Betty Crocker and Box Tops for Education Review and Giveaway

This school year Box Tops are on a number of great brands, but if you look down the baking aisle you will only see one brand with Box Tops, Betty Crocker! Just look for the Red Spoon on your favorite Betty Crocker dessert mixes. You can give to your local school by collecting and handing in Box Tops to your child's classroom or Box Tops school representative. Your local school could get new computers, library books, or a playground, through the Box Tops for Education program. Box Tops are located on all Betty Crocker baking mixes and sometimes you will even find double Box Tops on specially marked packages.

I homeschool, but I still collect Box Tops to send with the neighbor kids when they go to the public school here. I also sent them with Tatiana, my daughter who was disabled that went to the public school before she passed. The Box Tops are easily clipped and collected after I have used a product with them on it and they are also not hard to locate on the box or product packaging.

I received a prize pack that included: Cupcake iclips, Cupcake bag, Cupcake notepads, Box Tops for Education pencils and a Neoprene Lunch Sack. The Cupcake iclips are a very cute and ingenious way to bookmark pages. They are magnetic page markers so stay in place when you don't want to loose your page. The Cupcake bag is a bag that is rolled up into a plastic container that makes it look like a cupcake. It even has a cherry on top. After it has been unrolled it also has a little pouch to stuff the bag into when not in use. The Cupcake notepads are very cute and great for writing reminder notes on. The Box Tops for Education pencils are great for homeschooling...I always can use extra pencils. The Neoprene Lunch Sack is the perfect size for a sack lunch. It is reusable, washable and is made of insulating neoprene so you won’t need an ice pack! We also got a bonus Betty Crocker milk chocolate brownie mix to bake up and use the Box Tops off of too. Yum!

Make sure you check out the Box Tops for Education website!

WIN IT:
MyblogSpark has generously offered a Betty Crocker and Box Tops for Education prize package that includes: Cupcake iclips, Cupcake bag, Cupcake notepads, Box Tops for Education pencils and a Neoprene Lunch Sack to giveaway to one of my readers.

Mandatory:
1. Go to the Betty Crocker website and tell me by commenting on this post which of your favorite Betty Crocker dessert mix you plan to purchase to collect the Box Tops and help your local schools.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (3 extra entries each)

2. Fan/Like me on facebook and write something on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect (GFC) on the left sidebar and/or Networked Blogs Let me know what your user name is. (2 extra entries each)

4. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Betty Crocker in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

5. Give me a brief POSITIVE review on Alexa and provide me with your user name. (3 extra entries) 

6. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the left) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

7. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

8. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

9. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog Linky/Link-up and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

10. Write about this giveaway with a link to this post on your Facebook wall, Kirtsy, StumbleUpon, Google+ or other social media website besides Twitter. Let me know where. (2 extra entries for each)

11. Comment on my regular (not giveaway) posts. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

12. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

13. Tweet this: @finamoon #WIN Betty Crocker and Box Tops for Education Prize Package #myblogspark #giveaway http://bit.ly/p90jGP (Daily Extras are Available)

14. Fan/Like Betty Crocker on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

15. Fan/Like Box Tops for Education on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

16. Follow Betty Crocker on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

17. Follow Box Tops for Education on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. Don't forget to leave a comment for each task and the correct amount of entries for each task. This contest ends on Friday October 14, 2011 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to all 18 years and over in the U.S. Only!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: The Betty Crocker and Box Tops for Education prize pack, information and the prize package for giveaway were all provided free by Betty Crocker through MyBlogSpark. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Progresso Soup Review and Giveaway

Progresso now has new varieties of soup! These soups are so convenient and yummy! They are also wholesome and encourage good food choices too. This is very important these days as fast nutritious choices are not everywhere! Progresso is both satisfying and nutritious.

Have you seen the hilarious Progresso Soup can commercials? Progresso wants to see what you and I have to say about the soup too! Progresso provided me with my own Progresso soup can prop so I could make my very own Progresso Soup can commercial. You can create one too! Let the camera roll and your imagination run, and let Progresso know what you think of the these great Progresso soup varieties.

Progresso New World Recipes - Inspired by Mexican recipes, give Progresso New World Recipes line a try. Made with authentic Mexican ingredients and seasonings, four new Progresso soups will be hitting grocery shelves near you - Chicken Tortilla, Meatball & Rice, Black Bean Jalapeno and Chicken & Vegetable.

Progresso Light - America´s number one Light soup just got better, as all 13 existing Progresso Light varieties are now packed with bigger pieces of white meat chicken, more tender pieces of beef or added vegetables. Need even more to talk about? Progresso Light New England Clam Chowder is the first creamy Light ready-to-serve soup that holds true to the Progresso Light name with just 1 Weight Watchers® POINTS® value per serving!

Progresso Reduced Sodium - With 49 percent of shoppers concerned about high cholesterol1, Progresso understands the importance of soluble fiber and reduced sodium diets. New Reduced Sodium Tomato Parmesan soup is one more tasty option that has a delicious blend of flavors and carries the "May Help Lower Cholesterol"2 benefit. In addition, five additional Reduced Sodium soups also carry the "May Help Lower Cholesterol"2 benefit.

Progresso High Fiber - With 9 out of 10 Americans not getting the recommended Daily Value of fiber, Progresso High Fiber line of soups are packed with 7 grams per serving. Giving you one more thing to talk about, Progresso brand´s first Chili Soup just joined the High Fiber family!

I received a prize pack that included one can of Chicken Tortilla Progresso Soup and one can of Light New England Clam Chowder Progresso soup, a spoon rest, soup can rack, soup mug with matching spoon, and a Progresso can phone - just like the ones in the commercials. I love soup and could eat it everyday! These new soups were so yummy! My family and I enjoyed every bite! The can rack was awesome and holds a lot of cans in my pantry. I just wish I had about 4 more of them! I use the spoon rest all the time now when I am cooking and the soup mug and matching spoon set is the perfect size for soups!

WIN IT:
MyblogSpark has generously offered a Progresso Soup prize package that includes: VIP coupons for two cans of Progresso soup, a spoon rest, a soup can rack and a soup mug with matching spoon to giveaway to one of my readers.

