Family * Travel * Food

Check Out The New WORX® MAX Lawnmower

Just in time to begin spring lawn care, the new WORX® 40V, MAX Lithium, 20 in. Lawnmower is the latest addition to the brand’s line of high efficiency, low maintenance, easy to operate and eco-friendly lawn mowers.  This largest mower in the WORX 20V Power Share platform features a wider deck than its predecessors to save time and labor, as well as higher voltage for added torque and cutting power. 

The cordless mower combines two, 20V MAX Power Share 5.0 Ah lithium batteries to deliver 40V of power. It has a cutting diameter of 19 in. and cuts medium-sized lawns up to 1/4 acre on a single charge.WG751 2x20 Mower 120618.jpg

Unlike gas models, the 40V mower has no cord to pull, choke to adjust, oil level to check, air and gas filters to replace or gasoline container that needs refilling. Not to mention the rising costs of gas and oil, as well as the expense of annual tune-ups.  The only maintenance requirements of the cordless mower are periodically sharpening or changing the mulching blade, cleaning the underside of the mower’s deck and charging or storing the removable batteries.

This hassle-free, cordless mower features two-step electric starting.  Just hold down the start button, then squeeze the bale handle and the walk-behind, push mower is up and running.       

The mower’s 3-in-1 deck allows users to mulch, bag, or side-discharge grass clippings.  The steel, 20 in. deck is equipped with 10 in. rear wheels that provide excellent traction, mobility and maneuverability around trees, shrubs, flower beds and other lawn features.

When mulching, the mower’s Nutricut™ multi-cut blade action cuts grass into fine particles, returning them to the soil for fertilization.  Besides its mulching capabilities, the mower’s rugged, steel deck is highly impact resistant and built to withstand years of hard use over various terrains.

Neighbors appreciate the 40V mower’s significant noise reduction, compared to gas models. The green machine also is independent of fossil fuels and adds no emissions to the environment.   

The cordless mower features single-lever deck height adjustment to raise or lower the mower deck from 1½ to 4¼ in.  Easy adjustability enables homeowners to quickly set the right mowing height for the season, type of grass and growing conditions.  Selecting the proper mowing height helps grow a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant lawn, while discouraging weeds and undesirable grasses. 

The ergonomically designed mower includes a foam-padded comfort handle that’s fully collapsible for compact, stand-up storage.  Its 1.4 bushel-capacity, rear grass bag includes a carrying handle for easy emptying.

Batteries are removable from the mower deck for charging or storage. The mower’s 20V, MAX Lithium, 5.0 Ah batteries are part of the WORX 20V Power Share program and are compatible with other WORX lawn and garden tools.

Standard equipment includes two 20V, MAX Lithium, 5.0 Ah MAX batteries; dual-port, 2-1/2-hour charger with battery power-level indicators; mulch insert plug; and rear grass bag.

The WORX 40V, MAX Lithium, 20 in., Lawnmower (WG751, $474.99) is available at https://www.worx.com/en_CA/.  It is covered by the WORX three-year limited warranty.

 photo 7636c3fb-e8d9-4b07-af6b-f1ca33a15bfe_zps9lbkp4mn.png
SHARE:

How To Make The Perfect Margarita

Hello, April! It's that beautiful time of year where we get to see the changes of spring take place. I spent the weekend outdoors with my family planting flowers, weeding garden beds, re-potting plants, and doing our big annual clean-up. The warmer temperatures and longer hours of sunlight have gotten me excited for the warmer months. 

One of our favorite beverages year 'round is a good old-fashioned homemade margarita. We do not like those pre-made mixers at all. If you are looking for a very good margarita recipe (with a little bit of kick) you are in the right place. My neighbor shared this recipe with me a while back that she got from our other neighbor. It's so good and we make it all the time! The great part if you do not need any fancy bar equipment or even formal glassware for serving. This recipe is perfect for girls' trips, girls' night in, or parties. 

