Family * Travel * Food

Try Mary's Gone Crackers for Healthier, Plant-Based Snacking

About a month ago, I had a real awakening in regards to my health. I made a drastic change in my diet which included eliminating meat, eggs and dairy. While I am still working out the little kinks here and there, a plant-based diet has been a necessary shift that I am committing myself to.  My family decided together that we will all take part on this journey to better health. 

One of the biggest changes for us has been what we snack on. I think snacks have been the trickiest for us since we all love our share of junk food. We have really cleaned up our act and have discovered some new things we love. Mary's Gone Crackers are a delicious, savory snack that really does cure your craving for something a little salty and crunchy. 


Mary’s Gone Crackers products are minimally processed from consciously and sustainably sourced ingredients. These healthy choices are not only good for our bodies, but also healthy for the planet. It's comforting to read the ingredients on the box and actually recognize all of them. 

What do they taste like? The real thin crackers have a unique texture, crunch and taste that make them irresistible. The olive oil and cracked black pepper variety is my family's top pick. If you like the taste of freshly cracked pepper, you will love these. We were all so surprised that these gluten-free crackers don't taste like dried out cardboard as many GF snacks do. 

Mary's Gone Crackers snacks come in so many varieties and flavors. They are perfect for everyday snacking, charcuterie boards and for when you are on-the-go. Organic, vegan, cruelty-free, and Non-GMO certified, these crispy, crunchy, and delicious crackers will go great with your favorite cheeses and jams. 

If you are on the hunt for healthier plant-powered snacks for yourself or your family, you must try these crackers. I want to try all of their amazing varieties. Learn more here. Many thanks to Mary's Gone Crackers for the product samples to try. We love them! 

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Fuel Up For Your Next Adventure With Nature Valley Simple Nut Bars #simplesnacking ($15 Paypal Giveaway)


**Closed**
Winner is Charlene Davis- Congrats! 

Are you getting ready to hit the road with your family or even stay close to home and explore your local parks, zoo or other attractions? If you are like me, I'm sure packing extra snacks and drinks is on your list. With a family of 5, I look for convenience as well as nutrition. One of the newest snacks on our list of favorites is Nature Valley Simple Nut Bars. They are simple because they only have 7 ingredients! Just nuts, seeds, tapioca syrup and sea salt.
Look at all that nutty, wholesome goodness! Be sure to check out these and other varieties of Nature Valley Nut Bars. 
I just love that they are not sweet. It has just the right amount of salt and a great chewy and crunchy texture that is very satisfying. These bars come in: 
  • Almond Cashew Sea Salt
  • Roasted Peanut Honey 
They are perfect for road trips, hikes, camping or even to keep stashed in your purse or desk at work for a quick, wholesome snack. You can even enjoy it with a cup of your favorite yogurt as a quick breakfast or lunch on-the-go.

Right now you can download and print a high value coupon for .75 cents off one box of select varieties of Nature Valley Bars from Publix, while supplies last (hurry!). You are going to want to stock up with back-to-school just around the corner!

To give you a little help with stocking up on Nature Valley Simple Nut Bars or any other of their nut bars, I have a $15 PayPal prize up for grabs. It's easy to enter!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway ends August 10, 2015 and is open to U.S. and Canada Residents. Be sure to follow the instructions in the Rafflecopter widget for all entries to count. Good luck!
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Made in Nature Organic Dried Fruit Review & Giveaway (2 winners)

I have a confession. I'm not a fruit lover. I'm very particular when it comes to fruit texture. Oddly enough I prefer to eat fruit dried over fresh. I received some samples of Made in Nature Organic dried fruit in Bananas, Cranberries and Black Mission Figs. Made in Nature organic fruit has no added sugar, are non-GMO, nut-free and are unsulfered. I don't think you can get more natural than that! 
I tried the bananas first. They aren't the prettiest looking things, but boy do they taste amazing. I felt like I could eat them like candy. The texture was so chewy and I just loved how naturally sweet they were. The cranberries were nothing like what I am used to from the usual brand I use. Apparently I have been buying the wrong kind for years. Oh boy, the cranberries were perfectly sweet-tart and packed with flavor. I admit, I wasn't too thrilled about the figs. I went for it. You know what? They were actually very good-- surprisingly sweet with a chewy texture. I browsed the Made in Nature site and didn't realize how many recipes you can add dried fruit into.


