My Jamberry (+ a giveaway!)

Let's cut to the chase. In theory I like cute fingernails, but in reality I don't have time.  More specifically I don't want to take the time for something that gets ruined in less than 24 hours.  Of course my clean bathroom and empty hamper get "ruined" in less than 24 hours, too, but those things seem more worthy of my time. On the occasions when I do paint my nails, all the aforementioned cleaning and laundry leaves my nails a chipped up mess. 

So when my blog and Facebook friend, Jenna, offered to let me give Jamberry Nails a try, I jumped at the chance.  Jamberry Nails are incredibly cute and fun adhesive nail wraps that stay put for up to two full weeks! Now that I can handle.

Jenna sent me a pattern called silver floral on magenta.  The instructions freaked me out a little, not because they were complicated but because I wanted to be sure to get it just right.  The first time was admittedly a little time consuming.  Remember, its hard for me to justify time devoted to my nails, BUT I figured the 45-60 minutes (which included breaks to answer questions, get snacks, talk to my husband...) would be worth it if the wraps lasted as long as promised.

The wraps drove me crazy for the first 12 hours.  I wasn't confident in my application and I had a few air bubbles that were preventing the wraps from laying flat.  The next morning I trimmed and tweaked until I got a tight seal and a look that was more pleasing to me.  But here's the thing: aside from me, no one else would have even noticed the imperfections.  Who is looking that closely at another person's nails?  If someone can see a bubble or tiny nick on your nails, they are too close!

Even Alaine (4) wanted in on the action!

Alaine's nails: pale pink with magenta accents

My magenta nails lasted for 2 full weeks, but they were showing signs of wear by the time I removed them. Again, it was wear that I noticed, not something the grocery store cashier or the teller at the bank would notice.

Jenna also sent along a sheet of accent wraps so I tried those next.  I loved the pattern and I loved the overall look, but the four nails that needed polish were too high maintenance. On days at home, I left them bare.  A funny side-note: my boys and my husband did not "get" the accent nails.  Owen (8) said, "Why would you do that?" but my girls said, "Oh, yeah, that's like Aunt Amy's nails.  She does that, too."

A couple tips and then I'll get to the fun part-- the giveaway.

• The application instructions say to chose a wrap that is closest in size to your nail.  I would revise that to say to chose a wrap that is smaller than your nail.  Otherwise, it is hard to get a good seal and the wrap bunches up.
• Apply the wrap just a teensy bit above your cuticle.  No one will see the little strip of exposed nail  and it helps maintain a tighter seal.
• After you've worn your nails for awhile, the tips are the first thing to start looking a little rough.  Instead of giving up or peeling them off, try trimming the ends (just like if you were trimming your nails) and reseal.  It should buy you a few more days.

*****

Jenna is being kind enough to give away a sheet of Jamberry Nail Wraps of your choice!  

To enter, all you have to do is leave a comment below.

Do you paint your nails?  Do you have a favorite polish color? Any tricks for getting a manicure to last? Have you ever tried Jamberry Nail Wraps?  Do you have a favorite pattern or design?  Tell me anything!

Giveaway ends Thursday, April 9 at 9 pm ET.  Giveaway closed.

EDITED TO ADD: The winner is Kati!

The Social Media Party Prize Package

On Friday, I shared the details of my social media party that is happening tonight!  (For all the details, click here.)  Be sure join me tonight at 9 pm ET on my Facebook page and you can have a chance to win one these great prizes. 

1) single print of your choice from All Our Days Etsy shop

Allyson is a close personal friend and fellow mom of five.  Her shop is filled with fun, colorful, printable wall art.  I'm partial to this one because it features my favorite color, but as the winner, you can choose any single print that you like.

2) running medals display rack in gray (different color than the photo) from Running on the Wall Etsy shop

Maybe you run for exercise and this would be handy for displaying your finishing medals. Or maybe the only time you care to run is when you are late to church.  This could still be handy as a key or hat rack.

3) pair of emergency contact shoe tags from Visual Resources Etsy shop

Any runner or walker could benefit from shoe tags.  Lace them onto your shoes and in the case of an emergency, your contact info is visible. 

4) one hardback copy of The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton

This was the best book I read in 2013.  I'm excited to gift a copy to one of my readers!

5) one copy of Loving the Little Years by Rachel Jankovic

This is another excellent book.  Not just for moms of young children, this book is relevant to moms of all ages.  (You can read my longer review here.) It would be an excellent shower gift, too.

A Busy Week... and a Giveaway!

On Wednesday, I hosted a giveaway exclusively for my blog's Facebook page.  If you haven't liked my page yet, you can do it here:

Today I have another giveaway right here on my blog! 

This year I mistakenly thought that since Thanksgiving is falling so late in the month, I would have time to check off my to-do list slowly and methodically and that I would enter the holiday season feeling on top of things.  Instead, my time feels a precious as ever.  As jealously as I have guarded my days, I found that every one this week was jam-packed with activity.  Haircuts, post office, grocery shopping, gym class, school work, library, running... The beds needed clean sheets, the bathroom floor needed a good scrub, and tomorrow we are hosting Brian's family's Thanksgiving get-together at our house so extra cleaning and baking responsibilities were added to my list. 

This much busyness is outside of my comfort zone, but instead of fighting it, I've decided to embrace it for this season.  It makes for a more joyful family when we can accept our responsibilities instead of grumble about them. 