Mandatory:
1. Go to the Progresso website and tell me by commenting on this post which soup you would love to try.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (2 extra entries each)

2. Fan/Like me on facebook and write something on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Progresso in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

4. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the left) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

5. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

6. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

7. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog giveaway linky and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

8. Post this on your Facebook wall, Kirtsy, and/or StumbleUpon. (2 extra entries for each)

9. Comment on my regular (not giveaway) posts. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

10. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

11. Tweet this: @finamoon WIN Progresso Soup Prize Package #myblogspark #giveaway http://bit.ly/h0DaHw (Daily Extras are Available)

12. Fan/Like Progresso on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. If you subscribed, blogged about this, listed it, commented on another post, or faved me on Momfaves leave 2 entries saying you did. This contest ends on Friday January 28, 2011 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to all 18 years and over in the U.S. Only!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: The Progresso Soup prize pack, information and the prize package for giveaway were all provided free by Progresso through MyBlogSpark. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

1Health Focus Int., 2009
2Diets low in saturated fat and cholesterol and rich in fruits, vegetables, and grain products that contain some types of dietary fiber, particularly soluble fiber, may reduce the risk of heart disease, a disease associated with many factors.

WEIGHT WATCHERS for services and POINTS are the registered trademarks of Weight Watchers International, Inc. and are used with permission by General Mills.

BabyCenter Review and Giveaway

BabyCenter.com is my go to source for all things baby. Whether it be preconception, pregnancy, labor, delivery, postpartum or what nutritious things to feed my growing toddler, I have all the answers, advice and guidance right there at my fingertips and if they are not there already I can totally ask in the forums. I turn to this great resource of information because it is usually all there and I can help other moms out by commenting on their posts too which makes it a great network to go to. BabyCenter also provides parenting tools and medical advisory board-approved information for all the stages of your child's development.

My community profile page is...
http://community.babycenter.com/profile/finamoon

I received a prize pack from BabyCenter through MyBlogSpark to test and review for free. It included two new BabyCenter parenting books (BabyCenter Pregnancy and BabyCenter Baby), a package of Seventh Generation diapers, a gift card from BabyCenter partner, Shutterfly, an exclusive code to try the all-new BabyCenter online class and a BabyCenter bib.

BabyCenter has partnered with Diapers.com. The Seventh Generation diapers I received were awesome! Diapers.com carries these to buy online and some other wonderful green eco-friendly products. I love how these diapers are eco-friendly and safe for baby's bottom too. I got size ones to try out on Zari and the pack comes with 44 diapers. These diapers are chlorine, fragrance and latex free. They are hypoallergenic, and fit snuggly and comfortably around the baby's bottom with wonderful absorbency. Chlorine free diapers are a great alternative to cloth while traveling with baby. Seventh Generation products and other products that are chlorine free help reduce the amount of chlorinated toxins released into the environment. Seventh Generation also has eco-friendly wipes and training pants too.

Shutterfly is another BabyCenter partner. I have reviewed for Shutterfly before with their holiday cards. They have a wonderful selection and I am currently working on a photo book for my angel, Tatiana's birthday which is coming up on January 5th.

Besides their great partners and sponsors, BabyCenter continually strives to offer valuable parenting tools. Among the latest and greatest include:

* BabyCenter Parenting Books (BabyCenter® Pregnancy and BabyCenter® Baby)
o These two new practical and reassuring books provide pregnant women and new mothers with all of the information and support they need during this exciting new time in their lives, with a blend of expert advice and true "mom wisdom." Both are great, highly visual, reference books to keep on the nightstand for that nagging question or concern that inevitably pops up in the middle of the night.

* BabyCenter "Preparing for Labor and Birth" Online Class
o The BabyCenter Class is a convenient, at-home option for moms who can´t attend hospital childbirth classes due to hectic work schedules or being put on bed rest. And the price is right, too! For only $39.99, the all-new 2-hour instructional course lets you hear from doctors, ask your questions, and build confidence for your big day. Preparing for Labor and Birth includes: An explanation of the signs and stages of labor; What to expect during labor; Labor and birth stories from new moms; An overview of your pain-management options; A tour of a delivery room; Suggestions for creating your birth plan; A checklist to help you prepare for the big day and more.

* BabyCenter My Pregnancy Today App
o This new, free application for the iPhone and iTouch, guides expectant moms through their pregnancy journey, offering award- winning, medically reviewed health content; advice from obstetricians, midwives, nutritionists, and other experts; daily activities and reminders; and conversation and connection with other moms-to-be in BabyCenter's community.

* Mom Answers
o This new interactive tool gives BabyCenter moms an emotionally supportive environment where they can ask questions and get answers straight from other moms who've had similar life experiences. It´s like having access to 8 million best girlfriends 24/7.

* Milestones
o The new Milestones tool provides BabyCenter moms the ability to quickly and easily record important pregnancy and childhood milestones and share them with friends and family via e-mail, Facebook, and the BabyCenter Community. It's a fun way to create an online "baby book."

WIN IT:
MyblogSpark has generously offered a BabyCenter prize package that includes the two new BabyCenter parenting books (BabyCenter Pregnancy and BabyCenter Baby), a package of Seventh Generation diapers, a gift card from BabyCenter partner, Shutterfly and a BabyCenter bib to giveaway to one of my readers.

Mandatory:

1. Go to the BabyCenter website and tell me by commenting on this post what you love about the website.

Additional entries:

1.  Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (2 extra entries each)
2. Fan/Like me on facebook and write something on my wall. (1 extra entry)
3. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and BabyCenter in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)
4. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the left) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)
5. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog giveaway linky and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)
6. Post this on your Facebook wall, Kirtsy, and/or StumbleUpon. (2 extra entries for each)
7. Comment on my regular (not giveaway) posts. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)
8. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)
9. Tweet this: @finamoon: @BabyCenter WIN BabyCenter Prize Package #myblogspark #giveaway http://bit.ly/f4bM6B (Daily Extras are Available)
10. Fan/Like BabyCenter on Facebook. (1 extra entry)
11. Follow BabyCenter on Twitter. (1 extra entry)
12. Sign up for the BabyCenter Community AND befriend me. (2 extra entries)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. If you subscribed, blogged about this, listed it, commented on another post, or faved me on Momfaves leave 2 entries saying you did. This contest ends on Friday December 31, 2010 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to all 18 years and over in the U.S. Only!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: The BabyCenter prize pack, information and the prize package for giveaway were all provided free by BabyCenter through MyBlogSpark. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Old El Paso Review and Giveaway

