Chicken Soup for the Soul – From Lemons to Lemonade Book Give Away

February 5, 2014 by

Chicken Soup for the Soul: From Lemons to Lemonade
You’ve heard the saying, “When life hands you lemons… make lemonade!” One of my favorite Chicken Soup for the Soul books has turned out to be, Lemons to Lemonade.  As a Soup-er Blogger for the Chicken Soup for the Soul Blog Network, I wanted to share some of the great books that I’ve had the opportunity to review and this book is one of them.  I’m a lover of quotes, inspirational stories, anything that will motivate me or teach me a lesson in some form. 
This book has 101 stories that are powerful and will help you turn a bad situation into something positive.  We all encounter challenges, heartbreak, tragedy, death and some days just struggle to find the strength to get through the day.  You will find a story in this book that will inspire you to move forward.  I found a story that touched every area of my life:  family, career, health, relationships, and finances.  The authors of the story range from teens to adults.
If you’re looking for inspiration, add this book to your reading list.  My challenge is to read a story each day, meditate on the story and learn the lesson.  As a mother, grandmother, leader, manager, and mentor, I’ll allowing this book to inspire me on my journey.   
Mother 2 Mother is giving away 1 copy of Lemons to Lemonade to one of our lucky readers.  We want you to be inspired too.   Here’s how you can win:
Mandatory:
Additional Entries:
  • Tweet this give away – Add 5 additional entries (Can tweet daily)
  • Follow Mother 2 Mother Blog( On the right) – 5 additional entries
  • Comment on any post – 5 additional entries
This contest will end March 7, 2014 at mid-night.  The contest is open to US Citizens and Canada residents 18 or older. The winner will be notified by email and selected by Random.org.  Invalid email addresses will be disqualified and another winner drawn.  The book will be sent directly to the winner from the sponsor. 
Note:  I have been compensated with a copy of the book for review; however, my opinion of the product is my own. 


Filed Under: blog giveaways, Chicken Soup for the Soul Books, Great Finds, inspirational books, Uncategorized Tagged With: ,

Product Review: Zoo Waffle Iron

February 3, 2014 by
kids waffles

I love making breakfast for Xavier and Zarriah when they’re visiting.  I saw this adorable zoo waffle iron while waiting for a prescription at CVS, and had to add it to my stash of pancake molds.  The kids love waffles, so I was sure it would be a hit and a nice deviation from pancakes.   Who can resist an adorable elephant, lion and giraffe for breakfast.   

My grandchildren are as different as night and day.  Zarriah hates anything that will stick to her hands.  This includes syrup, ketchup, powered sugar and the list goes on.  Xavier loves syrup, ketchup and anything else he could use to dip his food in. The more the merrier for him.

I was hoping Zarriah would enjoy just picking up the waffles and eating them while Xavier enjoyed his covered with syrup.  It happened exactly as I had hoped. 

The iron is easy to use.  Simply spray the top and bottom of the iron with PAM or your favorite non-stick oil and allow it to heat up.  The lid of the iron has a light which indicates when it ready to use.  While the iron was heating, I whipped up a batch of waffle mix and placed it in a batter pen.  I prefer to use a pen with the pancake molds and iron because it allows me to control the batter being poured. 

When the iron is ready to use, you will get a green light.  Pour the batter into the molds slowly.  Don’t fill the molds completely, the batter will rise while cooking so a little over the half mark is good.  It takes 3 – 5 minutes for the waffles to cook, so check to ensure they don’t over brown. 

The nice thing about this iron, is the top and bottom work together.  You don’t have to flip the waffles and they brown evenly.  It is easy to clean, just wipe with a damp cloth and store. 

I love this iron and will be using it often!  The kids loved the zoo animals on their plates, and I ate a few too.  I would suggest that you make the purchase, we all want happy kids at the breakfast table don’t we.   

Filed Under: fun breakfast ideas, Great Finds, Uncategorized Tagged With: ,

Table Lamp Review

January 27, 2014 by

I purchased 2 of these beautiful table lamps from Amazon for my office and I’m so glad that I did.  It was receiving a 5 star rating, and I understand why.  It was just as described and fits my décor perfectly.  The base is made of a brushed steel, which compliments the red lamp shade and the gray and black furniture in my office.  I placed one to go on my computer desk and the other on my scrapbook table.  I grabbed the lamps for $23.99 each with free 2 day shipping.  A bargain for these high quality lamps. 


These would great for a kids bedroom, dorm or den.  They’re medium in size, but they won’t produce enough light for a family or living room in my opinion.  They use 60 watt bulbs, which is why I ordered two.  If you’re looking for a bargain on a desk lamp, check it out.  They’re beautiful.   

