Family * Travel * Food

The 6 Best New Language Learning Apps For Your Kids Out Right Now

Guest Post

I’m sure I’m not alone when I admit that I took four years of Spanish in high school because my counselor told me to, but I can’t remember much of it now. It stuck around for a few years but gradually faded away. Kids today don’t have the option to learn a language and forget it—with a growing international economy and global connections, it is becoming so important to speak another language. Not to mention that it looks great on college and job applications, which I’m sure moms everywhere will love.

Luckily for our kids, there are so many more resources than when we were in school. One of the best resources is something your kids are probably using constantly anyway—their smartphones. Set your kids on the path to language learning success with these six great education apps:

Hello Talk (free)

Most kids love to talk, so the chance to learn a new language through conversations with a native speaker is a huge selling point. Hello Talk steps away from strict memorization and quizzes and instead connects users with native speakers around the world to practice their new language skills and get instant feedback. Hello Talk is based on a worldwide network of more than 70 data centers set up by communications company Agora.io, which means that no matter where in the world you or your native speaker are, you can always have crystal-clear communication. It’s a reliable cultural experience for kids that shows them new parts of the world.
Download on iOS
Download on Android

busuu (free)

With no Internet connection required, you can access busuu anywhere and go at your own pace. Busuu works with native speakers around the world to teach languages by listening and speaking, so you can practice what you learn right after each lesson. Another great option is the streamlined learning system, which highlights the top 3000 words and 150 topics you need to know in each language, perfect if you are tight on time.

Download on iOS
Download on Android

Brainscape (free)

Brainscape doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of some of the other apps, but it does produce great results that will stick with kids. Brainscape is all about flashcards, and it has a deck of thousands of words for each of the languages it teaches. The more you get a word correct, the less frequently it appears in your deck, just like words you struggle with show up more frequently. Brainscape also customizes your response time to make the flashcards as memorable and effective as possible.
Download on iOS

Memrise (free)

This app combines proven memory techniques with content created by native speakers to create a program that can teach an amazing 44 words per hour. With learning activities varying from videos to rapid recall and more, there’s something to match everyone’s learning style. One of the best features about Memrise is that it covers more than 100 languages, ranging from Arabic to Icelandic, and even languages from your favorite books and movies.
Download on iOS
Download on Android

Duolingo (free)

For game-loving kids, Duolingo is the obvious choice. The lessons are short and highlight a particular grammar principle or vocabulary area. The review activities involve a variety of games, with each correct answer earning the user more points to use within the app’s virtual store. The more you learn, the more levels you achieve—you can even compete against friends and other users to see who can reach certain levels the fastest. That’s huge motivation for my friends, and I love that the program is fun and effective.
Download on iOS
Download on Android

Lingvist (free)

If your child wants to learn French, Lingvist is a great option. Watch out for more languages to come, because this app can turn anyone into a language master in just 200 hours. Lingvist aims to teach practical, usable words and grammar skills and then apply them to situations where you may actually find yourself. The app also adjusts based on your learning progress to help you be as successful as possible.
Download on iOS
Download on Android

As the world continues to get more connected, learning a second (or third) language will become more important than ever. And thanks to mobile technology, it’s never been easier to learn something new. Put your kids on the path to global success with these great apps.

Are your kids learning a language right now?

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Enter the #BILOfreegroceries Giveaway #AD

BI-LO is giving away $75,000 worth of free groceries to customers in some of the Southern states. Fifteen (15) BI-LO customers in Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee will win FREE groceries for a year, valued at $5,000 each, by entering the Great Grocery Giveaway. Additionally, every person who enters the giveaway will automatically receive a $10 off $100 purchase coupon. I love this since we use the BI-LO fuel perks. Everybody wins!

Customers can visit http://www.bi-lo.com/freegroceries now through June 16 for official rules and to enter-to-win the Great Grocery Giveaway. Can you imagine how much $5000 for a year of groceries would help your family? I encourage you to enter if you live in any of the states listed above-- you have nothing to lose! It took me less than a minute to enter (just have your BI-LO bonus card number handy) and you will receive an email to validate your email address. Two minutes of your life that can be worth a year of FREE groceries!

How would you like to win a BI-LO gift card? Three (3) lucky Mom Files readers will win a $25 BI-LO gift card each! Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway is open until May 30, 2015 to U.S. Residents only, but remember, the #BILOfreegroceries Giveaway is open on their site until June 16. Be sure to leave a valid email address so you can be contacted in the event you win. Good luck!

