Old El Paso family taco night Giveaway

Now that I'm a working mom, it can be very difficult to find time to prepare a meal that my whole family can enjoy together.  Since I'm working evenings, we don't have a lot of opportunities to sit down at the dinner table and eat together anymore.  When we are all home during mealtime I really try hard to have a meal that we can all enjoy.  (In other words, something other than peanut-butter and jelly, yet won't be thrown on the floor by my adorable, appreciative, open-to-trying-new-things children...)
Old El Paso is a company that strives to make products that families will enjoy, can afford, and can be prepared quickly to fit in with a busy family schedule.  Setting aside a time once a month for family taco night is a great idea to stay connected with your family while enjoying some delicious food together.  Old El Paso has a great variety of dinner kits, dips and sides, enchilada sauce, refried beans, seasoning mixes, shells, taco sauce and salsa to help satisfy anyone's Mexican Food Cravings.

Through my connection with MyBlogSpark, I was asked to enjoy some Old El Paso products with my family during our own family taco night.  I was sent some cute Mexican-themed serving dishes, a taco seasoning mix, and a $10 Gift Card for our meat and fixings.  We opted for the soft tacos, I went easy on the seasoning for the kid's meat, and loaded it up with cheese and sour cream.  I'm happy to announce that Old El Paso products were a hit in my house, as my children were satisfied and my floor stayed clean!

How about having a family taco night at your house?  One of my lucky readers will win a prize pack from Old El Paso through MyBlogSpark containing a seasoning packet, some Mexican-themed serving dishes, and a $10 Gift Card to buy your meal ingredients.  Leave a comment on this post telling me why you'd like to win to be entered!

As always, up to 10 additional entries can be earned by doing some or all of the following: (leave an additional comment for each additional entry.)

• Become a follower of Thou Shall Not Whine (3 extra entries!) *Just click the little "follow" button on the right-hand sidebar, then leave me 3 additional comments stating, "follower #1, follower #2, etc." 
• Follow my blog on Facebook (2 extra entries) *click on the networked blog button on the right-hand sidebar, then leave 2 additional comments stating that you did!*
• Grab my button and display it on your blog (2 extra entries!)
• Mention this giveaway on your blog with a link back to it. (2 extra entries!)
• Leave a comment on a non-giveaway post. (leave an additional comment here to count as your entry!)

This giveaway starts now and will conclude on Thursday, December 30th, at 11:59pm EST. Winner will be selected via Random.org and contacted via email. Winner will have 48 hours to respond before another winner will be chosen.

*Disclosure:* I was provided the products mentioned above free of charge from Old El Paso through MyBlogSpark for the purpose of writing this review.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Packing it In...

As my family gets ready for another big trip, I'm looking around the house for things to pack in.  All of my kids are getting close to the age where they can each have their own bag of items and snacks to keep them occupied in the car.  Joey has a backpack that he likes to pack full of his own toys, and the girls are just about ready to start selecting their own items to bring with us.  We just don't yet have anything for them to pack in.... Once again, CSNStores to the rescue!  They sell these awesome sling backpacks that would be great for me to store their essential items (diapers, wipes, sippy cups, etc.) as well as the little toys and snacks that they would enjoy having in the car.

I particularly like this design, as it would be easy to toss over my shoulder when running in to the rest stop with three small children and a husband in tow:

I really love the fact that this backpack has a bunch of different zippered pockets, as well as the side mesh pockets for things like drinks and keys.

Another style that I'm thinking is really great is this one: (and at only $15.99, how could I possibly go wrong?)

CSNStores always has so many choices in style, color, and price, that it always takes me a while to make a decision.  Many items from their site ship for free (and fast!), and I can personally attest to the fact that whatever you have in mind for gift-giving or personal needs, you'll be able to find it at CSNStores!  And if you think you're too late to do anymore online Holiday shopping, think again!  There is still time to purchase your gifts at one of 200+ CSNStores and have them delivered before Christmas!  What are you still doing here?  Get on over there and pick out some sling backpacks for the people on your list...

Who Doesn't Love Chex Party Mix? Giveaway!