Filed Under: Great Finds, Uncategorized Tagged With: , ,

How To Get A Good Nights Sleep

January 12, 2014 by


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                                sleep tips
Do you know how to purchase a pillow?  Are you a side, back or stomach sleeper?   I’ve been purchasing pillows for years, and I never thought about how I slept while doing so.  For years my pillows have ended up on the floor by morning.  I concluded, I didn’t like them for some reason and sometime during the night I made my dislike known.  Not only where the pillows on the floor, my bed looked like a bomb hit it.  There times when I woke up, looked at the bed and asked WTH.  I obviously tossed and turned all night, which probably has been a big contributor to me waking up feeling like I had never gone to bed.  I decided to trash all of my pillows and make new purchases.  

While researching and trying to decide what kind to buy, I learned that I’ve been buying the wrong pillows.  There are pillows made specifically for side, back and stomach sleepers.  I am a side sleeper.  I’ve always purchased what was the cheapest, the end.  They always ended up as flat as a pancake, basically useless.  I checked out Web MD during my research, and the article confirmed my suspicion.  I had been purchasing the wrong pillows.   


Since I was going to redo my bed, I decided that I wanted it to be as delicious as the beds at the Marriott and Crown Plaza that I’ve stayed in during my travels.  I headed over to Bed, Bath and Beyond to check out their selection.  According to Web MD side sleepers need a firm pillow to fill in the distance between the ear and outside shoulder.  After discussing the pillow selections with the sales representative, I decided on Laura Ashley side sleepers.  I purchased 4 firm at $20.00 bucks each.  I originally went in with the intention of purchasing Down pillows, that’s what Marriott has on their beds.  The Laura Ashley pillows felt just as good.  I do have a Down bed topper and comforter, which adds to the deliciousness of my bed. 
According to Web MD, if you are a back sleeper you need a thin pillows so your head is not thrown forward and stomach sleepers need a very thin almost flat pillow.  Stomach sleepers usually don’t need a pillow for their head, but they should use one under their stomach to avoid lower back pain.  I found the article to be very informative. 
I have a habit of sleeping on one pillow and snuggling with the other. I know you’re thinking I snuggle with my man or my husband.  I may start there, but before the night is over I’m looking for coolness and I’ve drawn a line down the middle of the bed.  Don’t cross I’m hot!  That’s another story.  Stayed tuned for my post on that experience.    

I have 3 days to use the Laura Ashley pillows, and if I’m not satisfied I can return them.  So far so good.  Are you a side, back or stomach sleeper?  Do you buy your pillows accordingly?  If not, you may want to change how you make your selections too.  Buying the right pillow can contribute to a good night’s sleep.  Who knew. 
                                                                          
                              

Filed Under: back sleepers, Bath and Beyond, Bed, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , ,

Shari’s Berries Review

December 28, 2013 by
I decided to splurge this Christmas and order a box of Shari’s Berries.  So, I’m sharing my Shari’s Berries Review.  I’ve seen the advertisement on TV and listened to the promotions on the radio for years.  And, they looked so delicious.  I finally gave in and ordered a box.   The lowest price was a 1/2 dozen at $19.99.  They offered an additional 1/2 dozen for $4.99 more so I ordered a dozen totally.  However, the shipping was quite expensive, $12.99.  Wow!  Because I had my heart set on those delicious strawberries, I decided to treat myself and ordered them anyway. 
Shari's Berry Review

The package that the berries were in was very nice.  The original packaging had an ice pack ensuring they arrived fresh and in tact.  The white bow gave it a little class.  And the box was sturdy.  The strawberries themselves was disappointing.  My reaction was what the hell?  I was expecting the berries to be more colorful and appetizing.  As you can see from the picture below, the presentation was not great.    Two were dipped in white chocolate, 2 in nuts, and 2 in chocolate chips.

 

 

Shari's Berries Review

 

 

My reaction went from what the hell to I paid good money for this?  Never again, and I mean never again.  I decided to try the strawberries, and I must admit the berries were fresh.  They were quite delicious actually and I did enjoy all of them.  So, the taste was much better than the presentation.  But, presentation is everything for that price.  I wondered what went through the company’s head before they shipped these out.

 

Shari's Berries Review

 

 

Finally, would I order them again, no.   Not for this price, and for the strawberry assortment I received.  I don’t know if everyone receives this particular assortment, but it was my destination.  It is supposedly their most popular request.  I felt deceived.  The beautifully decorated and delicious strawberries on TV and on their site was an enticement.  But, what I actually received wasn’t close.  Spending $40.00 to only be disappointed is not how I like to spend my money.  I hope my Shari’s Berries review has been helpful to you.

You may also like my Allenbelle Essentials Oils Review.

