Windbreaks

In rural communities, windbreaks are a common scene and for good reason. They slow the wind down or prevent prevailing winter winds from hitting your house directly saving valuable heating dollars. In the summer they slow or prevent soil erosion. In the heat of the summer deciduous windbreaks help to cool winds before they reach your house. Some windbreaks provide a habitat for small birds

Merry Christmas

Happy Gardening!Garden Gnome©2006-2008

Have you been Naughty Or Nice?

Well Santa is just about here boys and girls, I've been watching the Santa Tracker all day. So he has little bit longer to check that naughty or nice list and I have one question to all of you.....Have you been....NAUGHTY or NICE?Remember folks, Santa's watching!Okay for those of you that know me, we've already opened all our presents and now the children are eagerly waiting for morning because

Where's Santa?

With only hours to go before Santa arrives at your house I bet you are hearing all types of things from your kids.Mom, was I good this year? How does Santa know if I'm still behaving? Where's Santa now mom?Well for most of those you can have Santa email your kids a letter telling them they've behaved. Mine did and even told him what they wanted for Christmas and he's already sent back two letters

Window Mobile Smartphone

Did you know Windows has a phone out? I had no clue but I guess these days it shouldn't be a surprise that computer programming companies are coming out with them. I mean even Google has a phone now. So what's the new phone?Windows Mobile Smartphone, which you can currently purchase it through the link or one of three companies: VerizonWireless, AT&T or Sprint. The SmartPhone comes with:Version

Christmas Movie Winners

11 & 91 were the winners in the Christmas (New & Old Classics) so would:Leah- At the moment, The Santa Clause. I just watched it again and it'scute.not.a.ship{at}gmail.comShelly- Elf cracks me up. And I love Joy to the World.Please email me at homemom3@gmail.com with your address so I can get these sent to you. Thank you.

Win Christmas Movies!

Homemom3 is giving away two different sets of movies, one is The Classic Christmas Movie Collection and the other is the NEW classic Christmas Movies. Now only two winners will get this so you have to get in on this now, oh and did I mention there is only one day to enter.Okay, in my local paper I read how some people are actually trying to BAN Rudolph songs and others don't want their kids

Real Verses Artificial Christmas Trees

It's that time of year for the most popular holiday icon to make its presence. A decorated Christmas tree is a must have for many. In years past that meant going out and cutting your own tree. In recent times it means pulling the artificial tree from the closet and setting it up. Either way the Christmas tree is a seasonal tradition. There are definite reasons for choosing a real Christmas

Small Touches for the Holidays

You don't have to break the bank or take 2 weeks to decorate for the holidays. I think I would rather have a few things in each of my rooms (even the bathroom!) Then one or two rooms over done. Thats me tho, how about you? Do you go all out? I love these pictures because they all have a festive feeling without being over the top.

Random Integer GeneratorHere are your random numbers:3The LG Rumor in Blue it's perfect for me! I can email and it's blue! My daughter would love this finally she could have her own cell phone.# posted by Taylor Blue : 3:14 PM Congratulations! Please contact me by noon today or I'll have to draw another winner. homemom3@gmail.com (please folks leave email addresses)

Baby Einstein Celebrates 10 Years

A few weeks ago Momcentral teamed up with Baby Einstein and blessed this house with its very first Baby Einstein video, cd and book. I want to tell you I'm ashamed to state that and I wasn't blind to this company, in fact a very good friend in Sweden tells me all about these videos...I just hadn't bought them.The first thing that Little A grabbed was the book, "boook." He begain right away

Giveaways by Homemom3

Here are a few giveaways I'm having soon:- Lands' End Winter Surprise- Teens Talk- Christmas Movie ClassicsOther upcoming ones:- Smart ShopperBabylune:Christmas Movie Classics- Two collections for 3 winners each. What's your favorite holiday movie? Deadline December 18thVivabox- Coffee in a box, what would you want? Deadline December 18th.Scooterbees- what pic would you like on them? Deadline

Kajeet Winner...

Random Integer GeneratorHere are your random numbers:64Timestamp: 2008-12-16 00:17:22 UTC I like the Sanyo Katana II (Black)# posted by Becca : 11:08 PMBecca make sure to email me homemom3@gmail.com I will give this to the next winner if I don't hear back. :)For those that did not win:**If you didn't win the Kajeet, you can purchase them online now. For a limited time, you can take 15% off the

Winner of Busy Ball-tivity Center!

The winner of the Busy Ball-Tivity Center goes to....Hey, I just put this on our Christmas wish list earlier! LOL!We were talkingabout GloWorms this week. DH didn't know what they were! I remember having oneas a little girl. I vaguely remember a cartoon and all (he doesn't) The RosePetal stuff is darling.#posted by Storm, The Psychotic HousewifeEmail was already sent out. Congrats again. For

Hannah Montana Winner

Using Random number generator the lucky winner of the Hannah Montana backstage pass is...Both her brother and sister starred in one of Hanna Montanna's music videos. (that's from my dd!) And yes she'd scream too if she got this book. LOLBrain Foggleshttp://brainfoggles.com# posted by ConnieFogglesplease email me at homemom3@gmail.com with your address. Now your daughter gets to scream too.

