Protect Your Skin This Summer with Block Island Organics! (Review)

             Hey folks! Summer is just around the corner and that means one thing for those of us, like yours truly, who weren't blessed with naturally tanning skin, like my husband: Sunscreen! (It is wise for EVERYONE to still wear at least a little, even if you tan easily. You are still getting those UV rays!) Maybe we have more in common than you know and you have climbed out of your winter hidey hole already to work on the yard and other outdoor projects. If that's the case, there have already been some days that we have benefited from sunscreen!

             Now, before I jump into today's review, I want to share a little secret. Well, it's not really a secret, but I hate sunscreen. Like absolutely hate everything about it. I hate putting it on and taking even more time to get ready, I hate that it makes me feel like my skin can't breath and makes me feel even HOTTER, I hate all of the unpronounceable chemicals in it, and, most of all, I hate how greasy it is! I don't even like or use regular lotion unless absolutely necessary for the last reason. To me, sunscreen is a necessary evil. The moral of that story being that I am hard to please when it comes to sunscreen. So why did I decide to review the Block Island sunscreen?

             Believe it or not, I do research into products before accepting them for review. The Natural Mineral Sunscreen grabbed my attention right away because it has ingredients I recognize and can pronounce! Block Island is completely transparent when it comes to the ingredients in their products.

             I am a big fan of the Environmental Working Group's website. If you're not familiar with it, they have a database of all kinds of products and just how “natural” they are according to their ingredients list and each ones toxicity. It's pretty cool. Anyways, Block Island's Natural Mineral Sunscreen has been listed on EWG's Best Beach & Sport Sunscreen list for three years in a row! Here are some other things I liked about it or thought were worth mentioning:

*NOT greasy!

*Actually smells good. Even my 4 year old said so.

*A little goes a long way! I will admit that when I first saw the bottle I was like, “Is this a joke? This is their full-sized bottle?! I'm going to use this up after, like, 3 or 4 uses!” It's a mere 3.4 fl. oz. It can fit in your purse. (And definitely your beach bag or backpack!) Honestly, though, it really does just take a little. I'm still so used to “regular sunscreen” that I regularly use more than I need to, but the kids and I have used it at least 3 or 4 times each and there is still PLENTY left!

*With having so much zinc oxide (22%, the active ingredient that does the actual sun blocking), it is sometimes hard to work in all the way...Then again, it may just be from me using too much! But I'm not a fan of looking like I have sunscreen on, so I thought it was worth mentioning.

*It seems like if I have a bunch on my hands already, but continue trying to work it in on the kids it starts “flaking” some. Again, it may be from using too much.

*Needs to be reapplied every 2 hours, which is more often than most sunscreens I've seen.

*I really like that my skin still feels like it's able to breath. Regular sunscreens make me feel like my skin is suffocating, for lack of a better way to put it, and it makes me feel even hotter, like my body heat/sweat can't escape properly. Which, in turn, makes me feel weird overall.

*We used this while fishing at the lake all day and I didn't reapply it as directed time-wise. (I know, I know.) My 4 year old's cheeks were a little pink at the end of the day and my face was a bit pink too, but we didn't get burnt to a crisp! I think that says something considering the light was reflecting off the water back onto us and all that. It was a very sunny day too!

*The one major wish I have for the Natural Mineral Sunscreen is that it were waterproof! Then it would be perfect. ;) I have found that it is great for working in the yard and fishing, though, so far!

             You can learn more about Block Island Organic's Natural Mineral Sunscreen and the rest of their skincare products on their website by clicking the link above. You can also stay up-to-date with them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. Plus, if you still need to stock up on sunscreen for the summer, be sure to use the discount code below on your order from Block Island!

 Use code alicia at checkout to receive 20% off on their site. Discount is good from 5/17/17-5/23/17. Please note that this code cannot be used in conjunction with other discounts.