How to make the perfect Margarita

Ingredients: 

2 cups of good white tequila (we use Jose Cuervo)
2 cups of triple sec
2 cups of fresh or bottled lime juice (we use this one
2 cups *sugar plus 2 cups water to make a simple syrup

Directions:

The first step is to make your simple syrup. The key is to fully dissolve the sugar into the water. It's best to chill simple syrup before adding to the other ingredients. Stir all ingredients in a pitcher and serve over plenty of ice. If you prefer frozen margaritas, you can blend with ice. It's delicious either way. 

*I use a little less sugar because I don't like my drinks too sweet. You can adjust to your taste. 

Tips:

I serve mine on the rocks with a simple wedge of lime. You can use margarita glasses with salted or sugared rims. I will be experimenting with strawberry, mango, and raspberry purees to make some exciting flavors. If you want, you can make half the recipe or even double it.

If you have been on the hunt for a good margarita recipe, you will love this one. Let me know if you decide to give it a try. Thanks for stopping by today.

 photo 7636c3fb-e8d9-4b07-af6b-f1ca33a15bfe_zps9lbkp4mn.png
SHARE:

Slimsation has what every mom needs

I have been a mom for 22+ years and my body has surely changed over time. I remember the days of being 100 pounds and having the nerve to be unhappy about it. Well, those 100 pounds days are long gone and I have come to terms that those days will probably never return. Like most moms, especially if you have had a couple c-sections, I have the annoying mom tummy. It makes buying clothing that fits properly a trying task.

Luckily, the SlimSation brand of clothing is here to save the day. I have been wearing their jeans and dress pants for about 3 years now and out of all the brands I have tried, they fit and wear well. SlimSation has a higher cut waist that has a wide, built in elastic band that controls your tummy for a sleeker, slimmer appearance. Normal jeans tend to give me the dreaded muffin top look that make me feel like I have to keep pulling them up. No lady should have to go through all of that.

I was thrilled to get a few pairs of SlimSation pants for the spring. First up are the Boyfriend Style cropped jeans. These are perfect for day or night since they can be dressed up or down. They slide on with the ease without a zipper or button. They have pockets in the back and really make my butt look cute. I would show you, but I'm a lady (smile) They are SO comfortable and wash well. This picture is from at least 3 wash cycles and they still look like new. They feel well "broken in" and easily have become my new favorite jeans!


Next, are the classic denim capri pants. Any time I wear them, my husband compliments me and tells me I look like a very classy lady. They fit well and are versatile, too. You can wear them dressed up or down to achieve the perfect look. And most importantly, they fit SO well! They feel comfortable while keep my tummy looking flatter. 


For the upcoming summer, I have the shorts in white. I am hanging on to them for when the temps get a little higher. Again, just like any SlimSation pants or bottoms, they fit perfectly. 

I think the key is once you know the correct size, you are set. I order a size 6 no matter the cut, and they all fit the same way. I can depend on getting jeans and pants that fit my mom body comfortably well without looking like I'm wearing "mom jeans". 

I am so pleased with the superior quality of SlimSation garments. I have some jeans and pants from a couple years ago and they have been washed over and over again, and have held up very well. I feel like purchasing staple wardrobe items of higher quality is a must for moms. We tend to put ourselves last, so you might as well get something good if you don't shop frequently. I highly recommend SlimSation to every woman, even if you're not a mom. Oh, and the fact that my husband sometimes comments, "You're looking extra skinny today" when I'm wearing my pants or jeans is proof of why they are named SlimSation.  

Check out the new arrivals of SlimSation garments today. I know you will love them like I do. They offer a wide variety of styles, sizes and colors to fit every woman's taste. Be sure to connect with them on Facebook and Twitter for updates and style inspiration. 

Disclosure: I received product samples for review purposes. All opinions are 100% mine as always. I absolutely love this brand! 
SHARE:

Get Set for Spring with These 5 Beauty Hacks

Just as spring is the perfect time for a full house clean and de-cluttering, it’s also great for a beauty update. There’s nothing better than getting your hair and skin ready for the summer season with a few new treats and luxuries. Since busy moms won’t have a lot of time and money to waste on beauty, We've rounded up the best beauty hacks to get set for spring. With these tips, tricks and trends you can look and feel gorgeous as the sun-rays start treating your skin.