Thank you BI-LO for sponsoring today's giveaway.
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National Coffee Day: 9 Places to Find Complimentary Caffeine

Check out these 9 offers from chain and regional restaurants, and be sure to visit your local coffee shops for potential deals.

Dunkin' Donuts
Try the donut chain's new Dark Roast Coffee (medium cup) for free when you visit your local store.

Krispy Kreme
If you like your coffee black, Krispy Kreme is offering a free 12 oz. cup of their House, Decaf and Dark Roast coffees today. Those with more of a sweet tooth can enjoy a 12 oz. Mocha, Latte or iced coffee for $1 and participating locations.

McDonald's
The Golden Arches have been celebrating free coffee since Sept. 16 with its Free Coffee Event. Today is your last opportunity to score a free small McCafe during breakfast hours at participating restaurants.

LaMar's Donuts
Pick up a free 12 oz. coffee from participating locations of LaMar's Donuts today. Good luck avoiding their tasty assortment of confections!

Peet's Coffee & Tea
Bring a friend to participating locations of Peet's Coffee & Tea and enjoy a BOGO promotion in honor of National Coffee Day. Buy one drink, get the second one of equal or lesser value free (excluding juice and bottled beverages).

Caribou Coffee
Today, enjoy free samples of Amy's Blend coffee, a roast dedicated to a former barista who lost her battle with breast cancer. Through Oct. 31, 10-percent of Amy's Blend purchases will be donated to CancerCare, an organization that helps support cancer patients and their families.

Tim Hortons
The iconic Canadian coffee chain is offering any size Regular or Dark Roast coffee for $1 (go ahead, get the biggest size). This offer is not valid at Buffalo, NY locations or at Presque Isle, Maine locations, where patrons will receive a medium Dark Roast coffee for $1.

Kangaroo Express
Southeastern U.S. dwellers can pick up a 12 oz. bag of Bean Street Coffee for just $0.01 between 6 a.m. and and 10 a.m. today.

The Original Brooklyn Water Bagel Co.
With locations along the east coast and one lone restaurant in Los Angeles, The Original Brooklyn Water Bagel Co. is offering a free coffee with entree purchase today.

Information provided by CouponSherpa.com
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New Dial Coconut Water & Mango body wash-- Giveaway

Being a stay-at-home mom generally means very little down time. I work from the minute my feet hit the ground until soon before I slip under the covers for the night. My escape for the day usually happens in the shower. It's the only time I really have to myself and I enjoy every last minute of it. Everything from the hot steam, to the fresh scents of my bath products. It's really a time for me to rejuvenate and even relax. 
Dial has the newest addition to their body wash line in coconut water and mango scent. They had me at coconut water! I love the tropical scent of this moisturizing body wash and when I close my eyes, I can pretend I am some place far away. Like I said, shower time is me-time. I am allowed to daydream.

Treat your skin to twice the tropical refreshment with every shower. The rich lather of this body wash is infused with coconut water, known to be rich in hydrating antioxidants and electrolytes. While the scent of juicy, ripe mango leaves skin feeling fresh, clean and delectably fragrant.

Three Mom Files readers will win a coupon good for one FREE full-size bottle of Dial Coconut Water Refreshing Mango Body Wash. Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on August 8, 2014. Please follow giveaway rules in Rafflecopter widget. One winner will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

Disclosure: The Dial brand provided me with a sample in exchange for a products review. However, all of the opinions expressed here are my own.
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New: Dial Vitamin Boost Body Wash (Review & Giveaway)

CLOSED- Winners are Brandi Dawn, Shahidah Armstrong and Nicole M

The Dial brand provided me with a sample of Dial Vitamin Boost Body Wash in exchange for a product review. However, all the opinions expressed here are my own. 

I am a dedicated body wash user. I have to have something that is very moisturizing for my dry skin. New Dial Vitamin Boost Body Wash is infused with lotion for extra moisturization. The first thing I noticed was the very fresh scent. I let my daughters try it out first and they told me that I won't be getting it back! Both girls loved the scent, rich lather and how well it moisturized their skin. I had to smuggle the bottle out of their bathroom while they were at school so I could try it for myself. I have to agree with the girls, it was all they said it would be. I really love how smooth my skin felt after my shower. The scent was so fresh and invigorating. 
I really like the Dial line of products because they are affordable without lacking quality. Would you like to try Dial Vitamin Boost Body Wash for yourself? I have 3 coupons to give away to 3 Momfiles readers (one per person). Enter below.

Giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on February 15, 2014. Three winners will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

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Unexpected ways to use syrup with Mrs. Butterworth's and Log Cabin (Review & Giveaway)

I received some coupons for complimentary items in exchange for my post about unexpected ways to use syrup. All opinions are 100% mine as always. 
One of our favorite meals in our home is breakfast. Besides eating it at actual breakfast time, we enjoy it for lunch and dinner too. My family can't get enough of my homemade pancakes, French toast or waffles with lots of yummy syrup. Syrup is a staple item in my pantry and one of those things that I even buy in bulk. 
I love syrup for dipping thick-cut bacon! It's a drool worthy moment :) 


Since I am very creative in the kitchen, I sometimes experiment with syrup in savory dishes. My family enjoys the combination of salty and sweet. One of my absolute favorite things to make with syrup is smashed sweet potatoes as a side dish. All you do is peel and boil some sweet potatoes until tender and them smash them with a pinch of salt, a few pats of butter, a sprinkling of cinnamon, a little bit of brown sugar and a few generous squeezes of Mrs. Butterworth's syrup. I spread it into a microwave safe baking dish and heat it for several minutes to let all the flavors blend. I like to serve it with fish, chops or meatloaf. My family loves it! I have also made the same dish in the form of glazed sweet potatoes. 
Another delicious way that I like to use syrup is on salmon. I very light drizzle at the end of cooking adds a subtle sweetness and transforms the salmon into something special. I also like to jazz up barbecue sauce with a little bit of syrup as well.

I plan to cook up a batch of waffles tonight and look forward to trying the Log Cabin All Natural Table Syrup. I have been a long-time lover of Mrs. Butterworth's but I am excited to try the Log Cabin syrup. I just thought of something that would be amazing... imagine a nice yellow cupcake topped with homemade butter cream or cream cheese icing that had a few drizzles of syrup mixed in and them topped with some crumbled candied bacon! I think my heart just skipped a beat!
For recipe ideas, check out the Mrs. Butterworth's and Log Cabin sites. Also, be sure to "like" Mrs. Butterworth's on Facebook for special offers.  I would love to hear your ideas on ways to use syrup in recipes.

I have 2 extra coupons (one for any Mrs. Butterworth's product and one for any Log Cabin product) I would love to give away to one lucky reader. Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on August 15, 2013. One winner will be selected at random and contacted by email to claim prize. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!



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I have the best summer hair with Pantene Ultimate 10 BB Creme #PanteneBBCreme

It's that time of year. The time when the weather is hot, sticky and the air is humid. We had at least 3 weeks straight of heavy rain and storms. This means one thing, unruly hair. Like most people, the humidity makes my hair misbehave. It becomes frizzy, crunchy and just crazy looking. I received a Klout Perk from Pantene and Walmart a couple weeks ago that included their latest product, Pantene Ultimate 10 BB Creme.

I have heard of BB creme for your face but never for hair. I was very interested in finding out how it actually worked. It is supposed to care for your hair and style it all in one step. You can apply it to wet or dry hair. I tried it on wet hair since I blow dry and heat style. Immediately I noticed my hair felt very soft. Normally when I blow dry my hair, I have to curl it after or it will look frizzy. With Pantene BB creme, I could totally get away with just a blow dry. That is how I know it worked well! Even when I wake up the next day, my hair would feel so smooth and healthy.

My daughter took this photo of my hair (it was curled) from the back to show you how shiny and controlled it looks using the product. Would you believe that with all that hair, I did not use a conditioner after shampooing? I only used the BB creme.
To see if this stuff works on different hair types, I had all 3 of my kids use it. The oldest used it in her natural curls and loves how soft, controlled and calm her curls are. My younger daughter used it in her already dry and flat ironed hair. You could see an actual difference in how her super thick hair looks. She tends to have big hair and this products helps her hair to lay a bit flatter and it looks and feels softer. My little boy has wavy hair and the BB creme gives just enough moisture to help control his waves. We all love it and can't wait to buy other products from the line. The BB Creme is just over $6! Not bad at all! You can find them at Walmart and Walmart.com/pantene.

I was not required to review this product but loved it so much, I just had to share!

