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<channel>
	<title>The Motherload</title>
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	<link>http://momadvice.com/blog</link>
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		<title>Freebie Friday: March 19, 2010</title>
		<link>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/freebie-friday-march-19-2010</link>
		<comments>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/freebie-friday-march-19-2010#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 19 Mar 2010 11:00:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Amy</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Freebies]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://momadvice.com/blog/?p=2484</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Happy Freebie Friday from myself and Freebies 4 Mom.  This week Heather is giving away a $300 Apple Gift Card so be sure to head over there to enter to win and leave her a little comment to thank her for all of her hard work each week!
This week on MomAdvice we are hosting another [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Happy Freebie <a rel="attachment wp-att-1837" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/01/freebie-friday-january-8-2010/freebie-friday"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1837" title="freebie friday" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/freebie-friday.gif" alt="" width="195" height="115" /></a>Friday from myself and <a href="http://freebies4mom.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Freebies 4 Mom</a>.  This week Heather is giving away a <a href="http://freebies4mom.blogspot.com/2010/03/300-apple-gift-card-giveaway.html" target="_blank">$300 Apple Gift Card</a> so be sure to head over there to enter to win and leave her a little comment to thank her for all of her hard work each week!</p>
<p>This week on MomAdvice we are hosting another <a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/an-apron-full-of-giveaways-03-16-10" target="_blank">giveaway link list</a> and are giving away a <a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/great-reads-for-moms-february-10-edition-a-giveaway" target="_blank">3-month BookSwim membership</a> to one lucky reader! BookSwim is a great new program like Netflix, but is for book renting instead. While you are here, be sure to check out our <a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/mistreating-my-windows" target="_blank">no-sew curtain project</a> and <a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/delicious-easy-cereal-bars" target="_blank">easy-to-make (and to eat) cereal bars</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Health &amp; Beauty</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://secure.dove.us/dovehairmsn/sample.aspx?product=Repair" target="_blank">Dove Daily Treatment Conditioner</a><strong><br />
</strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/Pantene?v=app_10442206389#%21/Pantene?v=wall" target="_blank">Pantene</a> (Facebook)<strong><br />
</strong><a href="http://www.avedabday.com/printable_coupon.php?mag_campaign=marieclaire" target="_blank">Aveda Color Conserve </a>(at Aveda salons)<strong><br />
</strong><a href="http://www.costco.com/Browse/Productgroup.aspx?Prodid=11528139&amp;search=free%20sample&amp;Mo=2&amp;cm_re=1_en-_-Top_Left_Nav-_-Top_search&amp;lang=en-US&amp;Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&amp;Sp=S&amp;N=5000043&amp;whse=BC&amp;Dx=mode+matchallpartial&amp;Ntk=Text_Search&amp;Dr=P_CatalogName:BC&amp;Ne=4000000&amp;D=free%20sample&amp;Ntt=free%20sample&amp;No=2&amp;Ntx=mode+matchallpartial&amp;Nty=1&amp;topnav=&amp;s=1" target="_blank">Lever 2000</a> (Costco)<strong><br />
</strong><a href="http://www.kotex.com/na/free-sample" target="_blank">Kotex  Choose Your Sample</a><strong><br />
</strong><a href="http://www.ubykotex.com/samples" target="_blank">U by Kotex</a><strong><br />
</strong><a href="http://www.gentleglide.com/Gentle_Glide_Sample.aspx" target="_blank">Playtex Gentle Glide</a><strong></strong></p>
<p><strong>Food</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.betteroats.com/taste.php" target="_blank"></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.betteroats.com/taste.php" target="_blank">BetterOats Oatmeal</a><br />
<a href="http://smartchoice.tasterschoice.com/Default.aspx?LetterId=3e480a62-9fe9-40fa-9931-e43cfb91c590&amp;#/Home/" target="_blank">Nescafe Taster&#8217;s Choice</a><br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/stride-gum#%21/stride-gum?v=app_7146470109" target="_blank">Stride Mega Mystery Gum</a> (Facebook)<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/ritzcrackers?v=app_214206601560" target="_blank">Ritz Munchables Pretzel Crisps</a> (Facebook)<br />
<strong><br />
Entertainment<br />
</strong><a href="http://classic.kodakgallery.com/tgtfreebook" target="_blank"></a></p>
<p><a href="http://classic.kodakgallery.com/tgtfreebook" target="_blank">Target/Kodak  Mini Photo Book using TGTFREEBOOK </a>(free book &amp; free shipping)<strong><br />
</strong><a href="http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=101438331" target="_blank">SXSW Music Sampler</a><br />
<a href="http://kohlsabbeydawndownload.com/" target="_blank">&#8220;Alice&#8221; by  Avril Lavigne</a><br />
<a href="http://www.petergabriel.com/flume/" target="_blank">&#8220;Flume&#8221; by Peter Gabriel</a><br />
<a href="http://www.google.com/apps/intl/en/business/spreadtheword.html" target="_blank">Gone Google laptop sticker</a><br />
<a href="http://www.popsci.com/archives" target="_blank">Popular Science  137-year archive</a><br />
<a href="http://www.valuemags.com/freeoffer/freeoffer.asp?offer=Wood_RouterBits" target="_blank">Wood magazine</a> (ValueMags)</p>
<div><strong>Upcoming Freebie  Events:</strong><br />
Please call your local store or restaurant to confirm they are  participating in these freebie  events</div>
<p><strong>MARCH</strong><br />
20 &#8211; <a href="http://www.lakeshorelearning.com/general_content/store_locations/storeCrafts.jsp?f=m" target="_blank">Lakeshore Learning Craft </a>make a bird feeder  11-3<br />
20 &#8211; <a href="http://www.ritasice.com/events-and-promotions/first-day-of-spring.aspx" target="_blank">Rita&#8217;s Ice free italian ice </a>noon-10pm<br />
22 &#8211; <a href="https://www.dunkindonuts.com/Default.aspx" target="_blank">Dunkin&#8217;  Donuts</a> free med. hot or iced coffee<br />
23 -<a href="http://www.benjerry.com/" target="_blank"> Ben &amp;  Jerry&#8217;s Free Cone Day</a> noon-8pm<br />
27 -<a href="https://www.lowesbuildandgrow.com/Home.aspx" target="_blank"> Lowe&#8217;s Build and Grow Clinic </a>make a Kaleidoscope 10-11<br />
27 &#8211; <a href="http://theknackkids.com/EventView/Code/ev0056.aspx?reg_source=KNL0310&amp;cm_ven=mic&amp;cm_cat=news&amp;cm_pla=email&amp;cm_ite=0310Kid" target="_blank">Michael&#8217;s Free Family Event</a> Spring Thing 10-1<br />
29 &#8211; <a href="https://www.dunkindonuts.com/Default.aspx" target="_blank">Dunkin&#8217;   Donuts </a>free med. hot or iced coffee</p>
<p><strong>APRIL</strong><br />
8 &#8211; <a href="http://stores.lego.com/en-us/StoreEvents.aspx" target="_blank">Lego  Store Mini Model Build </a>make a chick 4pm<br />
10 -<a href="https://www.lowesbuildandgrow.com/Home.aspx" target="_blank"> Lowe&#8217;s Build and Grow Clinic </a>make a mini baseball game 10-11<br />
15 &#8211;  <a href="http://www.homeimproverclub.com/registernew.aspx?refid=1&amp;eventid=250&amp;eventdate=4/15/2010#stp3" target="_blank">The Home Depot Do-It-Herself Workshop &#8220;Interior  Painting&#8221;</a> 7-8:30<br />
29 &#8211; <a href="http://www.carvel.com/" target="_blank">Carvel Free Ice  Cream &amp; Flavor Shotz</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
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		<title>Retro MomAdvice 03.18.10</title>
		<link>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/retro-momadvice-03-18-10</link>
		<comments>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/retro-momadvice-03-18-10#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 18 Mar 2010 11:00:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Amy</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Retro MomAdvice]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://momadvice.com/blog/?p=2442</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
One Year Ago:
The Cost of a Homemade Happy Meal
Baked Salmon with Lemony Rice Pilaf
Simplifying Your Grocery Day
Planning a Staycation

Two Years Ago:
Target, How I Love Thee?