Filed Under: Product Reviews Tagged With: ,

Kindle e-Book Review – The Prince’s Nanny

December 1, 2013 by

romance book reviews

I love romance books as much as I love true crime books.  I seem to be downloading quite a few romance novels on my Kindle.  The Prince’s Nanny was on my book list, so I downloaded it.  Let the book review begin.
First, Sabrina West, who is a nanny in her stepmother’s agency has been chosen for an assignment in Italy.  The job is to be a nanny for the twin daughters of the Prince of Savoy.  Sabrina accepts the assignment, but the twins prove to be a handful.  She would have to work diligently to gain their trust.   Little did she know that she would fall in love with the twins and their father, the Prince of Savoy.

Another woman has the Prince’s heart.  At least, that’s what she thinks.  As a result, Sabrina struggles to remain professional and perform her duties as the children’s nanny.  After all, nannies aren’t suppose to fall in love with their employers.  The mischievous twins aren’t fond of their dad’s financee.  So, they decide to put a little effort into ending the engagement.  They fall in love with Sabrina.  They decide she would be the perfect catch for their dad.

Let the drama begin.  I was not familiar with the author, Carole Grace.  She does an excellent job of getting you absorbed in the beauty of the Prince’s Villa, the country side and the latest fashion worn by the elite in Italy.   It’s one of favorite romance novels, and I highly recommend it.  It’s a great read for those days that you just want to relax or you’re vacationing. If you’re one of those who can’t sleep on the plane, download it before you head to the airport.  I downloaded it free on Amazon as a Prime Member.  But, for those who don’t have a Prime Membership it’s $2.99.

 

 

 

 

Filed Under: Product Reviews Tagged With: , , , ,

Book Review – A Week At The Beach

November 4, 2013 by

 

 

One of my favorite pass times is reading.  I’m checking a few books off my reading list.  I just finished A Week at the Beach, by Virginia Jewel. It was a big deviation for me because I’m a true crimes reader.  I loved the book, it’s an easy read and great if you like romances.  

First, the book is about 2 friends, Chrissy and Cami, who are from New York.  Chrissy’s stepfather owns a beach house in the Outer Banks, so they head there for a week’s vacation. The house is occupied when they arrive. Darren, who is related to Chrissy’s step father, and his friend Nick have also decided to use the family beach house. Let the fun begin.   

Next, Chrissy is party girl who seems to have things handed to her on a silver platter. Cami is the complete opposite.  She’s the good girl who doesn’t party much or hook up with guys that she just meets.  She comes from a middle class family and is a school teacher.  In spite of their differences, they remain friends and share life’s ups and downs.  As a result, a week in the Outer Banks brings thrills for both of them.   

Most of all, the author does a good job of keeping the reader engaged with each of the characters.  The story takes several unexpected turns, so bring a bowl of popcorn and your favorite drink. You may not want to put it down. The language is appropriate ,and it doesn’t go into too many details during the sex acts.  I downloaded the e-book from Amazon for free; however,  I would recommend purchasing the paperback.   

In conclusion, the book is a great read in the airport or on the plane. Not traveling, curl up in front of the fireplace or during that much needed break in the bathtub.  I will be checking out more of Virginia Jewel’s e-books.  I’ll keep you posted. 

Filed Under: Life-Thoughts Tagged With: , ,

Thirty One Tote Review

October 30, 2013 by

I received this Thirty One bag for review, and it’s a keeper.  It was larger than I expected, but I’ve found that the possible uses are endless.  I love the plaid, it’s a classic design.  The bag is well made and can serve as a week-ender, diaper bag, and would be great for carrying supplies to a scrap book party or beach bag. 

It has a hard bottom, which helps to ensure the content stays in place and the bag keeps its shape.  The bag is deep, which makes it an excellent week-ender.  The material is study enough to handle the beach.  Notice the pockets on the side.  It’s great for carrying baby’s bottle and sippy cups.  Toss in a bottle of water or drink for yourself.  You don’t have to worry about the liquid spilling inside, but if it does the fabric on in the sides are made of a vinyl like material.  Wipe it clean.   

Back to utilizing the bag for the beach.  Carrying a few beach towels won’t be a problem in this bag.  It’s big enough to handle the sun screen, tanning lotion and the shells that the kids find on the beach too.  Although I didn’t try it, I believe the sand can be easily wiped off.   

The only issue that I had with the bag were the straps. I wasn’t particularly happy about the material.  I’m not sure how to describe the material, they look similar to straps that you would find on a backpack.   They actually look nice going down the center of the bag, my problem was the handles.  Would that be a deterrent to purchasing the bag, no.  I’m a big fan of Thirty-One products.  I encourage you to check out the products at Thirty-One  and take a look for yourself.   They have great bags and accessories. 

Note:  I received this bag as compensation for this review, however, my opinion of the bag is my opinion only. 

Filed Under: blog reviews, diaper bags, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , ,

Fabulicious Finds – Sports Tees for Boys

October 3, 2013 by


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I’ve been a big fan of Boscov’s Department Store for the past six years.  I started shopping on this site when my grandson was born and I’m still finding great buys.  I like quality at a good price, and I’ve always been able to find it at Boscov’s. 


