Align Jr. for Digestive Health This Summer

May 31, 2017 by Jenni 228 Comments

This post was sponsored by Align as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

Summer is here and we have lots of activities planned for the family! Along with summer, comes a few routine changes. We sleep in a little longer, stay up later, and of course we eat more than we should.

These kinds of changes in routine can affect our kids’ bellies and natural balance of good bacteria. Since Eli has tummy trouble anyway, I like to supplement his digestive system with a good probiotic supplement like Align Jr.

Grab This Align Jr. coupon to save!

What are probiotics?

These are good bacteria that provide healthy benefits and are crucial for our vital bodily functions – including healthy digestion!

Often times we don’t get enough “good” bacteria in our gut through foods so using a probiotic supplement is your best bet. After all, a healthy gut is a HAPPY gut…right?!

We prefer Align because it’s the #1 recommended probiotic brand‡ by doctors and gastroenterologists. The Align Jr. comes in yummy tasting chewables for kids age 6-12 years old!

These are so easy to add to his routine each day! He takes them with his multivitamin each morning, and boom! He’s good to go!

Traveling often causes digestive issues and thankfully, these are so easy to just pop in your suitcase or travel bags (or even your purse!) to have on the go!

Some other really great and healthy digestion tips for your kiddos, in addition to taking Align Jr…

Make sure they drink plenty of water
Make sure they’re active this summer
Include a portion of fresh fruits and veggies with each meal. Hide these in smoothies or shakes if you need to! 😉

What Summer Plans and Activities do you Have Planned?!

ǂ Among gastroenterologists and doctors who recommended a brand of probiotic in an AlphaImpactRx 2016 Survey.

Align partnered with bloggers, such as me, to get the word out about its great product benefits. As part of this program, I received compensation for my time. Align believes that consumers and bloggers are free to form their own opinions and share them in their own words. Align’s policies align with WOMMA Ethics Code, Federal Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines and social media engagement recommendations.

100% Natural Baby Products Alternatives + 5 Things to Leave OUT of Your Diaper Bag!

February 19, 2017 by Jenni 1,144 Comments

Are you looking for some natural baby products and alternatives to some of the products you’re using now?

I’m sharing some excellent ALL natural baby products and ideas with you! You need to put these things inside your diaper bag, vs. what’s typically packed inside!

100% Natural Baby Products Alternatives + 5 Things to Leave Out of Your Diaper Bag!

As a mom, you want to protect your babies from anything and everything harmful. Right?

{INSERT MOMMA BEAR ROAR!}

Did you know that some of the most toxic, poisonous, and harmful things that can affect our babies, are things that we splash on them often, every. single. day! It’s true!

Moms. Please know that I am 100% guilty of doing the VERY same thing! I know how you feel! I’m slowly learning that some of the products we use, seem safe and healthy – but they are truly toxic and even cancer causing. And I have them inside my home. Slathering these things on myself and my kid!

NO MOM GUILT ALLOWED!

No MOM guilt allowed, moms! EVER! You do what you do, because you love your children. Parenting and life in general, is a learning process. I just want to let you know that there are SAFE products that you can use. Empower you with information that is or can be, life-changing!

Never. Ever, ever, ever, ever — feel guilty about doing what you think is best for your kids! EVER! Deal?!

5 REAL – 100% Natural Baby Products Alternatives!

Below, are 5 products that are probably inside your diaper bag. These are toxic. You can actually google each product and/or the MSDS sheet for each and find out why! I’m sharing excellent alternatives that you can re-stock your home and diaper bag with right NOW!

1. Ditch Talcum Powder and/or Baby Powder (linked to ovarian cancer and lung diseases)

Switch to this talc-free, fragrance free 100% all natural baby powder HERE!

Why ditch and switch?! With t alcum powder being so recent in the news after a couple large lawsuits surrounding its use, it’s time to switch to something SAFE! This info. below comes from ConsumerSafety.org. You can also read more by clicking on the links above.

Talcum powder, a common ingredient in personal hygiene products, has been linked to life-threatening diseases and conditions, such as ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, and respiratory complications. The connection to the these health risks has been suspected for decades, but no action was taken to protect consumers. The lack of any type of product warning sparked a surge of lawsuits resulting in 3 major verdicts in 2016, and thousands more in the legal system.

2. Ditch Traditional Baby Oil (they limit skin breathability and toxin release!)

Switch to one of these all natural alternatives below! Viva Naturals is a great alternative, as well.

You can find these oils below, on Amazon…just by clicking on them.