Mommy Interview: Holly Robinson Peete
A Truthful Journey &#38; Then a Party
Budget-Minded Easter Celebrations

Three Years Ago:
How We Accomplish a $50 a Week Grocery Budget
Ask the Frugal Momma: The Amazing Dishwasher
Iron Chef Moms [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2443" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/retro-momadvice-03-18-10/happy-meal-homemade"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2443" title="happy meal homemade" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/happy-meal-homemade.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="286" /></a></p>
<p><strong>One Year Ago:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2009/03/the-cost-of-a-homemade-happy-meal" target="_blank">The Cost of a Homemade Happy Meal</a></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2009/03/baked-salmon-with-lemony-rice-pilaf" target="_blank">Baked Salmon with Lemony Rice Pilaf</a></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2009/03/simplifying-your-grocery-day-podcast-resource-list" target="_blank">Simplifying Your Grocery Day</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.momadvice.com/money/planning_a_staycation.aspx" target="_blank">Planning a Staycation</a></p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2444" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/retro-momadvice-03-18-10/red-ballet-shoes"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2444" title="Red Ballet Shoes" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Red-Ballet-Shoes.jpg" alt="" width="320" height="240" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Two Years Ago:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2008/03/target-how-do-i-love-thee" target="_blank">Target, How I Love Thee?</a></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2008/03/mommy-interview-holly-robinson-peete" target="_blank">Mommy Interview: Holly Robinson Peete</a></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2008/03/a-truthful-journey-then-a-party" target="_blank">A Truthful Journey &amp; Then a Party</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.momadvice.com/money/frugal_easter.aspx" target="_blank">Budget-Minded Easter Celebrations</a></p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2445" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/retro-momadvice-03-18-10/happy-housewife"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2445" title="Happy Housewife" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Happy-Housewife.jpg" alt="" width="176" height="158" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Three Years Ago:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2007/03/how-we-accomplish-a-50-grocery-budget" target="_blank">How We Accomplish a $50 a Week Grocery Budget</a></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2007/03/ask-frugal-momma-the-amazing-dishwasher" target="_blank">Ask the Frugal Momma: The Amazing Dishwasher</a></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2007/03/iron-chef-moms-challenge-the-final-results" target="_blank">Iron Chef Moms Challenge: The Final Results</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.momadvice.com/work/mystery_shopping.aspx" target="_blank">Taking the Mystery Out of Mystery Shopping</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>Mistreating My Windows the Type-A Way</title>
		<link>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/mistreating-my-windows</link>
		<comments>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/mistreating-my-windows#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 17 Mar 2010 11:05:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Amy</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Crafting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Decorating]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemaking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Notebook Experiments]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Things To Do]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://momadvice.com/blog/?p=2384</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Decorating is not my thing and window treatments are really not my thing.  I think this is why I am really excited to showcase an idea for home decorating that anyone can do&#8230; especially people who don&#8217;t sew and love to wing it! I don&#8217;t sew, but am very Type-A so this project was a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2383" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/mistreating-my-windows/two-windows"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2383" title="two windows" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/two-windows-400x266.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p>Decorating is not my thing and window treatments are really not my thing.  I think this is why I am really excited to showcase an idea for home decorating that anyone can do&#8230; especially people who don&#8217;t sew and love to wing it! I don&#8217;t sew, but am very Type-A so this project was a bit of a challenge for me. Regardless,  I am so pleased with the results and it was worth every little minute of my type-a-ness to complete this project!</p>
<p>Now that we have completed our <a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/welcome-to-our-new-to-us-home" target="_blank">home renovations</a>,  I needed to do some focusing on the details of pulling my two rooms together to create one room. Pictured above is an example of a detail that needed to be addressed&#8230; the window treatments. The office had bamboo shades while the family room had faux wood blinds. Now that this room was one large room, I needed to match the window treatments up and make it look like a uniformed space.</p>
<p>We had curtains before, but trying to find curtains and hardware that matched exactly would have been impossible to do. I don&#8217;t sew, although I have tried, and I didn&#8217;t want to spend a ton of money on new curtains for five windows. I decided to do a little <a href="http://www.thenester.com/2008/01/window-mistreatment-101.html" target="_blank">window mistreating</a> courtesy of The Nester that had been featured <a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2008/03/amys-notebook-2" target="_blank">in the notebook</a> a long time ago.  She said it can be done in ten minutes per window so I was completely on board!</p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2386" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/mistreating-my-windows/buffet-plain"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2386" title="buffet plain" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/buffet-plain-400x266.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2387" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/mistreating-my-windows/coloring-books"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2387" title="coloring books" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/coloring-books-400x266.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p>I also had this piece that I wanted to dress up and pull into the rest of the room. It originally was a buffet in our kitchen that held our glass stemware. It is now the place where we house all of the kid&#8217;s coloring books and crayons. Life has certainly changed, hasn&#8217;t it?  I wanted to try to dress this up inexpensively on top and keep the chaos inside (unlike how it is pictured here)</p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2388" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/mistreating-my-windows/purple-shoes"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2388" title="purple shoes" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/purple-shoes-400x266.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p>Two trips to Hobby Lobby, sweating in the fabric aisle, hardcore number crunching to figure out the perfect amount of fabric, $25 in materials to make the curtains and I was ready to roll. I kicked off my super awesome shoes and I was ready to get to work.</p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2389" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/mistreating-my-windows/pins"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2389" title="pins" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/pins-400x266.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2390" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/mistreating-my-windows/curtain-prep"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2390" title="curtain prep" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/curtain-prep-400x266.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p>This is where I do everything wrong. I measure every curtain to make sure they have exactly the same amount of fabric, I carefully pin the corners of each piece, fold everything in and make sure nothing is showing, line them all up on top of each other and pin them again, practice hanging them, make my husband hold them up and then stand back, go down the steps and look at him holding them to make sure I still like them, pin them again, tack them, then re-tack them into the wall, practice different poofing techniques (not a word according to spell check), etc&#8230;. This is why Type-A personalities do not do well with projects where you just wing it.</p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2391" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/mistreating-my-windows/glass-of-wine"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2391" title="glass of wine" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/glass-of-wine-400x266.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p>It is now about ten at night before I finally finish with my measuring and obsessing. I then try to hang them, but because I am a girl of small stature, I realize that there is no way I can even reach that high. My poor husband has to do the hanging with my constant barking. He gets out a glass of wine to soften the blows of my barking and then we end up having a great time.</p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2394" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/mistreating-my-windows/mistreated-curtains"></a><a rel="attachment wp-att-2420" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/mistreating-my-windows/mistreated-curtains-1"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2420" title="Mistreated curtains 1" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Mistreated-curtains-1-400x266.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2421" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/mistreating-my-windows/mistreated-curtains-3"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2421" title="Mistreated Curtains 3" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Mistreated-Curtains-3-400x266.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p>Here are my perfectly imperfect window mistreatments. I had my husband practically tack them to the ceiling so that the walls looked taller since this is our basement and the windows are so squat. I think the chocolate brown was a good choice of color since the walls were light beige and we had chocolate throw pillows on the couch. I also love that these can be switched out easily and fairly inexpensively when we need a breath of fresh air in the room.</p>
