Top 5 Savings for Summer

I am so excited to announce the beginning of summer for us. Josiah's last day of school was yesterday and the boys could not be more excited. Every summer we spend a great amount of time on the go and this summer is already filled with excited adventures for our entire family. Summer can also mean spending money. My husband can see the dollar signs flash before his eyes, I am sure, so I do what I can to save money. There are many great ways to save during the summer and I wanted to share my top five ideas!

Fashion
Each summer I end up buying myself a new wardrobe. I can never resist a new swimsuit and a few new outfits for our beach vacations. Mango promotions online has us covered this year with some great discount codes on clothing and much more. I've learned never to pay full price for items and love finding great discounts. Need some new clothes, too? Now's the time to check out the great deals and go for it.

Holiday
Going on vacation this summer like us? Save money in a very unique way this year by renting a home or apartment. When we visited Italy, we searched online for rental apartments in the area, so we were able to find a bigger space for our money. Four of us traveled together from Germany to Italy and our apartment was not only spacious, but right in the middle of town, so we were able to be right in the mix of everything. Not only did we save money, but we also had an amazing time. This is such a great alternative to hotels. You can also list your home for free while on holiday and make money when others stay at your own home!

Cards for Father's Day
Father's Day is on Sunday, June 16th this year and my boys have already been planning gifts for him. We have actually already planned a birthday/Father's Day party that Sunday and saved money by renting a pavilion at our local park. The boys have decided to buy their Papa a new football, which will be perfect for our time at the park. In addition, we found 3 for 2 on cards at MoonPig.com, so not only did we get a card for my husband, but also for my father and my husband's.

Kids
During the summer, we spend a great deal of time outdoors. Plus, Josiah's birthday falls in June, so this is the time of year we do much of our shopping. Did you know there is a Lego Sale and up to 50% off at Toys R Us? The gift my son has requested for months now is the Lord of the Rings Battle of Helm's Deep Lego set. Don't tell him, but I got it... for less than $100! I saved well over $30 on this set and was absolutely amazed. I cannot wait to see his face when he opens this gift.

Suncare
Josiah is a redhead and, if you have red hair or a child that does, you know this pretty much ensures pink sunburned skin in the summer. The poor boy burns so easily, unlike his brother who immediately tans when in the sun. This is why I have to stock up on sunscreen at the beginning of the summer. Yes, sunscreen can get expensive, especially name-brands, but do not pay full price. You can find up to Half Price savings at Superdrug.

How do you plan to save money this summer? We are going to the beach twice, to an aquarium, visiting grandparents and also going to Six Flags, so we need all the help we can get with expenses. Thankfully we've found so many great deals so far!

Does Your Teen Need Braces? Invisalign Is the Perfect Alternative To Metal Braces! #ad #INVStraightTalk

This is an embarrassingly true story. My teeth were pretty straight until I reached high school and some of my front teeth were pushing too closely against each other. I was so upset when, going to the orthodontist, I was told about my need for braces. I was 16 years old and getting braces for the first time. The metal pieces were not only uncomfortable, but embarrassing for a teen just trying to fit in. I had braces for three long years, including a year of college. Fortunately for teens, Invisalign Teen is an amazing alternative to ugly metal braces now.

What is Invisalign? This is a modern approach to teeth straightening which can correct complex dental issues just like I had. These include overly crowded teeth, widely spaced teeth, overbite, underbite and crossbite! My teeth were overly crowded on top, so this would have been a great alternative for me. Check out the results others have seen from the Invisalign treatment.

Why Invisalign? Well, besides the obvious being they are much less visible than traditional braces, they roughly cost about the same amount. Plus, Invisalign treatment usually requires less office visits and shorter visits. In addition, you don't have to worry about broken braces that require special appointments and, quite honestly, just plain hurt your mouth. I can think of many other reasons I experienced, too, including getting food stuck in teeth and looking much too young for your age. I was often mistaken for being a middle school student.... in college!

To find out if Invisalign is right for you or your teen, check out the Invisalign Smile Assessment. This will give you more information about the process so you can decide if this is the right choice. I've heard great things about Invisalign. Just look at the photo above at the amazing results.

Do you know someone who needs braces? They may want to consider Invisalign. I know if my boys need braces when they get older, this will be my first choice!

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Hailey Ruth Children's Boutique: Adorable Personalized Clothing For Children Review & Giveaway

I am a fan of personalized items and you can find all sorts of special items around our home, but I am an even bigger fan of personalized clothing for my kids. I simply cannot resist a cute personalized shirt for Liam and Josiah, especially when it has matching shorts or pants to go with it. When one of my friends told me about Hailey Ruth, I was so excited to check it out and order.