Coconut Oil
Olive Oil
Almond Oil

Switching to an all natural oil like the ones listed above, guarantees that you’re moisturizing your babies with only goodness. Did you know that traditional baby oils are made from mineral oils that act like a “liquid plastic”. Imagine slathering liquid plastic all over you?! Right? Eww. Your skin cannot breathe and it doesn’t allow toxins to leave your body.

Also, most baby oils contain fragrances. Did you know that brands do not have to list in their ingredients lists, what the fragrances are made from?! Chemicals. That’s what those fragrances are made from. Nasty chemicals.

3. Ditch the Anti-bacterial Soaps and Gels (they contain triclosan, which is carcinogenic. Don’t believe me? Google it!)

Switch to an all natural product like Young Living Thieves Spray or Thieves Waterless Hand Purifier to clean and purify virtually everything!

I mean, let’s face it. I’m NOT going to clean my hands or a baby’s toy with something that could potentially cause cancer. Period. Thieves products are excellent for our immune systems. They contain clove, cinnamon bark, rosemary, lemon, and eucalyptus radiata essential oils.

4. Belladonna (found in teething remedies) – linked to seizures!

Switch to natural remedies like a chilled damp wash cloth, or pressure from your finger on their gums. Essential oils like Thieves and Copaiba have been used for thousands of years.

We all know the torment that comes with teething babies. I’m sticking to doing what my ancestors did. They had it all figured out, after all.

5. Fragrances (can cause respiratory, neurological, and skin damage. May lead to asthma!)

Switch to fragrance-free, organic, or sensitive products. Naturally fragrant products like pure, therapeutic grade essential oils – is the perfect alternative!

Look for the word “fragrance” in the ingredients list in your baby products. Did you know that manufacturers do not have to tell you what ingredients are used in their “fragrances”? You can bet that those fragrances are completely chemical ridden.

There are so many DIY recipes out there on the net that are 100% natural, using pure therapeutic grade essential oils as the fragrance component. If you’re looking to make something homemade with essential oils for you, your home, and your baby – just look online and find one that works for you.

I hope that you decide to Ditch & Switch some or all of these items in your diaper bag, and home! You’ll be SO glad that you did. It will give you peace of mind too, knowing that you’re doing something healthy and important in the long run. Years from now, your children will thank you!

Tell us, what products have you ditched and switched? We’d love to know!!

Disclosure: The infographic and some information was provided to me by consumersafety.org. This post was not compensated by them, in any way. I am however, a distributor for Young Living Essential Oils. All opinions are 100% my own.

7 Fun and Easy Sick Day Activities for Kids at Home + $25 Target Gift Card/Pfizer Prize Pack Giveaway

February 14, 2017 by Jenni 748 Comments

Sick days are inevitable. These sick day activities for kids at home are perfect when they’re tired of resting. This post has been sponsored by Pfizer Consumer Healthcare and 20^th Century Fox, however, all cute and #SickJustGotReal survival ideas are my own.

Sick Day Activities for Kids at Home!

It never fails. Winter comes, and along with it comes all the gnarly and yucky bugs and viruses. #SickJustGotReal

This last week, Eli finally got over some virus that wouldn’t let go. He spent several days home from school – and he was miserable. Snotty, coughing, fever-y, and just plain “blah”. Poor kid.

First things first. Moms, it’s time to pull out the “Sick Day Survival Kit”! What does this survival kit include? Well, it should include everything needed to take care of the sickie’s symptoms. Next in the kit, should include any and all fun activities that will help make them feel better when they’re bored.

Break up that Fever!

If they’re running a fever that isn’t breaking on it’s own – pull out the Children’s Advil®. Not only does it help knock down a fever, but it also eases those aches and pains. Bonus: It comes in great-tasting flavors so it’s a great solution for kids as young as 2 and up to 11!

Flavors include Sugar-free Dye-free Berry, Bubble Gum, Grape, Blue Raspberry, Fruit and Dye-Free White Grape flavors. There’s also Infants’ Advil® White Grape, which provides unsurpassed fever relief among OTC pain relievers with a syringe for easy dosing for children 6-23 months.

I don’t know about your kids, but mine gets bored. Easily. Especially when he’s sick at home. Yeah, he might sleep off and on, but don’t let this fool you. After they’ve slept their yuckies off – they’re bored and need something to keep them entertained. I did a bit of crowd-sourcing from some of my other mom friends too, to see what ideas they had.

Ready for Those Sick Day Activities for Kids at Home?

Watch a Movie!