Treat the dry hair

After winter, most of us suffer from dry hair. It’s not even our fault or a lack of TLC that causes it. Winter can just be rather rough on the hair with the temperature changes (indoors it’s hot, outdoors it’s cold) and weather such as constant rain and the wind. We all feel a bit worn out after winter so it isn’t really a big thing to find your hair calling for help as well.

If you’re suffering from parched, dry hair, hair masks are the way to go. There are tons of good treatments out there – give the FekkaiPrXReparatives Intensive Fortifying Masque a go. If you want to find a clever tip for keeping your hair looking smooth at all times, then make your own de-tangler. You just need to add about two tablespoons of your chosen conditioner into a travel-sized spray bottle. Add water, shake well, and you've got a handy product to spray on your hair for quick dehydration!

Wave it up with no heat

Since you want to give your hair a bit more breathing room after the tough winter, you want to leave those hair straighteners and tongs untouched. If you want a no-hassle look, then wave the ends overnight with this simple beauty hack.

image credit
You can add a hold and shine product such as TRESemmé Make Waves to washed and damp hair. Twist your hair into long spirals and create a cute bun with the spirals by tying it up into a knot. Make sure the ends of the hair are tucked underneath. Hold in place with a hair elastic. Open up in the morning and voilá!

Become a primer fanatic

Primers are the unsung heroes of our makeup bags. If you’re not using one, then you need to add one to your storage box immediately. Primer is the perfect spring hack because it evens out your tone and hydrates the dry winter skin at the same time.

Finding the perfect primer on your skin will require a bit of testing. For this reason, it can be a good idea to enter makeup stores and ask for samples – they are more than happy to demonstrate their products and it will save your pennies! If you want a few ideas, we would recommend Benefit The Professional and MAC Prep + Prime Natural Radiance Primer.

image credit
Now, don’t be afraid to go primer crazy. You shouldn’t just use it on your face. Primers can help you achieve a glowing look on the legs, décolletage and arms. So, before you head out on the tank top, add just a bit of primer for a healthier tone.

Makeup brush for the best complexion

Sometimes we pay too much attention to the actual beauty products and not the tools we use with them. But the blame, for example, might not be on the kind of foundation you use, but the way you apply it. When it comes to spring beauty hacks, do yourself a favor and ditch the old makeup brushes and invest in a great brush. A good brush can help you achieve that perfect dewy complexion for the season.

image credit
Charlotte Tilbury’s Foundation Brush is perfect for adding a liquid foundation on your skin. The tapered tool is easy to use and clean, making it super easy to add a soft layer of makeup on your skin. If you want something more matte, then pick a larger brush – the KevynAucoin’s the Foundation Brush is a great pick. You can find both brushes from Cult Beauty – with the added benefit of saving money with your purchase!

Get a head start for the glow

Now spring sun isn’t yet enough to get that beautiful tan. However, you can add instant glamour and freshness to your look with a bronze glow. The solution then is to opt for the faux tanning lotions. Now, we admit, these are not always a girl’s best friends. The tanning lotions can cause more mess than beauty –it’s on the sheets, your clothes, your children and the furniture!

You should try some of the new additions to the tanning lotion regime. Whish Coconut Milk and Bareminerals Faux Tan Body are quite good and less messy than some previous products. Furthermore, if you do get a bit too much tanning lotion on you or you notice patches, pick a bit of baking soda to clean it up. Sprinkle the baking soda on a washcloth and scrub it onto your damp skin. Rinse with warm water and you are good to go!

With these 5 beauty hacks, you are set for spring in no time!