About Hailey Ruth Children's Boutique
The idea of Hailey Ruth Children's Boutique came about because stay-at-home-mom, Amy, enjoyed creating unique clothing for her three children. She put together her love of clothing and her background in retail to begin Hailey Ruth! Amy enjoys making special, unique and customer designs for customers and wants every interaction and transaction to have a custom, personal feel. Just recently, Hailey Ruth took on a new partner, Emily, who will be training seamstresses, collaborating on new designs and much more. This means that you will see the same amazing quality, just more and more of it! With a variety of cute designs for boys and girls, ages 3 months to 8 years of age, you are sure to find something perfect for your little ones. You can also check out their Facebook page for newest designs and clothing additions for spring and summer!

My Thoughts
I have purchased a few different items from Hailey Ruth and absolutely love them all. The first shirt I purchased was this Christmas. I got the cutest little Christmas Owl shirt with Liam's name embroidered on the bottom. I was immediately impressed with the quality of the shirt because it was made of thicker, soft cotton. Plus, the shirt was just so stinkin' cute and we got many, many compliments.

For the review, we received two adorable Easter bunny shirts for the boys. There were so many different designs from which to choose, so I let them pick their favorites. We went to the beach this Easter and took the shirts with us. As you can see, the boys looked adorable on Easter Sunday wearing their shirts everywhere.

Josiah's shirt has the bunny sitting in the back of a truck and Liam's bunny is in a wagon. The shirts were absolutely perfect and the boys were so proud to show them off to everyone. These shirts, just like the owl shirt, were of great quality and were so soft! The designs as well as the names are embroidered, which just adds something special to the shirts and makes them stand out. The sizes are also true to size and fit the boys very well.

I cannot say enough about Hailey Ruth. In fact, I am getting Josiah's 6th Birthday shirt from them, too, and can't wait to post pictures of it, too. Since he is having a knight birthday party, the shirt will have a knight and a number six. He will love this shirt and I know he'll end up wearing it all summer.

Now that you've read all about Hailey Ruth, how about a giveaway?

It's Giveaway Time!

One Lucky Reader Will Receive Their Choice of Personalized Embroidered T-Shirt (A $25 Value!)

Chick-fil- A New Salads & Wraps Blog App & Giveaway #FreshMade (Ends 5/25)

We’re proud to announce the Chick-fil-A #FreshMade Blog App!

We love our Chick-Fil-A and their #FreshMade salads are delicious. Chick-fil-A is helping you make today #FreshMade, by creating new menu options that you can feel good about! They are introducing 3 new premium salads and an improved wrap all under 430 calories made with premium ingredients.


Be sure to take the Chick-fil-A #Freshmade Blog App Quiz above to find out if you are a starter? Are you the type of person to get up and go, go, go? Find out if you are already raring to go or if you need a little help getting the good time rolling! You can also do some other fun activities from the app, including  selecting your mode with quotes and images, taking a behind-the scenes look at how the salads are #Freshmade just for you, and you can also get social by sharing on your own social media accounts! 

Ready for an awesome giveaway? 

One Lucky Children Teaching Mama Reader Will Receive 2 Coupons For a Chick-fil-a Salads! Yummy! 

Send a Johnson's Baby Care Card To a Mama & Support Early Childhood Education

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for JOHNSON's Baby. I received a promotional item as a thank you for participating.

Last week was Mother's Day and when my husband asked what I would like to do for the day, I told him I just wanted to spend the day outdoors as a family, so that is exactly what we did. We sat outside on the porch, watching the kids and reminiscing about becoming parents for the first time. The day I found out I was pregnant with my first son, Josiah, I sat in disbelief and happiness. I couldn't believe I was going to be a mom and was so excited, but there were also those nagging thoughts in the back of my head. I wondered if I would be a good mom or how I would be able to handle staying at home with the baby and I have to admit that there were some tough days as a new mom. Well, here I am almost 6 years later with two beautiful little boys and I couldn't be happier. However, there are days as a stay at home mom that are just plain hard. I'm sure all other moms can relate to those "bad mom days" where we just can't do anything right. I feel this way when Liam gets a boo boo from falling on the stairs or when Josiah has a hard time with his homework and I just can't seem to explain it correctly.

My sweet boy cuddling his teddy bear, Peanut Butter.

On days like this, I sure need some kind of reassurance to keep me going and to make me feel like everything is going to be okay. Just recently, I was talking to one of my friends about Liam's chemotherapy treatment and he said, "You know, you are so strong and such a great mom". He had no idea, of course, but that really made me feel great. Today, as I was working on the computer, Josiah came in, reached over and kissed me and said, "I love you, Mama". Even those small, sweet actions are all the reassurance I need to keep me smiling.

One of our favorite brands, Johnson's also knows just how important these types of reassurances are for moms, especially on those tough days that never end. Johnson's has made it easier than ever to share some encouraging words to a mom with the Johnson's Baby Care Cards. After clicking the link you just select a message, choose an image that you think best fits your message, and send it to a mom! This is such a creative way to let another mom know how much you care. Plus, you can send the card via Facebook, Twitter or e-mail.

The great thing about sending a Johnson's Baby Cares Card is that for ever card that is sent, shared or liked, Johnson's Baby will donate $1 to Save the Children (up to $150,000) to benefit early childhood education! So, not only can you really do something sweet for a mom, but you will also help benefit the education of children. If that isn't incentive enough to send a card, I don't know what is, so get over to the website and send a card (or three) to one of your friends or family members who could use some words of encouragement.

I shared my card with my best friend, Holly, who just became a new mom for the second time. She's staying home with her little one for the next 4 months and is such an awesome mom. She deserves something special and, since I don't get to see her or tell her often enough, I thought this would be a great way to say I love you!

What do your kids do for you to give you that extra reassurance you need each day? To whom will you send a card?

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for JOHNSON's Baby. I received a promotional item as a thank you for participating.

Biggest Investments For Families

There are many investments that we, as parents and adults, make as we grow older, but some of these have more of an impact on our lives than others. When I think of huge investments, I automatically think of buying our house and buying a new car. These are big ones, but there is another investment that is even bigger. What is it? Your own children! Yes, that's right! According to a report by USDA, it costs an estimated $295,000 to raise a kid from birth to the age of 17. That's a great deal of money and that isn't even factoring in the cost of a college education. I think my husband would pass out if he saw that total. The cost of raising a child seems never-ending, but you can ensure that your children have a better concept of the value of money by including them in family spending ideas and actions.

When I was growing up, I remember watching my parents sort out bills each month and knew we lived on a budget, but as far as how much money was spent and how money was saved, I was clueless. So, when it came time for me to move out and attend college, I had no idea my bills and rent would be so expensive and I certainly didn't know how to budget everything. I learned the hard way that teaching children about spending and money is a must to prepare them for their own futures.

How can we teach our children about money? Well, there are some great ways to include them in family money discussions according to Gregg Murset, owner of MyJobChart. Parents should never be afraid to discuss the costs the experience on a daily and monthly bases. For example, gas prices are so high these days, so this is something to talk about with kids because going to school and other after-school activities directly effects the amount of gas used. Take a look at the graphic above for more great ideas.

Do you engage your children in the discussion of money? Just by following some simple steps you can help them understand and grasp the concept of money much better. Plus, they will be more prepared when the time comes to move out one day. I sure wish my parents had included me in money discussions!

Important Steps To Creating A Bedtime Routine With Children

Before my son started preschool, we really didn't have a set schedule, which meant complete chaos in our home, especially around bedtime. However, Josiah is now in kindergarten and everything has completely changed. Now that we do have a set routine, I've noticed how much more we get out of our days. Every night I feel like we have accomplished quite a bit and this is very satisfying. What's more satisfying is having kids go to bed without struggle or reading ten books before they settle down. This used to be a nightly issue. I've come to find that a bedtime ritual is, indeed, the key to good sleep and happy kids ready to get up and go in the morning.

Here are my suggestions for establishing a daily routine preparing kids for bed:

The first part of our night always begins with bath time. It is a great way to begin the process of slowing down and relaxing muscles. You can also follow the bath time with a massage. I do this often with my youngest son who sometimes has growing pains and this seems to help him sleep much better.

About an hour before bedtime, encourage quite "me" play time, which means no running around, screaming or playing competitive games. This gives children a chance to slow down, relax and wind down from a long day. Once the hour is up, its time to begin your nighttime routine. My husband and I talked about our routine for the boys ahead of time so we were both on the same page. You should keep a routine that generally lasts around 15 minutes: putting toys away, brushing teeth, using the potty, etc. You may want to keep a chart kids can check off each night as they complete tasks. We have a chore chart the kids check off each day and they get $1 at the end of the week if they have every space filled. This just gives some extra incentive for them to follow the routine.