No Voice

Man I hate having no voice, but seems like that sore throat and fever has taken away my voice yet again. This time I think I hurt it more last week when it first started, I ate a pizza and think I ripped part of the inside of my throat. (had some small evidence)Anyways now it is super sore and hurts to talk so looks like once again I have laringitis (not sure of the spelling). Kids are just

Elks Take SoccerBoy Shopping

On Friday Morning I had a weird number show up on my phone, so what does one do that loves the internet? I googled it, saw it was in the area and did a research search. I still wasn't sure, so finally I called it back but not before hearing my kid on my answering machine and then another followed up, "Can we adopt your kids for the weekend?" Now I knew no one literally wanted to adopt them but

SoccerBoy Made the Weekly Paper

Woo hoo, found out that SoccerBoy made the paper. First, I wasn't very pleased as we did sign a piece of paper stating our kids were NOT to be in the media/paper/anything at the beginning of the school year.But I got a note that came home the other day with him, he was so excited and first thing out of his mouth was "Mom, you are going to be mad and happy." My first thought was okay how do I

Tok Box Helps Familes Stay in Touch

We are no longer in the military but I found a site that would be great if we were. The site is called Tok Box and basically what you do is chat live in a little box on the top of your screen. I'm loving this and am going to actually do this as a Christmas Morning Greeting for the entire family on the west coast.The family doesn't get to see the kids much, never did when we were in the military

Giveway: The Busy Ball-tivity Center

The Busy Ball-Tivity Center can stack, spin, move and everything that'll get your little toddler wanting to stay with it for a long while. My son loves to try stacking them on top of each other. The first day he was all about sitting or trying to sit in the center, we've finally convinced him it wasn't a pool. (only thing we could think of) Now he likes putting the ball in the hover hole and

Review: FurReal Friends Tumbles

Ya'll know BabyGirl (age 5) has been wanting a dog forever, she even pretends to have an invisible one. Thanks to Shannon for sending this our way. As you can see by the picture she just loves this dog, in fact she took it everywhere with us. We did have to explain why she couldn't take her dog inside the store or restaurants.Fur Real Friends Tumbles my Roll Over Pup is a very cute and cuddly

Review: Baby Alive Learns to Potty

Baby Alive Learns to Potty has made one little girl very happy in this house. Yes, I know I said I'd never allow her but she made her squeal. The Baby Alive Doll is learning to potty and I've actually discovered there are a few great things that come with having her here. First the doll says a few phrases like: - I made a stinky.- Tinkle Tinkle, Tinkle (then she pees)- Lets play...boo- it laughs-

Snowing in Lees Summit

This morning I woke to the rain, it was nothing hard but apparently it had been raining all night. I wouldn't know, I've been sick and staying in bed. The hubby got up and quickly went to work, the kids got up and off to school they went. But I began hearing a strange sound, it wasn't rain now, it was small ice droppings coming down. I took a few pics of before, but they are in the wrong camera.

MomCentral's 1st Holiday Gift Guide

Like many blogs online, MomCentral has decided to make their very own MomCentral Holiday Gift Guide. This is the first Holiday Guide they've created and it covers every age, sex and hobby. You'll find stuff for boys and girls, babies, children of all ages, the man, woman and even pets.One thing that not many know is you can even enter GIVEAWAYS and ya'll know how much I love those. In this

Teen Talk: Relationship Winner

The winner of the Teen Talk: Relationships is the mother of two teens: SHARON at www.MidleAgedMama.blogspot.comwould LOVE to win this...am mom to 2 teens. My most recent issue is getting in order to get his license, my son needs to get a job...we simply cannot afford it all...and he has little motivation...so that is what we are working on...thanks# posted by Sharon : 12:59 PM Congratulations,

Giveaway: Hannah Montana Backstage Pass

All I can say is when this book arrived and it was taken out of the package, she had no clue what was in the box. As I pulled out the book, it couldn't be hidden, she (BalletGirl, age 8) knew what it was....SCCRRREEEAAAAMMMMMMS! Yep, you guessed it, it was something HANNAH MONTANA.I explained it wasn't a doll, movie, or even a video game but she didn't care. She impatiently waited for me to hand

Joe's Jeans Winners HURRY

To the Joe's Jeans winners, I need the following two to email me by noon Pacific Time (California time) If I do not hear from you by then I will draw a new name.Kanthony25 and ehager79@yahoo.com (Elizabeth)Hurry there isn't much time. I've sent out emails you can drop me an email at homemom3@gmail.com

Winners of the Joe's Jeans!

To the winners of the Joe's Jeans Giveaway please email me at homemom3@gmail.com with your mailing address so I can send this over to Joe's. :) Have a great day and HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!Kanthony25 said...My favorite jeans memory is buying my first pair of expensive jeans. I was so shocked at how well they fit, and how it was almost like they were cut just for me. I love Joes Jeans and I hope I win!!

Psst...a Hannah Montana Giveaway Coming Soon

Keep watch as you'll like the next giveaway, especially if ya love books and LOVE Hannah Montana! Okay back to my chores. Later folks. Don't forget to sign up for my Joe's Jeans Giveaway, it ends when I announce the winner at 8 p.m. Central Time.

Something Different for Christmas

Traditions are what the holidays are all about but sometimes its fun to think outside the box. How about a herb tree or a twig card holder? A door decoration not in the usual round shape. Just a note, I will be blogging more next week. I was out of town for the Thanksgivng holiday so look for more post next week!

Carbon Neutral for a Day

You cannot imagine how surprised I was to see this certificate saying I was carbon neutral for a day! Our carbon footprint is something that we have been actively reducing for quite some time. We do this by growing as much as we can organically and reducing our consumption in all areas of our lives. With each house we have learned more so we have been able to fine tune to a higher level and

Lands' End Sleeping Bag Takes Turns

We've been trying out a very soft and comfy sleeping bag from Lands' End and so far it has been passed around. This sleeping bag is suppose to be for a "child" however I must say that in order to be fair I just had to test it out as well. I mean how could I ever do a review of it if I didn't, hey had to think of something to tell SoccerBoy. The outside is a light blue and on the inside pattern is

Kajeet Phone Giveaway

Ya'll already know how I feel towards my Kajeet, I totally love my phone. Well, I am now able to give one lucky winner a phone of their own too. Want one? The rules won't be that hard but you will have to hunt around for the answers. Not like that'll be hard either though.Here's some facts for you:- There are no contracts. After one month you can stop using it, or after 2 years and 5 months.

Wordless Wednesday

The Kids in snow action. Yep, it snowed here and all four got to play in it. If you look close enough you can see they are in action (throwing snowballs). Happy WW! By the way, don't forget to sign up for all my giveaways I'm having this week. Chicken Soup for the Soul Teen Talks, a Kajeet phone and many more fun items.

Teacher Sales ads on Tests

A teacher that needed a bit more money, as we know they don't get paid really well as it is, tried making a bit of extra cash this holiday season by selling ad space on his tests. Yes, tests as in those things you give students. I guess this is one way to not only advertise but make sure you aren't waisting total white space."Tough times call for tough actions," he says. So he started selling ads

Throwing Snowballs

Little A experienced his first snowball this year, as you can tell by the picture he simply loved it. Only thing is he doesn't realize when his fingers are too cold. You can see where he begins to want in but since it is so much fun outside he just doesn't want to be left without the snow.In the picture he was on the back porch with daddy and tossing a snowball at me. You can see he's just thrown

Teens Talk: Relationships Giveaway

First book giveaway is going to be Chicken Soup for the Soul: Teens Talk Relationships: Stories about Family, Friends, and Love (Chicken Soup for the Soul). I think this is one of those books every teen needs to read, with stories of loves lost, finding a love to friendships it really has a special place in all their hearts. (Pictures coming once I have the pop up working again.)Stories I loved

Prepare for some Giveaways

I got a few books from Chicken Soup for the Soul this past week to hand out to some lucky readers. Want to know a bit about them? First off they are all part of the Chicken Soup for the Soul's Teens Talk.• Chicken Soup for the Soul: Teens Talk Growing Up• Chicken Soup for the Soul: Teens Talk Relationships• Chicken Soup for the Soul: Teens Talk Tough Times• Chicken Soup for the Soul: Preteens

Black Friday & Cyber Monday

Hey, you can't blame me for going out on Black Friday now can ya? What? Oh of course I did, a girl has to shop even if she doesn't normally. I mean when deals are slashed and you can get all those holiday gifts at lower prices then one can't really argue. I went with the two boys to Wal-Mart and the hubby took the two girls to Kohl's. As we arrived at Wal-Mart we were amazed that there was no

Workers Get $6.6 Million Year End Bonus

Wow, this is one company that knows how to treat their employees. An Illinois company that was recently acquired by a Sweden group decided to (the old employer) treat the staff with a nice Thanksgiving gift. Each member was given their own turkey for Thanksgiving, which is a great gesture, but they weren't expecting the following:They gave away $6.6 million in year-end bonuses to Peer's 230

Kajeet For Kids

You might remember my review last year of the Kajeet Sanyo Kantana, I also LOVED that little phone. Not only was my son able to use it back and forth to school but we were able to try it out during our move. (hubby traveled cross country in a moving van testing it out)Guess what? I'm now a Kajeet Mom, by this I mean I sell Kajeet phones and this new one I have is a beauty. It's the Red Samsung

Delta's Disney Princess Black Friday deals

Delta's Disney Princess, Cars 20 pc Room in a Box on sale for $77.49, Friday 11/28 from 5am -1pm only at TRU, BRU (picture attached)ShopSat & Sun at KMART for BOGO 1/2 off on licensed toddler furniture from DELTA -Princesses, Dora, Car

Wordless Wednesday: After Twilight

We just saw Twilight, had to get some Hot Fudge. Happy WW! Did you see Twilight? What did you think?

Giveaways Days Before Black Friday

Lille Punkin' Reviews has a few giveaways for ya:- $25 GC to Target- cute Jooble- 2 Avon products (bamboo reed diffuser, Jillian Dempsey Essential Beauty Palette)Sweet Figments is having a Blog a Day Giveaway, now you'll have to go by there to find out what is being given away on that particular day. I see candles, journals, earrings and so much more.Type A Mom is having a 12 days of Christmas

What I Wish: A Christmas Tree

This past month has been one thing after another, but I realized when things start going right again what I want to do. See, I was inside Walmart this past month and being the holiday season they have everything decorated. The thing that caught my eye though was the Christmas tree with all those wishes on it. This doesn't normally get to me, most of the time I don't stop to read them as I have

Home Offices

One of my favorite rooms to really put a lot of thought into is my home office. With spaces being scarce, it takes some thought. Mine is in my main living area, taking up one small wall. I think the main thing you have to consider is what you actual use your home office for, and then go from there. Sometimes keeping the laptop by your bedside is all you will really need. Do you have a dedicated space for a home office? Mine is used primarily to pay bills, keep all the "papers" organized and surf the net.

Pre-Black Friday Giveaway

In honor of the upcoming BLACK FRIDAY, I know a ton of you will be running around for BLACK FRIDAY and I wanted to give one winner a prize. Thanks though to MomSelect for sending me my preview pack.One lucky winner will get a $10 BearBuck$ gift card. For those that don't know Build-a-Bear has a website online and now your kids can get on and have a ball. The bucks can help bring a build-a-bear

BalletGirl's 13 Thursday Wishlist

A girl can dream can't she and boy does she like the color pink.1 Littlest Pet Shop VIP Penguin2 Fur Real Friends Biscuit My Lovin Pup3 Littlest Pet Shop Digital Electronic Interactive Organizer Pink (we have the green but she wants the pink)4 Fisher-Price Kid-Tough Waterproof Digital Camera Pink (she loves pink)5 Fur Berries Teal with Bonus DVD (pink of course) None as poppables in the 80s6 Tini

Wordless Wednesday: Joe's Jeans Giveaway

Want to win a pair? Head over to Joe's Jeans Giveaway and enter. BalletGirl LOVES them, they fit moms and kids. Happy WW!

