Let's talk wine-- My recent find for $5

I don't know about you, but I love a nice glass of wine at the end of the day. I won't pretend that I really know a whole lot about wine. I go with trying different ones to determine what appeals to me. I know that I don't like Zinfandel's because they are too astringent. Moscato and Riesling is way too sweet. Most red wines are too strong or taste like a funky old oak barrel. I think my palate might not be mature enough for some varieties! I have to have a balance between sweet, with a slight "bite". I came across a wine at my local Kroger store and the price tag attracted me. It is called Rejuvenate Red Blend and was on sale for $5.00. I figured that it wasn't a whole lot to spend and if I didn't like it, I wouldn't be out by much. 

I poured a glass and it was love at first sip. It had a mild sweetness with hints of cherries and berries. It is what I have been searching for- not too sweet and it had a slight bite. Even my husband liked it. I have purchased a few bottles since the first one and think I better buy as many as I can to put away, while they are on sale. It pairs well with any type of meat or poultry as well as pasta and desserts. It's a good everyday table wine. I haven't seen it in any other stores besides Kroger and the website really doesn't give any information about it. My guess is that they are a new company. They make a Moscato as well as the Red Blend. If you are looking for a new wine or are a wine newbie, I highly suggest this brand.

What is your favorite wine? I am always open to trying something new.

Perfect for moms on-the-go, Ju-Ju-Be "Be Right Back" back pack (Review & Giveaway)

 **CLOSED**

Winner is Jammie- congratulations! 

Are you a mom-to-be or have a little one? I remember when I had my babies, I had the tacky, boring baby bag that all new moms carry. By my third child, I gave up the baby bag all together and went with my regular purse instead. Times have surely changed and now you can find bags and accessories that fit your fashion taste. Ju-Ju-Be bags are made for not only looks, but have great function and durability. I received a "Be Right Back" smart back pack in the Platinum Petals print from their fall line of bags. This back pack is so pretty and has so many great compartments inside.

I made a short video to show you all the great features of this bag. 

I really love the variety of sizes and shapes, as well as colors and patterns that Ju-Ju-Be has to offer. There is definitely something for every taste! With having a little one in kindergarten, I know I will get great use out of this bag for field trips and outings. I love having my hands free and also having all I need with me. Now that I think about it, this is idea for when we go to the State Fair or on day trips. My high school daughter is even eyeing it for herself! She was saying how sturdy the back pack is and she would be comfortable putting her Chromebook in it. I think she better not get any ideas about taking MY bag! 

I am so pleased that the sweet folks at Ju-Ju-Be are letting me host a giveaway for one Mom Files reader to win a Be Right Back bag {$140 value!} in their choice of pattern. I know you want one! Enter below: a Rafflecopter giveaway  

This giveaway is open to US Residents only and will end on September 24, 2013. 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!

I received a bag of my choice for review purposes. All opinions are my own as always.

New Fall Line from eShakti and a Giveaway (2 winners) CLOSED

CLOSED- 

 Winners are Team Jacob and Alicia- congratulations!

It's almost my favorite season of the year, Fall! I am really looking forward to some crisp, cool air and the sights and smells of all things Autumn. I was excited to get to check out the new Fall line from eShakti and got to pick out a dress of my choice to review. I had the hardest time choosing because I am a big fan of very classic and vintage dresses. The most unique thing about eShakti is the customization. You can choose from standard sizes or go with detailed sizing for a more precise fit. Depending on which dress you go with, you have options of pockets or no pockets, removing embroidery, dress length, sleeve style and even what neckline you prefer.

I have ordered a dress in the past and found that they run a bit small. I went with a size 8 and picked out the Victoria dress in black. I was attracted to the ruffles on the top and the overall feminine flow of the dress. I decided to keep the same sleeves and length and opted for a lower neckline. I also liked the idea of pockets so I kept that too. I absolutely LOVE the fit of the dress! I feel like this dress was made just for me. My family really loved the way I looked and think I picked the perfect style. I was surprised at how perfectly it fit and the side sash really completed the look. I liked how the ruffles continued along the back. I can easily dress things up with some accessories or even wearing my hair up. You can't ever go wrong with a little black dress!

I have my eye on the eggplant color in this same style. One thing I am really happy about is that I went with a larger size. I normally can wear a women's size 4 but something told me to go with the 8. It was perfect! Be sure to check out eShakti on the web, Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter.

I am so excited that the kind folks from eShakti are offering a giveaway for two Mom Files readers to each win a $50 gift card. There are so many styles, colors and pieces to choose from! Enter below: a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway is open to Canada and US Residents only. Giveaway ends on September 22, 2013 and two winners 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!

I received a dress at no cost in exchange for an honest review and to help spread the word about the new fall line. All opinions are my own as always. 

Mom's fashion should be No nonsense

This post brought to you by No nonsense. All opinions are 100% mine.