Pop in a new movie or one of their favorites while they’re laying around. Eli loves The Peanuts Movie! It’s currently one of his favorites that he watches over and over! Snuggle up on the couch with your sick little one and encourage some rest time. Momma definitely needs her rest time on sick days too!!! Right?! This is (in all honesty) probably my favorite of all of the activities for kids at home on sick days!

The Peanuts Movie:

Dream big and laugh along with good ol’ Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the beloved Peanuts gang as you’ve never seen them before — in a brand-new feature film from the imagination of Charles M. Schulz and the creators of Ice Age. Join everyone’s favorite eternal optimist, Charlie Brown, as he embarks on a heroic quest, while his beagle pal Snoopy takes to the skies to pursue his archnemesis, the Red Baron. It’s a hilarious and heartwarming adventure that proves every underdog has his day!

2. Extra Tablet or iPad Time!

My child could spend hours on his iPad. We have to monitor the amount of time he spends on there…but on sick days, we let him have a little more “plugged” in time.

3. Book Marathon!

Let your child pick out their favorite books, to read to you. Or if they’re battling a sore throat, you can read to them. If you have an older child – now might be a great time to catch up on their latest book series!

4. Play Cards or Board Games!

Pull out the deck of cards for some fun Slap Jack – or Old Maid. Card games and board games can easily be played while laying in bed.

5. Puzzles!

Puzzle books or printable puzzle pages are fun! Crosswords, word searches, hidden pictures, etc. If you don’t have puzzle books on hand, you can always print some off the internet!

6. Tell Stories!

Now while you have their ear – it’s a GREAT time to tell them stories! Stories of how you and dad met. Stories about their grandparents…aunts/uncles! Fun stories about when YOU were little! Then let them tell you their stories!

7. Mini Sandbox Fun!

If they can’t go outside, bring the outside to them! Fill a small box with sand and/or rocks and hide random small things inside for them to find! This is a great idea when your child is up and out of the bed. Maybe save this idea for when they’re able to hang out at the kitchen table, or somewhere where clean-up would be easy.

Other Items that Should be in Sick Day Survival Kit:

Children’s Robitussin® DM Day/Night Pack (Children’s Robitussin® Cough & Chest Congestion and Children’s Robitussin® Nighttime Cough for ages 6+) non-drowsy daytime formula helps break up chest congestion, while the long-acting nighttime formula relieves coughs and runny noses to help kids get the rest they need.

Children’s Dimetapp® Cold & Cough tackles a child’s most bothersome stuffy and runny noses, all while working to relieve cough, for ages 6+. All in a great tasting grape flavor.

*It is important to remember to always read and keep the cartons for complete warnings and dosing information onPfizer Pediatric products and to use as directed.

In order to get your sick day survival kit together, and enjoy these sick day activities for kids at home – you can save at Target with these Target Cartwheel coupon codes below!! (valid 1/29/17 through 2/20/17)

Visit Sick just got real.™ below!

Sick just got real.™ website
Sick just got real.™ Facebook page

Ready for a Giveaway?!

One lucky reader will win a Sick Day Survival Kit of their own! It will include:

$25 Target gift card
Children’s Advil® Suspension, Grape,
Children’s Robitussin® Cough & Chest Congestion
Children’s Dimetapp® Cough & Cold
(1) 20th Century Fox DVD of your choice (Ice Age: Collision Course, The Sandlot, The Peanuts Movie)

Just use the Rafflecopter form below to enter. US residents, age 18 or older are eligible to win. Giveaway ends 2/21 at 11:59pm EST.

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Good Luck!!

How to Decorate the Rim of a Glass with Sprinkles + $25 Visa/Entenmann’s® Prize Pack Giveaway

February 10, 2017 by Jenni 4,835 Comments

Wanna learn how to decorate the rim of a glass with sprinkles? This is such a fun way to celebrate the small things with your kids. This post has been sponsored by Entenmann’s® Little Bites®. All cute and delicious opinions are 100% my own!

How to Decorate the Rim of a Glass with Sprinkles!

Do you celebrate even the smallest things with your family? Things like one of the kiddos losing a tooth? Getting an A+ on their spelling test?

Kids LOVE little tokens of appreciation. Even small things like chocolate milk. However, no ordinary chocolate milk though will do, so, I’m going to show you how to decorate the rim of a glass with sprinkles.

Why did we do this?! We celebrated Eli getting a 100% on his spelling test this week! I surprised him with some Entenmann’s® Little Bites® Chocolate Party Cakes and some FUN chocolate milk! Paired up with these delicious Chocolate Party Cakes really made for a sweet celebration!

How to Decorate the Rim of a Glass with Sprinkles!

You wanna know how to decorate the rim of a glass with sprinkles. It’s wayyyy easy to do, and is such a cute idea for anytime. So because it’s especially fun for parties, here’s how you do it.

What you Need:

Your favorite glasses or cups
chocolate chips
sprinkles

Instructions:

1. Pour chocolate chips into a small microwave safe bowl. One that is not too big, but large enough for the rim of your glass to reach into.

2. Melt chocolate chips according to package directions. How many chocolate chips you use varies according to how many glasses you want to decorate. You should be able to dip a few to several cups – using 1/4 to 1/2 cup of chocolate chips.

3. Dip rim into the chocolate, and then let excess drip off.

4. Pour sprinkles into a small saucer.

5. Dip rim with melted chocolate into the sprinkles, rim down and coat. Then turn the glass rim on it’s edge and turn to coat the edge of the rim as well so that all the chocolate is covered with sprinkles and not much, if any, chocolate is showing.

6. Set upright on the counter until the chocolate has dried and the sprinkles are set.

7. After the sprinkles are set, fill the glasses with your yummy chocolate milk or whatever you’re wanting to drink, and enjoy!

Portable for School Lunches!

I love that they come in these little packs, because it makes it easy to pack in his lunch bag for school. Portable snacks like this are perfect for car trips too, or after soccer practice! Right?!

These little scrumptious bites of chocolate heaven are SOOOO fresh and melt in your mouth. I’m not really sure – but I think that I may have eaten more than my kiddo did. Nom. They’re just too easy to pop in your mouth!

Check out these yummy details about Entenmann’s® Little Bites® Chocolate Party Cakes:

Guaranteed to pack a portable party on-the-go, the new Little Bites® Chocolate Party Cakes are the latest edition to Entenmann’s® Seasonal Favorites line. Overflowing with flavor to treat the taste buds of chocolate lovers everything, these new Chocolate Party Cakes are complete with rainbow sprinkles, similar to the fan-favorite original golden Party Cakes.

Entenmann’s® Little Bites® contain no high fructose corn syrup, are made with real ingredients, certified Kosher, and are less than 200 calories per pouch.

ONLY available nationwide for a limited time from 1/14/17 to 5/20/17.

Make sure to stay up to date and check out their website and social media sites below!

Entenmann’s® Little Bites® website
Entenmann’s® Little Bites® Facebook
Entenmann’s® Little Bites® Instagram
Entenmann’s® Little Bites® Pinterest

Valentine’s Day Ideas…

Valentine’s Day is almost here! Have a delicious Valentine’s Day! Pack-a-Pouch of Entenmann’s® Little Bites® Muffins with free downloadable Valentine’s Day cards. Pack-a-Pouch anytime and keeping Smiling Together. Get your free downloadable Valentine’s Day card here!

For some super cute fun DIY inspiration – what this video! This is such a sweet idea!!

READY FOR A GIVEAWAY?!

One lucky reader will win a $25 Visa gift card and (3) coupons for $5.00 off the purchase of any Entenmann’s® Little Bites®. Giveaway ends 2/15 at 11:59pm EST. Giveaway is open to US residents, age 18+. Good luck!! Use the Rafflecopter form below to enter!

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Sweet Pennies from Heaven is responsible for this giveaway and Entenmann’s® Little Bites® is providing the giveaway prizes.

K’NEX Wild Whiplash Roller Coaster Building Set Fun + Tips and Tricks

November 17, 2016 by Jenni 627 Comments

This post was sponsored on behalf of K’NEX, however, all opinions and building fun are 100% our own.

K'NEX Wild Whiplash Roller Coaster Building Set

Building things is just something that is naturally fun! Especially for the guys in my life. K’NEX recently sent us the new K’NEX Wild Whiplash Roller Coaster building set to put together. You should have seen my husband’s and son’s eyes light up when it arrived!

My husband has been working SO much overtime lately – so he and Eli only have the evenings to work on it at the moment. Last night, they pulled it from the box and got to work.

Here are a few tips to help get you going on the K’NEX Wild Whiplash Roller Coaster building set!

K'NEX Wild Whiplash Roller Coaster Building Set

#1 – Build in a Low Traffic Area

Seriously. My guys jumped the gun and just dumped everything out into the middle of my kitchen floor. HELLO?! Find a spot or corner where there isn’t much traffic through the house to build. Also, keep pets in mind. They get nosy and like to knock things over!

K'NEX Wild Whiplash Roller Coaster Building Set

#2 – Separate into Piles

Again. My guys jumped the gun on this one too. They just dumped it all out into the floor and then decided after just a few minutes that they should have separated the pieces into nice little piles.

K'NEX Wild Whiplash Roller Coaster Building Set

#3 – Be patient

Rome wasn’t built in a day, right?! If you’re like us and short on time – pick a time to build with your kids if they need help! Choose weeknights, after dinner. Or on the weekends! We’ll be finishing ours up on Thanksgiving break!

#4 – Have FUN and Encourage REAL Play

Today, our kids are so into digital and electronic play. We can build things, with just a click on a computer screen. It doesn’t use as much “brain power” as physically building an actual building set! The K’NEX Wild Whiplash Roller Coaster building set is perfect for digging in and encouraging real building and playing!

More about K’NEX Wild Whiplash Roller Coaster:

Seriously! Get ready for the ride of your life!! This bad boy stands over 2 1/2 feet high! This creepy carnival themed coaster works by a motorized chain lift that shoots the coaster car through 14 FEET of twists and turns!

Thankfully, it comes with easy to follow, step by step building instructions. Everyone can build it!! There are even instructions for a 2nd coaster that you can download from knex.com! It’s the perfect gift this holiday season or ANYtime for that matter! You can find it exclusively at Walmart! You can also find other massive, moving, motortized roller coaster toys, ferris wheels, and more from K’NEX!

K’NEX wants to show kids that the only limit to building is the size of your imagination! After 25 years of business, K’NEX prides itself on connecting science, technology, engineering, arts, and math with imagination.

Visit K’NEX on social media to see what they’re up to!

Facebook: KNEX / Twitter: @KNEX / Instagram: @knexbrands / Pinterest: K’NEX Brands

Tell us, would your family love the K’NEX Wild Whiplash Roller Coaster?!

Back to School Morning Routines That Work

August 28, 2016 by Jenni 502 Comments

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Smartypants Vitamins, however, all opinions and routine ideas are our own!

Morning Routines that Work!

Summer flew by faster than a jet airplane this year, didn’t it?! I’m telling you! BOOM. Before we knew it, it was already time to start school shopping and I was like, “Wait…what happened?!”.

That first week of getting everyone out the door is pretty ugly. The kid’s crying, husband’s crying…I’m crying. I’m just ready to get them outta my hair and get a cup of coffee, already! But by the 2nd week — things are moving much more smoothly! Shewweeee!

Our Moms Check In crew is sharing some easy morning routines that work! Keywords here being, “that work!”.

Take a few of these tips from us – and see if it doesn’t help make your mornings run a little smoother too! Be sure to chat with us on social media using hashtag #MomsCheckIn and #SmartyRoutines!

Make sure that you also RSVP to the upcoming #SmartyRoutines Twitter party where you can join the chat – plus we’ll be giving away some fantastic prizes!! Party is scheduled for August 31st at 9pm EST.

These are our our easy morning routines that work…

“Mornings for us are pretty different than they were last year! This year we are homeschooling so we have eliminated a lot of the rush which feels so amazing! I’m all for calm and less stress! One change that I have added to our routine is that I spend a few minutes (usually only 5-7) doing some yoga. It may sound silly or that those few minutes can’t really make a difference, but they do! It gives me a few minutes to just wake up, stretch and get ready. Then it’s breakfast, vitamins and beginning to get ready. I’ve also stopped the habit of waking up, grabbing my phone and checking my inbox in bed. Before, I was starting my day before I could even fully open my eyes! Small, simple changes have helped make our mornings not only calmer but so much more enjoyable. And when you start your mornings off enjoyable it’s much easier to have an awesome day!“

– Amanda is the mom to Joshua and owns It’s a Fabulous Life. If you are looking for a one stop place for all things mom, It’s a Fabulous Life is it! Full of recipes, fashion, DIY projects, recipes and parenting articles it’s the place for all of Mom’s favorites to come together! Follow her on Twitter here!

“Mornings are always busy! This year, we have lots of new things to experience: we’re in a new city, a new house and a new school district. Plus, Mike is no longer working outside the home. I feel like we’re starting our school morning routines from scratch. Thankfully, some of our usual habits will continue to serve us well. In the evening, I have Sam help me prep his backpack and clothes for the next day — this makes our morning so much easier! Once we’re up and around, I make his lunch while he eats breakfast. We follow breakfast with vitamins and a good teeth brushing. After a few minutes of reading and cuddles together, it’s time for out the door. I love the fall and I’m excited that back to school season is finally here!“

– Stephanie is the mom to Sam and the author of Spaceships and Laser Beams. If you ever need party ideas her site is the place to visit! Specializing in all things boy, it’s full of inspiration! Follow her on Twitter here!