Joe's Jeans Giveaway

The Life of a Home Mom is having a BIG giveaway thanks to Joe's Jeans. For those that don't know Joe Jeans are the same type that have been seen on one of my favorite actresses, Katie Holmes. Remember her wearing them here? They want every day moms to feel beautiful.Well Joe Jeans wants to give 5 pairs of jeans away, which is a perfect holiday gift for young or old. That's right while you'll see

Tuesday Giveaways

We are closing in on Thanksgiving and I have a few giveaways in store for you here at "The Life of a Home Mom" and listed below. Let me know if you get lucky and win anything.If you'd like me to host a giveaway or review a product for you (don't ask for it back) send an email to Homemom3@gmail.comGIVEAWAYS:Over at A Bookworm(Mom)'s Diaryyou can actually win something yummy to eat while you are

Win $500

Are you ready for the Digital TV transition? I'm not and I'm not lieing, I love my tv and just haven't been able to afford the transfer. Until Whiskey Falls told me, I had no clue I could get a government coupon for $40 off. One more thing, looks like I'm not the only one with rabbit ears. Okay, not really but basically what I have. Okay, I guess the $500 I can win but you can win something

New Twist on "Wheels On the Bus"

Whether you are a mom or not you've probably sang or heard of "The Wheels on the Bus," but something tells me you've never seen it like this. While searching for yet another nursery song for my two youngest (which I've heard a bazillion times) I came across this video. I could totally watch this over and over. How about you? Does this bring a nice twist to nursery rhymes? Okay, I'm off to listen

Lands' End Fleece Winner

Congratulations to the winner of the Lands' End Fleece, these are really warm. Redpolkadotgirl since we are going skiing at Christmas this year, I'd love to get the Women's Angel Boots1I've just emailed you, but if you don't get it email me at homemom3@gmail.com.

Bloggy Giveaway Winners

Will the following please contact me:My youngest would like the hot stuff lunch box in navy!!! He has to carry his lunch everyday because "the lunchroom food is yucky!!!".sherri419 atgmail dot com# posted by sherri419please contact me at homemom3@gmail.com, you've WON the Lands' End lunchboxof your choice. Hopefully he'll get a warm lunch that isn't YUCKY. :)For the Baskets of Indulgence I need

No Elves in This House

Well the good news is we are getting closer to my two favorite days..., Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Why? I can stock up and getting all those christmas gifts for the kids reduced prices. One of which I won't even have to leave the house. haha. I'm even getting my list ready, too bad Walmart won't release their list until November 24th. Confused by the title? Well, SoccerBoy was trying out to

In Remembrance

I come from a strong military family with ancestors that were instrumental in shaping the history of Canada. I grew up surrounded by relatives who had fought for this country. Some of them made the ultimate sacrifice and while they are no longer here they live forever in our memories. If this video does not bring tears to your eyes, nothing will. On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th

Making their Wishes by the Cove

Do your children already have their Christmas Wish lists? Mine have been putting circles in magazines and initials by pictures whenever I pick up a catalog. They even put together a list for me, just in case I forget to grab one of the catalogs. I found a fun place though online that I think the kids, and maybe yours would enjoy. It is called WishCove and it has a theme of a small island with

Happy Veteran's Day

To all those that have fought, I wish you a happy Veteran's Day. For all those that have not, I wish you'd take a moment right now to think of those you may know that have had a part in it. I wish you all a good day, to my papa who fought long ago. My uncle Butch who was in Vietnam, my father who didn't have to fight but was in the military helping in the states during war times. To my husband

Barbie and the Diamond Castle Movie Tour

The moment the "Barbie and the Diamond Castle" movie came in BabyGirl has been watching it. Of course even after the movie has ended I still hear the lines. No it isn't still playing in the background but the girls (BabyGirl and BalletGirl) are playing out various parts in their show.I knew BabyGirl wanted to see this since she screamed all about it during a preview on Mariposa. So of course when

Happy Birthday Marine Corps!

Today is the 233rd Marine Corp Birthday, so Happy Birthday to ya'll that have been in, are in or have served four our beautiful country. We may no longer be in the corps but our blood still runs deep in it and yes we will be celebrating.The Marine Corps Birthday goes back to November 10, 1775 in a small tavern known as Tun Tavern in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Course it wouldn't be until 1925

Update 3

Sorry it has taken me a bit longer than anticipated for updating. I really wanted to update the background to the new style that I like but at the same time I wanted to keep the ivy graphic. Most of the updating is finished and I'm happy with the results. Over the next few days you may notice a few minor changes but nothing really disruptive. I'm considering eliminating both the "digg" and "

More Updating

I'm working on finishing up the blog changes today so don't worry if you see a few strange things going on.Happy Gardening!Garden Gnome©2006-2008

I LOVE Ghirardelli Chocolate!

I was recently given the opportunity to review some Ghirardelli Chocolates and I am happy I got the chance. Thank you MomCentral and Ghirardelli, I heart you. As for the rest of you, I had 5 bars sent to me and each one had a flavor of its own. Now BabyGirl gets to try things right along with me since she's home all day with me and her favorite was the Hazelnut because there were lots of nuts

Word Number Play

I love a whimsical touch in decor. Try a lighthearted fun touch. I have lots of "words" all over my house. Just took a huge wall by my front door and turned it into a giant chalkboard. Have fun when you decorated. Your kids will love it too..