Being a mom is a tough job in itself, but being a mom who looks like she's got some sense of fashion sometimes seems impossible. For me, my fashion sense usually refers to wearing black, grey, denim and of course, black. My family often expresses how I need to add some color to my every day look. No nonsense tights and leggings  are an affordable and simple way to incorporate a splash of color. No nonsense tights and leggings can be easily found at food and drug stores as well as mass retail stores.This is great news especially if you are on a tight budget.  I created a look that takes my usual love of black and kicked it up with some purple tights. What do you think? I could see myself exploring different colors and looks with these fun tights. I plan to show my family that my wardrobe can consist of another color besides black!

No nonsense is teaming up with fashion expert Jill Martin to show women how to wear the latest trends that include colored tights and essential leggings. She will be very active on social media to give her tips and advice. I know I need to take some time to get some of her advice. I am turning 40 this year and really could use some fashion help! Check out the short video below:

Be sure to stay connect to No nonsense on Facebook and Twitter @benononsense for more ideas and fashion inspiration. 

Influenster Spring Beauty VoxBox Review

I am so glad I was introduced to Influenster by my friend Krystel. I was thrilled when I received an email that I would be receiving the Spring 2012 Beauty VoxBox! I am such a fan of all things beauty so I knew this program would be a great fit for me. Here is what I received:

SHEER COVER - DUO CONCEALER (@sheercover) Ideal for hiding blemishes, age spots, redness, scars and other imperfections without heavy, cakey coverage. Duo shades can be blended to perfectly match any skin tone. My thoughts: Thankfully the color works for my complexion. It is very light and not greasy. It works well for my dark circles. 

SALLY HANSEN - SALON EFFECTS Real Nail Polish Strips! (@sallyhansen) This product wears like nail polish because it IS nail polish (with no drying time). Apply and you’re ready to go. My thoughts: I have NOT tried this yet but plan on letting my 15 year old daughter test it out. We got a zebra looking pattern. I can totally see hot pink nails staggered with zebra! 

DR. SCHOLL’S FOR HER - BALL OF FOOT PADS Whether you have on-going foot discomfort, or just a soft spot for the most stylish shoes in the store, you’re going to love the Dr. Scholl’s® For Her line. Purchasing a pair is definitely worth the investment. Soft shoe inserts for standing all day are simply ideal, too. For everyday scenarios, they are simply the perfect solution. My thoughts: I am so happy for these! I don't wear heels often but when I do, YIKES! I am looking forward to using them in my heels for my date nights :)

AVEENO - DAILY MOISTURIZING BODY WASH This body wash cleanses  and moisturizes for visibly healthier skin every time you shower. It’s lightly fragranced, soap free, dye-free; hypoallergenic so it’s gentle enough for sensitive skin. My thoughts: LOVE LOVE LOVE. I really love this stuff and it is the best body wash for sensitive skin. The 4 year old is currently using it and it has been very kind to his tender skin. 

CHAPSTICK - LIP SHIELD 365 This new product offers all season protection and moisturization for year-round exposure to the sun, wind and cold. With SPF 50+, it helps to protect from the sun’s damaging UVA/UVB rays. My thoughts: I can't help but think of the beach when I wear this. It smells like sunscreen but in a good way. It is super smooth and makes my lips soft and pretty. Love it! 

BATH & BODY WORKS - FINE FRAGRANCE MIST (@LUVBBW) Discover a better, more delicate fragrance experience with the NEW Fragrance Mist Collection. My thoughts: Love it! I am already a big Bath & Body Works fan so I knew I would love it. 

SOYJOY - BAR Enjoy SOYJOY (@soyjoyus) with all-natural real ingredients like real fruit and whole soy! My thoughts: When I opened to package I was afraid. I am not a big fan of natural bars. This is was exceptional! I really enjoyed it and now I know that when I see coupons and find a sale I will purchase them. I can see myself keeping one in my purse in case hunger strikes! 

I must say that I got very lucky to receive such a good box! I am looking forward to future VoxBoxes and I encourage you to sign up for FREE!

Smokey eyes

Can anyone recommend a good website that offers directions on how to accomplish the "smokey eye" look? I also prefer not to have to spend a load of money on the make-up because y'all know my husband is broke! LOL! Also does anyone know a site I can shop hairstyles that allows me to upload a photo to see what the styles look like? If you would please leave me a link or two I would so very much appreciate it! Oh yeah and they have to be for FREE. Once again, y'all know who my husband is!!! Thanks :-)

It's a family affair

Everyone was gathered around the nursery window to get their first glimpse of William

(From left to right) Aunty Saudia, Sister Chardonnay, Grandpa Johnnie, Sister Briahnna, and Grandma Joanna.

Grandma looking at William and Shelly

Maternity blues

I went browsing around yesterday looking for some maternity jeans. I learned something...they are the tackiest things I have ever seen! I was getting so frustrated when I realized that no matter what store you go to, they all look the same. Of course when I did actually see something that was not too awful I could not find my size! I have been used to the low-rise jeans and pants for a long time now and it is hard wearing something that comes over my belly. *sigh* When I was pregnant with my girls all I wore were sundresses or overall shorts because I lived in sunny South Florida. We woke up to 36 degrees today so I am gearing toward long pants. I guess I should not complain knowing that my bulkiest days will be in the colder months. I better get used to looking tacky for a while. Okay, I am done feeling sorry for myself now.