SHARE:

Big Spring Giveaway $100 Amazon or PayPal

Can you all believe we are headed into spring already? I know it might not feel that way depending on what part of the country you live in. Seems like winter wintered a little late. To help you beat those last minute winter blues, we have partnered up with a great group of bloggers to bring you one very fabulous giveaway. The rules are below. Good luck :) 


How to enter: There are 20 Twitter accounts to follow and each is worth one entry into the giveaway. Follow all 20 for 20 entries into this giveaway! If you’re already a follower of an account, claim that entry! This giveaway starts March 17 at midnight EST and ends March 31 at 11:59 PM EST. Entrants must be USA residents and at least 18 years old. One winner will be randomly selected from all qualifying entries and contacted via the email they provide. The email will come from joannegreco at gmail. The winner has 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. The prize is $100 in Paypal or Amazon online gift card, winner’s choice.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
SHARE:

How To Help Protect Your Family From Mosquitoes

Experts are predicting a fierce mosquito season this year. To help homeowners protect themselves against those pesky creatures, Arrow Exterminators recommends the following simple, proactive measures:


  • Eliminate all sources of standing water such as children's wading pools, birdbaths and flower pots;
  • Keep rain gutters cleaned out to prevent water from standing in drains;
  • Cut back or get rid of unnecessary vegetation around the home where mosquitoes can breed and/or rest;
  • Keep swimming pools covered in colder months to prevent mosquitoes from laying their eggs there, and drain any water that has collected on top of pool covers;
  • Remove water that has collected in tree holes and hollow stumps;
  • Screen windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from getting inside homes; and
  • Consider using yellow bug light bulbs in outdoor light fixtures – the bulbs reduce the number of flying insects around your home.

“As the temperatures continue to rise, mosquito populations boom and the recent rains have created the perfect breeding ground for another banner year,” said Charlie Jones, Arrow Pest Expert and SVP of Operations.  “Homeowners should take precautions because these pests do more than leave behind itchy red bites, they can also spread diseases like West Nile Virus, Zika Virus and Chikungunya Fever.”
Needing only small amounts of standing water to breed – a bottle cap full is enough – these blood-sucking pests can develop from egg to adult in just 10-14 days.  Additionally, these pests are always in search of their next meal and sense a potential target from up to 75 feet away.


Arrow protects homes from pests with the STEPS® Total Protection System™, an industry-leading approach that utilizes Integrated Pest Management (IPM). STEPS includes a full property evaluation to pinpoint pest issues; identification of not only the pest, but the true cause of the problem; and treatment in the most environmentally responsible way to alleviate current issues and to help prevent future recurrences. Consumers interested in scheduling a free whole home evaluation can contact Arrow at www.arrowexterminators.com or call 888-462-7769.
SHARE:

Gear Up For Spring With NIC+ZOE

Today's post is sponsored by NIC+ZOE. All opinions expressed are my own.

I don't know about you, but I am so ready for Spring to hurry up and get here. I can just feel the warmth, hear the birds chirping and I get excited about wearing lighter clothing. The layers and heaviness of winter is starting to get to me. I have been thinking about adding some new items to my wardrobe this spring. I was browsing around the NIC +ZOE site at their Spring Collection. Everything looks so airy and feminine. I am really digging the soft colors and materials.

The Batiste Flirt Skirt is simply gorgeous. I love the length, cut and color choices (ash, black onyx and midnight). It is conservative enough to wear to work, but also girly enough to for a date night or girl's night out. I really love it in the ash color, but I always feel like you can't go wrong with black! Just add a light blouse, a couple of chunky bangles and some strappy heels, and you'll have a beautiful look for spring.

The Tassel Top is the perfect feminine tunic style top for spring. I really like the sandstone color. It is a very classic and sophisticated piece. I think it would look nice paired with skinny jeans and slim pants and either heels or ballet flats. You can't ever go wrong with a classic look. 



One thing you must have in your wardrobe is a couple of cardigans and this Holey Cardigan is adorable! It is really different and versatile. You really can wear it with any type of pants or skirt. I really love the simple look of the Sketchbook Pant. Dressed up or down, it is perfect!