Chex Party Mix is a great little snack to whip up anytime you're having company or friends over.  It is so easy to make, tastes delicious, and is an all-age crowd pleaser.  There are so many different varieties of Chex Mix available now, and the Chex Mix recipes are varied to delight anyone's taste buds!

Recently, I was selected to participate in trying out a Chex Mix recipe while enjoying a prize pack sent by General Mills through MyBlogSpark.  I used the handy measuring cups, and decided to make the traditional mix.  As always, it was a hit.  I made a big batch, and my family enjoyed it all week long.  Chex Party Mix stores well in an airtight container or plastic bag, keeping it fresh tasting and delicious! 

Check out the Chex Website for more recipe ideas.  I think we'll try the Chex Lemon Buddies next in our house, but the new Chex Apple Pie Snack Mix sounds good too!  The blend of flavors in the new homemade mixes will help you create irresistible new favorites and wow your guests!

I'm offering one of my lucky readers a prize pack of their very own containing a box of Rice Chex, measuring cups, and a Chex Brand Tote Bag.  Just leave a comment on this post telling me your favorite Chex Mix Variety or Recipe to be entered to win! 

Want more chances to win?  Up to 10 additional entries can be earned by doing some or all of the following: (leave an additional comment for each additional entry.)

• Become a follower of Thou Shall Not Whine (3 extra entries!) *Just click the little "follow" button on the right-hand sidebar, then leave me 3 additional comments stating, "follower #1, follower #2, etc." 
• Follow my blog on Facebook (2 extra entries) *click on the networked blog button on the right-hand sidebar, then leave 2 additional comments stating that you did!*
• Grab my button and display it on your blog (2 extra entries!)
• Mention this giveaway on your blog with a link back to it. (2 extra entries!)
• Leave a comment on a non-giveaway post. (leave an additional comment here to count as your entry!)

This giveaway starts now and will conclude on Wednesday, December 22nd, at 11:59pm EST. Winner will be selected via Random.org and contacted via email. Winner will have 48 hours to respond before another winner will be chosen.

*Disclosure:* I was provided the products mentioned above free of charge for the purpose of writing this review.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Scott Naturals Tube-Free Winners!

Congratulations to post number 93, EmmaPeel, who said, "I Have your button." and post number 160, brianpiero, who said, "GFC Follower: Brian E."  Thanks for being followers and the button love.  Hope you enjoy Scott Naturals Tube-Free as much as we do!  I've emailed you for your shipping info so we can get your 2 12-packs out ASAP!

Thanks to all who entered and to Scott for sponsoring this great giveaway!

Ho Ho Ho! Merry Christmas!

We officially kicked-off the Christmas season over the weekend with a fabulous Holiday Party with our playgroup friends.  The party was important to me for so many reasons, mainly because I've been spending so much time away from my kids lately that it was just really special to get dressed up and do something exciting with them.  In an effort to ease some financial strain around here I've started working part-time in the retail world. (think starts with 'W', ends with 'art.')  For a little over a week, Ron walks in the door and I walk out.  I worked pretty much all weekend so spending Sunday evening celebrating Christmas with my husband and children was a great way to reconnect with them.

I never thought to buy my kids any Christmas outfits last week, and it occurred to me early Sunday morning that they had nothing festive to wear to the party later that night.  My mom and sister were quick to my rescue as they dutifully shopped at Kohls in my place.  They selected adorable outfits for my children and delivered them to my house while I was at work. (who can ask for better family members... seriously!)

At the party we ate delicious food, made adorable crafts, and spent time with good friends.  Many of the children were star-struck as Santa arrived.  Katelyn buried her face in my sweater as he approached, and Olivia had a death grip around Ron's neck warning him to not let her go.  Joey on the other hand, gave Santa a high-five and then showed him the marshmallow snowman he made.

All of the parents were anxious to get a picture of their cuties with Santa.  I was no different.  After last year's debacle, (and the year before that was a disaster too...) I had high hopes that this would be my year.  The ever-so-stubborn Joey wouldn't leave the pile of presents to sit on Santa's lap.  So Santa came to him. 