Bust Boredom with ColorTime Crafts! (Review & Giveaway)

             Hey folks! I don't know about where you are, but Mother Nature seems to have gotten confused here in Indiana this year. Usually it's rainy and miserable for the majority of April. Well, it's been super nice...until the last week. Then we got crazy amounts of rain and there's more on the way this week! None of us do very well when cooped up indoors for too long. When Colortime Crafts and Markers offered to let us try one of their products out, I knew it would be the perfect rainy day craft!

             Colortime Crafts specializes in items, such as shirts, pillow cases, tote bags, etc., that you can color yourself! As you can probably guess from their name, they also offer a colorful array of special fabric markers used for coloring your items. Colortime Crafts has something for boys and girls alike and offers items perfect for scouts and summer camp. Regardless of whether kids are working on their own, wearable works of art with a group of friends or just chilling at home with family, it's a lot of fun designing and coloring something you will be able to use for years to come. And best of all? Everything is affordable!

            We recently had the opportunity to try out one of their shirts. The smallest size I saw available was a youth small, so I was afraid even that would be too large for my 4 year old (She's my oldest so I'm not really familiar with regular “kid sizes” yet. ha ha), but it fits perfectly for a comfy shirt!

We didn't get to choose what color markers we received to try out, but they couldn't have picked more perfect colors! These three seem to be her fave at the moment, so that was a pleasant surprise. :) (Don't worry. They have MANY more colors to choose from online!)

We completed about half of this on a crummy weather day while the little monster was sleeping. It was the perfect activity! Plus, I'm pretty sure it relaxed both of us. It seemed like it helped her calm down. ;)

Even with the large markers, she didn't seem to have any trouble with them. Also, side note, even though it is suggested to put something inside the shirt while coloring (we used a paper grocery bag), the “bleed through” was very minimal.

This is before and after washing, respectively. I don't think there's much of a difference, do you? The marker color is not supposed to fade or bleed at all after washing. Speaking of which, I like that there is no special prep for these items. The company actually recommends NOT washing it before coloring (which is great if you have impatient little ones like me!) and washing it like regular afterward. I am very much a fan of easy and not having to “baby” things!

The final product in action! ;)

             Colortime Crafts also offers wholesale orders, free coloring pages, and a birthday club! You can stay up-to-date with them on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram. And, before you run off, be sure to enter the giveaway below for your choice of backpack and three fabric markers. Giveaway open to U.S. Only.
            And, if that's not enough, be sure to check out these specials and other giveaways below!

The coupon: 15% off online retail purchases.

Use coupon code 15for30C when you check out at colortime.com. Coupon must be entered at the time of purchase. Offer not valid on sale items and may not be combined with other offers or discounts.

Offer expires on July 18, 2017.

The Free Shipping:  Free ground shipping on orders over $60. In the continental US. Only for retail, web-based orders, placed on our website. Not to be combined with any other offers and discounts.

To get the free shipping, use code FRSHW.

The giveaway: Colortime is doing a giveaway via our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/colortimecrafts). It is a weekly fan giveaway. Here are the instructions:

Each week Colortime Crafts and Markers will randomly draw 1 lucky FAN who will receive a special craft package, which includes a Colortime print item of your choice and three special permanent Colortime FABRIC MARKERS. All you have to do to be eligible is to "like" and become a fan of Colortime Crafts and Markers on Facebook.

The winners' Facebook name will be posted each Monday on the Colortime Crafts and Markers Facebook page. We will send you a message on Facebook informing you that you won. Look for it, and if your name is a winner, you can also send us an email message to info@colortime.com with your full name and address and in either case we will ship your prize within 2 weeks.

Rules:

1) You must be a fan of Colortime Crafts and Markers (www.facebook.com/colortimecrafts) Facebook page.

2) Once you win a prize, you are not eligible for additional prizes for this promotion for 12 months after the prize has been awarded.

3) Prizes not claimed within 2 weeks will be forfeited.