Kid Held down in Sewer by Another

Yesterday I saw what undisciplined children were really like and it made me sick to my stomache. I'd like some advice before I actually get into trouble or stand by and watch something so sick ever again.We have tons of trees losing their leaves around here, so much you could pile a few children under it and never know. The leaves can go up to your knees in part of the cul-de-sac on our street.

Leaves

Blog Update: Starting tomorrow morning I will be updating this blog somewhat. You may see some weird things going on as I test things out. Most of the changes will involve the sidebar and header. I'm still debating other changes like the background. Please don't worry though as these changes will not affect the posts or archives. So please bare with me for the next couple of days. I

First Minsky's Visit

Last night we went on a walk (see what happens with no vehicle) and ended up in front of Minsky's Pizza joint here in Lees Summit. I must say I was shocked that it wasn't as packed as I pictured it would've been on a Monday Night...ya know with football and all. For those that don't know rumor has it Democrats will win because the Redskins lost...I was rooting for the Redskins, I hope this isn't

Bloggy Winner #1

The winner for my Savory Memories is....(#225)My kids love the pre cut cookies and I do too....Thank you# posted by linda aCongratulations! Can you email me your address at homemom3@gmail.com within the next 24 hours. Thank you.

The Car Sits...

Many of you have wrote in with your kind letters and helpful words of wisdom, so far, the car just sits in front of the driveway. We live on a slight hill so the tow truck had to leave it on the street as it couldn't make the uphill since the tires won't budge.What we tried:- tried turning the wheel- tried undoing something (plastic thing)- tried bouncing it- tried turning wheel left and

Car Help Needed: Car Won't start

Last night we went to McDonald's and when we came back out the car wouldn't start. The steering wheel just wouldn't move. When you put the key in it won't turn. We ended up having to get it towed home but hoping someone here can help us figure out how to get it to work again. Please help if you've ever experienced this. Thank you.2001 Dodge Grand Caravan

Happy Halloween

I thought for today I'd show you each child in their costume. So here is the first one, this is Little A in his Knight outfit. Something tells me the hat, isn't staying on. I'd love to see your children's costumes? Share your link in the comments. (only those doing halloween costumes please)Sorry it is sideways, I can't flip it.For this next one, it's BabyGirl in her Tinkerbell and yes I realize

Bloggy Giveaway: Lands' End Sherpa fleece

I've got another bloggy giveaway for ya'll that I hope you will love. The winner will get her pick between the Women's Half-Zip Pullover or the Women's Sherpa Fleece.Info on the beautiful Sherpa Fleece and half-zip up sherpa fleece, which comes in a variety of colors:- Sherpa Fleece: our thickest, coziest fleece. Our thickest fleece- Feminine fit- Cotton/jersey lined for comfort- Half-zip style

Sorry for the Talking Guy

To my dear readers:Very sorry about the invisible talking guy, I am looking into it but have no clue where he is. Any help would be great. I'm sure I'm not the only one that's had this happen to now, or at least hope not.

Bloggy Giveaways: Baskets of Indulgence

For my next Bloggy Givaway you are just going to want to indulge in it. Everyone likes a healthy snack, even if you have to indulge a bit. But what's a woman's favorite thing to indulge in? Chocolates and a spa treatment of course, now not every woman can afford the luxuries of a real spa, however with this special giveaway she can treat herself nice right at home. Not to mention it is free to

Bloggy Giveaway: Lands' End Lunchbox

We got to review the cutest little lunchbox recently from Lands' End, BabyGirl loved it so much she has had her lunch in it every day...unless of course I make her clam chowder. Days she is without it it is nearby where she can see it. I thought this would be the perfect item for another bloggy giveaway, don't forget to check out the others.One lucky winner will get a Lands' End lunch box, there

Bloggy Giveaway: Savoring Moments

Bloggy Giveaways is at it again and you'll find a ton of them around the net this week. I decided to go ahead and do a few for ya'll this week. Here is the first one, which is great for those Wine Lovers out there.Have ya ever heard of Pillsbury Savorings Flaky Pastry Bites? Oh these are mouth-watering yummy. I tried the cheese and spinach which tastes great, kids didn't like the idea of the

Wordless Wednesday

Little A speaking on the phone. He's actually using my lap top desk and he's got his notebook and pen right beside him. You telling me he isn't ready to take on the world? Happy WW ya'll!

Good Light

No matter how big or small, if a room has large windows, it will probably look great. Nothing beats LOTS of natural light. I'm not a huge fan of the color gray but the gray in the first picture is very pretty with all the light coming in the window.

ATTENTION: Strawberry Quick is NOT Candy

With Halloween so close I wanted to warn all parents that there is something going around that you should be on the look out for. It is called "Strawberry Quick" and NO it is NOT candy. I can't stress this enough,but am worried that once your children go back to school friends may have this, it is a drug.This drug does look like the candy candy known as Rock Candy and it is colored. This is a

Kids say, "Mom's Insane!"

The kids and I were talking about the upcoming Halloween and I told them I needed some ideas for this year's Halloween Menu. In the past we've always made a list (menu) of Halloween food ideas and that is what I made.You know stuff like this:Eyeball soupbrains and puss (for breakfast)blood and wormsmaggotsturds in kitty litterNow doesn't that sound yummy? They (girls) just freaked out and said, "

Chalk Again

I know I've probably written about chalkboards before but I found some more pictures of them and these are some of my favorites. I love these shots a lot. I have used chalkboard paint in a few places in my house and use them all the time. They are great space savers for sure (not to mention paper savers). Chalkboard paint is easy and cheap to do!