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Soft Scrub Mold & Mildew Stain Remover {Review & Giveaway}

I received a bottle of one of the newest products from the Soft Scrub family called Soft Scrub Mold & Mildew Stain Remover Gel Cleaner. It is made for tile, grout, showers and bath tubs.
The gel formula is made to cling to surfaces to penetrate and remove though stains without any harsh fumes or overspray. I actually really like how it sprays. It is thick enough to cling but thin enough to spray easily. 
It does not have those harsh bleach fumes like most mold and mildew removing cleaners. This makes for a much more pleasant cleaning experience. I like using the stream spray to pinpoint those small cracks that mildew likes to grow in the bathroom. It leaves behind a bright clean that makes me happy.

Would you like to try this cleaner out for yourself? 3 Momfiles readers will win a coupon each good for one FREE bottle of Soft Scrub cleaner. Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on May 13, 2013. Three winners will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email to claim prize. Please leave a valid email address in the event you are selected as a winner. Please follow giveaway rules or all entries will be disqualified. Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

I received a FREE product for review purposes. All opinions are as always, completely my own. 
Shelly, Mom Files
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NATIONAL URBAN LEAGUE AND WALGREENS PROVIDE FREE HEALTH TESTS TO COLUMBIA AREA URBAN AND MINORITY COMMUNITIES WITH WAY TO WELL HEALTH TOUR

If you live in Columbia, South Carolina, this is some great information for yourself or to pass along to someone in need...

For a seventh consecutive year, National Urban League and Walgreens are partnering for the Way to Well Tour to provide free health screenings to Columbia residents. The national tour will provide free health resources to residents in urban and minority communities who experience disproportionately higher rates of preventable disease. The service is free and insurance will not be billed.

“Way to Well reflects our commitment to disease prevention and to improving everyday health through education and early detection. With the NUL, the nationwide traveling health tour is one way we deliver on our pledge to improve lives by providing underserved communities greater access to the resources they need.” said John Gremer, Walgreens director of community affairs. “We also thank our customers for supporting this cause with us, and ultimately making this important wellness services program a reality by simply purchasing our brand.”
The Way to Well Health Tour is partially funded by consumers who support the Walgreens wellness services mission by purchasing Walgreens brand health and wellness products. Beginning February 1, 2013 through January 31, 2014, 1¢ from the purchase of every Walgreens brand health and wellness product, up to $3 million annually, will support bringing preventive wellness services to local communities through the Walgreens Way to Well Fund®.

The national tour will provide free health tests, assessments, education and consulting services to residents in urban and minority communities who experience disproportionately higher rates of preventable disease. The service is free and insurance will not be billed. Tests include total cholesterol, glucose, blood pressure, body mass index, body composition, skeletal muscle, resting metabolism, visceral fat, real body age and body weight.

Collectively, the health tests valued at over $100, are administered to adults age 18 years and older by certified wellness staff and can be completed in approximately 20 minutes. Afterward, participants will consult with a Walgreens pharmacist or certified wellness staff about his or her results. Consumers are encouraged to report their results to their doctor or health care provider so they may discuss any concerns with them.

In addition to critical screenings uninsured visitors will receive vouchers for free flu shots redeemable at any Walgreens Take Care Clinic. Also available with the tour are educational health and wellness resources provided by NUL as well as Walgreens Way to Well cause partners: American Heart Association (AHA), American Cancer Society (ACS), American Diabetes Association (ADA), Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) and Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

The tour will be making the following stops in the Columbia area:

Thursday, April 18th – 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
South Carolina State House
1100 Sumter St
Columbia, SC 29201

Friday, April 19th – 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM Walgreens
4467 Devine St
Columbia, SC 29205

Saturday, April 20th – 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Walgreens
423 W Main St
Lexington, SC 29072

Sunday, April 21th – 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Walgreens
7801 Garners Ferry Rd
Columbia, SC 29209

Thursday, April 25th – 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Walgreens
1223 St Andrews Rd
Columbia, SC 29210

Friday, April 26th – 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Walgreens
1903 S Lake Dr
Lexington, SC 29073

Saturday, April 27th – 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Walgreens
1010 Old Barnwell Rd
West Columbia, SC 29170

Monday, April 29th – 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Walgreens
2224 Augusta Rd
West Columbia, SC 29169