Also, we have FREE coloring pages available for download! Those can be found here: http://www.colortime.com/Free-Coloring-Pages-c64.html

Entry-Form

Mixed Bag Mama did not receive monetary compensation for this post. Product was received in order to facilitate this review and my honest feedback. All opinions are my own. This giveaway is not endorsed or affiliated by any social media networks mentioned including, but not limited to, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, or YouTube. Mixed Bag Mama and all participating bloggers are not responsible for prize shipment.
 

Omaiki Lotus Reusable Pad Starter Set Giveaway

            Reusable menstrual pads from Omaïki's Lötus line are a great way to go green! They're trim, absorbent and made in Canada with Canadian materials. With a waterproof PUL backing, they keep your clothing dry and have wings to secure around underwear. Available in multiple sizes including thong-liners, they are a great way to keep toxins away from your most intimate areas. Read Mama Banana's Adventures Omaïki Lötus review for full details and enter to win a set below!

           Why cloth pads? Cloth pads are free from the toxins found in disposable menstrual products and many women report that they seriously reduce or stop menstrual cramps. In this fantastic starter set, you get 2 panty liners, 2 mini-maxi, 2 maxi and a matching wetbag! It's a great way to try out reusable pads, add to your collection or to give as a gift. The Omaiki Lotus starter set can be found on their website and at select retailers. Omaïki Lötus Features:

• Made in Canada with Canadian fabrics
• Organic cotton and bamboo
• Washable
• Thin but absorbent
• Waterproof PUL backing
• Nature-inspired prints
• Serged edges for minimal panty lines
• Available in 5 sizes for Menstrual Care
  • Panty liner 8.5"
  • Mini-Maxi 8.5"
  • Maxi Pads 11"
  • Maxi Plus 11"
  • Thong liner
• Available in Incontinence
  • Light, Medium and Premium
• Wings that snap around your underwear
  • Wings also roll up soiled pads for placement in wetbag
• Matching wet bags with zipper and pouch

Enter the giveaway below! $60 arv open to USA & Canada 18+, void where prohibited. Good luck!

Entry-Form

Disclosure: This giveaway is in no way associated with, sponsored, administered, or endorsed by Facebook, Twitter, Google, Pinterest or any other social media network. Event organized by Mama Banana’s Adventures. Open to legal residents 18+ of USA and Canada. Confirmed Winner will be contacted by email and have 48 hours to respond before a new winner will be drawn. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. The disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Mama Banana's Adventures & participating bloggers are not responsible for lost or stolen prizes. For questions about this event contact MamaBananasAdventures@gmail.com

Beautiful Views & Exploring at Shades State Park

             Hey folks! Myka recently stayed with my parents a few days around Easter. We always meet halfway for both of us in Crawfordsville to “exchange” her since we live so far away from one another. To get to the point, Shades State Park is only about 20/25 minutes from there, so I decided that would be our second stop on my quest to visit all of our state parks this year!

             We had been to Shades two years ago in the late winter when we were house hunting. It was super cold and dreary out and I’m pretty sure there was still snow on the ground. We just stopped briefly to check it out since we were in the area and  see if it would be worth visiting when it was warmer out. We weren't all that impressed. It didn't seem like there was much to do. And, to be honest, there really isn't, in a way, depending on what you enjoy doing at state parks. If staying at an inn with a restaurant, visiting the nature center, and going on short, easy hikes are your thing, Shades is probably not for you. If you're into moderate to rugged hiking, “roughing it” camping (non-electric campground), or just want to go there for a picnic or family get together, then you're in luck!
             I like hiking as much as the next person, but I'll be totally honest: I'm really out of shape...And I was alone with both of the kids, as I probably will be on most of these state park trips. Needless to say, we didn't get too adventurous. 

 

             I had intended on taking one of two short, easy trails, Trail 6, which is only .5 miles. The thing is, I'm really bad at reading maps. Like, I'm pretty sure I'll get us lost in the woods at some point this year on one of these journeys. Plus, there were some people with dogs that didn't exactly sound friendly, so I think I panicked a little and wanted to go the opposite way of them. Which landed us on part of trail 1...