Eating dried fruit is a very good option for me since my body is in need of the extra potassium and fiber. My husband really enjoyed snacking on all of the varieties of dried fruit with organic pecans. They keep him energized during the workday and I feel good that he's eating something really healthy, without added sugar. We look forward to trying some of the other fruit varieties, especially the apricots, apples and plums. As a matter of fact, I think the plums or apricots would be amazing in a zesty lamb or beef stew.

Giveaway: Two lucky Mom Files readers will win a gift pack including three varieties of Made in Nature Organic dried fruit in Bananas, Cranberries and Black Mission Figs. Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on July 11, 2014. Please follow giveaway rules in Rafflecopter widget. Two winners will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

I received product samples in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own as always. 
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Healthier Snacking with Nonni's #THINaddictives - Review & Giveaway

I received products samples in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own as always. 
I'm a natural born snackaholic. I crave snacks throughout the day and always like to find something different to try. I have been a huge fan of Nonni's Biscotti for many years. I was excited about their latest product-- THINaddictives. The name was very fitting for this amazing snack. 
I received a couple boxes of THINaddictives in two varieties-- Banana Dark Chocolate and Blueberry Oat. They are jam packed with almonds and have the most crunchy texture, with a lightly sweet taste. The added blueberries, banana and dark chocolate really stand out in these almond thins. They are great with coffee or tea in the morning and can be taken on-the-go for a quick, satisfying snack you can feel good about eating. 
The new flavors maintain the product’s tradition of being made with real, wholesome ingredients, like California almonds and fruit baked into every bite. Created for those seeking a healthy indulgence, THINaddictives are:

·         Low in sugar (5 grams or less per serving)

·         Low in carbohydrates (14 grams or less per serving)

·         Low calorie (100 calories per serving)

·         Available in five delicious flavors, including Cranberry, Cinnamon Raisin, Pistachio, NEW Banana Dark Chocolate and NEW Blueberry Oat.
Nonni’s THINaddictives will host a Facebook giveaway to honor the new flavors May 19-June 1. Fans can choose whether they are “Team Banana” or “Team Blueberry” to entered for a chance to win free THINaddictives!

Be sure to connect with Nonni's THINaddictives for products updates and promotions on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

Would you like to try some THINaddictives for yourself? Five Mom Files readers will each win 2 coupons good for a FREE box of THINaddictives. Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on May 24, 2014. Please follow giveaway rules in Rafflecopter widget. Five winners will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!
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Smartfood® Delight Popcorn Review

For many years since my daughters were little, I remember them always being a big fan of Smartfood popcorn. They often took their extra money and would buy a bag from the "treat lady" at lunch time. Now Smartfood has come out with a lighter version of their delicious popcorn called Smartfood Delight. It comes in Sea Salt and White Cheddar flavors. 
What makes this version different from the original? This lighter version has only has 35 calories per cup. The best part? They taste is just as good as the original. It's nice to know that you can feel good about snacking with fewer calories. I guess this means it's okay to have a beer or glass of wine with a cup of this snacking goodness! My teenagers are so surprised that the white cheddar popcorn is a lighter version. They love it. My husband is a big fan of the sea salt. It's not too salty and it satisfies that snack craving.

Smartfood Delight contains no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives, is gluten-free, 100% whole grain and is air-popped. 