“Honestly, mornings around here started out pretty rough when school started. Now that we’re 3 weeks in, things are smooth sailing. Setting the coffee pot timer the night before, is the FIRST thing I do! We also have clothes and backpacks laid out the night before. On the weekends, I use gallon sized bags to divy up lunch items for the days of the week. That way, all I have to do is grab the bag and put everything inside Eli’s lunchbox. It only takes a second, vs. 5 extra minutes out of the morning. Another thing I use that really helps us stick to our routine is cellphone timers. I have a timer for everything…and when the timer goes off, we do that task. Wash face and hands, brush teeth, get dressed, eat breakfast and take vitamins, grab backpack, say our morning prayer, watch for the bus. Works like a charm! Sounds a little OCD, right?! But hey — we get out the door on time and with less drama, each and every morning!! Plus, Eli thinks it’s fun and he likes to beat his time for each task. He looks at it as sort of a challenge!!“

– Jenni is the mom of one and the author of Sweet Pennies From Heaven. A hearth and home website, Sweet Pennies From Heaven focuses on recipes, crafts and creating a comfortable home. Follow her on Twitter here!

The struggle is so real ?. If you’re like us, your kids are dang picky. It’s tough to get those key nutrients like omega 3s and vitamin D3 into their diet. Salmon? Beans? Oh-kale-no! It’s time to #GetSmarty and introduce them to a gummy vitamin made with premium, non-GMO ingredients and a bit of soluble fiber to keep life moving right along 😉 #AllinOne #IngredientsMatter . . . #healthychoices #fiber #kidshealth #healthydiet #thegoodgummy #gummyvitamins #nutrients #vitamins

A photo posted by SmartyPants Vitamins (@smartyhealth) on Aug 10, 2016 at 6:46am PDT

If I’m being 100% honest, my kiddo’s diet isn’t balanced. I’m betting that the majority of kids’ diets aren’t balanced. Just to ensure that they’re getting the things that they’re lacking…vitamins are a MUST. Our favorite is the SmartyPants vitamins! There are several reasons why…

They’re yummy gummy vitamins, of course. Much easier to get kids to take gummies, than a pill or chalky chewable.
They taste really good!
Only the best ingredients are used. We’re talking non-GMO and contain no high-fructose corn syrup. They’re gluten free and contain no yeast, wheat, milk, eggs, gluten, salt, peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, synthetic colors, artificial flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives.
Even their Omega 3s are sourced from eco-friendly small fish populations.
SmartyPants vitamins pack in your vitamin needs in a yummy gummy. Yeah, yeah…this one was mentioned twice – but I think it’s worth repeating. (Find out more about what goes into their vitamins here!)

You’re invited — #SmartyRoutines Twitter Party

You’re welcome to come and party with us Wednesday, August 31st at 9pm EST. During our #SmartyRoutines Twitter party, we’ll be chatting about our morning routines plus we’ll have some awesome prizes to give away! Just RSVP below to be eligible to win!

Before you RSVP below…make sure that you’re following the #SmartyRoutines hosts below as well!

Follow:
@MomsCheckIn
@SmartyHealth
@AmandaRFaulkner
@SpaceshipsLB
@SweetPennies

What is Moms Check In?

Who are the moms of Moms Check In? We’re 3 moms who are also professional bloggers. We chat about a new topic each week. We talk about things from dirty diapers to date night, and everything in between. Moms love to talk to other moms and let’s face it…MOMS know everything!!

Before you leave, let us know…

What are your easy morning routines that work?

Bug Scavenger Hunt Free Printable + Live Life Outside Sweepstakes

August 3, 2016 by Jenni 1,230 Comments

This post was sponsored by TruGreen as part of Influencer Activation for Influence Central. Our bug scavenger hunt free printable and Live Life Outside sweepstakes information and opinions are all our own.

Bug Scavenger Hunt Free Printable

As a child growing up in the 80’s, playing outside till dark was the norm. We didn’t sit inside in front of a screen all day. We caught bugs, played hide and seek, dodgeball, you name it. I remember doing a bug scavenger hunt when I was little. In the fall, when the leaves would start dropping, my mom and I used to find all the different leaves and she’d tell me what they were. Ahhh, the memories!