I received a kit from MyBlogSpark with Old El Paso taco seasoning in it for free to try out and review. I made the tacos pictured here with it. Old El Paso taco seasoning comes in a packet to use if you want to quickly make a Mexican meal and either don't have all the right taco seasoning mix of herbs and spices at home or don't want to mess with searching for them in your cabinet. Sometimes you just want to make a quick and fairly simple meal for your family. Old El Paso taco seasoning is great for just whipping out a yummy Mexican dish. However; it has Monosodium glutamate (MSG) in it which for some people like my mother isn't a good thing because of being allergic. I really don't think that the MSG is a necessary ingredient. Although the tacos I made with the seasoning turned out really yummy and were quicker to make I think that I will be making them again with my own taco seasoning blend from home next time. While the seasoning blend from Old El Paso isn't as healthy as I'd like I have tried other Old El Paso products like their salsas and taco shells and I love them!!

I did have a lot of fun with my "family taco night" and I will definitely be doing it again really soon. This was my very first time making taco shells myself with just regular corn tortillas. I think they turned out very well :) I just learned how to do it myself on YouTube! Isn't the Internet wonderful!

If your family already loves tacos, why not put "family taco night" on the calendar at least once a month? With a variety of seasonings and other complementary products, Old El Paso offers everything you need for fun nights with the family. Their line up of products includes chilies, dinner kits, dips and sides, enchilada sauce, refried beans, seasoning mixes, shells, taco sauce and salsa. The Old El Paso taco seasoning mix selection includes flavors like Burrito, Cheesy Taco, Chili, Fajita, Taco, Mild Taco and even a seasoning with 40% less sodium.

For a fun twist on taco night, be sure to try one of the delicious recipes below.

* Easy Fish Tacos - Old El Paso taco shells, seasoning mix and taco sauce and battered fish fillets make easy fish tacos.

* Tarantula Tacos - These spook-tacular tacos are great for a Halloween party!

Here are more recipes.

And to keep your family laughing at the dinner table, have some fun with El TacodorTM, the world´s only family taco night game. With El Tacodor, your family can share a special night at home by challenging one another to quick fire trivia, wordplay and pantomime. Visit www.ElTacodor.com today to download instructions, a score card, and a challenge sheet for even more fun on family taco night!

Visit Old El Paso for news and great tips, recipes and more. Take a minute to share family fiesta photos and videos from family taco nights on the El Tacodor Family Spotlight!

In addition, you can visit http://www.myblogspark.com/uc/main/b069/ to download a printable coupon for $0.60 off any two Old El Paso products today!

WIN IT:
Amanda from MyBlogSpark has generously offered another Old El Paso "family taco night" prize pack (includes a packet of Old El Paso Taco Seasoning, a Cactus Chip & Dip Serving dish, a set of 3 Fiesta Chili Pepper serving dishes and a $10 gift card to purchase your taco fixings) to one of my readers to win.

Mandatory:
1. Go to the Old El Paso website and tell me by commenting on this post something that you learned.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (2 extra entries each)

2. Fan/Like me on facebook and write something on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Old El Paso in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

4. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the left) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

5. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

6. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

7. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog giveaway linky and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

8. Post this on your Facebook wall, Kirtsy, and/or StumbleUpon. (2 extra entries for each)

9. Comment on one of my regular (not giveaway) posts. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

10. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

11. Tweet this: @finamoon: @oldelpaso WIN Old El Paso "family taco night" prize pack #giveaway #myblogspark http://bit.ly/dCLzNJ (Daily Extras are Available)

12. Fan/Like Old El Paso on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

13. Follow Old El Paso on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. If you subscribed, blogged about this, listed it, commented on another post, or faved me on Momfaves leave 2 entries saying you did. This contest ends on Friday November 26, 2010 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to all 18 years and over in the U.S. Only!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Old El Paso "family taco night" prize pack, coupon, information and the prize package for giveaway were all provided free by Old El Paso through MyBlogSpark. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Penguins of Madagascar Review and Giveaway

General Mills has teamed up with Nickelodeon's The Penguins of Madagascar to bring the action-packed adventures to your very own breakfast table. Inside specially marked boxes of General Mills cereals, you'll initiate operations with one of five characters from The Penguins of Madagascar; Skipper, Rico, Kowalski, Private or King Julien. Each participating cereal contains one character launcher with mission details outlined on the back of the box including:

* Dive In, Soldier - Set an empty plastic cereal bowl on the table and try to send your launcher into it.
* Longest Propulsion Launcher - Challenge your troops to see who can propel their character the farthest.
* Target Practice - Create a landing zone with a spoon and try to strategically drop your character into the target.
* Clear the Wall - Can you catapult your launcher over the top of the box? Earn those wings!

The characters are all unique and have their own specific functions and when they are brought together they're a team with lots of character. You can collect all 5 character launchers and try to successfully complete all of their missions.

The Penguins of Madagascar Operation: DVD Premier is really fun. My family enjoyed watching it. This DVD is an episode compilation of a Nick television series. Each episode is about 20 minutes long. They focus on the Penguins, their spy missions, and some of their interesting...and sometimes annoying neighbors/nemesis.

Episode List:
1) Dr. Blowhole's Revenge
2) Truth Ache
3) Command Crisis
4) Go Fish
5) Roomies
6) Needle Point
7) Lunchtime
8) All Chocked Up
9) The Hidden
10 Tangled In The Web

WIN IT:
Chris from MyBlogSpark has generously offered another one of The Penguins of Madagascar Prize Packs (includes one box of Trix cereal, a Penguins of Madagascar launcher and the new Penguins of Madagascar movie, The Penguins of Madagascar Operation: DVD Premier) to one of my readers to win.

Mandatory:
1. Go to the The Penguins of Madagascar webpage and tell me by commenting on this post which character from Penguins of Madagascar is your or, if you haven't seen this, would be your, child's favorite?