Smartfood Delight Sea Salt popcorn: Sea salt brings out the delicious air-popped popcorn taste, making Smartfood Delight Sea Salt popcorn a great snack any time of day.
Smartfood Delight White Cheddar popcorn: With the right combination of delectable white cheddar cheese and a satisfying crunch, this classic flavor has 50 percent less fat than regular Smartfood White Cheddar popcorn.

Smartfood Delight Sea Salt popcorn is available in 5.5 oz bags for a suggested retail price of $3.99 and Smartfood Delight White Cheddar popcorn is available in 6.5 oz bags for a suggested retail price of $3.99. Be sure to stay connected to Smartfood on Facebook and Twitter for product updates and promotions.

I received complimentary samples in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was received and all opinions are 100% my own. 


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Eatrageous- A fun and healthier way to snack #wgc #crunchthenumbers

I received a complimentary box of Eatrageous snacks for review. All opinions are  my own as always. 

Are you a big snacker? I know I am. I find that I always need a quick snack in the afternoon when it's time to pick the kids up from school. I do my best to go for healthy options. I was so interested in trying out the new snacks made by Eatrageous. They are supposed to be a "twist on chips". 
Eatrageous chips are very unique. They use all natural, non-GMO, and gluten-free ingredients in all of their products. What sets them apart from traditional chips is their Clean Cooking Technology. This cooking method uses a thermal flash process to cook their chips to perfection without grease, eliminating virtually all fat and reducing calories. The end result is cleaner, healthier, super crunchy chips.
You're probably wondering how they taste. If you look at them, they resemble an angled tube. I think I was expecting a light crunch with a melting texture (if that makes sense). Turns out that they are very crunchy and addicting. I tried all 4 flavors and wasabi ranch is my top pick. The flavor is so intense without being salty. The crunchy mac n' cheese, sweet & smokey bbq and original sea salt all tied for second place. They are ALL delicious! They are perfect for when I am on the go. I think the crunchiness satisfies my snacking urge and at only 100 calories, this is truly guilt-free snacking! Warning: Your loud crunching may annoy others around you. Crunch with caution :)

Eatrageous chips can be purchased directly from their website or you can see if any local stores carry them with their store locator feature.

Be sure to connect with Eatrageous on Facebook and Twitter.
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Big G and Yoplait Giveaway- $25 Publix gift card

Disclosure: The information and prize pack have been provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

We all know breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Even if it is as simple as a bowl of cereal or a cup of yogurt, you must eat something to start your day the right way. I always keep Yoplait Greek yogurt around as a quick option for busy mornings, which is almost every morning! One thing that I learned from a friend was adding Cheerios to it. It is such a yummy combination and is very satisfying for breakfast and sometimes, even for lunch or a snack.

Check out these great combinations: 
Yoplait Greek Blended Coconut + Banana Nut Cheerios = feels like you’re on the beach!
Yoplait Greek Blended Vanilla + Chocolate Cheerios = tastes like an ice cream twist!
Yoplait Greek Blended Blueberry + Frosted Cheerios = blueberry pie!
Yoplait Greek Blended Pineapple + Fruity Cheerios = tropical taste!

Check out the Big G and Yoplait Savings at Publix

Buy any 1 Cheerios (10.9oz or greater), get 1 Free Yoplait Greek or Greek Blended (available 10/26 - 11/15)

Buy 10 Yoplait Greek or Greek 100 for $10 (available 10/24 – 10/30)

BOGO MultiGrain Cheerios and other Cheerios varieties including Apple Cinnamon Cheerios, Banana Nut Cheerios, Chocolate Cheerios, Dulce de Leche Cheerios, Frosted Cheerios, Fruity Cheerios (available 10/24 – 10/30)

Giveaway: One Mom Files winner will win a $25 Publix gift card to stock up on Yoplait Greek and Cheerios!Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on November 13, 2013. One winner will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email to claim prize.  Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!


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New Green Giant™ Veggie Chips and a $25 Publix GC giveaway #spon #myblogspark

The information and prize pack have been provided by Publix® and Green Giant™ through MyBlogSpark. 
Green Giant™ Veggie Chips are a brand new snack that are made of real vegetables and sweet potatoes. I received all 4 varieties and it was so hard to choose which one to try first. I went the Garden Ranch Roasted Veggie Tortilla Chips. They looked very textured and seasoned. I popped the first one in my mouth and was pleasantly surprised with the nice ranch flavor without the heavy salty taste you get from most chips. It has the perfect crispy, crunchy texture and if you're not careful, you can easily eat half the bag. Of course, I know nothing about this. 

Green Giant™ Veggie Snack Chips can be a smarter snack since they are made with real vegetables and real sweet potatoes
o With 17 grams of whole grain per serving (14g for Sweet Potato Chips, 18g for Ranch) 48 grams of whole grain recommended daily.
o About Green Giant Multigrain Sweet Potato Chips only: 40% less fat than regular potato chips Green Giant Multigrain Sweet Potato Chips only (6g per 28g serving) have 40 percent less fat than regular potato chips (10g per 28g serving).

These are really good for every day snacking, lunchboxes, movie munchies or even as a team sport snack. It's a chip you can feel good about giving your kids. You can purchase Green Giant Veggie Chips are many stores nationwide, including Publix Supermarket.

One Mom Files winner will win a great prize pack consisting of 4 bags of Green Giant Veggie Chips in Garden Ranch, Barbecue, Zesty Cheddar and Sea Salt varieties, as well as one $25 Publix gift card. Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Giveaway is open to US Residents only. Giveaway ends on October 6, 2013 and one winner will be selected at random and contacted via email to claim prize. Be sure to follow contest rules stated in Rafflecopter widget. Mom Files is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!
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A Healthy Alternative to the Traditional Chips and Dip: Smart Fries

I have a confession: I am a compulsive snacker. I snack all day long and even at night in bed. When I received a box of samples of all natural Smart Fries from Gourmet Basics for review, I was happy for a healthy snack alternative. The first thing that stood out to me was the word "fries". I love fries. Of course, I know they are not something you can eat everyday because they are not healthy. Smart Fries are different. They are the "Better for You" potato snack treat which is Air-Popped in an innovative healthy cooking process that preserves the all natural goodness and delicious taste. Smart Fries contain as little as 1.5-2 grams of fat per serving (depending on flavor), and are 100% natural with no artificial additives, no MSG, and 0g trans fats and are sure to satisfy your potato chip craving. 
The first flavor I tried was the Vintage Cheddar. I was so pleased with the light crispy, crunchy texture and the surprisingly delicious cheese flavor. The full size bag contains 3 servings and it is quite possible that I ate half the bag at one time. At least I did not have to feel guilty about it!
They are absolutely delicious and really satisfy my craving to snack, especially at night. The crunchiness is addicting! It's nice to have the feeling of eating a potato chip-like snack without the disgusting oily taste.
I have tasted a few of the other flavors and so far the Honey Mustard Onion is my favorite. If you like spicy, the Jalapeno Trio is sure to please! I really love how much flavor is packed into each "fry" without being salty. I feel like I now have snacking freedom!

Stay connected to Smart Fries on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Smart Fries can be purchased at Amazon.com. They come in single serving sizes and full size bags. The case of 24 single serving bags would be perfect for when I have snack duty for my kids' class or sports team. It's a good things to have in the workplace too for when the munchies strike.

