. " Sheet Music" - " Sex Begins in The Kitchen".

18. Stop dressing frumpy…dress up once in a while.

19. Let go of the small stuff (like his socks on the floor).

20. Think about sex.

21. Verbally encourage him.

22. Go to bed at the same time- early in the evening.

23. Turn off the TV or computer at night - spend time together instead.

24. Leave love notes in unexpected places. i.e. briefcase, office, desk, underwear drawer, wallet, etc.

25. You start the change!

How do you SIZZLE up your Marriage?

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Sunday, July 26, 2009

“Sizzlin’ Marriage on a Budget”


For Sizzlin’ Out on the Town:
Entertainment.com – Purchase an Entertainment book- now’s the time to get a great deal on a 2009 book (perhaps free), when you purchase a 2010 book. Entertainment books will pay for themselves after a date night or two (and when you also use it to save on groceries, dry-cleaning and a trip to the zoo..)
Restaurant.com – Dining Gift Certificates, at a fraction of the cost. Find your city on Restauarant.com and discover a new favorite dining escape. Purchase and print your gift certificate, from home, and then go out and enjoy. Frequent coupon codes, offered via their email updates net you a $25 gift certificate for as little as $2!

Visit the website of your local radio/TV Stations you may find they offer” Half-Price” Gift Certificate Deals – Dining, attractions and more!
Want to Create A Custom Date Night or Day-Out Adventure? Start with a little research. Internet or local libraries are a great source of where to go and what to do in your a
rea. In the Seattle are (and in many other cities), there are the “Best Places to Kiss” books, and similar which direct you to the best for your time and money. Ask around, look ar
ound and then plan something uniquely memorable.
Need More Sizzlin’ Inspiration?
Here’s what I found when I googled “Cheap Date Night”:
Redbook Magazine gives you many fun, affordable ideas:
Focus on the Family offers ideas for “Keeping the Romance Alive”:
RomanticLyrics.com offers their Romance on a Shoestring Ideas (and if you need a love poem, romantic song suggestion, or lyrics to a love song- they’re your website.):
So, now it’s your turn, 24/7 MOMS; tell us about your Sizzlin in Marriage ideas.

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Are You a Shouting Mom?


Don't keep us a secret - Shout us out to all of your Mom friends and you could WIN this weeks MOMtourage giveaway during the LIVE web cast.

Help us continue to make 24/7 MOMS LIVE the #1 LIVE web cast for moms and you will be entered for a chance to WIN this weeks MOMtourage giveaway.

You can earn up to 4 entries each week by doing any of the below options, just be sure to come back and fill out the form after each entry!

- Post about 24/7 MOMS Live web cast on your Facebook, with a link to www.247moms.com.

- Add the 24/7 MOMS Live web cast button to your blog . Copy and paste link below. ( receive a weekly entry every week you keep our button on your site).
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MOMS, if you would like to add our button to your blog, please use the code below.
- Tweet about the weekly 24/7 MOMS Live web cast . www.twitter.com

Sample tweet - Can't Wait for 24/7 MOMS Live web cast on Time Saving Tips for Moms , fun giveaways Tues. 7pm PST/ 10pm EST at www.247moms.com @247MOMS

- Blog about the weekly 24/7 MOMS Live web cast with a link back to www.247moms.com

Once you have completed an entry method, fill out the form below! Be sure you fill out a form for each entry you do.



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Friday, July 24, 2009

Real MOMS Keeping Their Kids Busy Over The Summer

By: Amy Hannold, SavingCentsEveryday.blogspot.com


During this weeks "AFTER The Show" chattin' it up time we asked “How are you keeping your kids busy this summer?” Here are a few of the 24/7 

MOMS viewers ideas:
Local Farm Tours and Farmers Markets: Find a local farm, many of them offer tours for families or groups (get the friends or playgroup together!):
Websites offer Fun Online and More:
This UK site looks fun and full of printables, craft ideas and more:
Go on an adventure! National Geographic, the kids edition offers stories, pictures and fun ideas:
Other Ideas:
Create your own summer camp! Combine ideas with neighbors, collect activities and band together to have fun with new hobbies, crafts, and enjoying time together.
Books to Inspire Summer Fun:
Family Manager’s Guide to Summer Survival; Fun Family Activities, Games and More, by Kathy Peel. This gem of a book lists ideas for kids of all ages and offers a wealth of get organized, get going and enjoy the summer ideas.
Summer Bridge Activities Books for all grades preschool through middle school and Summer Activities for the Young Christian, by Julia Ann Hobbs. Colorful, fun, value-based, award-winning workbooks which will keep your kids learning through fun and challenging activities.
So, now it’s your turn, 24/7 MOMS; tell us how you’re keeping your kids busy.