NIC+ZOE really has some great pieces. I love the modern and feminine style that they have captured so well. I highly recommend classic pieces that you can mix and match to get the most out of each garment. Check out this short video showcasing their Spring + Summer 2016 featuring Coco Rocha... It screams vintage mixed with modern sophistication!



Check out all NIC+ZOE has to offer and be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest styles and promotions.
SHARE:

Influenster #SpringVoxBox 2014

I'm so happy that I qualified to receive the Influenster Spring Vox Box for review. I don't think I have ever gotten a bad box from them. This box was pretty impressive. 
This Vox Box contained:
Rimmel London Scandaleyes Retro Glam Mascara ($5.99)-  This mascara is supposed to make your lashes look thicker, fuller with fanned out volume without clumps. I was very impressed that a low cost mascara really came through. I love the very wide applicator brush. I won't say that it is 100% clump-free, but if you apply it carefully, it will give you an almost perfect look. It comes off easily with my make-up remover wipes and leaves no residue behind. I will be purchasing this in the future.

Kiss Everlasting French Nails ($6.49)- My 17 year old daughter will be putting these to good use. I have a feeling they will be perfect for her. They have a shorter length which will give a more natural look.

Peach Pie car freshener from the movie Labor Day. It was so cute, but not really scented at all.

Playtex Sport Fresh Balance tampons ($3.99- $4.99) This is a great product. I have tried them and they do what they are supposed to do. I don't normally use scented feminine hygiene products, but these are the exception. I didn't experience any issue with it at all. Great product by Playtex.

NIVEA Skin Firming Hydrating Lotion ($2.40 for 2.5 oz/$10.99 for 13.5 oz) I love the way this lotion felt when I applied it. I just couldn't get past the very strong fragrance. It was too powdery scented and really turned me off. I wish this lotion was unscented. I would love to try that!

Overall, my favorite item is the Scandaleyes mascara. I just love how my eyelashes look and can't believe what a good value it is. I highly recommend it!

Big thanks to Influenster for another great beauty box. I look forward to receiving the next one.
SHARE:

Kardashian Kids coming to Babies“R”Us beginning March 15th

Kourtney, Kim and Khloéé Kardashian Unveil Their First-Ever Collection for Baby Girls

NEW YORK, NY (FEBRUARY 19th 2014) – Kourtney, Kim and Khloéé Kardashian, in collaboration with Jupi Corp, will soon debut designs for girls up to 24 months at Babies“R”Us, the nation’s leading juvenile products retailer.  The Kardashian Kids collection features much adored motifs including butterflies, shimmering stars and a uniquely sweet take on the Kardashian’s signature animal print.  The line ranges from newborn onesies, snuggly caps and cozy blankets, to stylish and functional two-piece sets, jackets and dresses.  Kardashian Kids will be available exclusively at select Babies“R”Us stores across the U.S. and online at Babiesrus.com/KKids beginning March 15.

“Since becoming a mom, I’ve been so inspired to create Kardashian Kids with perfect prints, heavenly fabrics for a baby’s skin and to bring fashion to the baby world that is affordable,” said Kourtney, mother of Mason and Penelope.

The sweetly sophisticated pieces include delicate details of layered lace, pearl-embossed buttons, georgette appliques and leatherette.  Pastels, touches of gold, calming neutrals and pops of color are all a part of the collection’s color palette.  Cherished items include a playful white cotton onesie with girly tulle ruffles, soft gold polka-dot leggings and darling butterfly-printed bloomer shorts. From newborn must-haves to luxurious special occasion pieces, the line offers gentle fabrics in delightful and tender designs.

“Our grandmother opened a children’s fashion store, and from an early age I adored baby fashion.  Later when Penelope was born, my sisters and I had so many ideas for how we wanted to dress her, but didn’t always find what we were envisioning.  Now, as a mom, I cherish the time my baby and I spend together getting her dressed.  The items in this collection are exactly what I have imagined for her,” said Kim, mother of North.

“With our ever-expanding family and our wide circle of friends having children, designing a baby collection was the next natural progression for my sisters and me. We hope the charming patterns and the uniquely stylish items are gifts new parents will be delighted to open,” said Khloéé.