I received samples of Smart Fries for review purposes. No other compensation was received and all opinions are completely mine. 
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Try It, Before You Buy (Lots Of) It | Goodies Co. Taster's Box only $7/month #spon

This article is sponsored by Walmart Labs

Have you ever purchased snacks for your family only to find out that they didn't like it? I have done that numerous times and it is such a waste of money. There is a fun new solution to fix that problem. Goodies Co. offers a Taster's box for the low cost of $7 a month. Each Taster's box contains 5-8 snacks that your family can sample. The good thing about it is you won't be wasting a full package in the event you don't like it. If you do like what you try, at least you know you won't waste your money on a full size! With so many subscription box services around, Goodies Co. Taster's boxes are a great value. You can't beat the Try It, Before You Buy (Lots Of) It method!
Goodies Co. Cereal

Goodies Co. Fall Box

Goodies Co. Winter Box
Goodies Co. Nuts

Another great incentive is At Goodies, your opinion matters, and you get rewarded for it. After you try your snacks, go back to the Goodies website and give a review of your box. By doing this you will earn points to redeem for rewards and free tastemaker boxes.

Here is how you can get started on receiving your own Goodies Co. Taster's box you will need to visit the Goodies promo page and enter the code JUNEVIP to instantly receive your invitation. Typically, there is a waitlist to get an invitation, however through our partnership with Goodies Co. you can skip the line and get right in.

Once you enter the code into the promo page, you will receive 2 emails from Goodies. The first will state you are in line for your invitation, the next will instantly tell you your invitation has arrived. This shows you how you skipped the line! So what are you waiting for? Start your Goodies Co. subscription today!
Shelly, Mom Files
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Chili Lemon Pistachios from Sincerely Nuts, YES please!

Since me and my husband have been eating healthier foods and getting our exercise in regularly, we have had to be very creative with our snack choices. One of our favorite go-to snacks is fruit or nuts. I received a bag of Sincerely Nuts pistachios in chili lemon flavor to try out. My first impression was, "Wow, those are some HUGE nuts!" I don't think I have ever seen such big pistachios before. They were packaged in a heavy-duty, sealed plastic bag with a zipper closure for freshness.
I popped open the first nut and tasted it. I liked the subtle chili lemon flavor with a not too salty bite. The nut itself had that natural sweetness that pistachios normally have. I then end up tasting almost 1/4 of the bag! They are hands-down the best tasting and highest quality pistachios I have ever eaten! Even my husband loved them and he is not into flavors besides lightly salted or unsalted.
Some facts about Sincerely Nuts Pistachios:

They are cholesterol free, a good source of dietary fiber and protein, they are gluten-free and do not contain trans-fats. Sincerely Nuts provide the best grown pistachios that have no additives or preservatives as well.
Sincerely Nuts offers many varieties of Premium nuts, seeds, dried fruits, snacks and more. Right now through Aril 26th, Momfiles' readers can receive a special discount of 10% off any purchase of $40 or more using the code: MOMF10

We really enjoyed these pistachios and we think you will too! Sincerely Nuts products are great to have delivered to your home or as a gift for friends, family or business-related connections. Join Sincerely Nuts on Facebook and Twitter for product information and discounts.

I received a product sample for review purposes. All thoughts/opinions are my own as always. 
Shelly, Mom Files
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#UNJUNK and Have an UNREAL Halloween!

I received some fabulous UNREAL candy to share with friends and family at a house party I was asked to throw. It turned out that only one person could show up because it was a super busy weekend for those I invited. There were so many activities going on in my city ( fall break for college students, The State Fair, fall-related festivals and some had to work) so I decided to take my party to the streets. The streets? Yes, I packed up my candy bags and took them up to my daughters' high school for their annual "Trick or Trunk" event that helps raise funds and collect food to donate to the community.

I figured it was a great way to share the UNREAL candy and talk about it with a lot more people. What is UNREAL candy you ask? It is candy made with only REAL ingredients. Nothing artificial. Check out this video with some famous faces and see for yourself...


The taste? YUM. I. Am. Hooked. I can't believe that UNREAL candies were better than the leading brands. You can taste the ingredients and they were less sugary. My family agreed and prefer them too. I was shocked. Not my sweet candy loving children!!


I went to the high school armed with loads of UNREAL candy bags to hand out. I was a but nervous and was unsure of how well it would go over. Telling a bunch of teenagers and their parents that they should UNJUNK and GETREAL was going to raise some eyebrows. It's Halloween after all!