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Bloggy Giveaway - WIN Geo Mate Jr.


So first let' start by explaining what geo caching is - Geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunting game played throughout the world by adventure seekers equipped with GPS devices. The basic idea is to locate hidden containers, called geocaches, outdoors and then share your experiences online. Geocaching is enjoyed by people from all age groups, with a strong sense of community and support for the environment. (From http://www.geocaching.com/) There are 853,346 active geocaches around the world.




Next when I heard we were getting this product to review I had to go out and buy one for my son who LOVES treasure hunts! He was so excited. The first day we looked for 4 caches, and did not find one of them but he still wanted to go back for more. The second day we went out looking for three and found two! He was so excited. Everyday he asks if we can go treasure hunting. The Geo Mate Jr. is really nice because it is VERY child oriented. They took out all the hard caches or the caches that have not been found recently.

I would suggest before heading out check out the cache you are going to find on http://www.geocaching.com/ because they give you "hints" as to where these little things are. Sometimes we found they are as little as a bullet, sometimes they are in key finders, and sometimes they are in formula cans! But the hints at http://www.geocaching.com/ will tell you what sized cache you are looking for. But if you don't want to ruin the surprise just go straight off of you Geo Mate Jr!

The family-friendly Geomate.jr provides everything you need right out of the box to get started on your first geocaching adventure. With about 250,000 preloaded geocaches to find, you’d better get started!



Review by: Tanya Peila
24/7 MOMS Project Manager

tanya@247moms.com

WIN: 24/7 MOMS and Geo Mate Jr. are giving away a Geo Mate Jr. to ONE lucky reader. To enter for your chance to win:

1. Become a 24/7 MOMS Subscriber Enter your email address below then leave a comment that you subscribed.

2. If you are already a subscriber just leave a comment that you are a subscriber. US entries only and one entry per person. Winner will be chosen on August 2nd.

Enter your email address:

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WIN - Blockbuster Summer Excape Pass

Movies are a great way to spend family time on the weekends or at night during the summer! This is a great program from Blockbuster!

The Summer Escape Pass from BLOCKBUSTER allows consumers to rent as many movies, games and TV series as they want from participating stores for only $10 a week, with one rental out at a time. With the Summer Escape Pass from BLOCKBUSTER, families can choose from thousands of movies in the BLOCKBUSTER library – from classic family favorites to animated kids films to the hottest new releases.

Review by: Tanya Peila
24/7 MOMS Project Manager
tanya247moms@gmail.com

WIN: 24/7 MOMS and Blockbuster are giving away a one week Summer Escape Pass to THREE lucky readers. To enter for your chance to win:

1. Become a 24/7 MOMS Subscriber Enter your email address below then leave a comment that you subscribed, make SURE you leave an email address we can contact you at.

2. If you are already a subscriber just leave a comment that you are a subscriber.US entries only and one entry per person. Winner will be chosen on August 2, 2009.

Enter your email address:

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Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Thanks to our sponsors

Thanks to our sponsors from this weeks LIVE web cast:


Nothing But Chocolate is a home-based chocolate business located in historic Cambridge, Ohio. Amanda Cox, owner, prides herself in the quality of her product, giving each order her undivided attention, and hand-dipping every one in some of the finest quality chocolate.With each bite, you'll find our chocolates to be some of the most exquisite tasting chocolates you've ever experienced. That's because we produce in small batches, so every chocolate is fresh when you order it. And, we'll work one-on-one with you for special occasions such as weddings, baby showers or graduations. Or any event that you'd like to make a little sweeter.Nothing But Chocolate products can be ordered online, fax or mail order. Or call us at 740-439-5754.




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Monday, July 20, 2009

Let's Make A Meal - Bruschetta



One of my FAVORITE summer meals or appetizers is Bruschetta, especially when we are able to create it using fresh ingredients from our own garden.

My husband is the chef when it comes to Bruschetta and I have to admit he make the best I have ever had.

Steve's SECRET Bruschetta
His Secret is using garden fresh , vine ripened tomatoes.

Ingredients:

8-10 Vine ripe Tomatoes (chopped)
2-3 cloves garlic chopped
1/4 extra virgin olive oil
10-15 fresh basil leaves, chopped
kosher salt to taste
1/4 tsp pepper

Sliced cheddar or mozzarella cheese
1-2 French baguette loaves

1. Toss together your tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, salt and pepper into a bowl.

2. Slice French baguette in 1" slices, place on cookie sheet. Toast in oven using the broiler.

3. Place Bruschetta mixture on top of toasted baguette along with a slice of your choice of cheese.

ENJOY!