<p>Did I save money doing these? Absolutely! The curtains at Target ran about $20 per panel and the hardware was around $10-12 per window. Including the upholstery tacks, I only spent $26 on four windows.</p>
<p>The fifth window will remain without curtains due to the fact that it is right at the top of a lower wall and doesn&#8217;t need window treatments. We did have to buy more faux wood shades, but now everything will match in this room and we still did it inexpensively with these DIY window mistreatments.</p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2396" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/mistreating-my-windows/buffet-after"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2396" title="buffet after" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/buffet-after-400x266.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2397" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/mistreating-my-windows/glass-container"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2397" title="glass container" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/glass-container-400x266.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p>I decorated my little corner of this side of the room with black-and-white photos of my children that I took of them (zero cost for photographer). I printed them on my little photo printer (no purchases made) and then got inexpensive frames at Hobby Lobby for $5 each. The glass container ($14.99 at Target) was filled with some fillers in green and brown to tie in the rest of the room. I look forward to switching the items inside with the seasons and switching the photos to keep this corner fresh!</p>
<p>Thanks to The Nester for inspiring me to mistreat those windows and visit  <a href="http://www.thenester.com/" target="_blank">Nesting Place</a> for more great ideas on budget-friendly home decor!</p>
<p><em>What are some ways that you have saved your family on home decor? Any DIY projects that have kept your budget low? Please share!</em></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>17</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>Amy&#8217;s Notebook 03.17.10</title>
		<link>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/amys-notebook-03-17-10</link>
		<comments>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/amys-notebook-03-17-10#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 17 Mar 2010 11:00:20 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Amy</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Favorites]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Notebook]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://momadvice.com/blog/?p=2438</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[We might have to try Kool-Aid egg dying this year (@ Gingerbread Snowflake)
This candy shoppe themed party would be a fun idea for my kids (@ kara&#8217;s party ideas)
These gluten-free flour tortillas look like a great gluten-free option (@ Wisebread)
This crocheted reversible Swiffer sock is so cute and eco-friendly (@ Craft)
I bet I would love [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-1858" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/01/amys-notebook-01-13-10/amys-notebook-4"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1858" title="amy's notebook" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/amys-notebook1.gif" alt="" width="151" height="157" /></a>We might have to try <a href="http://gingerbreadsnowflakes.com/node/158" target="_blank">Kool-Aid egg dying</a> this year (@ <a href="http://gingerbreadsnowflakes.com/" target="_blank">Gingerbread Snowflake</a>)</p>
<p>This <a href="http://karaspartyideas.blogspot.com/2010/03/candy-shoppe-party.html" target="_blank">candy shoppe themed party</a> would be a fun idea for my kids (@ <a href="http://karaspartyideas.blogspot.com" target="_blank">kara&#8217;s party ideas</a>)</p>
<p>These <a href="http://www.wisebread.com/frugal-gluten-free-living-flour-tortillas-that-taste-great" target="_blank">gluten-free flour tortillas</a> look like a great gluten-free option (@ <a href="http://www.wisebread.com" target="_blank">Wisebread</a>)</p>
<p>This <a href="http://blog.craftzine.com/archive/2010/03/craft_pattern_crocheted_revers.html" target="_blank">crocheted reversible Swiffer sock</a> is so cute and eco-friendly (@ <a href="http://blog.craftzine.com" target="_blank">Craft</a>)</p>
<p>I bet I would love this <a href="http://www.lynnskitchenadventures.com/2010/03/roasted-cauliflower.html" target="_blank">roasted cauliflower</a> as a new side dish for our meals (@ <a href="http://www.lynnskitchenadventures.com" target="_blank">Lynn&#8217;s Kitchen Adventures</a>)</p>
<p>I love this recipe for <a href="http://lifeasmom.com/2010/03/frugal-friday-making-my-own-instant-oatmeal.html" target="_blank">making your own instant oatmeal</a> (@ <a href="http://lifeasmom.com" target="_blank">Life as Mom</a>)</p>
<p>These <a href="http://makingitlovely.com/2010/03/09/diy-painting-tips-tricks-and-a-step-by-step-guide/" target="_blank">tips for painting a room</a> will come in handy for our next home project (@ <a href="http://makingitlovely.com" target="_blank">Making it Lovely</a>)</p>
<p>My son would love this <a href="http://giverslog.com/?p=6181" target="_blank">Mario-themed birthday party</a> (@ <a href="http://giverslog.com" target="_blank">giver&#8217;s log</a>)</p>
<p>This <a href="http://annies-eats.com/2010/03/10/chicken-chili/" target="_blank">chicken chili</a> looks so amazing (@ <a href="http://annies-eats.com" target="_blank">Annie&#8217;s Eats</a>)</p>
<p>I want to try this recipe for a <a href="http://twopeasandtheirpod.com/olive-gardens-zuppa-toscana-soup-recipe/#more-4778" target="_blank">copycat version of Zuppa Toscana</a> (@ <a href="http://twopeasandtheirpod.com" target="_blank">Two Peas &amp; Their Pod</a>)</p>
<p>This <a href="http://stolenmomentscooking.com/beef-rice-burrito-filling/?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+CookingDuringStolenMoments+%28Cooking+During+Stolen+Moments%29&amp;utm_content=Google+Reader" target="_blank">beef and rice burrito filling</a> would be great to keep in the freezer for our Mexican food nights (@ <a href="http://stolenmomentscooking.com" target="_blank">Cooking During Stolen Moments</a>)</p>
<p>Considering this is the exact coffee table I have in my garage right now, I might just have to <a href="http://pinkandpolkadot.blogspot.com/2010/03/coffee-table-re-finished.html" target="_blank">try refinishing it to look like this</a> (@ <a href="http://pinkandpolkadot.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Pink and Polka Dot</a>)</p>
<p>My kids would love this <a href="http://scrumdillydo.blogspot.com/2010/03/homemade-fruit-fun-fetti-cakes.html" target="_blank">homemade fruit fun-fetti cake</a> (@ <a href="http://scrumdillydo.blogspot.com" target="_blank">scrumdilly-do</a>)</p>
<p>I love this <a href="http://shabbynest.blogspot.com/2010/03/so-you-think-you-can-decorate-week-3.html" target="_blank">bedroom redo</a> (@ <a href="http://shabbynest.blogspot.com" target="_blank">The Shabby Nest</a>)</p>
<p>This <a href="http://southerngracegourmet.com/greek-chicken-orzo/" target="_blank">Greek Chicken Orzo</a> looks fantastic (@ <a href="http://southerngracegourmet.com/" target="_blank">Southern Grace Gourmet</a>)</p>
<p>I love this idea for <a href="http://memoriesoncloverlane.blogspot.com/2010/03/how-i-organize-my-photos.html" target="_blank">photo organization</a> (@ <a href="http://memoriesoncloverlane.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Clover Lane</a>)</p>
<p>These <a href="http://www.theungourmet.com/2010/03/granola-chocolate-chip-cookies.html" target="_blank">granola chocolate chip cookies</a> look like a fun variation on an old classic (@ <a href="http://www.theungourmet.com" target="_blank">The Ungourmet</a>)</p>
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		<title>Great Reads for Moms: February &#8216;10 Edition &amp; a Giveaway</title>
		<link>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/great-reads-for-moms-february-10-edition-a-giveaway</link>
		<comments>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/great-reads-for-moms-february-10-edition-a-giveaway#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 16 Mar 2010 11:00:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Amy</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Books]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Entertainment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Giveaways]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Things To Do]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://momadvice.com/blog/?p=2411</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
I am so excited to share about another month of great reading for moms and to also get the opportunity to couple it with a giveaway on our blog. Despite our life being in constant chaos last month, I still got a chance to read five great books to share with all of you. I [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2430" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/great-reads-for-moms-february-10-edition-a-giveaway/reading-stack"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2430" title="Reading Stack" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Reading-Stack-400x266.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p>I am so excited to share about another month of great reading for moms and to also get the opportunity to couple it with a giveaway on our blog. Despite our life being in constant chaos last month, I still got a chance to read five great books to share with all of you. I am sure having the television being inoperable for three weeks definitely helped boost more reading time for me!</p>
<p>These days, you will find me in the evening with some decaf coffee in my little French press and a library book in my hands. There is no better way to spend an evening than with a big stack of library books and a warm drink.</p>
<p>I am really looking forward to the weather warming up so I can spend it wrapped in a blanket and sitting outside in a wicker chair by our little fire pit. Spring just can&#8217;t come soon enough to Indiana!</p>
<p>Without further adieu, here are the wonderful books that I read this last month and ideas for you to add to your to-be-read piles!</p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2412" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/great-reads-for-moms-february-10-edition-a-giveaway/to-kill-a-mockingbird"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2412" title="To Kill a Mockingbird" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/To-Kill-a-Mockingbird.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="240" /></a></p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0060935464?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=momadvice-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=0060935464" target="_blank">To Kill a Mockingbird</a> by Harper Lee-</strong></p>
<p>I can admit that I was not exposed to a lot of classical literature. In my English classes, we were exposed to only excerpts of the classics, but not the full books. Maybe that is why, as an adult, I have an interest in exploring the classics for the first time. When I spotted an entire table of Harper Lee’s, “To Kill a Mockingbird,” at our local library, I grabbed a copy to attempt to read it!</p>
<p>Those that live in the Michiana area can participate in a unique opportunity called, “One Book, One Michiana.” They are encouraging everyone to read this classic and then will have community-centered activities and events surrounding this book. I am excited to participate in this and excited for any opportunity that encourages me to step out of my comfort zone when it comes to literature.</p>
<p>To Kill a Mockingbird is set in the 1930’s in the Deep South where race and social standings are of great importance within the Maycomb community. When lawyer, Atticus Finch, is the assigned defense to an African American charged with raping a white woman, he compromises his social standing by defending his case before the court. The entire story is told through the eyes of Atticus’ children as they try to understand what it means to be white during a time of great racism.</p>
<p>The story opens with Jem &amp; Scout, Atticus’ two children, spying on their neighbor who is a town recluse and never leaves his home. The story of Boo Radley is how the children keep themselves entertained during those long summer days and Boo’s story is interwoven through the book. They are simple children that just love to fight, to play in the dirt, and who love to play pretend games with their neighbor boy.</p>
<p>Their entire world changes when Atticus is assigned the defense of an African American man who is accused of raping Mayella Ewell. While the Ewell family are the lowest in the white class, they are still accepted and believed more than Tom Robinson who has always been an honest and kind family man.</p>
<p>Everyone is against Tom even when all of the evidence points somewhere else and Atticus has to defend the toughest case of his career to a jury of white men.</p>
<p>The court scenes were riveting, the twists in the plot added depth to the story and characters, and telling the entire story through a child’s eyes was priceless to the story. The characters in this novel are so rich and beautifully written that a piece of yourself can identify with so many of them. Admittedly, I had a hard time with some of the racist language and derogatory terms that were used towards African Americans during that time, but it shapes the story and makes you realize how horrible these times were.</p>
<p>I can’t rave enough about this book and wish I could share more in my review, but I don’t want to give away the beautiful plot, twists, and turns that you would experience as a reader if you haven’t read it!</p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2413" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/great-reads-for-moms-february-10-edition-a-giveaway/wednesday-sisters"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2413" title="Wednesday Sisters" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Wednesday-Sisters.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="240" /></a></p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0345502833?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=momadvice-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=0345502833" target="_blank">The Wednesday Sisters</a> by Meg Waite Clayton-</strong></p>
<p>Wednesday  Sisters was a gem of a book that was reminiscent of some of my favorite  books about friendship and the bonds that women have. The story followed  along the vein of some of my favorite girlfriend literature like,  “Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons,” and “The Divine Secrets of the Ya Ya  Sisterhood Club.” It is a book about friendship that spans the decades  and shows the power of great girlfriends and the power that the written  word has!</p>
<p>The book takes place in the 1960’s and tells the story of five  different women who meet in the park one day and find a mutual interest  in literature. Deciding to go against the obvious and form a book club,  they decide to challenge each other and start a Wednesday Sisters group,  where they would meet each Wednesday morning and share stories they had  written with one another. Some take the writing assignment as a fun  outlet, while others have ambitious dreams of being published and known  for their writing.</p>
<p>While starting a writing club in this decade wouldn’t seem like a  big deal, it was revolutionary in its own way because women were left  with caring for the home, caring for the children, and caring for their  man. Women with ambitious dreams and lofty goals were not the norm, yet  as the book progresses each of these women finds their own voice and  their own purpose in life.</p>
<p>It deals with some of the tough topics of the decade- racism,  feelings about beauty pageants, women in the workplace, protests against  government, and  the stand-by-your-man philosophy that so many women  were encouraged to do even in the face of adultery from their spouse.</p>
<p>As someone who writes, I found their journey through writing  endearing and touching. When the women reached specific writing  milestones, my heart would leap a bit knowing how each of them  discovered themselves and their own potential for their lives.</p>
<p>While the beginning started a little slow for me, the beautiful  story that developed held me to the beautiful ending and made me want to  start a little writing club of my own.</p>
<p>More importantly though, it made me so thankful for my girlfriends  and the power that women have to encourage one another toward our goals,  to celebrate life&#8217;s great accomplishments, and to hold each other up  when we face challenges.</p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2414" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/great-reads-for-moms-february-10-edition-a-giveaway/peony-in-love"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2414" title="Peony in Love" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Peony-in-Love.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="240" /></a></p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0812975227?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=momadvice-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=0812975227" target="_blank">Peony In Love</a> by Lisa See-</strong></p>
<p>I will  admit that this book was nothing like I had ever expected and like no  other book of Lisa See’s that I have ever read.</p>
<p>The story surrounds a self-centered Peony who has always been cared  for and had everything provided for her. She has quickly approached the  age of marriage and, as is customary, has been betrothed in marriage to a  man that she does not know. She knows that it is her daughterly and  wifely duty to be a good wife to him and has no trouble with this  arrangement until the evening that she meets her true heart’s desire.</p>
<p>She meets this handsome poet one night during the performing of her  favorite opera, “The Peony Pavilion.” She knows that it is wrong for her  to even speak to the man, yet they arrange a meeting each night of the  opera and she feels, for the first time, the feelings of true love. At  the tender age of sixteen, these meetings are all that can she think  about and she knows that she should marry this man.</p>
<p>In the days leading up to her wedding day, thinking of this man  causes her to become sick, weak, and obsessed knowing that she cannot be  with her true love. Much like the ill-fated lovers in The Peony  Pavilion, her life takes a turn that the reader will never expect and  her life mirrors the story told in this opera.</p>
<p>I wish I could say more, but to say more would reveal the twists and  turn in the plot that makes this book an unexpectedly different read  than what I had anticipated. It is a true look inside the ancient  rituals surrounding what happens in the afterlife and how the Chinese  view the importance of their ancestral heritage.</p>
<p>I encourage you to read the author’s notes after which helps to  explain why this story must be told and the importance for all women to  be able to tell their stories and poems to the world!</p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2415" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/great-reads-for-moms-february-10-edition-a-giveaway/look-again"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2415" title="Look Again" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Look-Again.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="240" /></a></p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0312380739?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=momadvice-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=0312380739" target="_blank">Look Again</a> by Lisa Scottoline-</strong></p>
<p>Jodi  Picoult fans will appreciate this suspenseful book by Lisa Scottoline  that gives us a glimpse into an adoptive mother’s worst nightmare. What  if you found out that everything you thought about your perfectly legal  adoption was wrong?</p>
<p>Newspaper reporter Ellen Gleeson became the adoptive mother of her  little boy Will after covering a story about the sick little boy who was  abandoned by his mother because of numerous health problems.  The  mother did not feel she could care for him and decides to make the heart  wrenching decision to give him up. After his surgery though, the  hospital discovers that his health problems were resolved and Ellen  finds herself in love with this little boy and decides to adopt him and  make him her own.</p>
<p>When she picks up the mail one day two years later though, she  notices a missing child flier that has a little boy that looks exactly  like her son. Even though her adoption is perfectly legal and the mother  has signed off on all of the papers, could this little boy be the exact  same little boy as the one in the flier?</p>
<p>Being an investigative journalist, she can’t shake the feeling that  something may have been wrong with her adoption and decides to seek  legal counsel to find out if she has any parental rights. When she finds  that her adoption lawyer, a happy mother of three, has supposedly  committed suicide she begins to wonder if something more sinister is to  blame.</p>
<p>Ellen is sent spiraling into mysterious deaths, a fascination with  the family that has lost their only son, and clues that lead the reader  through this mysterious thriller. It makes you wonder as a mother what  you would do if you were faced with the moral dilemma of turning the  information in to the authorities and giving up what is most precious to  you or harboring the secret so you can selfishly keep your little boy  as your own.</p>
<p>It was a good solid read although, at times, very predictable. It  was my first novel by Lisa Scottoline and was chosen because it was a  new Target book club pick and I have never been lead astray by their  choices.  It was a really quick read that would be fun to take to the  beach or on a family trip.</p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2416" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/great-reads-for-moms-february-10-edition-a-giveaway/winter-garden"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2416" title="Winter Garden" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Winter-Garden.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="240" /></a></p>
<p><strong><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0312364121?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=momadvice-20&amp;linkCode=as2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=390957&amp;creativeASIN=0312364121" target="_blank">Winter Garden</a> by Kristin Hannah-</strong></p>
<p>Winter Garden is a wonderful heart wrenching and  riveting read from Kristin Hannah that her fans will really and truly  love. If you have not read Kristin Hannah before, this is a standout  read that will have you spending a little time with your tissues and  even giggling out loud at the dynamics of sisterhood and family.</p>
<p>The book is about two sisters who are as different as two sisters  can be. The sensible Meredith has taken over the duties of the family  business and remains the rock for her family. Her sister Nina, on the  other hand, chooses to be a traveling photographer who finds great joy  in the travel and the inconsistency of her life.</p>
<p>When their father brings the two sisters together on his deathbed,  he makes them promise to take care of their seemingly unemotional and  detached mother and to listen to one of her Russian fairy tales in its  entirety. Neither daughter has a true relationship with their mother and  both find spending time with her to be difficult.</p>
<p>Meredith is left to care for her mother, Anya, and quickly discovers  that the task will not be an easy one. Her mother is becoming  frustrated, confused, and her behavior is becoming more and more  bizarre. As Meredith’s marriage and job are becoming more demanding, she  is forced to put her mother in a nursing home to help her with the  duties.</p>
<p>When Nina returns home and finds her mother in the nursing home, she  insists that she is brought home where she can care for her.  Nina  forces Anya, a woman that neither daughter really knows, to share about  herself each night through the fairytale that their father has requested  that she share.</p>
<p>This fairytale takes the three women on a journey that none of them  expect. What starts as an innocent story about a girl being swept off of  her feet by a handsome prince becomes altogether too real as the story  begins to unfold.  It will leave the reader with her heart in her throat  and shows the fragility of life and the heart of the human spirit.</p>
<p><em>Not enough great reads for you? Be sure to visit my past book highlights to add to your to-be-read pile:</em></p>
<p><em><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2009/10/me-time-making-your-reading-time-a-priority" target="_blank">Me Time: Making Your Reading Time a Priority</a></em></p>
<p><em><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/01/how-to-get-back-in-the-groove-of-reading" target="_blank">How to Get Back in the Groove of Reading (December &#8216;09 Reading)</a><br />
</em></p>
<p><em><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/02/great-reads-for-moms-january-10-edition" target="_blank">January &#8216;10 Reads</a></em></p>
<p><em><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2009/11/in-the-book-basket-october-09-reading" target="_blank">October &#8216;09 Reading</a></em></p>
<blockquote><p><strong>Disclosure: </strong>All of the links above are affiliate links  and are provided so you can locate the books quickly and easily. Feel  free to order a book, but we encourage utilizing the library system and  buying me a latte instead.  Then we both would be really happy and we  could have our own little book club together! Wouldn’t that just be so  much more lovely? Happy Reading!</p></blockquote>
<p>*************************</p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2417" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/great-reads-for-moms-february-10-edition-a-giveaway/bookswim-logo"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2417" title="bookswim logo" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/bookswim-logo.png" alt="" width="169" height="80" /></a>What if I told you that you could read all of these books for free? Well, today we are offering a fun reader giveaway for the avid reader in you! There is a great innovative book program out there called <a href="http://www.bookswim.com/index.html" target="_blank">BookSwim</a> that is a book rental program to help feed the bookworms in your family.</p>
<p>For the past few months, I was given a trial membership to share with you the details of how it works. The best way I can describe it is that it is just like Netflix. They send you a stack of books that you can read, you read and keep them as long as you want, and then you drop them back in the mail to return them to the company. They will then ship your next round of books for you to enjoy and the process goes on from there. The plans start at $9.95 a month and up, which is exactly the same price you might be paying for a movie club.</p>
<p>For me, the rental plan would not make sense. My library is the mecca of brand new books and (it seems) has unlimited amount of copies of the bestsellers. When I lived in Massachusetts and had a dated library that was never stocked with current books, I would have given my left arm to have a membership to BookSwim.</p>
<p>Here&#8217;s who it makes sense to for me:</p>
<p>1. My readers with small children who don&#8217;t have time to enjoy a leisurely visit to the library and are instead keeping their children well-read rather than themselves.</p>
<p>2. My readers who don&#8217;t have a great library system or access to great free books.</p>
<p>3. My readers who want to switch out their movie club membership for a book membership that they can enjoy with their whole family.</p>
<p><strong>Lucky for you, I</strong> <strong>am giving away a free membership to <a href="http://www.bookswim.com/index.html" target="_blank">BookSwim</a> to one lucky reader. We will be giving one reader a three month subscription on their 3-at-a-time book plan!</strong></p>
<p><strong>To enter to win, please do one or all of the following:</strong></p>
<p>1. Leave a comment and <strong>tell me one great read you have read so far this year or why you would like to make reading a priority.</strong></p>
<p>2.  <strong>Please <a href="http://feeds.feedburner.com/TheMotherLoad" target="_blank">subscribe to my blog</a></strong>. We are offering our readership full feed access into the blog daily and I would love to have our site becoming part of your daily routine. Leave an additional comment to let me know that you have subscribed!</p>
<p>3. <strong>Tell us one thing you would like to see offered on the site. </strong>I do my best to appeal to all of our readers, but if there is something special you would like to see, please let me know!</p>
<p><strong>Entries will be taken through Tuesday (03/23) at 8PM EST. Our winner will be drawn at random. Good luck, everyone!</strong></p>
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		<title>An Apron Full of Giveaways 03.16.10</title>
		<link>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/an-apron-full-of-giveaways-03-16-10</link>
		<comments>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/an-apron-full-of-giveaways-03-16-10#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 16 Mar 2010 10:55:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Amy</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Giveaways]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://momadvice.com/blog/?p=2453</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Lover Dovers, $30
Thanks so much for swinging by for our Apron Full of Giveaways! Each       week we share a link list of great contests to enter all over the    web.     Below are the contest links to our contests and to yours! If [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/loverdoversclothing" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2454" title="ice cream apron" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/ice-cream-apron-400x385.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="385" />Lover Dovers</a>, $30</p>
<p>Thanks so much for swinging by for our Apron Full of Giveaways! Each       week we share a link list of great contests to enter all over the    web.     Below are the contest links to our contests and to yours! If    you are    hosting a contest please link it up below. I would love to    point our   readers over your way!</p>
<p>This week we are sharing our favorite reads of the month and giving away a free membership to a book rental program called BookSwim. Imagine getting books right to your mailbox just like you do with your movie memberships and having all of the new releases right at your fingertips! One lucky winner will receive a free 3-month 3-at-a-time membership to keep his or her need for great literature completely satisfied. Extra entries are given to each person that subscribes to this blog. We want to be part of your regular reading too so please visit the link below to enter to win. <strong>Do not enter here, entries will not qualify.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Sorry, we aren’t giving away  the aprons just showcasing      them!</strong></p>
<p>Please put your site name and then what  type of contest you are      hosting. For example, “MomAdvice (Children’s  Movies).”  Please let me      know if you have any questions and good luck to  each of you!</p>
<p>Good luck, everyone!</p>
<p><script type="text/javascript" src="http://www.simply-linked.com/listwidget.aspx?l=7e57752c-de4d-4b21-a092-b201cd2c0227" ></script></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>5</slash:comments>
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		<title>Delicious &amp; Easy Cereal Bars</title>
		<link>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/delicious-easy-cereal-bars</link>
		<comments>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/delicious-easy-cereal-bars#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 15 Mar 2010 11:00:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Amy</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kid Recipes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recipes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://momadvice.com/blog/?p=2424</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
I am always looking for quick and easy snacks that will keep my kids satisfied until the dinner hour. I am also looking for things that require no time baking and that can be whipped up on a moment&#8217;s notice. Lucky for me, I happened upon a fun little recipe that would be just that.
This [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2425" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/delicious-easy-cereal-bars/cereal-bars"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2425" title="cereal bars" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/cereal-bars-400x266.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p>I am always looking for quick and easy snacks that will keep my kids satisfied until the dinner hour. I am also looking for things that require no time baking and that can be whipped up on a moment&#8217;s notice. Lucky for me, I happened upon a fun little recipe that would be just that.</p>
<p>This recipe is perfect for using up what is in your pantry because the possibilities are endless. I had tried <a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2009/01/notebook-experiments-can-i-make-something-out-of-cereal-no-one-likes" target="_blank">a similar recipe</a> (which I can no longer find on the blog) and I loved that cereal bars were a great way to use up a cereal that bombed for a morning breakfast that could get a shiny new face lift and become an instant favorite snack.</p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2426" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/delicious-easy-cereal-bars/bran-flakes"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2426" title="bran flakes" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/bran-flakes-400x266.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p>Will my children eat bran flakes or tons of high fiber cereal? No! Will my children eat this cereal cleverly disguised between a little honey and peanut butter? Well, of course! I choose a box of Bran Flakes from Aldi, but you can choose whatever cereal you need to use up in your pantry and you can incorporate peanuts in it, if you would like a nuttier bar. One of our favorites has been the cereal with honey &amp; oats in it. Use what you have or choose something with high fiber that will keep your kids fuller longer.</p>
<p>Whatever you do, be sure to keep an eye on it when it is on the stove. Don&#8217;t run downstairs to answer a telephone call or you will have a burnt honey mess on your hands. Cleaning that pot will end up not saving you any baking time in the long run and will frustrate you to no end&#8230; You may just have to trust me on that one!</p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2427" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/delicious-easy-cereal-bars/honey-mixture"><img class="aligncenter size-medium wp-image-2427" title="honey mixture" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/honey-mixture-400x266.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="266" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Oat-y or Bran-y Cereal Bars</strong> (adapted from <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/oaty-cereal-bars/detail.aspx" target="_blank">All Recipes</a>)</p>
<p>1/2 cup white sugar</p>
<p>1/2 cup honey</p>
<p>1/2 cup peanut butter</p>
<p>3 cups  any kind of cereal (or 4 cups cereal if you skip them peanuts like I did)</p>
<p>1 cup peanuts</p>
<p>Grease a 9&#215;13 inch pan. In a large saucepan over medium heat, stir together the sugar and honey. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and stir in the peanut butter until well blended. Stir in the cereal and if desired, stir in the salted peanuts. Press into the prepared pan. Allow to cool until firm, then cut into bars.</p>
<p><em>Moms can never have enough after-school snack ammunition! </em><em>What are some of your kid&#8217;s favorite quick and easy snacks? Feel free to share your tips, suggestions, or recipes here! </em></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>12</slash:comments>
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		<title>Freebie Friday: March 12, 2010</title>
		<link>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/freebie-friday-march-12-2010</link>
		<comments>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/freebie-friday-march-12-2010#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 12 Mar 2010 12:00:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Amy</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Freebies]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://momadvice.com/blog/?p=2407</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Hurray, it is finally Friday! The best part about Friday for me is Freebie Friday and I would like to thank Freebies 4 Mom for sharing their weekly dose of freebie goodness each week. Heather is giving away a $125 Starbucks/iTunes gift card prize this week. Even if you don&#8217;t win that awesome giveaway,  everyone [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-1837" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/01/freebie-friday-january-8-2010/freebie-friday"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1837" title="freebie friday" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/freebie-friday.gif" alt="" width="195" height="115" /></a>Hurray, it is finally Friday! The best part about Friday for me is Freebie Friday and I would like to thank Freebies 4 Mom for sharing their weekly dose of freebie goodness each week. Heather is giving away a <a href="http://freebies4mom.blogspot.com/2010/03/125-starbucks-itunes-giveaway.html" target="_blank">$125 Starbucks/iTunes gift card prize</a> this week.<strong> </strong>Even if you don&#8217;t win that awesome giveaway,  everyone can get a <a href="http://freebies4mom.blogspot.com/2010/03/free-redbox-movie-on-st-patricks.html" target="_blank">free Redbox movie rental on St. Patrick&#8217;s Day!</a><strong> </strong></p>
<p>This week on MomAdvice we have a delicious <a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/chicken-broccoli-fusilli-in-garlic-cream-sauce" target="_blank">chicken, broccoli, &amp; fusilli pasta in garlic cream sauce</a>, a fantastic discussion on <a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/eating-healthy-at-aldi-supermarket-yes-you-can" target="_blank">how everyone keeps their grocery budgets low while still keeping the meal healthy</a>, <a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/amys-notebook-03-10-10" target="_blank">a notebook of great inspiration</a>, and our <a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/an-apron-full-of-giveaways-03-09-10" target="_blank">round-up of over 140 great giveaways</a>. Be sure to check back here on Tuesday for a fantastic giveaway from MomAdvice!</p>
<p><strong><br />
Health &amp; Beauty<br />
</strong><a href="http://f.chtah.com/i/2/95827765/030910_SiJCP_Email_store_coupon.jpg" target="_blank">Mascara at JCPenney Sephora counter</a><strong><br />
</strong><a href="https://www.pgeverydaysolutions.com/pgeds/headshoulder-brandsampler.jsp" target="_blank">Head &amp; Shoulders</a><strong><br />
</strong><a href="http://www.lorealparisusa.com/" target="_blank">L&#8217;Oreal EverStrong  hair care</a><strong><br />
</strong><a href="http://www.samsclubmemberservices.com/showcase/unileversamplecenter-degreewoman.aspx" target="_blank">Degree Ultra Clear deodorant </a>(Sam&#8217;s Club members)<strong><br />
</strong><a href="http://www.costco.com/Browse/Productgroup.aspx?Prodid=11516597&amp;search=free%20sample&amp;Sp=S&amp;cm_re=1_en-_-Top_Left_Nav-_-Top_search&amp;lang=en-US&amp;Nr=P_CatalogName:BC&amp;N=5000043&amp;whse=BC&amp;Dx=mode+matchallpartial&amp;Ntk=Text_Search&amp;Dr=P_CatalogName:BC&amp;Ne=4000000&amp;D=free%20sample&amp;Ntt=free%20sample&amp;Mo=3&amp;No=2&amp;Ntx=mode+matchallpartial&amp;s=1&amp;topnav=&amp;Nty=1&amp;s=1" target="_blank">Huggies Snug &amp; Dry</a> (Costco)<strong><br />
</strong><a href="https://www.justkeepmoving.com/web/guest/register" target="_blank">Tylenol&#8217;s Keep Moving Free DVD &amp; Pedometer</a><strong><br />
</strong><a href="http://www.everlastsportsnutrition.com/energy/" target="_blank">Everlast  Sports Nutrition supplement</a><strong> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Food</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.mimiscafe.com/EClub.aspx" target="_blank">Mimi&#8217;s Cafe free breakfast entree</a> (sign-up for  eClub)<br />
<a href="http://www.dunkinathome.com/index.aspx" target="_blank">Dunkin&#8217;  Turbo coffee</a><br />
<a href="https://www.dunkindonuts.com/Default.aspx" target="_blank">Dunkin  Donuts free hot or iced coffee</a> (Mondays in March)<strong><br />
</strong><a href="https://www.splendidlife.com/ancillary/samplingprogram.do" target="_blank">Splenda flavors for coffee</a><strong><br />
</strong><a href="http://www.teeccino.com/Secure/Register.aspx" target="_blank">Teecino herbal coffee</a><strong><br />
</strong><a href="http://www.kraftfirsttaste.com/" target="_blank">Philadelphia  Minis</a> (for some Kraft First Taste members)<strong><br />
</strong><a href="http://www.seapak.com/index/easyseafoodmeals" target="_blank">SeaPak  Easy Seafood Meals </a>recipe book by mail<strong></strong></p>
<p><strong>Entertainment<br />
</strong><a href="http://www.facebook.com/redbox?v=app_371601135119&amp;ref=search" target="_blank">Free Redbox Movie March 17</a> (Facebook)<strong><br />
</strong><a href="http://www.audiofilemagazine.com/event/0310_landingpage.html" target="_blank">Alice in Wonderland audiobook</a><strong><br />
</strong><a href="http://www.sproutonline.com/sprout/videos/music.aspx?CMP=FB107" target="_blank">Sprout Free Kid&#8217;s Music</a><br />
<a href="http://www.childrensbooksforever.com/index.html" target="_blank">Children&#8217;s Book downloads</a> (23 different PDF picture  books<a href="http://chuckecheese.com/promotions/rewards-calendars.php" target="_blank">)</a><br />
<a href="http://chuckecheese.com/promotions/rewards-calendars.php" target="_blank">Chuck E. Cheese Reward Charts</a> (worth 10 tokens)<br />
<a href="http://www.valuemags.com/freeoffer/freeoffer.asp?offer=Marlin-RDC.asp" target="_blank">Marlin magazine</a> (ValueMags)<br />
<a href="http://instoresnow.walmart.com/In-Stores-Now-Music-Downloads.aspx" target="_blank">Free Music downloads</a> (Walmart)</p>
<div><strong>Home &amp; Garden</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.rightathome.com/offers/201003-rah/" target="_blank">Right@Home  Spring Cleaning Gift Pack</a><br />
<a href="http://www.samsclub.com/shopping/navigate.do?catg=15099" target="_blank">Downy fabric softener </a>(Sam&#8217;s Club)<br />
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/VASKA/91891335546?v=wall" target="_blank">Vaska Herbatergent</a> (on Facebook)<br />
<a href="http://www.samsclubmemberservices.com/events/gladBS.aspx" target="_blank">Glad Forceflex </a>(Sam&#8217;s Club members)<br />
<a href="http://www.whattoexpect.com/home/healthy-home/orderform.aspx" target="_blank">What to Expect Guide to a Healthy Home</a><br />
<a href="http://www.houseparty.com/splash/nabisco100caloriedeliciousliving" target="_blank">Nabisco 100 Calorie Delicious Living House Party</a><br />
<a href="http://www.houseparty.com/splash/greenworksswap" target="_blank">Green Works Kids Gear Swap House Party</a><br />
<a href="http://www.houseparty.com/splash/stoufferssubcelebration" target="_blank">Stouffer&#8217;s Toasted Sub Celebration House Party</a><br />
<a href="http://www.houseparty.com/splash/ladieswholaugh" target="_blank">Poise Ladies Who Laugh House Party</a><br />
<strong><br />
Pets</strong><br />
<a href="http://www.hillspet.com/treats/index.jsp" target="_blank">Hill&#8217;s  Science Diet Simple Essentials Treats</a></p>
<p><strong>Upcoming Freebie  Events:</strong><br />
Please call your local store or restaurant to confirm they are  participating in these freebie  events</p>
</div>
<p><strong>MARCH</strong><br />
13 &#8211; <a href="https://www.lowesbuildandgrow.com/" target="_blank">Lowe&#8217;s  Build and Grow Clinic</a> make a tabletop basketball 10-11<br />
13 &#8211; <a href="http://www.lakeshorelearning.com/general_content/store_locations/storeCrafts.jsp?f=m" target="_blank">Lakeshore Learning Craft </a>make a Pot O&#8217; Gold bank  11-3<br />
15 &#8211; <a href="https://www.dunkindonuts.com/Default.aspx" target="_blank">Dunkin&#8217;  Donuts</a> free med. hot or iced coffee<br />
20 &#8211; <a href="http://www.ritasice.com/events-and-promotions/first-day-of-spring.aspx" target="_blank">Rita&#8217;s Ice free italian ice </a>noon-10pm<br />
22 &#8211; <a href="https://www.dunkindonuts.com/Default.aspx" target="_blank">Dunkin&#8217;  Donuts</a> free med. hot or iced coffee<br />
23 -<a href="http://www.benjerry.com/" target="_blank"> Ben &amp;  Jerry&#8217;s Free Cone Day</a> noon-8pm<br />
27 -<a href="https://www.lowesbuildandgrow.com/Home.aspx" target="_blank"> Lowe&#8217;s Build and Grow Clinic </a>make a Kaleidoscope 10-11<br />
27 &#8211; <a href="http://theknackkids.com/EventView/Code/ev0056.aspx?reg_source=KNL0310&amp;cm_ven=mic&amp;cm_cat=news&amp;cm_pla=email&amp;cm_ite=0310Kid" target="_blank">Michael&#8217;s Free Family Event</a> Spring Thing 10-1<br />
29 &#8211; <a href="https://www.dunkindonuts.com/Default.aspx" target="_blank">Dunkin&#8217;  Donuts </a>free med. hot or iced coffee</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>3</slash:comments>
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		<title>Retro MomAdvice 03.11.10</title>
		<link>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/retro-momadvice-03-11-10</link>
		<comments>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/retro-momadvice-03-11-10#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 11 Mar 2010 12:00:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Amy</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Retro MomAdvice]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://momadvice.com/blog/?p=2364</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
One Year Ago:
Notebook Experiment: Are Homemade Bubbles Better?