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (2 extra entries each)

2. Fan/Like me on facebook and write something on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Penguins of Madagascar in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

4. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the left) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

5. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

6. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

7. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog giveaway linky and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

8. Post this on your Facebook wall, Kirtsy, and/or StumbleUpon. (2 extra entries for each)

9. Comment on one of my regular (not giveaway) posts. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

10. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

11. Tweet this: @finamoon WIN Penguins of Madagascar Prize Pack #giveaway http://bit.ly/9ptxZR (Daily Extras are Available)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. If you subscribed, blogged about this, listed it, commented on another post, or faved me on Momfaves leave 2 entries saying you did. This contest ends on Wednesday September 29, 2010 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to all 18 years and over in the U.S. Only!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Penguins of Madagascar prize pack, information and the prize package for giveaway were all provided free by General Mills and Nickelodeon through MyBlogSpark. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Yoplait Splitz Review and Giveaway

Instead of a sundae try Yoplait Splitz! Yoplait Splitz is a new yogurt from Yoplait that tastes like a sundae, but is 100% yogurt that has no high fructose corn syrup, no artificial flavors or sweeteners and is 90 calories. This yogurt is also a good source of calcium and vitamin D. Available in three yummy flavor combos including Strawberry Sundae, Strawberry Banana Split, and Rainbow Sherbet.

My family tried the Rainbow Sherbet because it sounded the best to me. It came in a 4 pack and is split into two dreamy flavors in one cup: orange sherbet and raspberry sherbet! I love frozen sherbet and when you freeze these yogurts in the freezer they taste just like it. I liked the orange sherbet that was the top layer the most and unfortunately it was the least of the two flavors in the cup. Also, I thought that if they really want to call it "Rainbow" sherbet then they should have added lime, lemon, or another sherbet flavor also. I really liked it otherwise though. I love them frozen the best and my kids enjoyed them as well!!

We had fun using our picnic blanket and Activo Picnic Time insulated tote in Red Clay color with caramel interior and stitching that came with the coupon. The insulated tote is made of 600D polyester fabric that has a water-resistant coating that repels condensation with a waterproof PVC liner and double-cinch cord closure. It is 11" X 6" base (that is a textured non-skid PVC) and 14" height so it carries quite a bit. It has padded carry handles and an adjustable, detachable shoulder strap. The padded shoulder straps cushion with non-slip PVC underside. There are a lot of pockets and the hardware is metal. You can use this tote at the beach, sporting events, picnics, or long trips in the car. I love how the blanket rolls up in a nice tote-able package and the insulated tote has lots of pockets and is great to keep stuff like Yoplait yogurts cold. As you can see we had a very healthy picnic in our backyard with the yogurts and some other foods. We had a great time until the mosquitoes started to come out.

WIN IT:
Amanda at MyBlogSpark has has generously offered a Yoplait Splitz Picnic Prize Pack (includes: coupon* for free Yoplait Splitz, an insulated carry tote, and a roll up fleece picnic blanket) to one of my readers to win.

Mandatory:
1. Go to the Yoplait Splitz website and tell me by commenting on this post which flavor of Yoplait Splitz you would most like to try.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (2 extra entries each)

2. Fan/Like me on facebook and write something on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Yoplait Splitz in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

4. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the left) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

5. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

6. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

7. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

8. Comment on one of my regular (not giveaway) posts. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

9. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

10. Tweet this: @finamoon: @YoplaitYogurt WIN Yoplait Splitz Picnic Prize Pack #giveaway #myblogspark http://bit.ly/brDScE
(Daily Extras are Available)

11. Fan/Like Yoplait on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

12. Follow Yoplait on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. If you subscribed, blogged about this, listed it, commented on another post, or faved me on Momfaves leave 2 entries saying you did. This contest ends on Friday September 24, 2010 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to U.S. Only!! *This coupon offer for a free pack of Yoplait Splitz is not valid in some states, including California, Idaho, Louisiana, Minnesota, New Jersey, Nevada, North Dakota and Tennessee.

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: Yoplait Splitz, the prize pack, information and the prize package for giveaway were all provided free by Yoplait through MyBlogSpark. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Seventh Generation Review and Giveaway

Hopefully your child won't be coming home from school with more than just their backpack, pencils, notebooks, and homework. No, I am not talking about a note from the principal's office...although that would be something to dread too. I am talking about germs, those pesky tiny organisms, or living things, that can cause diseases or make you really sick. A lot of days of good learning time has been lost by germs making your kids sick. Don't just fret about the cleanliness of common school surfaces [as many as 2.7 million bacterial found per square inch on common school surfaces (NSF International)] in the classroom...instead try and help by sending your child's teacher supplies to keep things clean, germ-free, and make the classroom environment a healthier one.

Since my kids homeschool I try to keep my home a healthy learning environment by using eco-friendly products that will safely and effectively eradicate germs. Seventh Generation has some awesome cleaning products that do just that. They have botanical disinfectant spray cleaners and wipes that kill 99.99% of germs* naturally and they are effective against Influenza A virus using the active ingredient thymol, a component of thyme oil which is derived from the common herb thyme. *Refer to disinfecting product labels for full details.

Because I am a member of MyBlogSpark and accepted this free offer to review I received a Seventh Generation "Back-to-School" kit that included a Seventh Generation backpack, two canisters of Seventh Generation disinfecting wipes, disinfecting multi-surface spray cleaner, facial tissue and a roll of natural paper towels. I was very surprised with the multi-surface disinfecting spray cleaner and wipes and how well they worked at getting the surfaces clean. They did their job very well. I used them in my kitchen, bathrooms, and my boys' homeschool desks, etc. They smelled lovely of thyme and lemongrass. I also used the natural paper towels for spills and my husband loves using them for extracting the oils out of his face (He has found that brown, unbleached or unwhitened, paper towels and napkins seem to work better for oily complexions). These are made from 100% recycled paper (minimum 80% post-consumer). They are also hypo-allergenic because they are unbleached or unwhitened (no chlorine chemicals used), unscented, and dye-free. The facial tissue is also 100% recycled paper, hypo-allergenic, and instead of unwhitened they are whitened without chlorine bleach. They are super soft and great for sore noses.

This school year, Seventh Generation is sharing tips from best-selling author and pediatrician, Dr. Alan Greene, to help parents protect their child´s health during back-to-school season. Dr. Greene suggests taking the following precautions:

Optimize the immune system

* Reap the benefits of probiotics like those found in yogurt. A recent study showed that children who received enough probiotics daily throughout the cold and flu season had a significant reduction in the number of illnesses they had and, when they did get sick, the symptoms were both milder and didn't last as long.