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Deal Of The Day - Free Starbucks Pastry

Deal of the Day - On the morning of Tuesday July 21st from opening until 10:30am Starbucks wants you to enjoy a FREEbie pastry with the purchase of your beverage. Click here to get your invitation for a FREEbie pastry

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WIN - The Chopper Keeper

When I saw this the first thing I thought of was CAMPING! This is so great to take camping and chop things up and take them to the stove or the campfire for cooking! I use it outside while camping too. Because you can never find a clean place to chop stuff up!



The Chop Keeper is here to make this summer the best one yet. The Chop Keeper makes the perfect grill companion. It is a cutting board with a patented ½ inch raised edge which keeps your meat or vegetables on the board, and not all over the ground or on your countertop. Use it to transport freshly marinated steaks to and from the grill without worrying about spilling juice all over the place. Use it to carve a roast, or to dice tomatoes, The Chop Keeper is the only tray guaranteed to keep your mess contained.



The Chop Keeper is also flexible, allowing you to easily pour your ingredients into your bowl, pan or grill top. Simply grasp the sides, fold and pour. Safely transfer excess juices into the garbage without fear of spilling. Made from FDA approved plastic, it is so attractive and versatile it can also double as a serving tray! Ideal for camping, The Chop Keeper allows you to safely transport and chop ingredients and insure they stay on the tray and don’t end up in the dirt.


Review by: Tanya Peila

24/7 MOMS Project Manager

tanya@247moms.com

WIN: 24/7 MOMS and The Chop Keeper are giving away one three set of Chop Keepers to ONE lucky reader. To enter for your chance to win:

1. Become a 24/7 MOMS Subscriber Enter your email address below then leave a comment that you subscribed.

2. If you are already a subscriber just leave a comment that you are a subscriber. US entries only and one entry per person. Winner will be chosen on August 2, 2009.

Enter your email address:

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Pizza Party Fun

I often think I should have been born an Italian since my FAVORITE foods are Pasta and Pizza. Recently I found a new yummy marinara sauce Nonna's Gourmet Marinara Sauce that not only makes a great pasta sauce but a perfect pizza sauce as well.

A Summer FUN idea would be to invite a few of your children's friends over and host a make your own pizza party.


Little Nonna's Pizza Party

all purpose flour for dusting and rolling
2 - 8oz. dough balls
1 - 16oz. jar of Nonna's Gourmet Foods Marinara Sauce
2oz. parmesan cheese
1 1/2 c. mozzarella cheese (fresh or shredded)
toppings of your choice
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1. Place a pizza stone into the oven on the middle rack and preheat to 475 degrees.
2. Portion the pizza dough into 4 - 4oz. size dough balls, dust with flour and set aside. Let rest for about 20 minutes.
3. On a cutting board dusted with flour roll each dough ball out to a 6-8 inch circle, lightly sprinkling with flour as needed. If they are not perfect do not worry. Do Not roll out to thin and be careful not to tear the dough. Now gently pick up the dough and place it on a pizza screen, gently adjusting the dough.
4. Now spoon on some of Nonna's Gourmet Foods Marinara Sauce (approximately 1-2oz. per pizza) and from the center outward spread the sauce in a circular motion. Leaving a 1/2 inch crust on the edges.
5. Sprinkle some of the parmesan cheese on top of the sauce, then add the mozzarella cheese. Making sure to lightly spread the cheese out evenly. At this point you can add a small amount of toppings to each pizza. Remember DO NOT put large amounts of toppings on the pizzas. This makes them to heavy and soggy!!!!
6. Place the pizza screen with the pizza onto the pizza stone. Let bake on the screen for 3-4 minutes. At this point slide the pizza off of the screen and onto the stone. Let bake for another 4 minutes or just until the cheese starts to bubble and the crust is golden and crisp.
7. Slide the pizza out onto a pizza pan or plate. Let rest for 1-2 minutes before slicing, as the cheese needs to set. Cut into 4 or 8 slices. Enjoy!!
8. Heat up the extra sauce and give each little one their own individual dipping bowl.