             While only .75 miles in length, Trail 1 is listed as moderate/rugged and went down many, many steep stairs to the bottom of a ravine where you can walk through the creek bed and check out a small waterfall, evidently. Myka wanted to explore this, of course, but there was no way in hell I was going down there without extra adult supervision to help out. You know what they say: What goes down, must come back up! Lol

 The Devil's Punchbowl/Creek Bed

             However, going on the wrong trail had worked out because we did get to see some beautiful sights. We got a gander of the gorge where the creek bed mentioned above was. There were also two lookout points: Inspiration and Prospect Point. I really shouldn't complain because it was a great view of Sugar Creek from both spots, but I was disappointed there were so many bees at Prospect Point as the view was admittedly better there. (Btw, what is UP with the BEES this spring?! I'm not talking about the good, honeybees either!) I just kind of reached, clicked, and hoped for the best as far as pictures went there. :D 

 From Prospect Point

From Inspiration Point

 
             Myka was getting kind of burnt out by the time we got done, so I couldn't talk her into checking the pond out. While we didn't walk down the crazy stairs to the creek bed, we did have to walk up and down quite a few at the beginning/end of trail 1. I think she was also kind of disappointed there were tons of those bees swarming around the little playground area we found too. I made up for it by taking her to the park in Greencastle on the way home. ;)

             We weren't there long, and while I would love to go on some of the other trails some time, it was still definitely worth going out of our way a little. The pictures really don't do the views justice. (I know, I know. I really need to work on my photography skills.) It was worth going just for those!
             Since this park is so close to Turkey Run, which is larger and has many more amenities, it seems like it would be nice and quiet for camping at Shades. I'm hoping I can talk John into giving it a go sometime since HE'S the one who brought up camping the other night! We haven't been in years, so have never been with the kids...Wish me luck!

Save on Eyelasses With GlassesShop.com

             Did you know?...”According to the Vision Council of America, approximately 75% of adults use some sort of vision correction. About 64% of them wear eyeglasses...” That's quite a large percentage of the population! If you happen to be part of that 64%, you know how pricey eyeglasses can be! That's why I'm super excited to share with you about GlassesShop.com today!

             GlassesShop.com offers complete eyeglasses, glasses frames, and even prescription sunglasses. They have tons of frames and colors to choose from (as well as sizes), sales, a great package that comes automatically with each set of eyeglasses (I'll get to more on that in a minute), and even feature a “try on” button where you can upload a photo of yourself and virtually try on glasses! Best of all? Their eyeglasses are actually affordable! Skeptical? Read on!

             GlassesShop.com graciously offered me a free pair of eyeglasses for review in return for an honest opinion of their glasses and services. Here are some of my thoughts, in no particular order:

*As I mentioned, they have a great package that comes standard with all glasses, regardless of which of their three packages you choose from. Automatically included for free are single vision, anti-scratch, anti-reflective coating, and UV coating. (It also comes with a case and microfiber cleaning cloth, as pictured.) I believe the last pair I got through the eye doctor included anti-scratch for free, but everything else I had to pay extra!

*They truly are extremely affordable. For fun (and because I don't like promoting products to you guys that are outrageously expensive!), I figured up how much the pair I received would have been had I bought them. I do have prescription lenses and altogether my pair of glasses would have only been $40! Yes, frames and lenses included!

*Add-ons, such as transition lenses, are available as well.

*I'm pretty unobservant most of the time and actually didn't notice the “try on” mode until after I received my eyeglasses. Although everything worked out fine, I wish I would have seen it sooner because one of my biggest concerns was that I would not like the way the glasses looked: In person and on myself. I'm pretty picky about the style of my glasses and have very specific preferences.

*I'm actually pleased with the way the frames look and like them on me!