My grandson is transitioning from Nick Jr. characters to name brand sports apparel.  Yep, at the ripe old age of 6.  What does a parent do, accommodate him.  I do, because I shop for quality items in my price range and I’ve always been able to find what I’m looking for. 

I love Boscov’s because they offer fast shipping, their site always has items on sale, and they offer quality products.  I ordered 5 tees for my grandson all at half price, and he loved them.    Two are shown.  The market is flooded with adorable items for little girls, but shopping for boys can be difficult, especially if you’re looking for stylish items.

My grandson is playing flag football and basketball now.  These tees where a great boost for him, and he sees them as being cool.  They’re made by Addias, so they’re quality items.  He loved the graphics and messages on the tees, Bring the Noise and Dominate the Game.  The other have Undefeated, Built to Win and Respect the Game. 

Cool and affordable!  My kind of shopping.  If you haven’t checked out Boscov’s for your son or grandson’s apparel, you must pay them a visit.  The have soccer and baseball tees available as well.  I’m sure you’ll find a deal that you will love too.  Where do you find stylish clothing for your son/grandson?  Please leave us a comment so we can share with other readers. 

Filed Under: Addias tees, Boscovs, boys sport tees, cool boys tees, Great Finds, how to dress boys, Uncategorized Tagged With: , , , , ,

Aimee’s Babies – First Year Milestone DVD Review

March 26, 2013 by


I was approached by Aimee’s Babies, a child development company, to review their First Year Milestones DVD.  I was excited and accepted their offer.   The first thing that I noticed when I opened the package was that the cover didn’t have any children of color on it.  My initial thought, this company has limited potential buyers.  There is absolutely nothing on this DVD cover that would make a women of color stop and take notice.  My next thought, would it have ethnic babies in the video.  People are drawn to products that they can relate to.     

I decided to keep an open mind and see what the video was about.  The DVD is broken down by chapters.  It focuses on various stages of development from the ages of newborn, 3 months,  6 – 9 months, and 12 months.  Each stage focuses on the 5 senses, touch, smell, taste, sight and sound.  The various stages teach you to understand reflexes, color, stimulation, balance, and social development.  It was quite informative throughout all 4 stages. 

Lets start with newborns – It teaches the importance of music.  It was nice to know that it could be any type of music and not necessarily Mozart.  It also stated that babies see things in black and white up to 3 months.  At that stage red becomes a great stimulus for baby.  It stressed the importance of touching and massaging your baby, swaddling him or her, and allowing them to become familiar with your scent.  The DVD encouraged mothers to alternate sides during feeding so the baby could be stimulated from different directions. 

The DVD moved on to 3 months – The focus was the same, the senses, tummy time, stimulation, and balance.  At this stage the importance of talking to your baby, using wrist and ankle rattles, and implementing at least 20 minutes of tummy time per day was stressed.  Using mirrors was also emphasized.  The DVD demonstrated an exercise that I would never try.  It required the mom to place their sitting baby in a large blanket while she swings it from side to side.  The exercise was for helping the with baby’s balance.  I personally wouldn’t try it and neither would I suggest it.  I was quite surprised that someone would be encouraged to try it.   

At 6 – 9 months, the baby’s weight should practically double.  They should be able to see more colors, notice themselves more, crawl or move around while holding on to things.  It still focused on the senses and stimulation.    

The DVD moved on to the 12 month stage.  Here babies were pulling themselves up, crawling, climbing stairs, walking and in jump ups.  The DVD encouraged moms to allow their babies to walk bare foot, use soft sole shoes or grip socks.  It stated that babies could start walking between 12 and 18 months.     

My opinion after reviewing the DVD, it contained detailed, educational material with everyday moms and their babies at various stages.  No Hollywood glamor or glitter.  It wasn’t overly long and it keep my attention.  I think it would be a great baby shower gift for a new mother.  Would I buy the DVD for $16.00 plus $4.00 shipping.  No, I think there are  better products on the market for $20.00.  Would I buy it for less, possibly, and I’m not talking about $19.99.  

For ethnic mothers or mothers to be, there are no mothers or babies of color featured in the DVD.  There is an African American father at the newborn stage with his baby.  It seems than an entire segment of consumers were missed when this video was made and marketed.  If you have no issue with this fact, I recommend that you check it out.  If you don’t believe that you can relate to the DVD, I recommend that you check out Aimee’s Babies site.  They have other DVDs, an adorable onesie and other products that may be of interest.   

Note:  This review is my opinion and my opinion only.  I received a copy of the DVD for review; however, no additional compensation was received.  

Filed Under: Aimee's Babies DVD, blog product reviews, blog reviews, Uncategorized Tagged With: