Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Chef Apron Father's Day Giveaway

Welcome to the Chef Apron Father's Day Giveaway!

Hosted by: Mixed Bag Mama
Sponsored by: Crooked Brook

Do you have a grill master in your life? Wouldn't he look spiffy in a brand new chef's apron from Crooked Brook while cooking out on the grill this summer? Check out the details below and simply use the Giveaway Tools widget for your chance to win 2 of your very own chef aprons!

Memorial Day (Monday, May 26, 2014) is a United States federal holiday celebrated on the last Monday of May in remembrance of the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. It is also the unofficial start of the summer. In some parts of the country, it is also the day of the first big barbecue or cookout and more often than not, it will be a male family member or friend manning the grill.
What is it with guys, fire and raw meat?
A useful and much appreciated gift for any cook or chef is an apron and for that reason, Crooked Brook is sponsoring a Chef Apron Giveaway.
This will also make a great Father’s Day gift for dads who like to cook.
 
Since 1989 Crooked Brook has designed and manufactured chef wear for the world’s most recognized men and women in the noble art and science of gastronomy. All Crooked Brook branded garments and accessories are made to order in the U.S.A and can personalized with the customer’s choice of fabric, pockets, buttons, piping and embroidery.
The giveaway consists of:
Two, Apron Style #700 - 35” W x 25” L (approximately), made in white, 10 oz., 100% cotton denim. Depending on the height of the wearer, this apron is calf length. …$30.00
Total Prize Value with SHI…$45.00
 
Aprons were originally worn as a utilitarian outer garment to cover the front of the body to protect the wearer’s clothes from soiling, wear and tear. Over the years many different styles of aprons evolved depending on the purpose and were often named after the trade, craft or profession that used that particular design.
 
A chef apron is waist apron which is a square or rectangular piece of fabric that ties around the waist to cover the body from the waist down. For a cleaner look, some chefs fold the top of the apron over the ties (see image). With a pocket (sometimes divided to create a pen pocket) to hold an order pad (dupe pad) it becomes a bistro apron.
 
These mid-calf length “old school” heavy duty chef aprons are hard to find and coveted by professional chefs and serious cooks alike.

Crooked Brook also makes a
35” W x 25” L apron that is perfect for grill masters who like to wear shorts and cook over an open or pit fire because the length protects bare legs from the heat.
 
Another good thing about these aprons is that after they are too dingy and beat up to wear in public, you can cut them up into 100% cotton rags.

Cant to wait to see if you won? Receive a 10% discount on all Crooked Brook Chef Wear and Accessories: Aprons, Bib Aprons (blank, printed or embroidered) Women’s Aprons (blank, printed or embroidered) Chef Coats (blank or embroidered) and Women’s Chef Coats (blank or embroidered) from 4/15/14 to 4/29/14 with the Coupon Code “Mixed Bag Mama Chef Apron Giveaway”.
Contest Rules:
· You must be 18 years or older to enter.
· Crooked Brook will ship the prizes to the winner within 30 days of contest end. If address is undeliverable or prize is unclaimed and sent back, winner is responsible for re-shipping charges.
· Physical address required for shipping; no PO boxes, US recipients only residing in one of the 48 contiguous states.

Disclaimer: Mixed Bag Mama and all other promoting blogs did not receive financial compensation for this post. Mixed Bag Mama did receive products in exchange for hosting this giveaway. This giveaway is in no way affiliated with any social media sites. If you have any questions about this giveaway, please contact Alicia of Mixed Bag Mama at alicia owen 6814 at yahoo dot com.