About Walgreens
Walgreens (www.walgreens.com) is the nation's largest drugstore chain with fiscal 2011 sales of $72 billion. The company operates 7,840 drugstores in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. Each day, Walgreens provides nearly 6 million customers the most convenient, multichannel access to consumer goods and services and trusted, cost-effective pharmacy, health and wellness services and advice in communities across America. Walgreens scope of pharmacy services includes retail, specialty, infusion, medical facility and mail service, along with respiratory services. These services improve health outcomes and lower costs for payers including employers, managed care organizations, health systems,
pharmacy benefit managers and the public sector. Take Care Health Systems is a Walgreens subsidiary that is the largest and most comprehensive manager of worksite health and wellness centers and in-store convenient care clinics, with more than 700 locations throughout the country.
About the National Urban League
The National Urban League is a historic civil rights organization dedicated to economic empowerment in order to elevate the standard of living in historically underserved urban communities. Founded in 1910 and headquartered in New York City, the National Urban League spearheads the efforts of its local affiliates through the development of programs, public policy research and advocacy. Today, there are nearly 100 local affiliates in 36 states and the District of Columbia, providing direct services that impact and improve the lives of more than 2 million people nationwide. For more information, visit: www.nul.org


Shelly, Mom Files
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Add a Tropical Splash to laundry with Purex Natural Elements {Review & Giveaway}

Do you have sensitive skin when it comes to your laundry detergent? Purex offers their Natural Elements hypoallergenic and dye-free formula to help clean and freshen your laundry without irritating your skin.The Tropical Splash fragrance takes your senses on a tropical vacation! This detergent is biodegradable and promotes green cleaning practices. I really like the dirt lift action that helps to brighten whites. We can't walk around in dingy clothing can we?
You can use Purex Natural Elements in any type of washing machine and can always count on a great, low price.

It is available in 50 oz, 75 oz and 100 oz sizes and can be found at retailers nationwide. I have always had luck finding the newer varieties of Purex detergents at most Walmart, Target and Kroger stores.

Now you can try Purex Natural Elements Tropical Splash for yourself. 3 lucky Momfiles readers will each win one coupon good for one FREE bottle! Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end April 6, 2013. Three winners will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

The Purex brand has provided me with a sample in exchange for a product review. However, all opinions expressed here are my own.
Shelly, Mom Files
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New Dial Kids Body + Hair Wash in Peachy Clean {Review & Giveaway}

The Dial brand has been around for 65 years and has been developing trusted personal care products for clean and healthy skin. New Dial Kids body+hair wash is one of the newest products is made especially for kids ages 2-5. There comes a time when your child is too old for baby soaps, but too young for adults products. This is where Dial kids body wash is perfect. It was developed especially for kids' delicate skin and has no artificial dyes or added parabens, it is tear free, hypoallergenic and Ph balanced.
My son loves the fun and fresh "peachy clean" scent and feels special having his very own bath product. It works so well and leaves behind smooth and moisturized skin. As a mom, I really love the fact that the product is very gentle for my little one.

How would you like to try this fun new product for your little one? Enter below for the chance to win a coupon for one FREE bottle of Dial Kids Body & Hair Wash (3 winners in all)a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on April 3, 2013. Three winners will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

The Dial brand provided me with a sample of the Dial Kids Body and Hair Wash in exchange for a product review. However, all opinions expressed here are my own.
Shelly, Mom Files
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NEW: Dial® Coconut Water Body Wash Review & Giveaway (3 winners)

I want to introduce you all to the latest product from the Dial® line of shower and bath products... NEW: Dial® Coconut Water Body Wash. The first thing that stands out to me is "coconut water". It takes me to a tropical paradise! The scent of this hydrating body wash is comparable to those from a boutique, very refreshing and rich. I love how well it lathers in the shower and leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth. My teenagers love it and have claimed the bottle from MY bathroom! Luckily, Dial body wash is widely available in grocery and drug stores everywhere.

Right now, Dial® is proud to introduce the Healthier Skin. Healthier You.® Sweepstakes featuring Dial® Coconut Water Body Wash. One lucky grand prize winner will receive $1,000, while 250 second place winners will receive free Coconut Water Body Wash. The contest is being held on the Dial® Facebook page and took me less than 25 seconds to enter!

How would you like to try the new Dial® Coconut Water Body Wash? 3 winners will each receive a coupon good for one FREE bottle of Dial® Coconut Water Body Wash. Enter below: a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on March 16, 2013. Three winners will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

Dial Soap provided a free sample of Dial® Coconut Water Body Wash in exchange for a review. My participation is voluntary and my opinions, as always, are my own.