*Also, because I'm insanely pessimistic sometimes and was thinking this whole thing was too good to be true with the inexpensive frames and free package listed above, I was worried the prescription would be messed up. It would just be my luck that I would really like the frames only to find the prescription wasn't right. But, that wasn't the case and they are perfect!

*I like that the website lists the exact measurements for each pair of glasses so you can take measurements or compare them to an old pair of glasses that fit well so you can find a pair that will fit you perfectly! This was something else I was a little concerned about as a lot of pairs at the eye doctor seemed too small for my head. So, I just compared the dimensions of the ones I received to an old pair I like to make sure they were close.

*Speaking of which, the fit of my GlassesShop.com pair seems to be ok even though they are a bit smaller width-wise than my old ones. (They don't seem to slide down my nose as much, which is an added perk!)

*Totally honest here, I can actually see better out of these than my old ones I ordered through the eye doctor because of the anti-reflective coating. I didn't feel like paying the extra, so decided to forgo it this last time. Let me tell you, it DOES make a big difference! (But if that lady from the eye doctor who tried to convince me of this and kept trying to push it on me ever asks, I'll never admit it. ;) )

*Since GlassesShop.com eyeglasses are so cheap (in a good way), I like that I can afford to have a back-up pair, whether it be one of theirs or the ones from the eye doctor. Kids are rough and we live on a farm, so I feel like my glasses are constantly in jeopardy and getting dirty. Now I'm not so worried if anything ever happens to my main pair!

Jersey Rectangle-Blue

These are the ones I chose. They look blue or black depending on the lighting!

*Also, and I know I'm totally ragging on eye doctors here, but my glasses arrived a LOT faster from GlassesShop.com. It only took, like, 1/3 of the time it did to get my last pair I ordered through the doctor's.

             If all that isn't enough to convince you guys to give them a try, maybe this is! Use coupon code GSHOT50 to receive 50% off on eyeglasses and sunglasses with free lenses. (Sale frames excluded.) Now would be the perfect time to order prescription sunglasses!

             GlassesShop.com has all kinds of deals, so be sure to check them out and peruse through their wide variety of frames, packages, and add-ons. (Did I mention you can get just the frames too?) You're sure to find something that will fit both your style and budget! You can stay up-to-date with them on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Mixed Bag Mama was not compensated for this post. I received an item in return for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own.

Softbums Diaper & Leggings Giveaway

            Cloth diapers are a great way to keep baby dry, chemical-free and save the planet from disposable waste. SOFTBUMS cloth diapers are well known for their excellent fit, Made in the USA quality and adjustable leg elastics. One lucky winner will win this Love Blossom shell + floral leggings perfect for Spring and Summer! You can shop at SOFTBUMs at my affiliate below to see their selection. Enter to win below and good luck! Giveaway is open to USA & Canada and ends 5/25.

 

SOFTBUMS features:

• Made in the USA
• 2 Styles, ECHO (AI2) or OMNI (Pocket)
• One-Size that fits newborn and up!
• Patented slide-size adjustable elastic
  • Helps prevent leaks
  • No need for rise snaps
• High-quality strength hook & loop
• Lined with super soft unbleached, hypo-allergenic fleece
• Snap-in pod system for easy washing and fast changes
• Save 10% with coupon GCDC2017 until 6/1/2017

 

Giveaway is open to US & Canadian residents 18+, void where prohibited. All entries will be verified, winner will have 48 hours to respond to e-mail or new winner will be drawn.

Entry-Form

Disclosure: This giveaway is in no way associated with, sponsored, administered, or endorsed by Facebook, Twitter, Google, Pinterest or any other social media network. Event organized by Mama Banana’s Adventures. Open to legal residents 18+ of USA and Canada. Confirmed Winner will be contacted by email and have 48 hours to respond before a new winner will be drawn. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. The disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Mama Banana's Adventures is not responsible for lost or stolen prizes. For questions about this event contact MamaBananasAdventures@gmail.com

Love Being a Kid Giveaway

Sponsored By:  

Safety Tat, The Magic Of My Name, Zumoe, pBuzz, Chanteur, Cozy Phones, My Bright Family, and My Grandmother, Mi Abuela

Hosted By: 

Love, Mrs. Mommy

Co-Hosted By: Easter Babe's Theory, My Silly Little Gang, First Time Mom, Michigan Saving and More, and Heartbeats~Soul Stains

1 Lucky Winner Will Receive Over $230 worth of goodies!!

Plus half of the prizes are Winner's Choice! Details are listed under the descriptions...

Safety Tat

For nearly a decade, Safety Tat has been America’s leading choice for ensuring safe returns.

Their proven, award-winning temp-tattoo and labeling solutions not only provides a fun level of security for your little ones, but peace of mind for Moms and Dads as well. And SafetyTat offers a wide range of flexible products to fit your needs for literally any occasion. Winner can choose any 6-pack of write-on tats, a $10.99 RV!

The Magic Of My Name

In this book, each name generates a unique and fully customized story for each child. No matter if the boy or girl is called Carl, Mary, Egoitz or Brianna, everyone will have a book for their name! In addition, you can edit the physical characteristics of the main character of the story for free. You can also include a personal dedication without additional costs. Winner will receive a personalized copy of The Magic Of My Name, a $29.99 RV!

Zumoe

Zumoe's Mouthguard and Pacifier Cases add pizzazz to your very important items. The Carabiner assures safety in finding your mouth guard or pacifier a snap and the ID tag is a helpful feature. Other great uses for these cases include storage for your retainer, barrettes, jewelry and all the little things that mean a lot to you. Winner will receive a case of their choice up to an $19.99 RV!

pBuzz

Designed by a team of British musicians the pBuzz is a completely new musical instrument. The brightly colored, light and smooth curved edged product has been designed specifically for mini musicians’ little hands. Simple and easy to play the mouthpiece makes it the perfect introduction to brass playing for early learners. Winner will receive a pBuzz instrument, a $29.95 RV!

Chanteur

Chanteur started out by selling a few products to local shops, but has since expanded to produce and sell thousands of jewelry items per year. We can honestly say our brand represents a line of jewelry that is world-class, and is a perfect choice for the ones you love most. Winner will receive any item of their choice from their website, worth a retail of $94.95!

Cozy Phones

CozyPhones is a small family-owned business that started off by selling sleeping headphones on Amazon, then developed their own brand of fun, comfortable, kids headband headphones called CozyPhones™. They are a veteran owned, U.S. based business and promise a 100% satisfaction with their products. Winner's choice of any in stock kids headphones, a $24.95 RV!

My Bright Family 

​Teaching our children to be polite and have manners is very important. From the time my daughter was very little (yes, even younger than now, hehe), I always made sure to incorporate “please” and “thank you” into her daily routine. Now that my daughter is older, there is this great placemat to help teach her how a place setting looks and helps keep her place at our table clean. This adorable and very helpful placemat was made by My Bright Family, and was definitely a bright idea! Winner will receive a 60-pack of placemats! A $9.99 RV! Read more of my review here!

My Grandmother, Mi Abuela

My Grandmother, Mi Abuela is a Bilingual children's picture book. My Grandmother, Mi Abuela celebrates the relationship a Granddaughter has with her Grandmother. As they both grow, the unconditional love they share for one another shines through the pages.This heartwarming story is sure to make you want to hold your own Grandmother closer. Winner will receive a copy of My Grandmother, Mi Abuela, a $10.99 RV!

Open To US - Must be 18+ to enter 

Giveaway Dates ~ 5/5 12:01 AM EST through 5/31 11:59 PM EST Good Luck!

Entry-Form

Disclosure: Love, Mrs. Mommy and all participating bloggers are not held responsible for sponsors who do not fulfill their prize obligations. Love, Mrs. Mommy received products at no cost to facilitate the above-mentioned review. This giveaway is in no way endorsed or sponsored by Facebook or any other social media site. The winner will be randomly drawn by Giveaway Tools and will be notified by email. The winner has 48 hours to reply before a new winner will be drawn. If you would like to participate in an event like this please contact LoveMrsMommy (at) gmail (dot) com.

Beessential Natural Body Care Giveaway

Beessential Natural Body Care Giveaway! 1 Winner ~ Ends 5/27 @BeessentialBDCR @SMGurusNetwork

1 winner will receive all 5 products pictured above! $48 TRV

This contest is hosted by the Social Media Gurus Network!

Below is a list of all the bloggers involved in the gift guide.

Michigan Saving and More

Deliciously Savvy

Tales From A Southern Mom

Heartbeats ~ Soul Stains

Welcome To My Kitchen

Life in a House of Testosterone

Here We Go Again ready

My Silly Little Gang

Everyday Gizmos Sweeps & Views

Bargnhtress

PaulaMS’ Giveaways, Reviews, & Freebies

Central Bargains and Giveaways

Eclectic Evelyn

Mami’s 3 Little Monkeys

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Now let’s get to the sponsor!

WEBSITE ~ FACEBOOK ~ TWITTER ~ PINTEREST ~ INSTAGRAM

1 Lucky Winner Will Receive:

All Natural Peppermint Foaming Hand Soap

Oatmeal and Honey Soap

Original Honey Fragrance Free Cream

Natural Peppermint Body Wash for Acne & Sensitive Skin

Honey Lip Balms

See My Review Here

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

THE GIVEAWAY

This giveaway is in no way endorsed, affiliated, or associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Media Networking Site.This Giveaway is valid in the United States Only and Entrants must be 18+ years of age to enter. This giveaway event will end at 11:59 PM (EST) 5/27/17. The winner will have 48 hours to email their information back to mcushing7 at hotmail dot com or a new winner will be drawn, you may want to put this email address as safe as it could go to spam. The sponsors are each responsible for shipping of the above prizes. No blog associated with this contests are responsible for prize fulfillment. If you would like to be a sponsor in a giveaway like this please email Melissa Cushing at mcushing7 (at)hotmail (dot) com. If you take an entry you must stay following for the entire contest or you will be disqualified.

Also we all “love it if you like us” on Facebook! If you like our blogs on social media it helps us bring you only the best giveaways and more of them!

Entry-Form

My Fairy Garden Giveaway

Welcome to the My Fairy Garden Giveaway!

This contest is hosted by the Social Media Gurus Network!

Below is a list of all the bloggers involved in the gift guide.

Michigan Saving and More

Deliciously Savvy

Tales From A Southern Mom

Heartbeats ~ Soul Stains

Welcome To My Kitchen

Life in a House of Testosterone

Here We Go Again ready

My Silly Little Gang

Everyday Gizmos Sweeps & Views

Mami’s 3 Little Monkeys

Bargnhtress

PaulaMS’ Giveaways, Reviews, & Freebies

Central Bargains and Giveaways

Eclectic Evelyn

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Now let’s get to the sponsor!

My Fairy Garden

FACEBOOK ~ TWITTER ~ INSTAGRAM ~ PINTEREST

My Fairy Garden

$24.99 RV

See review HERE.

Entry-Form

This giveaway is in no way endorsed, affiliated, or associated with Facebook, Twitter or any other Social Media Networking Site.You are not eligible if you have won a prize from the sponsor in the last 12 month. This giveaway is US, 18 or older. Only one entrant per household. Giveaway ends on 5/24 11:59 PM EST . Winner will be notified by email and has 24 hours to respond. If there is no response during that time a new winner will be chosen. If you take an entry you must stay following for the entire contest or you will be disqualified.

Also we all “love it if you like us” on Facebook! If you like our blogs on social media it helps us bring you only the best giveaways and more of them!

Our Afternoon at Brown County State Park

             Hey folks! For the first stop of our quest to visit all of the Indiana state parks this year, we visited Brown County S.P. recently! (If you want to get technical, it's our second park, but I don't count McCormick's Creek because it's only 12 minutes from us.)

             Brown County is the most popular state park in Indiana with the most annual visitors. (Our McCormick's Creek S.P. is pretty popular too and is actually the first state park established in the Hoosier state. Fun little fact, for ya. ;) ) Brown County is also the largest park area-wise. With beautiful scenic views any time of year, but especially in the fall, lakes, dozens of miles of trails for both hiking and biking, plenty of shelter and picnic areas, and an inn with a WATER PARK, you can see the appeal. If you live in Indiana and you you've never been to Brown County State Park, you need to get out more!

             I had actually planned on visiting Shakamak S.P. the week we went to Brown County, but then I saw that they were having a venomous snake program the Friday before Easter. I am not a fan of snakes, but Myka is and I've been wanting to learn more about the venomous ones in the area so I know what to look for! Unfortunately, I didn't get to hear much of the program, but I'll get to more on that in a minute.

             My first mistake was pulling over at this lookout tower to look at the map. Myka wanted to get out, we didn't really have time, and Ripley was still asleep. I promised we would come back to it. Regardless, Myka bugged me about THE ENTIRE TIME.

             After looking at the park map, I noticed that the nature center (where the program was to be held) wasn't exactly close to the gate we came in, so I planned on not stopping anywhere since I figured Myka would want to check out the nature center first. But...I couldn't help myself and had to pull over and take some pictures at this area and another one, though I stayed in the car the second time.

             We had time to check out the nature center before the snake program started. I actually have a video at the end of this post that includes a lot of the nature center in it, if you're interested. I didn't get any pictures as I had a brain fart and didn't put the mini monster in her carrier, so I was just trying to keep track of two kids who wanted to go different directions!

             Since it was so warm out, they held the snake program outside at the shelter area next to the N.C. (Nature Center) Naturally, the kids were restless and, again, I'm an idiot and didn't have Ripley in her carrier so she couldn't get away. Ha ha So I let them walk around and check out the butterfly/hummingbird garden right next to the shelter area and the amphitheater area close by too...All while trying to at least catch bits and pieces of what the naturalist holding the program had to say. Lol

 I think this was from the lookout by the amphitheater behind the Nature Center.

             I finally got smart and we went to the car to get drinks and the hiking carrier. By the time we got back to the shelter the program was over. BUT, the naturalist/park ranger/whatever you want to call her got the black rat snake out (one of the critters in the nature center and a type of snake we happen to have a lot of at home!) and let everyone check it out/touch it. This was the highlight of the trip for Myka. I don't know why, but she LOVES snakes. Not exaggerating, she spent a good 20 minutes between the program ending and the snake feeding time inside touching that thing and letting it wrap its tail around her arm!

             We stuck around for a little bit to watch the snake feeding after, but Ripley was getting restless because we were standing outside the little room because it was so packed full of people. So we started walking around the N.C. some. I guess Myka got tired of waiting for the timber rattlesnake (yikes!) to eat his rat, so she came out shortly after. She claims she saw it eat it, but I'm not sure I believe her. 4 year olds are pathological liars, you know?

             After that we took a potty break and the little girl Myka was playing with earlier found her (much to my chagrin) and they played outside for a little bit. I finally figured out where the short little Discovery Trail started, so I was able to pry Myka away for a short hike through the woods. :D

             We stopped at this little cabin on our way out. As it turns out, it's just a neat little shelter/picnic area. Myka kept saying it was a ghost cabin like on some episode of Paw Patrol. Lol

             And yes, we DID stop at the lookout place on the way out too! Myka makes “friends” everywhere she goes and was bugging a young Asian couple at one point and decided she was going to join in on another mom and young daughter's game of tag. Smh. She acts like no one ever pays attention to her or we are shut-ins or something!

             In a nutshell, that was our afternoon at Brown County State Park. You know me: I could commentate more, but this is pretty good for me. ;) Hopefully we can visit again soon with John and maybe even go to the water park!