They laid down on the floor together and had a nice chat.  Later, after the presents were opened and played with for a while, I asked Joey if he would go sit with Santa so I could take his picture.  After a trip to the potty, he obliged.  Joey walked over to Santa, climbed up on his lap, turned to him and said, "I just went poop on the potty."  This kid has no modesty.  No social filter whatsoever.  He's as honest and adorable as he could possibly be.  Santa wasn't phased.  He chuckled, told Joey that was good news, and encouraged my funny guy to smile for the camera.  Which he did.  Hurrah!

And in case you're wondering... here's what happened when we tried to get Katelyn & Olivia to sit with Santa too.  1. I had to go as well since Katelyn wouldn't even look at Santa.  2. Olivia threw herself off of my lap and onto the floor screaming as if someone was hurting her. 3.  My friend Elena helped us out by passing Olivia back to me and tried to peek-a-boo the tears out of her.  4.  She didn't stop crying or yelling, but at least she's in the picture!

Ah well, I'd say we get an "A" for effort.  Better luck next year, I suppose.

My Mommy Party Sponsored By Episencial

Recently I was selected to host a party featuring some great baby safe skincare products.  The Episencial Skincare Collection includes a full range of all natural products designed for ages 0-150!  Included in their chemical-free lineup is SPF 35 Sunscreen, Protective Face Balm, Soothing Cream, Sweet Dreams Bubble Bath, Better Body Butter, Playful Foaming Wash, and Nurturing Balm. 
My party/playdate was a lot of fun, and all the kids and moms were thrilled to try out the Episencial Skincare Collection.  Here is a picture of Joey getting ready to kick off the demonstration:

Joey also helped me assemble the goody bags. 

What fun is a party without goody bags? Through Mommy Parties, Episencial provided me with everything I needed to make sure my guests went home well-informed and happy.  Each of my mommy friends received a fun goody bag containing a full size product as well as a whole bunch of samples to enjoy.

Another happy party-goer:

My kids are loving the Foaming Wash, and we've gone through half the bottle in just a few weeks.  It smells great, cleans thoroughly, and is all natural with lots of organics and fruit extracts.  My kids have sensitive skin and have been known to break out in rashes or hives after being exposed to new products.  We've been using the Episencial products for weeks now and I'm happy to say that their skin is free and clear.

Episencial is available at retailers such as Target, Ulta, and others.  You can also purchase it online at Diapers.com, Drugstore.com, and more.  At their website, use the Episencial Store Finder to find a location near you!

Don't Forget to Order Your Holiday Cards at Shutterfly!

It is hard to believe that Christmas is a short 3 weeks away.  This is the time of year when lots of moms scramble to find the perfect holiday outfit, a unique and seasonal setting, and prop their children up time and time again to capture that perfect Christmas card photo.  Or maybe that's just me?  With my children being so young I've always struggled in getting a picture of all 3 actually looking at and smiling for the camera.  It's kind of like mission impossible, in my opinion.  And I'm pretty sure it's only ever happened 3 times since I became a mom of 3 in April of '09.

Despite my difficulty in capturing a card-worthy picture, Christmas time is exciting for many reasons.  So many companies out there work to provide services and products that are time savers for busy moms like me.  Shutterfly is at the top my list for companies that make my life easier.  They have so many amazing products all year round, but their Christmas Photo Cards seriously can't be beat.

I think that this simply stated Christmas Card is absolutely adorable: (and it has 3 picture spots, which is a plus for me since I can never get my kids sitting together!)

I'm also enjoying these next two styles.  And in the unlikely event that I am able to capture a pose with all three of my children looking and smiling at the camera, I'll probably choose one of these:

Whatever you are looking for in terms of unique photo gifts is also available at Shutterfly.  Want to give a gift that lasts all year long?  Make a customizable wall calendar using your own photos, dates, and a wide selection of backgrounds and layouts.  It'll truly be a one-of-a-kind gift!

So whether you are need of affordable holiday cards, thank you cards, special photo gifts, or a hardcover photo book, Shutterfly has got you covered.  Start selecting and uploading your favorite photos today!