This recipe should make 4 pizzas 6-8 inches in diameter

A % of each jar sold of Nonna's Gourmet Food Products is donated to help find a cure for children's brain cancer. Nonna's Gourmet Foods is a "Partner in Hope" with St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. This is done in the memory of my daughter Zoë Marie. Go to www.nonnasgourmetfoods.com for the complete "Zoë Story" and join the fight "one jar at a ti

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Saturday, July 18, 2009

WIN - Lollipop Shop Lollipops

My favorite part of any party is shopping for the party favors. We found a great lollipop shop online that makes homemade lollipops for any occasion!

The Sweet Lollipop Shop specialize in custom hand poured lollipops and favors for all occasions, including crystal barley hard candy lollipops in hundreds of shapes and delicious flavors. The Sweet Lollipop Shop is a true family collaboration right out of our home in Londonderry, NH.

They even have Candy jewels which I think would be great for a Pirate party! Lousie also has a great Ducky Soap Store. These make great favors or all occasions as well!



Review by: Tanya Peila
24/7 MOMS Project Manager
tanya247moms@gmail.com


WIN: 24/7 MOMS and The Lollipop Shop are giving away a small mystery box to ONE lucky reader. To enter for your chance to win:

1. Become a 24/7 MOMS Subscriber Enter your email address below then leave a comment that you subscribed.

2. If you are already a subscriber just leave a comment that you are a subscriber.US entries only and one entry per person. Winner will be chosen on July 26th.

Enter your email address:

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Shout Us Out and WIN


24/7 MOMS LIVE is growing weekly in its viewership THANKS to our MOMtourage.

Once again this week we will host a SPECIAL giveaway for our moms that SHOUT out about us and help us to continue to make 24/7 MOMS LIVE the #1 LIVE web cast for moms.

Tell your MOM friends about the 24/7 MOMS weekly live web cast and you will be entered for a chance to WIN this weeks MOMtourage giveaway during the 24/7 MOMS LIVE web cast.

You can earn up to 4 entries each week by doing any of the below options, just be sure to come back and fill out the form after each entry!

- Post about 24/7 MOMS Live web cast on your Facebook, with a link to www.247moms.com

- Tweet about the weekly 24/7 MOMS Live web cast . www.twitter.com

Sample tweet
- Join me for 24/7 MOMS Live web cast, chatting up Marriage, giveaways, Tips and more this week 7pm PST/ 10pm EST www.247moms.com @247MOMS

- Add the 24/7 MOMS Live web cast button to your blog . Copy and paste link below. ( reciev a weekly entry every week you keep our button on yor site)




- Blog about the weekly 24/7 MOMS Live web cast with a link back to www.247moms.com

Once you have completed an entry method, fill out the form below! Be sure you fill out a form for each entry you do.

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What They Were Chatting


Ideas, Comments, Tips, Resources, and Fun are all part of the Chatting that goes on during the 24/7 MOMS LIVE web cast. This week Team member Amy compiled the chat that happened during our weekly show into an organized list for us. So, even if you were not able to join us on our weekly show you can still be part of what the chatting was all about. 24/7 MOMS have GREAT things to share.

Websites/Blogs Mentioned During Webcast Chat:


OnBirthday.Com – The Place to Find Birthday Deals in Your State:
http://www.onbirthday.com/home.do

Party Delivered to You, in a Fun, Festive Box:
www.poshpartybox.com

Irresistibly playful creations anyone can make:
http://www.hellocupcakebook.com/ .
Music Featured During 24/7 MOMS Webcast:

http://www.jennalexandermusic.com/ .
Books Mentioned During 24/7 MOMS Webcast:

itsbooyer: check out this book: Hello, Cupcake by Karen Tack & Alan Richardson
scrapnmom: “Martha Stewart Cupcake Book; 175 Ideas for Everyone’s Favorite Treat” is at Costco

IDEAS and TIPS chatted about:
Non-Birthday Great Idea:

scrapnmom: Oh...we do a back to school party… I do a chalkboard cake!!


Making Birthdays Special, Now and As a Treasured Memory:

*A birthday is a great day to remember those vital kid-statistics. Take height, weight and hair swatch of your children on their birthday.

Have the kids make the b-day cards for recipients. After the birthday, we make a scrap book page from the cards they receive...they love the notes from their friends years later

On my birthday, I write a letter to my parents, thanking them for "me" and thanking them for them in my life (and a note to my special friends)

lilibell: Yes, one of my most treasured things is a letter my dad wrote to me on my birthday. He is gone now and I love to read the letter.

dimoe: I have a special book that I write in once a year which I will give her when she is 18.. it is really recaps her year

Savin$Amy: write a letter to your friends on your b-day and to your parents..... Your kids just might learn to do the same for you (and the letters will be so valuable)

Anna: We take a picture as soon as they get up before shower hair brushed..... Great pics. Amazing how they were so excited when they were young but now we get weird faces.