I'm Not a Witch, Just Weird

You Are 35% WitchIt's unlikely that you're a witch. At least, no one thinks you are.You may still be interested in witchcraft, but you're by no means a stereotypical witch.While you don't seem all that witchy, people may think you're a bit weird.You're definitely a little offbeat. No one really knows what to make of you sometimes.Are You a Witch?

Wordless Wednesday

We went to the Oktoberfest in our little town and the girls both got to ride the horses. This is BalletGirl (age 8) and behind her is BabyGirl (age5) walking beside her is daddy. Happy WW ya'll!Visit more at WW and 5minutesformom.

Tuesday Giveaways

Okay this should be a pretty nice size list for ya'll and hopefully next week I'll have a few myself for you to enter. Remember if I somehow missed you just comment so others will see or email me personally at homemom3@gmail.comMom Advice is giving away a Build-A-Bear Workshop Game for Nintendo Wii but you have to tell her one reason you want this game and/or what your favorite Wii game is. You

Holiday Ideas

Ok ok so its not even Halloween yet but its always fun to think ahead about decorating for the holidays. I will be adding holiday shots from time to time hopefully to give you all some ideas for decorating this year. Why not paint your front door a bright red and put a wreath up? Nothing says "Merry Christmas" quite like traditional red and green. Loving the clear lamps with a holiday scene. Simple is always fantastic. A green garland around the window and pass the eggnog!

Share Your Turkey Story

MomCentral let me know about a little competition Electrolux is doing with Kelly Ripa. Ya know the really funny chic that sits besides Live with Regis (and Kelly) in the early morning hours? Well she's cooking up turkes now and wants to know your stories. For those that don't know Electrolux will be donating $20 to Ovaraian Cancer Research Fund for every Turquoise washer and dryer they sell. Wow.

Las Vegas Boy Found

Cole Mason Puffinburger was kidnapped from his home on October 5th, his mom and her boyfriend tied together and a nation-wide hunt began for him. The good news is he was found late last night, Saturday, October 18th in Las Vegas. Someone saw the little boy walking the streets NE of the Las Vegas Strip. My guess is his kidnappers released him and figured he'd either find his way home or he

Amber Alert: Las Vegas Boy

There's been very little update on the 6-year-old boy named Cole Puffinburger since it was announced that he'd been taken from his home yesterday morning. Police are getting tons of calls but nothing has panned out.Here is what is coming out:Relative of Boy Kidnapped by Police Impostors Reportedly Ran Drug CartelPolice seek 'person of interest' in kidnappingAs you can see by the titles they do

Amber Alert: Las Vegas 6-year-old boy

A Las Vegas, 6-year-old little boy was grabbed this morning when his home was broke into by two hispanic men said they were police. These two "police" tied up the boys mother and her boyfriend and then kidnapped the boy and left. Cole Puffinburger (age 6)3 feet, 11 inches tallweighing 48 poundsblond hairblue eyes.He was wearing a black shirt, a black zip-up jacket, blue jeans and white shoes. If

Wordless Wednesday: Hiding in Trees

Believe it or not there is a squirrel in that tree, you can barely see him due to the shining light. But we had to do it quickly. Happy WW!Visit the others that are participating at the HUB and 5Minutesformom.

Over-wintering Plants

Our ADFF was October 12th this year meaning on that date there was a 50/50 chance of a damaging or hard frost. Unfortunately it came earlier than predicted spelling disaster to local tomato farmers. There were hundreds of thousands of dollars lost due to the early frost. Our property is water front so tends to be a bit protected from frost longer into the season still it is time to bring in

Tuesday Giveaways

Babylune has a few giveaways going on and this first one ends tonight. It's a Surprise Giveaway, I can't tell ya what it is but I can say you'll love it if you are a brand new mom or a mom of a little baby. This one you must tell me which halloween costume is your favorite and here you'll tell me if your baby was the opposite sex what would you have named him/her?Win one of two Halloween Goodie

Happy Thanksgiving-----Happy Gardening!Garden Gnome©2006-2008

Fun with the Family

What have we been doing lately you ask? Simple is hanging out, it doesn't matter if it is at home, playing video games, board games or kicking the ball out front. We've been having time together and it's been a lot of fun. When we aren't home we stop at the park and just let the kids have at it. I even caught Daddy playing kickball with SoccerBoy last weekend, that is until we all joined in and

Urban Rustic

Loving the urban yet rustic look to these 3 pictures. A bit of old and new mixed together that makes a really warm yet sophisticated feel. Maybe that same feeling you get when you see grandma holding a newborn. It just makes you feel good inside!

Lifestyles Giveaways

Don't forget that I have a blog giveaway every day over at www.babylune.com as well as many other bloggers there. Check out my Suri throws a fit, Things Kids say and other posts to see what it looks like. There are a ton of prizes to be given away and only one week left. I have 5 from this week and 5 more next week. Hurry and sign up.

Spot Shot Blog Tour

Imagine getting a kit to pour chocolate syrup all over your lovely carpet. Would you? While many of us would freak and scream oh no, I took the test. Unfortuntely my camera is NOT working with this loaner computer. I had really hoped it would. I did do the test and it worked. What worked I can imagine some of you stating.MomCentral gave me the chance to try out the new Spot Shot. The company sent

October Giveaways (Tuesday)

An Ordinary Life is giving away the most precious Rose Petal Cottage and I just had to post about it here. Hey, if my daughters knew I had a chance to win this and didn't try they'd hang their head in shame. She's also giving away a $50 gift card to Bruno Jamais Restaurant Club in New York and three of those products from Sothys she lists in this post. American Cheerleader is giving away 5 Edward

Save-A-Lot Winners

Kellyi usually spend about $150 a week on groceries. i get two newspapers to clip coupons from and i shop all the sales. sometimes i even hop from grocery store to grocery store to get the best deals.btw, i featured your giveaway on The Post Parent. here's the link.http://theposhparent.ning.com/profiles/blog/show?id=2186509%3ABlogPost%3A3252LidarksideI only shop items when they are on sale, and

Dining in Style

Not really small but lots of WOW factor. I love them all!