Wordless Wednesday

What vegetable are you?

Check out this great quiz from the fine folks at Juicy Juice and Nestle. You can find out what kind of veggie you and your kids are! Then you can print up a coupon to try the new Harvest Surprise Juice. They put veggies in the juice (to trick the little ones, I'm sure)! My children and I are all sweet potatoes~!

Free Stuff Site

Okay, I am sure most of you think I am a maniac and I need help. Look, free samples are available for a reason so why not partake? Check out this awesome site FreeSnatcher.com . I was led to it from another blog and I am absolutely hooked! I bet you will be too! Warning: Signing up for too many samples in one sitting may cause severe neck and back pain. Pace yourself! Leave me a comment to let me know what you think. Have fun!!

Culinary Kids

The Summer months spent away from school is full of fun times and relaxation. In our house it is a bit different. We spend a lot of time teaching our girls a lot of life skills. The latest skill is cooking. I figured if something happened to dear old mom, the family would wither away and sadly dear old dad only knows how to maneuver his way over to the drive-up window! If the girls can get down some simple meals then they would be able to take care of the family if I was down. So far they have learned the art of seasoning and cooking meats, cooking veggies, rice, mac and cheese (from a box! Hey, they are kids!), and lots of prep work (washing, chopping, etc.) They really seem to enjoy it and even more tasting their fantastic dishes they created!

Free Samples... YES!!!

Look at all the FREE samples I got today in the mail (8 in all)!! My hubby knows he needs to stop giving me a hard time because I do not have to keep running the store to spend $$ on health and beauty and household items. Leave a comment and let us know who the sensible one is. I will enter your name twice for the FREE gift card contest!

From Kinky to Straight

Here are some amazing before and after shots of my girls' hair. I used the Chi straightening iron and this was the result! The actual straighting tool cost me $130, but overall was a good investment. They both have the thickest, curliest hair that is so hard to manage. Relaxers are too harsh and expensive so it was highly recommended that I get the Chi iron. I would definitely recommend it to others as well.











The crazy expression comes from their dad's (aka "bad boy") side of the family!

Moms kicking butt

My kids attend karate classes at Genova Family Karate and are first degree black belts as well as junior helpers. A couple of the moms that have children that take classes have recently started taking the adult karate class. We usually take a brisk walk around the track together(located around the building of the karate studio) and chat about 'mom stuff' while getting our exercise on. Of course they have been nagging me to join the class with them. My kids and hubby found out and they won't stop bugging me to join as well. Great, now if I do not at least try it out I will be a bad mom especially during those times I am encouraging the family to"try something new, you might like it!". I tell you, mothering sure can backfire on you when you least expect it! I have decided to try it out soon. I will let you all know how it worked out!

Scrapbooking

My younger sister (2 years) and I started scrap booking recently. Okay, I lied. I started 2 years ago but lost motivation after the first couple pages. It seemed like fun when I started out buying all the cute paper, stickers, cutouts and all the other supplies you need. Then I lost interest for some time. Well, my sister relocated to Columbia from Atlanta a couple months ago and mentioned an interest in starting scrap booking as a hobby. We went out and purchased a few things and had zero motivation. Finally last night we actually sat down and worked on it (of course after a couple purchases from the craft store). We had so much fun!! I can't wait to do some more tonight. If anyone has any ideas to share please email me some photos of your work. Maybe I can steal some good ideas!

MiniVan Makeover

Can you believe it, Minivans are coming out with three television equipped with satellite service. This will be marketed as "a mother's dream". The pitch is that kids will be entertained watching television and keeping quiet. Is this the real mothers dream or another way to separate conversation between parents and children. Instead of hearing your children ask "Are we there yet", mothers will hear peace and quiet. Yeah right. What did we do when we were growing before technology took over? We had actual conversation. I can understand if you were going on a very long road trip, having a television would not be a bad idea. On a normal day-to-day running to school, activities, errands, etc.., it seems unnecessary to need the TV on the whole time (let's not even get into the video games!) Maybe I am just too old-fashioned! Parents, you would be surprised what your child has to talk about.

The real "Soccer Mom"

I called my cousin the other day to check on her and her new baby (her third child). She sounded great and full of energy. She advised me that she just joined a soccer team. I thought I misunderstood her because her 9 year old daughter plays on a soccer team. She assured me that it was a women's team that meets at the local indoor sports complex. The team consists of women of all ages, including moms. As it turns out, this is a trend that is very popular with moms. Now moms are not only taking the kids to practice, but are also getting in on the action. So I guess this truly makes her a "Soccer Mom". I think that it is cool way to get some exercise and also a good role model for the children. Maybe I might consider joining. Okay, well maybe not!