Our Indoor Chicken Living Quarters


             As usual, I just don't know when to shut up, so I decided to make this a separate post from the chicken update from the other day. Today I want to go a little into depth about our crazy living arrangements for our chicks while they're still indoors.
            I'm not sure how obvious it is from the pictures above, but our chickens are currently living in our extra shower. Do I feel a little ridiculous for keeping chickens in our shower? Yes. Do I feel silly sharing it with others. Definitely. However, like I mentioned at the beginning of my last post, while our "methods" of raising chickens may not be conventional, I am hoping that this shows people that they don't need to live in the country to raise chickens if it strikes their fancy!
             We started out having the chicks in a large plastic bin. (Think the kind you use for holiday decoration storage.) It didn't take the cheeky chicks long to be able to fly up and perch on the edge. So, since we didn't really have a taller container for them, we just taped over the drain hole in the shower, put some cardboard down, covered it with "fluff", and let them go! Oh. And we cut a a taller piece of cardboard from an old box and taped it up to cover the opening to the shower too, of course. I'd rather not have chickens running ALL over my bathroom!
            As for the heat lamp, my husband used some complicated looking way to rig it up and we have been raising it once or twice, at least, each week as they get older and don't need it as much.Sorry I don't have a picture of it. Honestly, though, I probably couldn't explain it even if I did. lol
            While this has worked out so far for us, I have to say that I can see why a lot of people just raise their chicks in the coop to begin with. If you're able to do this, I definitely recommend it. Being the "chicken virgins" that we are, I hadn't realized 1) How high chickens can fly, even at a young age and 2) How soon they are able to fly up and perch on things. Don't let this get you down, though. If you're thinking about raising backyard chickens, get creative with their living quarters if you need to. Chickens are resilient little things for the most part and a bit like cats in the self reliance department. As long as they are safe, healthy, and their needs are being met, there is no right or wrong way to raise chickens as far as I can see!
            Be sure to stay tuned for our finished product of the outdoor coop! If you think our chickens' indoor living quarters are wacky, wait until you see how we made the outside one!

Family Fun Night Giveaway

Welcome to the Family Fun Night Giveaway!

Sponsored by: Winning Moves USA

Hosted by: Gloriously Green Gal & Savory Savings

Co-hosted by: Uniform Mom

I don't know about you, but I just loved playing board games when I was growing up! Well, except Monopoly and Sorry! Let's not go there. ;) I think board games is a great way for families to spend time together!

#givaway

Games nights in are a great way to get to know your family on a personal level.  Kids will talk, parents will laugh and memories are made!  Winning Moves USA is the leading maker in board games from the top game makers and sent several games to Krista from Savory Savings to review.  Check out her thoughts on this fun mix of board games that bring out the best in your family nights!

How would you like to win a collection of Winning Moves USA board games?  If you would like a chance to win, enter with the Giveaway Tool below.  If you have won a Winning Moves USA giveaway anytime from another blog in the last 12 months, you are not eligible to win this giveaway.  The giveaway will run from April 16, 2013 through April 30, 2014 at 11 PM CST and is open to US residents, ages 18 and older.  Entries will be verified.  Winner will be notified via email (consider adding gloriouslygreengal@gmail.com to your safe list) – winner will have 48 hours to respond and claim prize or another winner will be selected.
Good Luck!

Monday, April 14, 2014

Ultimate Baby Shower Giveaway

Welcome to the Ultimate Baby Shower Event! 

ANYONE expecting a new little one won't want to miss out on this event! It will start you off with a lot of the biggest necessities, not to mention the furniture included in this package is gorgeous! Be sure to share with friends and family too. :)-MBM

            One lucky winner will win our GRAND PRIZE PACKAGE with an approximate retail value of $1937!! Before we begin, you just need to read the rules of the giveaway, by entering this contest, you are agreeing to all terms and conditions. This giveaway is open to residents of the US and Canada, age 18+.  Void where prohibited by law. No purchase necessary to enter or win. Other than the very first task on the Giveaway Tool, ALL other tasks are OPTIONAL, but will give you extra entries in the contest. Other than the first task which is to leave a comment, all others, including follow page rafflecopters etc, are optional, just to make that clear. Any taxes are the responsibility of the winner.  The winner will be notified via email and will have 24 hours to respond to the email or they will forfeit their prize and a new winner will be drawn. If you have any questions, please email marie@dixielandsdeals.com.   Participating bloggers are not responsible for shipment of prizes. This giveaway is NOT associated with Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram or any other social media site. All times listed are Eastern Standard Time.
            Okay, *whew*, that covers the necessary stuff, so now back to the fun part! Check out these awesome prizes!! Grand Prize Package:  arv $1937.00!!
Waverly-Convertible Crib-arv $499 From Westwood Baby's Waverly line of nursery furniture, this gorgeous convertible crib is made of hardwoods. Can't wait to get yours?  Purchase now
Sealy Nature Couture Soybean Serenity Crib Mattress from Kolcraft -arv: $250

Soy-enhanced foam-core with organic cotton cover with Crypton® Clean Sleep with the best eco-friendly allergen barrier available. Can't wait? Purchase now!! 