“The line was designed with fashionable parents in mind, and although trend is at the core of the collection, we never let it compromise quality and functionality. We always want to ensure we are offering our customers the finest quality at the best possible price and knew Babies“R”Us would be the perfect fit,” said Bruno Schiavi, Jupi Corp Chairman and Founder.

“At Babies“R”Us, our customers love sweet and sensible looks for their little girls, and always appreciate a good buy – something with fashionable flair and an affordable price tag. That’s just what Kardashian Kids offers,” said Tom Via, Senior Vice President, General Merchandising Manager. He continued, “Kourtney, Kim and Khloéé each have their own, unique perspective and bring their individual strengths to the table. This has resulted in an adorable collection that pays close attention to the details that moms – and gift-givers – look for, and we’re thrilled to launch this line exclusively in March.”

Kardashian Kids items will retail from $15 to $30 and will be available at all Babies“R”Us stores and online at www.Babiesrus.com/KKids. Fans can stay up-to-date on the latest Kardashian Kids news by following on Facebook (facebook.com/kardashiankids), Instagram (@KardashianKids) and Twitter (@KKidsOfficial).
SHARE:

Wordless Wednesday

Planting strawberries for daddy.

Shelly, Mom Files
SHARE:

Spring clean and turn your clutter into cash!


Did you know the average consumer has $7,000 worth of unused stuff in their home? In fact, according to an annual clothing Resale Report from thredUP, the average family has $1,318 worth of used/outgrown clothing to sell alone. That's a lot of money that can be put towards future goals for your family or even retirement.

Whatever it is you'd like to sell, below is a list of new tech services that make it truly easy to spring clean while turning that clutter into cash. Best part? You don't have to wait for someone else to buy your stuff like you do on Craigslist or eBay. Just pack up those unwanted goods, ship 'em off, and watch the cash roll in.


·  thredUP.com: online consignment to clean out children's closets and turn outgrown clothes into cash. Order a thredUP bag, fill it with kids' clothes and earn up to 40% of the resale value. thredUP consignors inspect every item and resell only the best clothes. http://www.thredup.com

·  EcoATM: an automated, self-serve kiosk that quickly evaluates and buys back used consumer electronics directly from consumers for cash. It's like a magical money robot. Find an EcoATM location near you. http://www.ecoatm.com

·  Chairish.com: sell your home furnishing directly to Chairish. Users simply submit furniture details online, and Chairish takes care of payments while insuring white glove shipping. Chairish's curation team approves every listing to ensure the best furniture quality for buyers. http://www.chairish.com

·  GoldFellow.com: we've all heard of Cash for Gold, but there's another option for your once loved jewelry. Gold fellow will even take broken jewelry! http://www.goldfellow.com/

·  BookScouter.com: type in the ISBN and Book Scouter will search all the sites that are currently paying for used books to give you a quote. It's like having a book broker! http://bookscouter.com/

·  GiftCardGranny.com: gift card exchange that helps you trade in gift cards you aren't planning on using, for cards you will use - or for cash. http://www.giftcardgranny.com/

·  UsedInstrumentBuyer.com: instruments are often pricey to ship, and you probably won't make much selling them on craigslist. UsedInstrumentBuyer gives you a quote upfront and ship it for free. http://usedinstrumentbuyer.com/

·  TheRealReal.com: luxury designer resale - all online. Perfect for the Louis Vuitton bag that needs a new home. http://www.therealreal.com/Events.aspx

·  TaskRabbit.com: want someone to do your spring cleaning for you? TaskRabbit helps you find local people to run your errands– like help you sell heavier stuff such as kitchen appliances or home fitness equipment in the garage on Craigslist. https://www.taskrabbit.com/

·  Secondipity.com: a selling portal perfect for bigger ticket items like TVs. Best part? With every item you sell, they'll make a donation to a classroom in need. http://www.secondipity.com/





**This information was sent to me via email and I thought the resources would be valuable. 
Shelly, Mom Files
SHARE:

Remedies for the Spring Cold

A lot of people assume the common cold is an illness people catch during the fall and winter months. The truth is a cold is a virus that is prevalent during every season, year round. Below are some great Cold Remedies to help the entire family with the Spring Cold.