Shelly, Mom Files
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Soft Scrub Total All Purpose Bath & Kitchen Cleanser Review & Giveaway (3 winners)

If you have been a long time reader, you should know by now that I love to clean! One part of me still relies on the old school favorites like Soft Scrub. While this product has been around for quite some time, there have been some recent improvements that make it even better. NEW Soft Scrub Total All Purpose Bath & Kitchen Cleanser has:
  • All-new bottle design
  • New cap for improved dispensing
  • Improved formula with superior cleaning power
I really do love the bottle design and the ease of dispensing. You can beat a cleanser that can be used all over the house and it is tough on stains, yet gentle to surfaces. The new formula has a lot less residue and makes for easier rinsing. I really love the subtle lemon scent as well. I have used Soft Scrub to clean my stainless steel pots and pans and they are left sparkling! I love the nifty surface guide on the Soft Scrub website that helps you find the right product for all types of surfaces.

Be sure to "like" Soft Scrub on Facebook for product information and tips.

Would you like to try the new Soft Scrub Total All Purpose Bath & Kitchen Cleanser? Three lucky Momfiles readers will win a coupon good for one FREE bottle of Soft Scrub (any variety, up to $3.49)
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on March 2, 2013. Three winners will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

Soft Scrub provided a free sample of their Soft Scrub Total All Purpose Bath & Kitchen Cleanser for this post. My participation is voluntary and my opinions, as always, are my own. 

Shelly, Mom Files
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Post Honey Bunches of Oats Tropical Blends Review & Giveaway

For many years, I have been a big fan of Honey Bunches of Oats cereal. I have tried just about every variety except the newest addition, Tropical Blends Mango Coconut. This flavor has real coconut and mango flavored flakes combined into those signature "bunches" as well as real coconut shavings and the classic flakes that make Honey Bunches of Oats oh so yummy. I really do love anything with coconut or tropical fruit for that matter. The mango flavor was okay but I was not overly thrilled about it.  The cereal overall is still delicious and exactly what I would expect from this brand. I really like how much coconut was in it. Honestly, I would have loved to see it in a pineapple coconut flavor or just coconut alone.

I feel good feeding my family any cereal from the Honey Bunches of Oats family. It has a lot less sugar a lot of other cereals without sacrificing taste.

Honey Bunches of Oats Fruit Blends - Mango Coconut has:

  • Four nutritious grains: rice, wheat, oats and corn
  • Heart healthy** (0g trans fat, 0g saturated fat, 0mg cholesterol per serving)
  • 10g of whole grain per serving†
  • 9 essential vitamins and minerals
**Diets low in saturated fat and cholesterol, and as low as possible in trans fat, may reduce the risk of heart disease.

†Nutritionists recommend eating 3 or more servings of whole grain foods per day. (About 16g whole grains per serving or at least 48g per day.)


Find out more about Honey Bunches of Oats on their Facebook page and follow them on Twitter @HBOats 

Would you like to try the new Tropical Blends Mango Coconut? Three lucky Momfiles readers will win a coupon good for one FREE box of Honey Bunches of Oats (any variety, up to $4.49)a Rafflecopter giveaway


Giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on February 23, 2013. Three winners will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

Post provided a free sample of their Honey Bunches of Oats Tropical Blends for this post. My participation is voluntary and my opinions, as always, are my own. 

Shelly, Mom Files
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Old Orchard Juices and Teas Review & Coupon Giveaway {5 winners}

Are you looking for ways to save on giving your family juice and drinks and not sacrifice quality and taste? Old Orchard frozen juice and tea concentrates might be the answer you are looking for.
Old Orchard offers many flavors to choose from including Southern Style Sweet Tea, Classics like Grape, Apple, Pineapple and Orange, as well as a variety of juice blends. I found the Old Orchard frozen concentrates at my local Walmart. There were so many to choose from! I picked out the Sweet Tea and the 100% Juice in Pineapple Orange. I really love the convenience of having a frozen concentrate for those times that we run out of drinks. The plastic containers can be microwaved if you are in a rush and recycled. Of course you can't go wrong with having less packaging. I plan to save the containers to use as seed starter pots for my Spring planting.

I mixed up the Pineapple Orange juice as directed on the container and enjoyed a glass of it with my breakfast this morning. For those calorie conscious folks, each serving of Old Orchard drinks have only 90 calories. Not bad at all! The taste? Absolutely delicious. I will have to keep a half dozen of assorted flavors in my freezer at all times. To find a store near you that carries Old Orchard frozen juice, go here. Stay connected with Old Orchard on Facebook and Twitter.