Once all of the chart items are complete, it's time to pick out a book and get into bed. I've found that the types of mattresses we have really make a difference in restful sleep, which is why we found adorable toddler mattresses that are not only comfortable, but also fun for the kids. We turn off all bright lights and just have on a lamp during this time. Our reading time is my favorite part of our nightly routine and is our special bonding time as a family.

After story time, I always give kisses and tuck the boys in, one by one. Then, I turn off the lamp and turn on their little night light. Of course, routines should be personalized to your own children's needs, but as long as you stick to the schedule, you should see a huge change in attitude and happiness. My boys were much more rested and ready to play in the morning, which just made getting up that much easier for all of us.

Do you have a nightly sleep routine? If so, how does it differ from ours? 

Happiness is a Aden+Anais Daydream Blanket: Review & Giveaway

Last year we worked with aden+anais on a review of their unbelievably soft Dream Blankets for babies. The muslin material is not only breathable, but so soft that I couldn't help but be a bit jealous of my little ones for getting such a cuddly blanket. In fact, I had spoken with some other friends about their products and we all agreed that they should also offer products for adults. Can you imagine having their soft muslin sheets on your bed? How about a muslin blanket? Well, imagine my surprise when I found out about the aden+anais Daydream Blanket!

The aden+anais Daydream Blanket is the adult-sized version of the Dream Blanket for babies. This amazing blanket has four layers of 100% cotton muslin and I couldn't wait to get my hands on one! The great thing about muslin is that the more you wash, the softer it gets, so as soon as it was delivered, I put it in the washing machine so we could use it that night.

The Daydream Blanket comes in three unique designs, including ocean's edge, circle dance, and branch out. We received the beautiful ocean's edge blanket, which is a beautiful blue-green color. I knew the Daydream Blanket would be big, but I had no idea just how big.

This is a King-sized bed and blanket almost fits entirely across! I absolutely love my blanket and have been carrying it around everywhere with me. The kids have tried to steal it away from me and so has my husband, but I'm not going to take my eyes off of my blanket. The mornings here are still a little cool, so I bring it to the living room to keep warm and, at night, it is always on my bed at night.

Snuggling in the living room watching cartoons in the morning!

The great thing about muslin is that it is breathable, but also warm, making it the perfect blanket for all seasons. If adults had blankies to carry around like children, this would be it. I've even packed it when we go out of town and know I will do so for our summer vacations as well. This would make a wonderful Mother's Day gift or a present for any occasion. Anyone would love this blanket! Be sure to check out the other great items on the Aden+Anais website, too. I'm sure you will be hooked as I am, which is why I am so excited to share this awesome giveaway with you...

Giveaway Time

One Lucky Reader Will Receive Their Very Own Aden+Anais Daydream Blanket (A $125 RV)!

Dunkin' Donuts Coffee With New Delicious Seasonal Flavors

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom CentralConsulting for Dunkin' Donuts. I received a Dunkin' Donuts Party Kit to facilitate my review and a promotional item as a thank you for participating.

Living in a rural area, our dining options are quite limited. So, when we noticed a sign posted near home announcing the opening of a new Dunkin' Donuts, the boys were so excited, especially Josiah. I have to admit, I was excited, too. The boys love the Donut Holes and I am a Boston Creme fan. Of course, when our Dunkin' Donuts opened, we were there within a day and I decided to try out their coffee for the first time.

Let me back up and say I am very picky about my coffee, so liking Dunkin' Donuts is really saying something. Some coffee is not strong enough and others are too strong for me, but their coffee is just right for me. After trying their coffee in-store, I noticed it at our grocery store, too, and had to give it a try. I was amazed at how great it tasted. Being able to make a cup of Dunkin' Donuts coffee anytime is just satisfying and I love brewing it when we have special guests! I actually made it for my parents when they were visiting earlier this year and my mom also loved it. When I was asked to throw a fun party with friends and family to introduce the new Dunkin' Donuts Spring line of seasonal flavored coffee, I was so excited and couldn't wait to give the new flavors a try!

What are the new flavors?

• Coconut 
• Triple Berry
• Strawberry Shortcake

Who came to our party?
Well, I threw the party in conjunction with my nephew's 2nd birthday party. What better time for all the mamas to try some delicious coffee, right? We always give out gift bags for the kiddos, but at this party, the mamas got a gift bag, too, and they could not have been happier. Plus, we all needed a little pick-me-up after running around all day!


First, we made the Triple Berry coffee to start the party. As we all sat around chatting and watching the kids go crazy playing with each other, the coffee was actually relaxing and really did have the essence of spring time.