* Be sure your child is getting plenty of vitamin D from the sun, from food, or from a supplement.

* Build a strong foundation. Good food, good sleep, and good physical activity all help the immune system to flourish.

Be wise about reducing unnecessary exposure to harmful germs

* Teach children the key times to clean their hands in the classroom/home. The most important times include after sneezing, coughing or using the restroom, upon leaving "high-risk" places (recess, nap-time, play stations) and before meals or snacks.

* Sixty percent of teachers surveyed said that they request that parents donate disinfecting wipes to the classroom. Seventh Generation disinfecting wipes are effective naturally with no toxins or unhealthy chemicals added.

* Stress the importance of not touching their eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.

* Demonstrate to your children how to cover their mouth and nose for every cough and sneeze. This simple maneuver has spectacular results in decreasing the spread of viruses and bacteria floating about the room, waiting to be inhaled.

BUY IT:
You can purchase Seventh Generation products off their website HERE or find a store near you that carries Seventh Generation products.

WIN IT:
Jennifer at MyBlogSpark has has generously offered a Seventh Generation "Back-to-School" Kit Prize Pack [includes a Seventh Generation backpack, two canisters of Seventh Generation disinfecting wipes (one for home and one to donate to your child´s classroom), disinfecting multi-surface spray cleaner, facial tissue and paper towels] for one of my readers to win.

Mandatory:
1. Go to the Seventh Generation website and tell me what you learned OR what other product you would love to try that I didn't mention above.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by feedburner or by email and let me know which way. (2 extra entries each)

2. Become my fan/like on facebook and write that you are entering this giveaway on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Seventh Generation in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

4. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the left) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

5. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

6. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra entries)

7. Follow me on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

8. Tweet this: @finamoon: @seventhgen WIN A Seventh Generation Back-to-School Prize Pack #giveaway #myblogspark http://bit.ly/cIb82u
(Daily Extras are Available)

9. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

10. Comment on any of my other posts or enter my other giveaways and let me know which post you commented on. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

11. Fan/Like Seventh Generation on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

12. Follow Seventh Generation on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. If you subscribed, blogged about this, listed it, or faved me on Momfaves leave 2 entries saying you did. This contest ends on Friday August 27, 2010 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to U.S. Only!!

DISCLOSURE/DISCLAIMER: The product, gift pack, information and additional gift pack to give away were all given to me free by Seventh Generation and MyBlogSpark. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Good Earth Review and Giveaway

The new Good Earth dry dinner kits are a wholesome meal without all the fuss! You also don't have to go out to eat to get a tasty sit down restaurant quality meal. These are healthy, delicious and easy to make! Each variety includes vibrant and flavorful sauces along with specialty ingredients like sweet basil, white wine and dried tomatoes. No sacrificing taste here. 100% whole grain, no trans fat, no artificial flavors, no artificial preservatives, no MSG - just add meat and, voila! Dinner is served.

The one I received to try out and review for free is the Mediterranean Chicken with angel hair pasta along with two sets of bamboo flatware, two bamboo dishes, a bamboo utility board and a 100% recyclable grocery tote. The pasta is 100% whole grain and it comes with this and a creamy sauce with olive oil, Mediterranean seasoning with tomatoes, and seasoned whole wheat flour. All you do is add boneless skinless chicken breasts to the meal, follow the simple instructions on the back of the box and it is done in less than 30 minutes! This meal made 5 servings and didn't end up having left overs because everyone seemed to like it and gobbled it up.

Coming to stores this month - June, Good Earth dry dinner kits offer a selection of four meals: Mediterranean Chicken with angel hair pasta, Spicy Citrus Glazed Shrimp with angel hair pasta, Herb Crusted Chicken with mushroom risotto and Tuscan Chicken with penne pasta.

WIN IT:
Laura at MyBlogSpark has has generously offered a Good Earth dry dinner kits gift pack (includes a Good Earth Mediterranean Chicken dry dinner kit, two sets of bamboo flatware, two bamboo dishes, a bamboo utility board and a 100% recyclable grocery tote) to one of my readers to win.

Mandatory:
1. Tell me by commenting on this post which new flavor of Good Earth dry dinner kits you would like to try.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by email or rss and let me know. (2 extra entries)

2. Become my fan on facebook and write that you are entering this giveaway on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and The New Good Earth Restaurant Favorites in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

4. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the left) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

5. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

6. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra)

7. Add me on Twitter and Tweet this: @finamoon WIN A Good Earth Dry Dinner Kits Gift Pack #giveaway http://bit.ly/9RFpA0 (Daily Extras are Available)

8. Comment on any of my other posts or enter my other giveaways and let me know which post you commented on. (1 extra entry per post you comment on)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. This contest ends on Friday July 09, 2010 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to U.S. Only!!

DISCLAIMER: The product, gift pack, information and additional gift pack to give away were all given to me free by Good Earth and MyBlogSpark. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Yoplait Simply... Go-Gurt Review and Giveaway

New Simply... Go-Gurt is made from simple ingredients moms look for and contains no high fructose corn syrup or artificial colors or flavors. They are a convenient and portable yogurt tube that is great for taking just about anywhere. They contain a good source of calcium and vitamin D. Simply... Go-Gurt is a good-for-you, low fat yogurt snack that you can really feel good about giving to your kids. It is available now in the dairy case! Available in two kid-friendly flavors, Strawberry and Mixed Berry.

I was sent a coupon* for a free sample of Simply... Go-Gurt as well as a Go-Gurt "Simplify Your Life" prize pack that included a pocket Etch a Sketch, weekly planner and a seat back organizer from MyBlogSpark and Yoplait. These Go-Gurts are very yummy and I love them even better because they are healthy for my kids!

*This coupon offer for free Simply... Go-Gurt is not valid in some states, including California, Idaho, Louisiana, Minnesota, New Jersey, Nevada, North Dakota and Tennessee.

Simply...Go-Gurt Savings

* After the 30 free coupons are claimed, the micro site will include a link to a $1.10 off coupon so everyone who visits can share in the savings.



WIN IT:
Jessica at MyBlogSpark has has generously offered a Yoplait Go-Gurt "Simplify Your Life" gift pack to one of my readers to win.