1) Make sure you drink a lot of Vitamin C. Try drinking cold drinks such as orange juice or grapefruit juice

 2) Keep Cold-EEZE Oral Spray or lozenges in your purse. It’s clinically proven to shorten the duration of a cold by nearly half.

 3) Try using a humidifier. These are great in the summer time because they do not add any additional heat to the room and it cleanses the air.

 4) Honey is one of the best remedies if you’re having a sore throat along with a cold. Try adding honey to every day meals such as pancakes or to your ice tea.

 5) Get plenty of rest. Whether you are sick or not, a good night’s sleep will always improve a person’s overall health.

Shelly, Mom Files
SHARE:

Spring cleaning with Stanley Steemer {$100 Gift Certificate Giveaway}

**Contest over** Winner is Pascha. Congratulations!
It is Springtime and there is an abundance of dust and allergens floating around in the air as well as lodged in our carpets, ducts, floors and fabrics. This is a great time to do some deep cleaning and Stanley Steemer is a phone call away. Did you know they do more than just clean carpet? Stanley Steemer’s expertise extends to hardwood, tile, air ducts, water damage restoration, and more! I have made a service appointment for next month to have our air ducts cleaned out. It has not been done in a few years, so it is really time! I have used Stanley Steemer in the past and the difference is always astonishing after having your carpet cleaned.

Check out the video below from fellow blogger Corine of Complicated Mama



We will be replacing the carpeting in our home soon and plan to make sure we have Stanley Steemer in twice a year to get the 'ick' out! Stanley Steemer’s proprietary equipment and cleaning processes remove more than 98% of dry soil from floors With over 70 branches and 220 franchise locations in 48 states, Stanley Steemer services 95% of the country. You can find Stanley Steemer on the web, Facebook and Twitter.

I am really excited that Stanley Steemer (through MyBlogSpark) is providing a $100 gift certificate for one lucky Momfiles reader to win. How fantastic is that!?

Enter below in the Rafflecopter widget. Be sure to complete the mandatory entry in order for your extra entries to count!
SHARE:

Go AWAY Spring!

I know everyone will think I am insane but I feel royally ripped off that winter really never happened this year. I really enjoy chilly days, sipping hot beverages,  wearing boots and sweaters and sitting by the fireplace. We burned one fire this year. One. I feel like I have to refrain from turning on the air conditioner because it is getting too warm in the house. If I open the windows we all start sneezing from all the pollen that is blowing in. I can't win.
I won these super cute boots by Crocs (who knew they made boots?) from Army Wife 101 and I don't think I will get to wear them this year. As a matter of fact I actually purchased some gorgeous black boots and have worn them maybe 3 times so far. I am truly a cold weather lover. I love open-toe shoes but it seems wrong to be wearing flip flops in February. I guess I better not complain. It beats being stuck in winter storms, right? I am so not looking forward to what the summer will be like. It scares me to think how hot it will be. Hopefully before the actual winter season is over we will be lucky enough to get a few cold days.

So what's the winter been like in your city?

Shelly, Mom Files
SHARE:

Random family updates

Is it just me or has time been flying by? I swear it was just January and I look at the calendar and we are about halfway through April. Last week was Spring break and it was wonderful. The girls had an actual break from the usual 4-7 hours of school work they have on a daily basis (weekends included). They had to nerve to complain that they were bored! I told them they had better enjoy that down time since from here until June 3rd there will be no school work break. We sort of lingered around all week and did a little shopping, eating out and getting together with friends. I enjoyed the quality time with the girls that we don't get much of during the busy school week. William was treated like a King while the girls were home. I hate to admit that William is a bit spoiled. The even carried him around like a baby! He loved every minute of it.