TechieTany: We write them each a letter on their birthday

CupCake Decorating Ideas:

lori123: i love to google cupcake pictures for ideas

SL3MOM: Did u know Betty Crocker just came out with Gluten free cake, cookie, brownie mixes - saw that today

KarinH: For my daughter's birthday party in her kindergarten class I made cupcake in ice cream cones.

itsbooyer: use twizzlers for the baseball cupcake

Gena: I used to do "dirt" ones with gummy worms

c_retz: i just saw one where they put 3 together and frosted them with yellow. and put yellow & white little jelly beans in rows on them and put corn picks in the end to make it look like corn on the cob. it was really cute.

KarinH: The apple cupcakes would be a cute gift for teachers
Celebrating Birthdays:

Birthday treasure/scavenger hunts

Hiding small gifts or cards throughout the house

Sending a “birthday in a box” to a someone celebrating a birthday away from home

TechieTany: You can put Hershey kisses in the pockets and bags, etc

Gena: My son always wants cheesecake then we go out for dinner. This year, he got his first PORTERHOUSE

dimoe: we take her out for dinner

c_retz: i've made all my boy's birthday cakes.

scrapnmom: My son had ice cream this year for his birthday breakfast

beckysue75: Send them a note in their lunchbox at school

lilibell: We make lots of small birthday cards and hide them around the house and in my son's backpack, as well as small gifts. Lots of fun to search for them.

KarinH: We try to get balloons the night before when they are sleeping so they wake up with birthday balloons

lilibell: We make lots of small birthday cards and hide them around the house and in my son's backpack, as well as small gifts. Lots of fun to search for them.

Gena: I surprised boyfriend with game tickets. Our birthdays are 2 days apart Feb 16 and 18

RantRavRol: Wake them up singing Happy Birthday

scrapnmom: Go thru their baby scrapbooks and talk about how important that day was

Janet: Birthday fairy ribbon leading to gift.

scrapnmom: Make sure they know how special they are

annaed2: Our child gets to choose what we have for supper, including dessert.

HiSgUrL: he has no chores on his birthday!

itsbooyer: take your husband roller skating

sheilacake: we always cook out for my sons birthday

scrapnmom: I do special cakes for them...well, my friend Shelly makes them...so awesome

marylouguinn: my kids get to pick the breakfast, lunch & dinner for the day.

Celebrating Birthdays While Out of Town:

lilibell: We had to be out of town for my son's birthday, so we let him choose where to go and what to eat. he enjoyed being in charge

Savin$Amy: Mom Tip: If you go on vacation during your child's bday -- set a timer.... My mom once called me the day after and began singing...but did not call me on my bday
Celebrating Holiday Birthdays:

Christmas birthdays celebrated at the “Half-Year”, during the summer

beckysue75: You can celebrate summer birthdays early before school gets out or you can celebrate half birthdays during the school year
Birthday Party Themes:

c_retz: we did a zoo theme for my son's 4th birthday last week.

HiSgUrL: we did a bowling party..we gave mini trophies with gift certificates for a free game of bowling and we made all the kids bowling shirts

scrapnmom: My son's Mariner's baseball birthday I got Mariners baseball cards

scrapnmom: For my daughters Webkinz birthday I had special Webkinz sleeping bags for all the kids, they all still use them and remember my daughter's birthday
Finding Special Celebration Gifts:

*Purchase a helium balloon kit, for balloons at the ready for celebrations or any day you want to make someone feel special

scrapnmom: You can find fun things on ebay or etsy for gifts

Party Favors and Party Supply Ideas:

Keep a “celebration box”,: Shop sales, after-holiday clearances, and other great deals. Create one place where all of the party supplies and birthday gifts can be kept. Inventory and review this box occasionally. Find practical, fitting gifts for those around you (and those last-minute birthday invitations your kids receive), at a better price when you maintain this box, than the last minute, less-thrifty rushed purchases.

scrapnmom: Again I do focus on the party favors so my kids learn to love to give

HiSgUrL: we give more snacks as opposed to cheap toys in favor boxes. The cheap toys just end up in the trash with in a day or so
Birthday Party Activities Ideas:

annaed2: Let the kids decorate their own cupcakes at the party.

lilibell: We let the kids decorate cupcakes and it was a hoot!

Anna: We just did my son's 16th at the end of September last year. We did an Amazing Race. We had parents as the drivers and stations throughout the city

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