Mandatory:
1. Go to the Yoplait Simply... Go-Gurt website and tell me by commenting on this post your wholesome snacking tips that make your child(ren) smile.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by email and let me know. (2 extra entries)

2. Become my fan on facebook and write that you are entering this giveaway on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Yoplait Simply... Go-Gurt in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

4. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the left) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

5. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

6. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra)

7. Add me on Twitter and Tweet this: @finamoon: @YoplaitYogurt WIN A Yoplait Go-Gurt "Simplify Your Life" Gift Pack #giveaway http://bit.ly/avVTVX (Daily Extras are Available)

8. Fan Yoplait on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

9. Follow Yoplait on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. This contest ends on Friday May 28, 2010 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to U.S. Only!!

DISCLAIMER: The Simply... Go-Gurt coupon, prize pack, information and additional prize pack to give away were all given to me free from Yoplait and MyBlogSpark. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Yoplait Greek Yogurt Review and Giveaway

Yoplait Greek yogurt has 12 grams of protein, twice that found in leading yogurts. It is available in four delicious flavors: Strawberry, Blueberry, Honey Vanilla and Plain. This yogurt is a lot thicker than other yogurts, but is still creamy.

To celebrate its new Greek yogurt and to encourage women to nourish their inner goddess, Yoplait has teamed up with actress Izabella Miko, who plays Greek Goddess Athena in the epic adventure new Warner Bros. Pictures´ and Legendary Pictures´ film "Clash of the Titans," in theaters April 2 in 3D.

Watch the trailer for the Clash of the Titans:


I received two VIP* coupons for two free cups of Yoplait Greek yogurt, information about the product, a Yoplait Greek "Nourish Your Inner Goddess" gift pack, which includes: a wrap around towel, slippers, palm held body massager, nail brush, loofah sisal bath sponge, and a hand towel.

I enjoyed the yogurt, but found it very hard to find at the stores I looked for it.

Download a coupon* and save $0.30 on one cup of new Yoplait Greek today!

*This coupon offer for a free cup of Yoplait Greek yogurt is not valid in some states, including California, Idaho, Louisiana, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, North Dakota, and Tennessee.


WIN IT:
Amanda at MyBlogSpark has has generously offered a Yoplait Greek "Nourish Your Inner Goddess" gift pack that contains two VIP* coupons to one of my readers to win.

Mandatory:
1. Go to the Yoplait Greek yogurt website and tell me by commenting on this post about what flavor you would love to try AND how you get in touch with your own inner god / goddess (Do both or be disqualified!)

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by email and let me know. (2 extra entries)

2. Become my fan on facebook and write that you are entering this giveaway on my wall. (1 extra entry)

3. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Yoplait Greek Yogurt in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

4. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the left) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

5. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

6. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra)

7. Add me on Twitter and Tweet this: @finamoon: @YoplaitYogurt WIN A Yoplait Greek "Nourish Your Inner Goddess" Gift Pack #giveaway http://bit.ly/aVHeux (Daily Extras are Available)

8. Fan Yoplait on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

9. Follow Yoplait on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. This contest ends on Friday May 28, 2010 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to U.S. Only!!

DISCLAIMER: The VIP coupons, gift pack, information and additional gift pack to give away were all given to me free from Yoplait and MyBlogSpark. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Safeway and Betty Crocker's Sweet Spring Treats Review and Giveaway

For great spring recipe ideas, visit Bake Sweet Memories website today. Bake Sweet Memories has delicious recipes for fun desserts using your Betty Crocker favorites, including Easter Bunny Cakes and even morning brunches, like the Impossibly Easy Breakfast Bake, which are sure to brighten any morning!

From March 24th through April 6th, visit the Safeway family of Stores to purchase Betty Crocker SuperMoist Cake and Traditional Brownie Mixes at the special price of $0.69!

Even if you miss the sale, check Bake Sweet Memories website for great coupon offers that download right to your Safeway Club card. Make life a little sweeter with Betty Crocker this Spring!

I received a "Sweet Spring Treats" prize pack that included one VIP coupon valid for a free Betty Crocker product, in addition to a Wilton Easy-Flex silicone 9 X 1 1/2" round baking cake pan (oven safe to 500 degrees, freezer, fridge, microwave and dishwasher safe), stainless steel mixing bowl, oven mitt, Betty Crocker mixing spoon, and a $25 Safeway gift card for being part of MyBlogSpark to review and keep for free. I got a single serve microwaveable Betty Crocker Warm Delights Molten Caramel Cake with my coupon. I was surprised that the coupon wasn't for something that I could have used my new silicon baking pan, stainless steel mixing bowl, oven mitt, and Betty Crocker mixing spoon with. I guess they figured I would buy something to make with them from the Safeway gift card. At any rate the Betty Crocker Warm Delights Molten Caramel Cake was very good! My kids were giving me the evil eye because it was a single serve dessert and I wasn't sharing :) The picture on the box it comes in shows a neat application of the gooey caramel. I just couldn't accomplish this with the packet of caramel that it came with. That being said it baked very nicely in my microwave and in a minute 15 seconds (plus the 5 minutes to cool time...don't forget this step or you will be sorry) I had a yummy rich dessert without all the mess and cleanup. The cake was moist and delicious and the caramel made it even better!

WIN IT:
Jennifer at MyBlogSpark has has generously offered a "Sweet Spring Treats" prize pack for one of my readers to win. It will include a silicon baking pan, stainless steel mixing bowl, oven mitt, Betty Crocker mixing spoon, and a $25 Safeway gift card. Please note that the winner's prize pack will not contain a VIP coupon.

Mandatory:
1. Share which spring recipes from the Bake Sweet Memories website you would most like to try.

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by email and let me know. (2 extra entries)

2. Become my fan on Facebook and let me know on my wall you are entering this giveaway. (2 extra entries)

3. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and BakeSweetMemories.com in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

4. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the left) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

5. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

6. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra)

7. Add me on Twitter and Tweet this: @finamoon WIN Betty Crocker Safeway Prize Pack #giveaway http://bit.ly/byCdtI (Daily Extras are Available)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. This contest ends on Friday April 23, 2010 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to U.S. Only!!