I have a set of 4 coupons for any variety of teas or juices for 5 Momfiles readers to win. Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on February 14, 2013. Five winners will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

Old Orchard provided me with coupons for FREE products in exchange for a product review. All thoughts/opinions expressed here are my own, as always.

Shelly, Mom Files
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PERDUE® OVEN READY Chicken Review #gotitfree

I have been cooking since I was at least 12. With so many years of practice under my belt, I have tried many techniques for cooking particular foods and once I find what works, I stick with it. I make a fabulous toasted chicken that comes out perfect every time. When I got the offer to try out the PERDUE® OVEN READY Chicken I was curious. The things that drew me in to want to try it was that it was from a well-known brand and their chickens are raised cage-free, without any hormones or steroids. I am very particular about what chicken I feed my family.
As a BzzAgent, I received a coupon to try out any variety of the Perdue Oven Ready products for free. I went with the whole seasoned roaster since I am not a big chicken breast fan. It was $10.99 and I thought it was a bit expensive. When I picked up the bag I realized that it was very heavy. I opened the outer packaging and inside was a heavy plastic cooking bag that contained the fully seasoned chicken inside. You have no idea how scared I was. I am not used to every using preseasoned chicken (or anything food for that matter) and the fact that it was packed in a bag that was made for cooking meant  that I couldn't sneak my own touches inside. All I had to do was cut a once inch slit over the breast area and put it in my preheated oven for the recommended cooking time. 
The roasted chicken aroma was nice but how was it going to taste? I pulled my chicken out of the oven and cut open the bag. Inside was a gorgeously browned bird full of natural juices. I reserved the drippings to make homemade gravy to go with my side dishes as well as on top of the chicken in the event it was dry. To my surprise and delight, the chicken was super moist and tasty. There was enough seasoning and quite honestly, it tasted like how I would season a whole chicken.
As always, the true test is to see what my family thinks. My husband commented several times and said, "now, that's some good chicken!" He said it tasted like I seasoned it my way and it was extra moist. He even got excited over the thought of the leftover breast sliced up for sandwiches. Usually whenever I cook a whole chicken, we end up wasting it and throwing that last of it away. Not this time!

My overall opinion of this product is that I am very impressed and happy with it. Although it is a lot more than I would pay for a whole chicken, it is worth it. I had to think about when you buy a whole bird, you have to trim it up, remove the giblets, wash it, dry it, season it and quite frankly handle the actual chicken. With Perdue Oven Ready Chicken, you don't have to go through all of that. It's as easy as 1. open 2. cook 3. serve! I think it is a perfect choice for when you are expecting house guests and it's even good enough for your holiday dinner! PERDUE® OVEN READY products are available in-- Whole Seasoned Roasters, Whole Seasoned Roaster Bone-In Breasts and Boneless Chicken Roasts. They retail for about $10.99-$11.99.

You can connect with Perdue on Facebook and Twitter for tips and product updates.
Shelly, Mom Files
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COVERGIRL Blastflipstick Review #gotitfree

When I got the email that I would be receiving a few of the new COVERGIRL Blastflipsticks for review, I was so thrilled. Besides my love of all things food and cleaning products, I LOVE cosmetics! I received 3 COVERGIRL Blastflipsticks blendable lip duos in "Minx", "Stunner" and "Perky". Although all the colors were very pretty, I was really afraid they wouldn't be as pretty on me. Some of them were a bit different from my day-to-day usual colors. The only way to find out was to try them out.


I gravitated towards the Minx duo because the chocolate and bronze were calling my name! I love dark colors, especially during the colder months. I usually wear lip balm before any lip color so I started with that. I then applied the chocolate color and loved it. I flipped it over to the goldy/bronze side and swiped a little over the chocolate color. It was gorgeous! I really do prefer the look of matte lip color over creamy and I was impressed by how long it lasted. I really like the fact that you can blend the colors or wear them alone. This gives a more unique and customized look.

Since then, I have tried the other colors and really was surprised how well the lighter and brighter tones looked on me. Unfortunately both teens stole 2 of my Blastflipsticks so it looks like I will have to go buy some more. I look forward to trying the red and gold shaded called "Tease". Thankfully I received a bunch of $2 off coupons in my kit. Now I just need to see which stores have them. So far the 2 places I have checked were completely out of them! Oh, before I forget... I am still using the COVERGIRL & Olay foundation and powder and it has been wonderful! I love how smooth and moisturized my skin has been as well as the light coverage it provides.