I bet you didn’t have a clue, but kids ages 8-18 spend an average of 7 hours and 38 minutes in front of an iPad, game system, TV, and online…in a typical day. INSTEAD of playing outside! I know my kiddo spends tons of time inside – but never really looked at how MUCH time. We’re changing that.

This summer, TruGreen is encouraging us to get outside and make memories with our loved ones…doing fun “outdoorsy” things. They’ve launched the #LiveLifeOutside 2016 Summer Sweepstakes! All you have to do to enter is to share photos or videos for a chance to win weekly prizes!

Bug Scavenger Hunt Free Printable – Just click to Download

We love bugs around here, and our Bug Scavenger Hunt is funnnn! Just click to download your bug scavenger hunt free printable and find them all!

TruGreen #LiveLifeOutside Sweepstakes

While you’re on your adventures with the family, snap some photos or videos and enter the TruGreen #LiveLifeOutside sweepstakes!! You might just win one of those weekly prizes! Click here to find out more about the sweepstakes!

Follow TruGreen on their social media channels below to stay up to date with the latest news and more fun family ideas!

TruGreen Twitter: https://twitter.com/trugreen
TruGreen Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trugreen
TruGreen Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/trugreen
TruGreen Instagram: TruGreen_Lawn

I’d love to hear your ideas about fun ways to engage the kids outdoors this summer! Leave us a comment and let us know what your kids love to do outside!!

Step2 Waterfall Discovery Wall Giveaway – Ends 5/16

May 3, 2016 by Jenni 387 Comments

Can you believe that Summer is right around the corner?! It’s time for all the fun outdoors activities and the new Step2 Waterfall Discovery Wall is just in time! New for summer 2016, your kids will love scooping, pouring and building mazes all throughout this water play wall!

Check out the full review of the latest water toy from The Step2 Company, including 40+ Summer Water Activities for Kids and a printable summer checklist at Raising Whasians.

Ready for a giveaway?

Thanks to The Step2 Company and Raising Whasians, 1 lucky reader will win the new Step2 Waterfall Discovery Wall, a $49.99 value! What a great toy to have just in time for the heat of summer! Open to U.S. residents of the 48 contiguous states only. Ends 5/16/16 11:59 pm EST. Here’s how to enter:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Contest open to U.S. residents only, ages 18 and over. No Purchase Necessary to enter. This giveaway is in no way affiliated with Facebook, Pinterest, Youtube or Twitter. One entrant per household/IP address.

This disclosure is made in accordance with the FTC 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements. Entrants must only enter with either one email address, IP address, and/or Facebook account. Anyone found violating these rules will be disqualified. It is at the sole discretion of the admin of the giveaway if the winner has met the rules or not.

Grilled Smores Sandwich – Creating Happy Family Moments

April 28, 2016 by Jenni 282 Comments

This post was sponsored by Hello Happy. Hello Hershey’s. as part of an Ambassador Activation for Influence Central.

Grilled Smores Sandwich

Did you know that even the smallest thing can create a chain reaction of happiness? We all love to make our family happy, and it doesn’t really take too much – especially if it’s just a grilled Smores sandwich! Do these things make you happy?

a morning hug and a kiss
a surprise “I love you” text or lunchbox note
making the family’s favorite treat

Those are just a few things that instantly come to my mind…small things that make me happy.

Nothing suits a belly better than a grilled Smores sandwich! Ever had one?

Buttery on the outside, and full of ooey gooey chocolaty and marshmallowy goodness on the inside.

Mercy.

You won’t believe how easy these are to make, here’s what you need…

Grilled Smores Sandwich Ingredients:

1 tsp. of softened butter
2 slices sandwich bread (wheat or white)
1 HERSHEY’S Milk Chocolate Bar (or substitute with HERSHEY’S Chocolate Spreads)
1 graham cracker sheet
4 marshmallows, cut in half horizontally

Grilled Smores Sandwich Directions:

Butter one slice of bread with half the butter. Place buttered side down in a cold skillet.
Break chocolate bar into sections and evenly place them on the unbuttered side of bread.
Layer with graham cracker, breaking to fit.
Top with marshmallow halves.
Butter one side of second piece of bread, and lay down buttered side up.
Heat over medium/low heat, until bottom of sandwich is golden brown. VERY VERY carefully flip the sandwich, and heat until the bottom is golden brown on that side as well. Remove from the skillet, cut and serve.

What are your happy moments throughout the day?

I’d love to know what little things make you happy! Maybe it can give me and everyone else a little more insight!