Waverly Dresser/Changing Table-arv $359 This beautiful Dresser/Changing table from Westwood Design is the perfect fit for any nursery. Want it now? Purchase now
Waverly Bookcase-arv $375- This matching bookcase from Westwood Design will complement your babies room for years to come! Can't wait?   Purchase Now
Lolli Living Animal Tree Four Pc. Bedding Set-arv $199- This beautiful 4 pc. bedding set includes quilt, fitted sheet, window valance and crib skirt and will brighten up any nursery.  Want it now?   Purchase now
Chicco KeyFit 30 Infant Carseat in Sedona-arv $189 Bring your baby home in comfort and style with this Chicco infant car seat!! Want to buy it now?  Purchase now
Diaper Genie Elite- arv$35 The easy way to get rid of those used diapers!! Can't wait?  Purchase now
Huggies Newborn Gift Box- arv$31- Purchase now The Huggies Newborn Gift Set contains everything new moms needs for changing time, all in an adorable reusable box with Disney Winnie the Pooh graphics. It contains a package of Huggies Little Snugglers Diapers Newborn (24 diapers) and a package of Huggies Litttle Snugglers Size 1 (40 diapers), Huggies Natural Care Baby Wipes (Tub with 64 wipes and an on-the-go travel soft pack with 32 wipes), 9 ounce bottle of Johnsons Baby Lotion and a 9oz bottle of Johnsons Baby Head to Toe Wash. 1st Prize-  
Huggies Newborn Gift Box- $31 + $100 Babies r Us Gift Card!! Sponsored by the Bloggers participating in this event!  2nd Prize- 
Huggies Newborn Gift Box- $31 + $50 Babies r Us Gift Card!! Sponsored by the bloggers participating in this event!  Entry is easy, just follow the instructions on the Giveaway Tool below!! Good luck! 

Chicken Update 4/14/14

            Hey folks! I hope I'm not boring you to death with my chickens yet. They're just so fun and I kind of want to "raise awareness" about backyard chickens and help people realize that they can raise them too if they really want to!
            I also kind of want to change "Chicken Update" to "Chicken Report" because every time I go to write one of these, I think of the "Creature Report" song from Octonauts on Nickelodeon. What makes that even more sad is that I haven't seen that show for at least 3 months, since I stopped babysitting and having access to satellite tv. (Or any tv for that matter.) lol
            Aaaaaanyways, I'll try to keep this short. (ha! Like that ever happens, eh?) Again, I knew chickens grew quickly, but I can't get over quite how quickly...Especially since our Barred Rocks mature faster than most breeds. Here is the picture from my first chicken update, ranging from the day we got them to a little over a week later:
            Here they are more recently:
3/21/14
 3/27/14 Yes, they are living in our spare shower at the moment. I'll get into that more in another post.
3/30/14 I love that you can really see their "pattern" showing now!

            The last picture cracks me up so much. This is generally how I am greeted: With a wary and curious eye. I read something I can't remember where about a woman finding her chickens to be highly entertaining to watch. That was before we had chickens and I thought she was nuts. I'm starting to wonder if I'm turning into the "crazy chicken lady" myself, though, because they really can be entertaining to watch. Maybe I'm just easily entertained. ;) 
            I think we can safely say that our chickens are no longer "chicks" and are teenagers. Since temperatures have been pretty nice here and Barred Rocks are said to tolerate both warm and cooler climates well, they will be going outside soon...As in as soon as my husband finishes the coop! lol There isn't too much work left to be done on it. He is working on the waterers as I write this. (I'll post more on those later.) Other than that, we pretty much just have the walk-up platform, roosting bar, and nesting boxes left.

This post is linked up at...

http://www.theprairiehomestead.com/2014/04/homestead-barn-hop-155.html

Babyroues Luxury Stroller Giveaway

Welcome to the baby roues Luxury STROLLER Giveaway 
Courtesy of babyroues 
hosted by: We're Parents!?

Looking for a stroller that will comfortable fit your baby from infancy through toddlerhood? Look no further! Be sure to read the full review below on this unique stroller!-MBM

simple lightweight compact

Read a full review of a baby roues LeTour stroller HERE.

babyroues proudly introduced the first compact and lightweight luxurious infant-to-toddler Bassinet and Stroller system, which uses the highest technological quality workmanship and safety features available.  For your ultimate convenience the stroller and bassinet have a Dual-facing capability.  It's ONE OF A KIND folding mechanism allows for the bassinet and stroller to fold while attached to the stroller too!  This system will WOW you and your baby from infancy through toddler.  