You can stay connected with COVERGIRL on the web and Facebook for products updates and savings.

As a BzzAgent, I receive free product samples for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are always my own. 
Shelly, Mom Files
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Purex Let's Be Honest {Giveaway}

Hey guys! I'm not sure if you knew about the latest promotion from Purex. They are running their "Let's Be Honest" contest where one person daily will win a year's supply of Purex. Now who wouldn't want to win that? If you check out the Let's Be Honest page, you will see a series of short videos that I assure will make you smile in agreement. They are hilarious and this one is my favorite...



If you are not convinced that Purex cleans your clothes effectively, sign up for a FREE sample and judge for yourself.

My friends at Purex have provided me a FREE coupon toward one bottle of Purex for 3 Momfiles readers to win. It is so easy to enter. *Just go to the Let's Be Honest page and watch a few of the short videos. Leave a comment telling me which video you liked the best.

Want some extra ways to enter?
~ Tweet, share of like your favorite video and let me know that you did.
~ Follow Purex and Momfiles on Twitter
~ Tweet about this giveaway (once daily)
#LetsBeHonest I want to win a coupon for FREE @Purex from @momfiles http://tinyurl.com/86mpk88 #laundry #giveaway
~ "like" Purex and Momfiles on Facebook
~ Follow Purex and Momfiles on Pinterest and let us know your Pinterest name. I will follow you back.
~ Enter the Purex Let's Be Honest Contest and let me know that you did.
~ Follow Momfiles via GFC
~ Subscribe to Momfiles via email

You must complete the *mandatory entry to qualify for extra entries. Be sure to leave a separate comment per entry method. Entries will be verified. Please leave your email address if you do not have a Blogger profile. 3 winners will be picked at random and contacted by email. Momfiles is NOT responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Contest ends on July 27, 2012 at 9:00 PM EST.

I received no compensation for hosting this giveaway and prizes were provided by Purex. All opinions are 100% my own.
Shelly, Mom Files
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How to get rid of a headache naturally

Yesterday I had a terrible headache that would not go away. I woke up with it and it persisted all day long. When the hubby got home from work, he automatically knew I was in pain. It was the kind of pain that makes you stretch your face with your fingertips in odd ways and press your forehead to try to find some relief. He insisted I needed to rest my eyes for a few minutes. It was already 6:30 in the evening so taking a nap was not an option for me. I did lay down for a minute though. Dwayne came over to me and grabbed my foot. He gently pressed his thumb into the bottom of my foot near the arch. No lie, I started feeling my headache breaking up instantly. He then started to apply pressure to different parts of my feet and within 2 minutes my headache was completely gone. It's amazing how effective this method was. Just figured I would share this with you guys.

Have you ever tried this method to rid yourself of a headache? Did it work for you?

Shelly, Mom Files
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Honey Bunches of Oats [Review & Giveaway]


I don't know about your family, but my family loves Honey Bunches of Oats. Who can resist those yummy little Honey Roasted Granola Bunches? We have tried most of the varieties and love them all. As a mom, I especially love the fact that this cereal is not your typical sugar covered cereal. The great part is there is just enough sweetness and only has 6 grams of sugar (*per serving). Honey Bunches of Oats Honey Roasted contains 10 grams of whole grain per serving, provides *9 essential vitamins and minerals, and contains 0g Trans Fat, 0g Saturated Fat and 0mg Cholesterol. My teenage daughters love this cereal so much that they have asked to to purchase the "Just Bunches" variety to put in snack bags for them to stash into their gym bags for volleyball season. Sounds like a smart snack to me!
How would you like to win a coupon for a FREE box of any variety of Honey Bunches of Oats? I have 5 coupons to give away to 5 lucky Momfiles readers. Enter in the Rafflecopter widget below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Contest is open to US Residents only and will end on May 28, 2012. Please leave your email address in your comment if you do not have a Blogger Profile. 5 winners will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. If you do not follow the rules by completing the mandatory entry first, all of your entries will not count. Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

Post provided a free sample of their Honey Bunches of Oats-Honey Roasted so I could review them. However all opinions expressed here are my own.
Shelly, Mom Files
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