Dial Complete Winner is....

Random Integer GeneratorHere are your random numbers:124Julie Vineyard said... I have 5 children so we go through a lot of soap! My favorite is the pear. I love the scent!Wow, with that many children I'm sure this case of Dial Complete will definitely help out. If you would please email me at homemom3@gmail.com with your shipping address I'll send it the correct people.

Plano: International Festival naturalizes 75 citizens under beautiful skie

October 2, 2008

By Kim Nguyen

The weather is expected to be absolutely stunning on Saturday for the Fourth Annual Plano International Festival in Downtown Plano’s Haggard Park. Showcasing the sights, sounds and tastes of more than 60 cultures, the Plano International Festival celebrates the vivid diversity that makes up the City of Plano.

The festival will begin at 11 a.m. with a Parade of Nations, where nearly 100 students from the Plano Independent School District carry flags from around the world.

Mayor Pat Evans will give opening remarks followed by a keynote speech from Deputy Mayor Pro Tem Harry LaRosiliere. State Senator Florence Shapiro will later lead the new citizens in reciting their first Pledge of Allegiance in a naturalization ceremony, welcoming and granting U.S. citizenship to 75 people.

DK

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Plano: Verizon Foundation supports Plano ISD Family Literacy Program

October 1, 2008

By Kim Nguyen

The Verizon Foundation continued its ongoing support for the Plano Family Literacy Program with the recent presentation of a $10,000 grant.

This is the third year that the Verizon Foundation has presented a $10,000 grant to this program. As part of the district’s Student and Family Services Department, the Plano Family Literacy Program works with children and families to support the mission “of building healthy families by working with the entire family.”

“The grant monies pay for reading books in the classroom and book clubs and instructional reading materials,” said Jane Lilliston, Plano Family Literacy program coordinator. “It’s wonderful to have received the grant again because we see day to day how much literacy can help people’s lives.”

DK

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McKinney: County close to getting $1.5 billion for road repairs

October 2, 2008

By Danny Gallagher McKinney Courier-Gazette

FUNDING: The Regional Transportation Council will fund local road dollars with SH 121 toll revenue.

Collin County will get a huge chunk of the State Highway 121 toll revenues for their own road constructions and repairs.

The Regional Transportation Council approved a measure in August approving the disbursal of more than $2.5 billion in toll road revenue to local counties collected along SH 121, according to records filed by the North Texas Council of Governments.

Approximately $1.5 billion of those funds will go towards projects in Collin County in addition to the $235.6 million the county has in transportation bonds approved in November of 2007, according to RTC and Collin County records.

DK

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Program in McKinney to focus on emerging pests, fire ant-control

October 02, 2008

Mike Jackson

MCKINNEY – The Texas AgriLife Extension Service will co-host the program, “Fire Ant Control and Insect Management,” from 8 a.m. to noon on Oct. 10 in McKinney.

The program will be held at the Myers Park and Event Center, 7117 County Road 166, in McKinney.

“It will be a field day farmers, ranchers, gardeners, landscapers and pesticide applicators won’t want to miss as experts will present preliminary results of ongoing fire ant research at Myers Park,” said Greg Church, an AgriLife Extension agent for horticulture in Collin County.

DK

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Calendar Crazy

How many of you HAVE TO HAVE A CALENDAR? I mean with school back in session, teacher/parent meetings, deadlines, school schedule, sports, etc. Ya know the list is endless now. Am I right?There is a new site called, "Glubb" and it lets you organize all this. It's free online so as long as you are the type that is always online this is perfect for. Course if you are a coach, party planner or even a

Star Wars Clone Wars Weekend

Over the weekend we had a Star Wars Clone Wars Party. No, it wasn't anyone's birthday but the new season (cartoon) of Star Wars Clone Wars begins next week and the company wanted to spread the word. I signed up to be a host at HouseParty and they selected me and sent me the goodies.Like many parties, not everyone showed up, we competed with the town festival without realizing it. But or those

Dial Complete Giveaway

I was recently sent two botles of the new Dial Complete Antibacterial soap (ours was soothing white tea scented) but it also has a new feature, at least to us it did. Now I won't lie, we've been using the Antibacterial soap for a while, but this one has a touch of lotion in it which makes your hands soft after using it.Dial Complete has teamed up with The Life of a Homemom for their Campaign for

3 Needs for Fall

A comfy couch, roaring fire and extra blankets........

Giveaway Alert

More giveaways are coming along with a ton of reviews, I just need a bit more time and scheduling on this computer. Hopefully, if all goes right I should have a computer by this weekend. Keep those fingers crossed for me as the librarians know my every move and I feel like I'm some type of spy or something. Not to mention trying to get all your posting done in a limited time and watching the

Cool Kitchens

Came across a few kitchen pictures that I really like. The middle and bottom photos are from the same kitchen. I love how they have the island pushed up against the huge bank of windows. I've often wondered if a washer/dryer in the kitchen would be a good idea, it seems to me it could work, although I would probably spill what I was making for dinner on SOMETHING piled up on a counter. The top picture does it for me again, its all about the lighting. Someday I will have a house with lots of windows, I don't care what the square feet is!!!

Another New Blogger

I know I have many supportive readers and I'd like for you all to head over and visit a new friend to the blogging world, and neighbor to myself. Her name is Michelle and has a new blog called, The Other Mother. Please stop by and leave her a message, she's just starting out and I know whould get a kick out of having comments on her blog.