Prices for this luxury stroller start at just $579 for the LeTour II with upgrade options available for the LeTour Lux II and Special Collectors Edition LeTour Demin. 

Enter using the Giveaway Tools form below. One lucky winner will win their choice of ANY stroller from the baby roues collection.  Good Luck!
Open to US Only (Void where prohibited)!!  Ends 4/28/14 at 11:59 PM EST.



Disclosure: We're Parents!? and this blog are not responsible for prize fulfillment/shipment. We're Parents!? received monetary compensation to facilitate this giveaway. Participating blogs did not receive compensation for promoting this giveaway.  Social media sites are not affiliated with this giveaway.

Womb to Walking Giveaway Event

Welcome to the Womb to Walking Giveaway Event

This would be a great prize package for any new or expecting parent to win! Be sure to share with your friends as well. :)-MBM


Co-hosted by Addicted 2 Savings 4 U

Spring is in the air, everything is blooming... It's definitely baby shower season!  What better way to bring in Spring than with a giveaway??  We've brought together some of the top baby products that you would need from womb to walking - the best for baby's first year - into a great product guide and now we're giving those items away!

Prizes include:
Combi Coccoro convertible carseat - ARV $200
BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier One - ARV $170
Ju-Ju-Be - Better Be Diaper Bag - ARV $120
$100 Gift Certificate to Mimi and Maggie - ARV $100
One month supply of Luvs Diapers - ARV $30
Classic Alphabet blocks from Uncle Goose - ARV $35
Evenflo Feeding Bottle Set - ARV $20
Baby's First Book Set - ARV $25

For a grand total of over $700 worth of baby gear!

To enter, simply fill out the Rafflecopter form below.  All entries are optional, but the more you complete, the better your chance of winning!

Giveaway will run from April 14th until April 28th. Giveaway is open to US only. You must be 18 or over to enter.  Winner will be chosen at random via Rafflecopter. Winner will be notified by email at the end of the Giveaway and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.  Momma Without a Clue and the other participating blogs are not responsible for prize shipment or fulfillment

Good luck!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: Momma Without a Clue received the above items in exchange for review. This blog did not receive financial compensation or product in exchange for this giveaway. Facebook, Twitter, & Pinterest are in no way associated with this giveaway. Prize fulfillment and shipping will be handled by the Sponsors.

Saturday, April 12, 2014

BrylaneHome 4-Drawer Storage Organizer Giveaway

Welcome to the BrylaneHome 4-Drawer Storage Wardrobe Giveaway 
hosted by We're Parents!? 

I don't know about you guys, but I always feel like I could use extra storage space! I love organizers like these because they give you the extra storage space you need without taking up too much space!-MBM


BrylaneHome is your one-stop shop for everything you could need for your home from bed linens to appliances to furniture.  They are here to make your shopping experience easier by only having to shop at one place and having it all delivered right to your door step! 


This spring they want to help you get your home organized with their 4-Drawer Storage Wardrobe.  Whether you need to organize your closet or your kids, your craft station, or bathroom, this is a welcomed edition in any household. 

Read We're Parents!? full review HERE.

One lucky reader is going to win their own BrylaneHome 4-Drawer Storage Wardrobe! 

Open to US residents, ages 18+ and ends on 4/26 at 11:59 PM EST. 
Enter below & good luck!

Disclosure: We're Parents!? and this blog are not responsible for prize fulfillment/shipment. We're Parents!? received this product to facilitate this review, but did not receive compensation. Participating blogs did not receive compensation for promoting this giveaway.  Social media sites are not affiliated with this giveaway.

Friday, April 11, 2014

Update 4/11/14-In-Laws, Graduations, Flu, & More!