DISCLAIMER: The "Sweet Spring Treats" prize pack that included: Betty Crocker Warm Delights VIP coupon, silicon baking pan, stainless steel mixing bowl, oven mitt, Betty Crocker mixing spoon and $25 Safeway (also good at Dominick´s, Tom Thumb, Randalls, Vons, Genuardi´s) gift card, information and additional Prize Pack without coupon to give away were all given to me free from Safeway (Dominick's, Tom Thumb, Randalls, Vons, Genuardi's) and Betty Crocker through MyBlogSpark. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Yoplait Fiber One Yogurt‏ Review and Safeway Giveaway

Yoplait Fiber One yogurt has only 50 calories, 5 grams of fiber (20 percent of the Recommended Daily Value), and 0 grams of fat so there's zero guilt. It is also a good source of calcium and vitamins A and D. Fiber One yogurt is now available at your local Safeway family of stores including Dominick's, Tom Thumb, Randalls, Vons, Genuardi's.

I received a coupon for free a 4-pack of Fiber One yogurt and a $50 gift card to Safeway. I tried the strawberry and I really love that it tastes like regular yogurt. Each cup includes the creamy, delicious taste you expect from Yoplait, and you don't have to feel guilty about enjoying it. Fiber One yogurt is available in a variety of flavors including, Strawberry, Peach, Vanilla and Key Lime Pie. I couldn't distinguish the taste from the strawberry yogurt I am accustomed to. It was very good!

Take advantage of the great savings on Fiber One yogurt and more! From January 13th through February 9th, the Safeway family of stores has a special deal where you can purchase two 4-packs of Fiber One yogurt for only $4!

WIN IT:
Kelly from MyBlogSpark has generously offered a Safeway $50 gift card to give away to one of my readers!

Mandatory:
1. Go to the Yoplait Fiber One website and tell me which flavor of Fiber One yogurt you would like to try AND share your recommended tips on how to maintain a healthy and frugal lifestyle (do both or be disqualified).

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by email and let me know. (2 extra entries)

2. Become my fan on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

3. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Yoplait Fiber One in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

4. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the left) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

5. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

6. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra)

7. Follow me on twitter and retweet this: @finamoon WIN: Safeway $50 Gift Card #giveaway http://bit.ly/dAWy86
(Daily Extras are Available)

8. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

9. Comment on one of my other of my posts and tell me which one. (2 extra entries per post)

10. Fan Yoplait on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. If you subscribed by email, blogged about this, listed it, commented on another post, or faved me on Momfaves leave 2 entries saying you did. This contest ends on Friday February 19, 2010 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to U.S. Only!!

DISCLAIMER: The Fiber One yogurt VIP coupon (good for a free 4-pack of Fiber One yogurt), $50 Safeway (also good at Dominick´s, Tom Thumb, Randalls, Vons, Genuardi´s) gift card, information and additional gift card to give away were all given to me from Safeway (Dominick's, Tom Thumb, Randalls, Vons, Genuardi's) and Fiber One through MyBlogSpark. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

General Mills Cereals‏ Review

It is so important to start the day with a wholesome healthy breakfast. I feel lousy when I don't. A good breakfast can help you feel good and gives you the boost of energy needed to start your day well.

Cereal is a quick and easy breakfast and I have great news for cereal lovers... General Mills announced a commitment to further reduce sugar in cereals advertised to kids under 12 to single digit grams of sugar per serving. The company has already been reducing sugar in cereals while increasing key nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D, and providing whole grain.

Did you know that ready-to-eat cereal eaters consume less fat, less cholesterol and more fiber than non-cereal eaters? Cereals also deliver important vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients, making cereal a top source of key nutrients in children´s diets.

Other cereal benefits:

* Ready-to-eat cereals, including presweetened cereals, account for only 5% of sugar in children´s diets.

* Ready-to-eat cereal is the No. 1 source of whole grains in a child´s diet today.

* More frequent cereal eaters tend to have healthier body weights and lower Body Mass Index measures.

Studies also demonstrate the benefits of eating breakfast. A 1998 study showed that children who eat breakfast tend to perform better at school. Compared to children who skip breakfast, children who eat breakfast score higher on tests, are less likely to miss class or be tardy, have fewer reported discipline problems, and make fewer trips to the office.

For more information about kids and cereals, please visit Cereal Health and Wellness.

MY THOUGHTS:
My favorite General Mills Cereals are: Fiber One Honey Clusters (6 grams of sugar), Fiber One Raisin Bran Clusters (13 grams), Basic 4 (14 grams), Honey Nut Clusters (16 grams), Oatmeal Crisp Crunchy Almond (16 grams), Oatmeal Crisp Hearty Raisin (20 grams), Total Cranberry Crunch (16 grams), Total Honey Clusters (13 grams), Raisin Nut Bran (14 grams), Cheerios (1 gram), Apple Cinnamon Cheerios (12 grams), Honey Nut Cheerios (9 grams), Multi Grain Cheerios (6 grams), Golden Grahams (11 grams), Kix (3 grams) and Reese's Puffs (11 grams).

Wow! I didn't think that my Oatmeal Crisp Hearty Raisin had 20 grams of sugar! I guess you can't tell a box of cereal by its looks. I guess I will be buying more Cheerios and Kix...although I figure you do have to factor in other things besides the sugar. So, make sure you look at the nutrition labels on the box before you buy.

Right now if you visit here you will find a $1 off coupon for a box of Trix cereal and if you visit here you will find a $1 off coupon for one of four General Mills cereals listed on the coupon.

DISCLAIMER: By participating in this Spark, I received 4 free cereal coupons for 4 free General Mills boxes of cereal. All information about the campaign I received from MyBlogSpark, Pssst General Mills Network and the General Mills: Cereal and Health website. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Motor Oil Matters Review and Giveaway

In the United States the average age of cars and light trucks on the roads today has reached a record high of 9.4 years, making it more important than ever for consumers to take proper care of their vehicles. With the new Motor Oil Matters web site (created by industry-leading brands Pennzoil, Quaker State and Shell Rotella); you can easily locate key information that will help prolong your engine’s life and improve overall efficiency, as well as help answer any questions you may have about motor oil. In addition, the site offers a fun, educational game for you to play called “M.O.M. Knows Best” where you can put your motor mind to the test with an interactive quiz.

Did you know?