I chatted with so many people in small groups and they were stunned that candy that is made without fake ingredients can possibly taste good. As I walked around throughout the grounds I kept getting stopped by smiling faces. They were so pleased with how delicious the candy was and wanted to know where to find them. I told them CVS, Staples, Kroger and so many more retailers carry them for the same cost as a traditional candy bar.


My oldest daughter even said that one of the student activities leaders (a teacher) was inquiring about possibly selling UNREAL candy for fundraising! How cool is that? Not a bad idea to swap out the fake, sugary stuff with the real deal at the SAME cost! I am so happy that everyone enjoyed the candy and got to learn about the UNREAL movement. It made me think, shouldn't all candy be real? I sure hope they start making treat sizes for my kids' lunch boxes. They would love that!

Check out UNREAL on the web, Facebook and Twitter. Have you tried UNREAL candy yet? What did you think?

I received free products to share and was compensated for my time. All thoughts/opinions are completely my own.
Shelly, Mom Files
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Funky Monkey Snacks #funkychat Twitter Party & Giveaway

**CLOSED** Winner is Shelly~ Congratulations!
Funky Monkey Snacks will be hosting a Twitter chat to discuss Gluten Free Month. The details are as follows:

Date: Tuesday October 16th
Time: 2:00 PM EST
RSVP: None required
Follow: @FunkyMonkeySnck
Hashtag: #funkychat

They would love for everyone to join in!

I have tried Funky Monkey Snacks and LOVE them! I am not a big fruit eater and the thought of eating a banana makes me ill. Funky Monkey Bananamon variety has changed my feelings about bananas. They are amazing! I could eat them every single day. They would be great to stash in your purse, kid's lunchbox or gym bag.

Funky Monkey Snacks are a fun way to incorporate fruit into your kids' diet. With 3 servings of fruit in every 1oz bag, Funky Monkey Snacks are: 100% Natural, Real Fruit, Nothing Added, Gluten Free, GMO Free, Vegan, Raw Food, and Kosher. Discover the Fruit That Crunches! Be sure to check out Funky Monkey Snacks on Facebook.
The awesome folks from Funky Monkey Snacks want you to taste the deliciousness for yourself. One lucky Momfiles reader will win a Funky Monkey Snacks prize pack of all 7 flavors. Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on October 19, 2012. One winner will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

I will receive products samples for spreading the word about the Twitter chat. All opinions are completely my own.
Shelly, Mom Files
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Del Monte Fruit Cups for back-to-school {Giveaway}

**Closed** Winner is Elizabeth~ Congratulations!

Del Monte Foods has come out with their newest Fruit Cup® varieties that are packed at the peak of ripeness featuring Fall’s favorite fruits: Diced Pears in extra light syrup with Vanilla & Spice and Diced Apples & Pears in extra light syrup with Caramel. Each cup contains a full serving of all-natural fruit, is an excellent source of vitamin C, and contains no high fructose corn syrup. These are absolutely perfect for my daughters to take in their lunchboxes and even in their gym bag as a portable, healthy snack before they have volleyball practice. It makes me feel good to know they are getting an extra serving of fruit in their daily intake. Both flavors are so delicious! I really love the diced apples and pears in caramel flavor. It is so subtle yet you feel like you are having a treat.

Right now, Del Monte has a fun game on their Facebook page called "Flavor Boom". After you play the game (trust me, it's fun!) You can get a $1.00 off coupon, which can be used towards a two-pack of the new Fruit Cup® varieties.

Giveaway: One Momfiles reader will win a gift pack that includes the 2 new Del Monte Fruit Cup® varieties as well as a money saving coupon for $1.00 select Del Monte products. Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on September 27, 2012. One winner will be chosen at random and will be contacted via email. Momfiles is not responsible for any lost or stolen prizes. Good luck!

 I will receive products samples for review purposes. All thoughts/opinions are completely my own.
Shelly, Mom Files

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