I’m really pumped to be working with HERSHEY’S on this Hello Happy Moments campaign. The idea behind it is to make us think about how to create happy moments – even in places or at times where we’re not usually happy, like during our morning commute, at work, or when our weekend plans have been rained out.

Check out this video. I bet you’ll cry, just like I did – so grab a tissue!

Blowing dandelions and makin’ wishes. ?????

A photo posted by Jenni Eaves (@sweetpennies) on Apr 19, 2016 at 12:25pm PDT

9 Fun and Easy Ways to Spark Happy Family Moments:

blow dandelions, and make wishes!
have a family bake day
have a family dance off
surprise tea party or picnic
water balloon fight
weird family science experiment (something gross and gooey!)
pitch a tent in the backyard and roast S’Mores
family karaoke night
catch lightning bugs in a jar

Another fun family moment that’s coming up is “Take Your Kids to Work Day”. Although this day is officially set for April 28th, it can really be celebrated any day. It’s a great time to spark some fun, happy moments and for parents to show off their careers to inspire their kids to be whatever they want to be.

Ready for a SWEET Giveaway?

In celebration of Hello Happy, Hello Hershey’s — one lucky reader will win a HERSHEY’S Products Prize Package! US residents only, age 18+ are eligible. You can enter using the Rafflecopter form below. Giveaway ends May 3rd, 2016 at 11:59pm EST. The prize package will include:

HERSHEY’S Chocolate Syrup – one bottle
HERSHEY’S Spreads in Chocolate – one container
HERSHEY’S Cocoa – one container
HERSHEY’S KISSES – one bag
HERSHEY’S Milk Chocolate Chips – one bag
HERSHEY’S Milk Chocolate Bars – two bars
Bag of Marshmallows
Box of Graham Crackers

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Contest entrants are only eligible to win once per sweepstake, per household as part of a campaign sponsored by Influence Central.

Popsicle Stick Puzzle for Valentine’s Day – “Let’s STICK Together”

February 1, 2016 by 660 Comments

Popsicle Stick Puzzle for Valentine’s Day

Popsicle Stick Puzzle crafts are so awesome because you can make them for any holiday! You can even make more general ones for colors, shapes, alphabet, and much more! Every mom and crafter has most, if not all of the supplies needed to make these!!

With Valentine’s Day so close, I wanted to re-share this awesome kids Valentine’s Day Craft! The kiddos will love making their popsicle stick puzzle! If you’re looking for a super cool classroom exchange idea…this is the perfect one! The kids in the class will love them!

Supplies:

Click NEXT for the Popsicle Stick Puzzle Instructions

Pages: 1 2

100% Natural Baby Products Alternatives + 5 Things to Leave Out of Your Diaper Bag!

NO MOM GUILT ALLOWED!

5 REAL – 100% Natural Baby Products Alternatives!

1. Ditch Talcum Powder and/or Baby Powder (linked to ovarian cancer and lung diseases)

2. Ditch Traditional Baby Oil (they limit skin breathability and toxin release!)

3. Ditch the Anti-bacterial Soaps and Gels (they contain triclosan, which is carcinogenic. Don’t believe me? Google it!)

4. Belladonna (found in teething remedies) – linked to seizures!

5. Fragrances (can cause respiratory, neurological, and skin damage. May lead to asthma!)

Tell us, what products have you ditched and switched? We’d love to know!!

Sick Day Activities for Kids at Home!

Break up that Fever!

Ready for Those Sick Day Activities for Kids at Home?

Watch a Movie!

2. Extra Tablet or iPad Time!

3. Book Marathon!

4. Play Cards or Board Games!

5. Puzzles!

6. Tell Stories!

7. Mini Sandbox Fun!

Ready for a Giveaway?!

How to Decorate the Rim of a Glass with Sprinkles!

How to Decorate the Rim of a Glass with Sprinkles!

Portable for School Lunches!

More about K’NEX Wild Whiplash Roller Coaster:

Morning Routines that Work!

These are our our easy morning routines that work…

You’re invited — #SmartyRoutines Twitter Party

What is Moms Check In?

Before you leave, let us know…

What are your easy morning routines that work?

Ready for a giveaway?

Grilled Smores Sandwich

What are your happy moments throughout the day?

9 Fun and Easy Ways to Spark Happy Family Moments:

Ready for a SWEET Giveaway?

Popsicle Stick Puzzle for Valentine’s Day

Click NEXT for the Popsicle Stick Puzzle Instructions

Quick Links