The kiddos being entertained while we mamas enjoyed our coffee!

To go along with the chocolate cupcakes for dessert and fruit cups, we made the Strawberry Shortcake blend Dunkin' Donut Coffee, which was a HUGE hit. Even some of the husbands chimed in to say it was delicious. I was shocked when my own husband agreed and he doesn't even drink coffee! While some of the ladies had tried the coffee in-store, some had no idea it was available at the grocery store. They were excited to not only find out about it, but to receive a coupon in their gift bags.

The delicious eats! The strawberry shortcake coffee was perfect with the chocolate cupcakes!

Each of the guests also got a one full-size bag coffee to take home with them and try out, too. My sister-in-law ended up with the Coconut blend and said she was a little skeptical, but gave the Coconut Iced Coffee recipe a try that was included in the gift bag. What did she think? Her exact words were, "It was so yummy!" I cannot wait to give it a try.

My sister-in-law said she enjoyed the coconut flavor and thought it added something special to the coffee that was not at all overwhelming. In fact, that seemed to be the consensus about all of the new seasonal flavors. The flavor was part of the coffee and did not overpower the coffee flavor mixed in with it. The flavors mixed well together to make three great coffee blends that I think everyone would enjoy. They definitely have a hint of spring in them and I think they are perfect for this season.

Want to give them a try? These delicious spring seasonal flavors are only available for a limited time in grocery stores, so go get yours today. Do not delay because you do not want to miss out on these. Believe me!

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom CentralConsulting for Dunkin' Donuts. I received a Dunkin' Donuts Party Kit to facilitate my review and a promotional item as a thank you for participating.

Make Some Delicious Recipes With Lactose-Free #Lactaid & Giveaway

Disclosure: This sponsored post was written for LACTAID in conjunction with The Motherhood. All opinions provided are my own.

When I was about 8 years old, I came home with a stomach ache almost every day. My parents were at a loss until going to the doctor and finding out I was lactose intolerant. The chocolate milk I had to drink each day with school lunches was a big no no for my stomach and something I had to forgo from them on. Luckily, I've never been much of a milk drinker, but some of my favorite foods are made with milk and those are things I just cannot do without! It just so happens that I not only married someone who is lactose intolerant, but we also have a lactose intolerant son. We, as a family, love to eat and try new dishes, so we don't let this issue stop us at all. After all, I cannot live without my blueberry muffins and pastas, especially pasta with cream sauces!

I had a very informative discussion with Melissa d' Arabian, a celebrity chef and LACTAID Brand Spokesperson along with Michelle Harrington, R.D. and LACTAID Regulatory and Nutritional Affairs Manager all about what it means to be lactose intolerant and what LACTAID can do for those who suffer from it. I learned so much from them and had to share the information with my readers!

What does it mean to be lactose intolerant?
By definition, it means the small intestine does not make enough of an enzyme called lactase and, in order to digest lactose, the body needs this enzyme. Since lactose is in the sugar of milk and other dairy products, these cause adverse effects when ingested. What type of effects? It varies depending on the person and while I can handle small amounts of milk, my son can get very sick to his stomach just by drinking it.

What is LACTAID?
This delicious product provides the delicious creamy taste of dairy without stomach discomfort! LACTAID actually provides the lactase our bodies need to break down lactose! This means LACTAID products are 100% real dairy. The only difference is the added natural yeast-derived lactase enzyme! They have many great lactose-free products, including milks, cottage cheese, ice-cream and eggnog.

LACTAID has provided a freedom of food choices for our family. We are not limited in our daily meal selections because we can use LACTAID products in place of those with lactose. Plus, there are some delicious recipe suggestions on the LACTAID website that I cannot wait to try out. We will be trying out LACTAID all this month and reporting back shortly with more thoughts, information and our favorite recipe we've tried with it. We've already made blueberry muffins with it and, of course, they were a hit. Actually, the boys seemed to like them more than usual because they were gone 2 days later!

In our next post, we will write all about cooking with LACTAID, so check back for the next post. Until then, how about a giveaway?

Giveaway Time

One Lucky Children Teaching Mama Reader Will Receive A Coupon Good For Any One Free LACTAID Product! That includes milk, cottage cheese, ice-cream, eggnog and dietary supplements.

How To Enter

Leave a comment below telling why you would like to win OR a recipe you would like to try out with LACTAID! Be sure to leave your email address, too, so I can get in touch with the winner.

This giveaway is open to US Readers 18+ years of age and older. It ends on Monday, May 27th at 11:59pm. Good Luck!