Now I am back to my usual getting up at the crack and driving kids everywhere. I would not have it any other way. Chardie has been getting some driving practice in although she will not be getting a car until she graduates high school. There's no need for it if I am available to drive them anywhere they need to go. I don't mind waiting either. I will let her drive herself to school once she gets her license. I'll just have to scoot myself back in the driver's seat and go home.

I have been working with William on his "school" work and he is doing an amazing job! He knows the entire alphabet phonetically and recognizes a lot of words. He has been saying a lot of bigger words as well as speaking in complete sentences. It's amazing how much he adds to his vocabulary daily. We are very proud. We have also been working on potty training. He is getting good at going pee pee and staying dry all day and overnight. Poo poo is a whole other beast. He still hided when he has to go. I don't really know what to do about that one. I guess I have put it in my head that he will get it eventually and thankfully since he is not in daycare/preschool it won't be as big a deal to be fully trained. I'm not stressing.

Dwayne and I have been talking about getting a treadmill. I am willing to buy one that is used but we have not been able to find what we want within our spending limit. I can't believe people think they can sell their USED treadmill for $800! If I was spending money like that I would buy it brand new. We are hoping the right deal will come along.

We have been getting some home improvements done. We are doing a little at a time since we don't use credit cards. Cash goes FAST! I feel like our bank account is a recycling center. All in all everything is going well for the Ismail family. How is everything going with you?

Shelly, Mom Files
SHARE:

Reason #582 why I hate spring

Most people want to go into hiding during the winter months. Not me. That's when I am thriving the most and feeling very upbeat and energized. Spring is the worst time of year to me. I have been so sick for over a week now because of the pollen clouds. It's just not right when you see cars driving next to you and it feels like you are driving on a sandy beach. It's just that bad. I wash off our cars each morning and it does not make a difference.

Dwayne's car is black so his looks even worse. I have never wanted to see rain as badly as I do right now. I'm talking 2-3 days non-stop.

On another note, if you are an allergy sufferer I suggest Allegra-D! It has been a lifesaver for me.
Has spring sprung in your neck of the woods?

Shelly, Mom Files
SHARE:

Weekend Wrap-up

The weekend was very full and really fun. We went to Sumter on Saturday to celebrate a family member's 80th birthday (Dwayne's side- great uncle). They had a really big turn out and it was nice seeing all of the extended family for a few hours. Since the location was somewhat in the country, William had tons of fun playing in the dirt. Anyone who knows how 500% girlie girl I am knows I had to bite my lip and turn my head. I bathed the boy when we got home and saw actual dirt in the tub. He had a BLAST! Some of the teenage cousins came back to our house that evening and end up spending the night. The girls had so much fun and they were up until 3:30 that morning! Luckily they kept the noise levels to a minimum so the rest of us could sleep.

The pollen count in our area has been off the charts!! I truly never thought I would want rain on Spring break but we need it so badly. All you see outside is clouds of pollen flowing through the air. I have really been affected this year more than the previous ones. I guess because it is so much warmer and drier. Please rain, please. The girls are home this week so we plan to do some random things locally and then we have a little weekend getaway planned.

So how was your weekend??
Shelly, Mom Files
SHARE:

and why is Spring so great??

If you have been reading my blog long enough then you will know that I am a winter person. I do not like the weather once it passes 65 degrees. Yesterday we bypassed spring temps in South Carolina and moved right into the 90's. No thanks, go away. I actually felt my skin burn. I have turned 4 shades darker and the pollen is a killer. I have a lovely "spring" cold today. I spent the night unable to breathe efficiently. I'm miserable. It is going to be 90 degrees again today. The higher the temps the more bees and wasps I see looming around, especially near ME. I am already tired of the bastards chasing me every time I walk out the door. The even wait at my car. I am so glad I have the remote start feature on my car that it can be ready with the cool AC blowing so we can shut the door fast. I don't think I will ride with the windows down for many months to come. I have accepted that my fuel costs will be higher, oh well. I hate Spring so much. I really, really do. The end.
Shelly, Mom Files
SHARE:
Blogger Template Created For Mom Files All Rights Reserved