Ringling Brothers Blog Tour

Do you remember going to the circus as a child? Did you ever get a chance to see a Ringling Bros Circus? These were my favorite, we only went to a few but they were a blast. I just loved watchig the acrobats, of course I was like the rest of the kids wishing to join them one day. In the meantime my favorite thing at the circus besides them was the pink cottony stuff, ya know the cotton candy.

Save-a-Lot Giveaway

Ya'll know I've just started using coupons so this giveaway was a really neat and fun one for me. I mean a place that always has GREAT deals and here they were offering me gift cards for their store to my readers. Not only was I getting introduced to them but I can give something back to my readers too.How many of you can feed a family of four? Many of you can I'm sure, but how much does it

Libby Blog Tour

Oh we recently got a package in the mail with some GREAT songs by Sara Evans in it but besides the songs we also go VEGGIES. You know the one thing most kids protest, thankfully mine actually welcome the gross green things.With school recently starting many of us are wondering how we'll ever get the family back to the table. Am I right? Well there are ton of ways you can actually do this, in fact

Responsiblity Tour

Liberty Mutal wants to know just how responsible you are. So why not jump on this tour bus and find out what some bloggers are saying. I had a rather lengthy post for this but my time is limited now. ::Sniff::Sniff:: But MomCentral told me all about this and I would love to do them justice as well as Liberty Mutual, so for now I'll quickly mention it and touch up on it more when I'm back fully

Update

I'm updating to let ya'll know that I haven't dropped off the face of the Earth. I'm able to use the library once a day except a few since hubby is in college, so you should see more of me in the coming weeks. In fact, tomorrow I'll be posting about a giveaway right here. :) Yep, I thought that'd peak your interest and it comes in the some of 4 $20 GC. haha, not telling anymore than that

Only 200 Square Feet !!

Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum)

This is the fifth home we have owned and while each house/property presented unique challenges this property has presented the problem of over growth. The landscaping is mature as far as trees, bushes and shrubs. There really is too much! Compounding the problem are several perimeter, pocket garden beds planted willy nilly with everything imaginable. Despite moving here the end of June 2007

Vinca major (Bigleaf Periwinkle)

One of our smaller garden beds has a pretty green and white creeping vine that has little purplish blue flowers in the early spring to mid-summer. It was quite apparent that the vine was of the spreading nature. It had filled the garden bed and was heading down the divider between our driveway and our neighbours. Our driveway is paved but his is gravel so the vine had no problem spreading and

Which Room do you Prefer?

Same room, different owners. Which one do you prefer? I had a TOUGH time with this one because I like them both in different ways. Do you prefer Doug or Debra? (Names are in the corner of the pictures).

Never Forget......

computer issues

The cord to my computer has died, it will no longer let me recharge. So I will be out for a few days, I can get it fixed on Thursday but in the meantime I'll be computerless. EEEEKKK! Keep sending those good vibes. Doc says I only had laringitis and couldn't determine what I had before it.

Dining Chairs

Seems anything goes with dinning room chairs these days and I love it. Mixing old with new, slipcovers, the possibilities are endless. I myself have a old farm table paired with mod chairs. So check out your flea markets and even the big box stores, anything goes!

Why I love the Net?

I love the net because no one at the other end knows when you are sick or not. But hate all other forms of communication. For the past week I've battled a sore throat and cough with fever. I thought I was doing good, I'd done all the myths, you know the whole:- pump yourself full of vitamins- take halls- apply VICKS- stay covered- sleep (well I tried that doesn't always work)Three of my other

McKinney's tough smoking ordinance takes effect today 12:37 PM CT

The law, passed one year ago by the McKinney City Council, prohibits smoking in most public places, including restaurants, enclosed workplaces, retail stores, stadiums, public transportation and apartment building common areas. It also limits the number of smoking rooms in hotels and motels.

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Wordless Wednesday: Game Day

The kids attended a Minor League baseball game over the weekend in Kansas City, their team didn't win but boy did they have fun. Hmmm, Cotton candy, hot dogs and lemonade. Did you think they wouldn't? Just look at that wink?Happy WW!

Sick in the House

EEEEK, everyone is getting sick in the house. Stay back, be warned, I've warned ya. Even though I've told the neighbor kids we are sick they keep knocking on the door. "Can such and such come out to play?""Ummm, they are sick.""So they can't play?"I'm confused and stare at them, "No they are sick. You want to get sick."They look at me puzzled before I shut the door. I swear, doesn't anyone keep

Light Yellow

Light yellow is such a soft pretty color, almost like whites sophisticated older sister. I have a lot of yellow in my home. Just makes me feel better!!!!

Diaper Rashes Gone with Vusion

Does your baby EVER get a rash? My oldest use to get it so severely from just about everything. There was simply nothing we could do for him except let him go bare bottom since diapers seemed to be the culprit. He seemed to be allergic to any brand of diaper, from the most expensive to the cheap store bought type. I couldn't WAIT to get him potty trained. I found out through MomCentral that today

Store Shopping & a Nature Walk

We had quite the day yesterday, first off I ran out of all my caffeine. EEEEKKK! Right? I had no clue I was running low on tea and finished off my last soda, I had grabbed a soda just yesterday morning at the gas station...only problem, it was DIET! Which of course means I did NOT drink it. Ikk.So, what does this mean for someone that doesn't have a car and does have two small children? It means

Kitchens !

Here are some kitchens I thought were very attractive. The one in the middle is very stylish and uses the space really well. Love the color too. I've been taking notes because soon I would like to do a mini overall of my own kitchen. Problem is, the more pictures I see the more I change my mind about what I want! Oh well, happy monday everyone!