* According to a study by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association, nearly 9 out of 10 female motorists are involved in their household's vehicle maintenance and repair

* According to a national survey that polled 522 women, 46 percent incorrectly assumed simply switching from conventional engine oil to synthetic oil enables the number of miles between oil changes to be safely extended*

* Using a quality motor oil in the right grade can help maximize fuel economy, and help save money by preventing costly engine damage

* Off-brand, no-name or discount oils that do not meet industry standards or the vehicle manufacturer’s requirements could cost consumers in the long run by potentially damaging the vehicle’s engine or possibly voiding the manufacturer’s warrant

* Jiffy Lube Survey Conducted by Opinion Research Corporation, 2006

Please click HERE to locate your nearest Jiffy Lube store.

MY THOUGHTS:
My husband took the van in for an oil change at Jiffy Lube with a $35 gift card I received for free from Shell Lubricants and MotorOilMatters.org through MyBlogSpark. We received exceptional service and they provided my husband with comfort and entertainment while he was waiting for the service to be done. They were quick and courteous.

WIN IT:
Laurie at MyBlogSpark has given me the opportunity to choose one lucky reader to win one complimentary $35 Jiffy Lube gift card.

Mandatory:
1. Go to Motor Oil Matters website and answer ONE of the following questions: What did you find most interesting on the Motor Oil Matters site? What motor oil misconception did you have that was put to rest through the site’s info? What did you score on the M.O.M. Knows Best game?

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by email and let me know. (2 extra entries)

2. Become my fan on facebook. (1 extra entry)

3. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Motor Oil Matters website in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

4. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the left) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

5. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

6. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra)

7. Add me on twitter and retweet this: @finamoon: @MotorOilMatters WIN: $35 Jiffy Lube Gift Card http://bit.ly/8sWJx0
(Daily Extras are Available)

8. Follow Motor Oil Matters on Twitter. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. If you subscribed by email, blogged about this, listed it, commented on another post, or faved me on Momfaves leave 2 entries saying you did. This contest ends on Friday January 8, 2010 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to U.S. Only!!

DISCLAIMER: By participating in this Spark, Shell Lubricants and MotorOilMatters.org provided me with a free $35 gift card and information through MyBlogSpark to cover most of the cost, if not all, of a conventional oil change at most Jiffy Lube locations. All information about the campaign I received from MyBlogSpark, the Motor Oil Matters website, and the experience itself. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.

Yoplait Kids Yogurt Review and Giveaway

ABOUT YOPLAIT KIDS YOGURT:
Yoplait Kids yogurt has 25% less sugar than the leading kids´ yogurt. It also contains no artificial sweeteners or flavors. Its thick and creamy texture will hug your little one´s spoon, so less mess and without chunks it poses no choking hazards.

In addition, Yoplait Kids is a good source of vitamin D and, according to two new studies that provide the first national assessment of the crucial nutrient in young Americans, millions of U.S. children have disturbingly low vitamin D levels, possibly increasing their risk for a variety of health concerns, including bone problems. About 7.6 million children, adolescents, and young adults have vitamin D levels so low they could be considered deficient. It can be challenging for growing kids to get enough vitamin D because this nutrient is only found naturally in very few foods; however Yoplait Kids makes it a little easier to incorporate a delicious source of vitamin D and calcium in your child's diet.

MY THOUGHTS:
It is getting harder and harder to find a snack that is both good for kids and that tastes good. My kids love yogurt as much as most, but all the additives and sugar add up. I am glad to find that Yoplait Kids yogurts have 25% less sugar and is a great source of vitamin D and calcium. We got the Raspberry Rainbow/Strawberry Banana Bash Trix yogurt with our free coupon. It was quite tasty and my boys gobbled it up :) They loved the swirl of colors and flavors in the cups. We also enjoyed the prize pack we received free from MyBlogSpark. The cooler bag was very handy on our next car trip and the place mat was great because it is so easy to clean. The boys and Teela had fun with the color change spoons and the fuzzy tangle toy.


WIN IT:
Le-La from MyBlogSpark has generously offered 2 of these Yoplait Less Sugar, More Fun prize packs to give away to my readers! So in other words 2 readers will win!! The prize pack includes: coupon* for a Yoplait Kids yogurt, a travel cooler (to take your yogurt on-the-go), a fun spoon that changes colors in warm water, a reusable place mat with games to keep the kids happy while snacking, and a fuzzy tangle puzzle for some after-snack fun.

Mandatory:
1. Go to the Yoplait Kids website and tell me what other product you or your kids would be interested in trying AND share how you make snack time fun for your kids (do both or be disqualified).

Additional entries:
1. Subscribe to my blog by email and let me know. (2 extra entries)

2. Become my fan on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

3. Blog about this giveaway on your blog and provide me with the link. Make sure you have the link to this post and Yoplait Kids in your blog entry or it won't count. (2 extra entries)

4. Grab My Button (see sidebar to the left) AND/OR Put My Blog URL in Your Blogroll - Leave Your Link. (1 extra entry)

5. Technorati my blog and let me know your link. (1 extra entry)

6. List this giveaway on any giveaway listing website or blog and tell me where you listed it. (2 extra)

7. Follow me on twitter and retweet this: @finamoon WIN: Yoplait Less Sugar, More Fun prize pack 2 winners http://bit.ly/2OpRu3
(Daily Extras are Available)

8. Fave me on Momfaves. (2 extra entries)

9. Comment on one of my other of my posts and tell me which one. (2 extra entries per post)

10. Fan Yoplait on Facebook. (1 extra entry)

Make sure you leave me your email in all posts so that I can contact you. If you subscribed by email, blogged about this, listed it, commented on another post, or faved me on Momfaves leave 2 entries saying you did. This contest ends on Friday September 6, 2009 at midnight (GMT-08:00) Pacific Time (US & Canada). This Giveaway is open to U.S. Only!! *This coupon offer for a free six pack of Yoplait Kids yogurt is not valid in some states, including Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Jersey, North Dakota and Tennessee.

DISCLAIMER: By participating in this Spark, I received a coupon* for any of the Yoplait Kids yogurt products along with a Yoplait Less Sugar, More Fun prize pack for free. All information about the products I received from MyBlogSpark, the Yoplait Kids website, and the packaging on the product itself. My thoughts are mine and my family's own opinion and have not been altered by anyone else. I did not receive any other compensation for doing this review.