Throwing a Baby Shower on a Budget
Yummy Mexican Rice
Two Years Ago:
Thank You Writer&#8217;s Strike Part III
Travel Tips from Tracy Gallagher
Goodbye Old Friend: Asking Jealousy to Leave

Three Years Ago:
Iron Chef Moms Challenge: Chicken Broccoli Lo Mein
Iron Chef Moms Challenge: Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks
Iron Chef Moms Challenge: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Iron [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2366" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/retro-momadvice-03-11-10/homemade-bubbles"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2366" title="homemade bubbles" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/homemade-bubbles.jpg" alt="" width="400" height="300" /></a></p>
<p><strong>One Year Ago:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2009/03/notebook-experiments-are-homemade-bubbles-better" target="_blank">Notebook Experiment: Are Homemade Bubbles Better?</a></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2009/03/ask-the-frugal-momma-throwing-a-baby-shower-on-a-budget" target="_blank">Throwing a Baby Shower on a Budget</a></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2009/03/yummy-mexican-rice" target="_blank">Yummy Mexican Rice</a></p>
<p><strong>Two Years Ago:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2008/03/thank-you-writers-strike-part-iii" target="_blank">Thank You Writer&#8217;s Strike Part III</a></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2008/03/travel-tips-from-tracy-gallagher" target="_blank">Travel Tips from Tracy Gallagher</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.momadvice.com/money/goodbye_to_jealousy.aspx" target="_blank">Goodbye Old Friend: Asking Jealousy to Leave</a></p>
<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-2365" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/retro-momadvice-03-11-10/chicken-broccoli-lo-mein"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2365" title="chicken broccoli lo mein" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/chicken-broccoli-lo-mein.jpg" alt="" width="320" height="240" /></a></p>
<p><strong>Three Years Ago:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2007/03/iron-chef-moms-challenge-day-one-chicken-broccoli-lo-mein" target="_blank">Iron Chef Moms Challenge: Chicken Broccoli Lo Mein</a></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2007/03/iron-chef-moms-challenge-day-two-parmesan-chicken-drumsticks" target="_blank">Iron Chef Moms Challenge: Parmesan Chicken Drumsticks</a></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2007/03/iron-chef-moms-challenge-day-three-caesar-chicken-pasta-salad" target="_blank">Iron Chef Moms Challenge: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad</a></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2007/03/iron-chef-moms-challenge-day-four-breakfast-for-dinner" target="_blank">Iron Chef Moms Challenge: Breakfast for Dinner</a></p>
<p><a href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2007/03/iron-chef-moms-challenge-day-five-mini-meatloaves-a-great-conclusion" target="_blank">Iron Chef Moms Challenge: Mini Meatloaves &amp; Mashed Potatoes</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>2</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>Amy&#8217;s Notebook 03.10.10</title>
		<link>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/amys-notebook-03-10-10</link>
		<comments>http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/03/amys-notebook-03-10-10#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 10 Mar 2010 12:00:30 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Amy</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Notebook Favorites]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://momadvice.com/blog/?p=2346</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[This retro chocolate crock pot cake looks yummy (@ Salsa Pie)
This patina dresser makeover is simply stunning (@ Centsational Girl)
These are great thrifty ideas for cat toys and catnip bubbles you can make (@ cathie filian)
I love this cowl made from an old sweater (@ Curious Bird)
This eggplant parmesan casserole looks yummy (@ shelterrific)
I like [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a rel="attachment wp-att-1858" href="http://momadvice.com/blog/2010/01/amys-notebook-01-13-10/amys-notebook-4"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1858" title="amy's notebook" src="http://momadvice.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/amys-notebook1.gif" alt="" width="151" height="157" /></a>This <a href="http://salsapie.blogspot.com/2010/03/retro-chocolate-crock-pot-cake.html?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FsAKK+%28Salsa+Pie%29&amp;utm_content=Google+Reader" target="_blank">retro chocolate crock pot cake</a> looks yummy (@ <a href="http://salsapie.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Salsa Pie</a>)</p>
<p>This <a href="http://www.centsationalgirl.com/2010/03/patina-dresser/" target="_blank">patina dresser makeover</a> is simply stunning (@ <a href="http://www.centsationalgirl.com" target="_blank">Centsational Girl</a>)</p>
<p>These are great thrifty ideas for <a href="http://cathiefilian.blogspot.com/2010/03/make-it-cat-toys-cat-nip-bubbles.html" target="_blank">cat toys and catnip bubbles you can make</a> (@ <a href="http://cathiefilian.blogspot.com" target="_blank">cathie filian</a>)</p>
<p>I love this <a href="http://curiousbird.typepad.com/curious_bird/2010/03/my-entry.html" target="_blank">cowl made from an old sweater</a> (@ <a href="http://curiousbird.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Curious Bird</a>)</p>
<p>This <a href="http://www.shelterrific.com/2010/03/03/real-life-test-kitchen-eggplant-parmesan-casserole/" target="_blank">eggplant parmesan casserole</a> looks yummy (@ <a href="http://www.shelterrific.com" target="_blank">shelterrific</a>)</p>
<p>I like these <a href="http://simplemom.net/20-tips-for-finding-your-routine-with-kids-2/#more-5585" target="_blank">20 tips for finding your routine with kids</a> (@ <a href="http://simplemom.net" target="_blank">Simple Mom</a>)</p>
<p>I love this thrifty tip on <a href="http://www.likemerchantships.org/2010/02/foil-pans-for-dinner-deliveries-or.html" target="_blank">where to find the best deal on foil pans for food deliveries</a> (@ <a href="http://www.likemerchantships.org" target="_blank">Like Merchant Ships</a>)</p>
<p>These <a href="http://zakkalife.blogspot.com/2010/03/how-to-make-paper-food-baskets.html" target="_blank">paper food baskets</a> would be cute for a picnic or party (@ <a href="http://zakkalife.blogspot.com" target="_blank">zakka life</a>)</p>
<p>These <a href="http://www.purlbee.com/fuzzy-easter-chicks-mini-eggs/" target="_blank">knitted Easter chicks</a> are absolutely adorable (@ <a href="http://www.purlbee.com" target="_blank">the purl bee</a>)</p>
<p>This <a href="http://ohsohappytogether.blogspot.com/2010/03/cardigan-with-twist.html" target="_blank">cardigan with a twist</a> is so adorable! (@ <a href="http://ohsohappytogether.blogspot.com" target="_blank">Happy Together</a>)</p>
<p>My husband would love this <a href="http://southerngracegourmet.com/key-lime-pie/" target="_blank">key lime pie</a> (@ <a href="http://southerngracegourmet.com/" target="_blank">Southern Grace Gourmet</a>)</p>
<p>This <a href="http://www.goodlifeeats.com/2010/03/how-to-solar-system-birthday.html?showComment=1268052165013_AIe9_BEuMr62UhLaRVGBzNBeRnD3_2xu5FLE4Bi1Efqg1WcPTNgTzceVoPUo5SSCnQ7YyZGYjLB_sVSCqgmA8b8vTOVtKh8JWkamgqAc4lnwIYd98VbHG38MqBa-wzKk29z-2cEgoTXJUIqyQfH1A67JLBZpvRzU7EDLmwRyiHr3fkAumPp6L0luxptNILi5R7KatqTXb3ds0gnpjtwyBbEq4B4Q2Bty4IuBF6Efkt1wLq4zX74PtnU#c6376386406897496268" target="_blank">solar system birthday party theme</a> would be a hit with my little guy (@ <a href="http://www.goodlifeeats.com" target="_blank">goodLife {eats}</a>)</p>
<p>These <a href="http://www.browneyedbaker.com/2010/03/05/allspice-crumb-muffins/?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+browneyedbaker%2Ffeed+%28Brown+Eyed+Baker+%29&amp;utm_content=Google+Reader" target="_blank">allspice crumb muffins</a> look delicious (@ <a href="http://www.browneyedbaker.com" target="_blank">brown eyed baker</a>)</p>
<p>I like this idea for <a href="http://asoftplace.net/2010/03/organizing-toys-taming-of-the-legos/" target="_blank">taming the Lego chaos in the house</a> (@ <a href="http://asoftplace.net" target="_blank">A Soft Place to Land</a>)</p>
<p>I would love to eat a big bowl of this <a href="http://www.rookie-cookie.com/2010/03/chocolate-pudding.html" target="_blank">homemade chocolate pudding</a> (@ <a href="http://www.rookie-cookie.com" target="_blank">Rookie Cookie</a>)</p>
<p>I am loving this series on <a href="http://moneysavingmom.com/2010/03/how-to-plan-a-menu-on-a-budget.html" target="_blank">31 ways to plan a better grocery budget</a> (@ <a href="http://moneysavingmom.com" target="_blank">Money Saving Mom</a>)</p>
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