            Sorry about the lame graphic. I don't have any fun pictures to share today. I do have lots and lots to talk about, though. As usual, this post was scheduled way in advance. I'm writing this on March 30. Besides being OCD and liking to have posts scheduled well in advance so I don't feel pressed to write all the time, my in-laws are currently visiting! And by "currently" I mean the day you're probably actually reading this post, not the 30th. Confused yet?
            We seem to go through loooong periods of dullness then we'll have a few weeks or a month we are way busy. I don't understand it, but it's the way things go for my husband and me. We are currently going through a busy spell. It started sooner than expected last week when we all had the flu. That was fun. I'm just thankful that we weren't all puking on the same day.
            That sickness really messed with all of us, even after the vomiting and, er, other things stopped. We're all finally getting our appetites back after about a week. I finally felt ok enough to get out of the house yesterday after being indoors for over a week! I'm kind of anti-social and don't particularly like getting out all that much, but talk about cabin fever!
            Myka and I went and had the alignment checked on one of our cars since we're getting ready to go on a short trip. (I'll get to that in a minute.) Then we took a much overdue trip to the library. I think that's the longest we've ever stayed at one time. Myka had a blast! While it drives me insane that she just wanders around without having any regard for where I am, I was SO glad that she actually interacted some with other kids this time and not just adults...or completely running away from the other kids. lol I also got her all set up for next month's Baby Steps program (This will be the last one before she's old enough for Toddler Time or whatever it's called. :( ) AND the Easter Egg Hunt! I'm sure I'm more excited than she will be. ha ha
            It's been no secret that I am interested in homeschooling Myka when she gets older, but now I know for sure I want to. While I feel kind of silly for researching some stuff on it already since Myka is only 1 1/2, it's like I told John: She's already a year and a half old. Her being school-aged is going to sneak up on us before we know it. Might as well get a head start now. So, I checked a couple of books about homeschooling out from the library as well. I started with So You're Thinking About Homeschooling by Lisa Whelchel and I'm really liking it so far!
            Next week the fun really starts because we will all 3 be going to Fort Sill, OK for my brother's basic training graduation and family day. I haven't seen him for over a year now, so I definitely can't wait for that! However, I'm really dreading the car ride. I hope Myka isn't a holy terror. I'm also excited about stopping in Eureka Springs, AR on the way home! We stopped there for a few hours on our way back from Missouri one time and I loved it! It reminded me so much of Gatlinburg, TN, which is just about my favorite place!
            The fun will continue the week after we get back from that trip since my in-laws will be visiting and staying with us for a week. (I have a feeling it will end up being longer since neither one of them are working at the moment.) Don't get me wrong: I love my in-laws. They're the best and so easy to get along with. For that, I am thankful!
            If/when things ever calm down after all that, we have GOT to stop putting off "business" stuff and start making an effort to get our name and products out there. I don't have any dreams of becoming a huge company or anything, but it would be nice to at least have some steady business...or any business at all. :/ I think if more people knew about us and gave us a try they would love our stuff. It's quality products. Everyone we know who has tried some things loved it. We just need to get out there and find the right connections.
            What's going on in your world? Has your family had to deal with that awful flu that seems to be going around everywhere? Are you finally able to get outdoors and enjoy some nicer weather?

Thursday, April 10, 2014

Baby K'Tan Giveaway

babyktan
Welcome to the Baby K'tan giveaway.
Hosted by Conservamom
Sponsored by Baby Tots Den

Babywearers won't want to miss out on this giveaway! Be sure to share it with your friends and family too. A carrier would make a great gift for a baby shower! ;)-MBM
 
Baby wearing is one of the best things you can do for your little one, from providing them with a sense of security to strengthening your bond with them the benefits of baby wearing is endless. This carrier has the following features:
  • Free matching sash included - sash converts to handy storage tote!
  • Easy to use! No wrapping or buckling.
  • Innovative double loop design - cross between a sling, wrap and structured carrier.
  • Built in back support band - second loop provides additional support and security.
  • Carries infants and toddlers in multiple positions, from 8-35 lbs.
  • Made of 100% soft natural cotton.
One Winner will get their very own Baby K'tan in their choice of in-stock* color and size. Giveaway open to US residents only. Ends on 4/24 at 11:59pm.
babytotsden
  *In-stock at Baby Tot's Den.  
 a Rafflecopter giveaway
Disclosure: This Blog is not responsible for the fulfillment of prize. This giveaway is in no way associated with, sponsored, administered, or endorsed by Facebook, Twitter, Google, Pinterest or any other social media network. All opinions and experiences are my own. Open to the US and must be 18+. Confirmed Winner(s) 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 sponsor will be responsible for product shipment to winner(s) of the giveaway. Conservamom will not be responsible for prize fulfillment. 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. For questions or to see your product featured in an Event you can contact Elia At Conservamom.