As we approach December, I'm pondering ways to keep our focus on the meaning of our celebrations.  That's why I'm excited to give away a copy of Truth in the Tinsel eBook to one of my readers. 

Truth in the Tinsel will guide your family through each day of December with a passage of Scripture, discussion questions, and an ornament craft.   If a craft a day sounds too overwhelming, you can purchase printable ornaments to color for only $3.99 (not included in the giveaway).  Truth in the Tinsel was written for preschool and early elementary school children, but any child who can color or likes crafts would enjoy the book. To view a sample page of the eBook, click here.

The eBook is $7.99, but if you use coupon code  FROMMYLIFE20, you will receive 20% off of your purchase. (Curriculum and the printable ornaments are excluded.)  If you make a purchase and then win the giveaway, your eBook purchase will be refunded.

To enter for your chance to win, fill out the Rafflecopter form below.  Giveaway ends  Tuesday, November 26 at midnight.

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Details of a Giveaway

If you are part of my Facebook community, you already know about the pop-up giveaway that I am planning this week. If you aren't a part of the community, why don't you join us?

Sometime between now and Friday, I'll be hosting a pop-up book giveaway.  When I announce the giveaway on Facebook, leave a comment on that post to be entered for a chance to win. If you click like on that post, you will earn a second entry. 

That's not all, though.  You can begin earning bonus entries now by referring friends to my Facebook page.  If you refer a friend and they mention your name in a comment on any status, you receive an extra entry! 

What's in the Bible? Easter Giveaway

When we finished our set of What's in the Bible? Old Testament DVDs we were more than a little disappointed that we needed to wait until February to begin the New Testament series.  When I received an e-mail asking me to review an advanced copy of the next DVD in the series,  I didn't cheer like my kids did when they found out, but I was excited, just the same.  I received a free copy of Volume 10 to review, but the great part about these DVDs is that I would recommend them anyway.

Each volume is divided into 2 episodes and this new volume, Volume 10, covers Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John-- the Gospels.  

The first episode opens with a description of what the New Testament means to us.  Phil Vischer describes it as coming into a story in the middle.  You begin the exciting part of an adventure story without knowing the background of how you got there.  You need the first part of the story (the Old Testament) to understand why this part of the story (the New Testament) needs to happen at all!  The episode also briefly reviews what we learned in the first nine volumes.  It touches on the historical events that occurred between the Testaments and reinforces the truth that we have been building up to all along-- the fact that we can never live up to the Law and that we are in desperate need of a Savior to rescue us. The first episode also lays a brief outline of each Gospel and explains how each is different and why we need four Gospels to tell the same story. 

The second episode shares details of Jesus' life and ministry, culminating in His death on the cross.  It also shares the plan of salvation and explains how each of us can become part of His kingdom. 

When we watch What's in the Bible? as a family, we begin by watching one episode.  Brian then leads us in discussion, using the discussion questions suggested on the insert in each DVD.  Then after we pray together, the kids gather at the dining room table to color.  Multiple coloring pages are available online for each volume, including the Volume 10 coloring pages seen by clicking here.

To purchase Volumes 1-10 for your family, click on the coupon below and enter BUNDLE10 at checkout to receive 20% off your order and free shipping!

Would you like to own BOTH Volume 1 (the first Old Testament DVD) and Volume 10 (the first New Testament DVD)?  Fill out the Rafflecopter form below for your chance(s) to win.  Giveaway ends Sunday, March 17 at 11:59 pm. 

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Christmas Book Giveaway

On Sunday evening, I rolled out my big Christmas Book List with selections for babies, older children, and families.  Today I get to give one of the books away!   

The Christmas Story by Jane Werner Watson

When I was a little girl, this book had a place on our home book shelf.  Then when my own little ones came along, my mom gifted a copy to them.  Does the sight of a  Little Golden book  make you feel all warm inside? What about Eloise Wilkin illustrations?  A mixture of both, this book is sure to make you melt! 

Would you like a copy to read to your children (or grandchildren or friend's children)?  Fill out the Rafflecopter form below for your chance(s) to win.  Giveaway ends Monday, December 3. 

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November Hospitality...and a Memory-Keeping Giveaway!

Last year, we had an influx of company in October as we hosted three different families for dinner.  Our October this year was slow in the hospitality realm, but we're more than making up for it in November, as we hosted se7en events (big and small) in the space of thirteen days.  It makes me smile! 

I gave up traditional scrapbooking years ago when I decided blogging was a more time-efficient memory keeper, but often I want a way to mark the memories with a special pop of visual creativity. Enter digital scrapbooking! 

• On Wednesday (the 7th), we invited Brian's mom for a soup dinner (where I totally neglected to take any photos). 

• Then it was a sleepover on Thursday night.

• Next came stromboli with Papa on Friday.
  
  

• On Sunday, we had more company for pumpkin bread and coconut pound cake, coffee and conversation.

•  We took a few days break and then had a friend for pumpkin pie and Survivor on Wednesday (the 14th).
  
  

• Saturday night was our annual Thanksgiving get together with Brian's family.  Last year, all twenty of us were present.  This year, sickness and other obligations dwindled our number to eleven.
  
  

• And just tonight, we welcomed our friends Allyson and Tim and their family into our home.  We shared the cooking duties for a delicious supper of pizza, salad, and slab blueberry pie. 

When I was offered the chance to review My Memories Suite, I wondered, Do I really want to take the time to learn something new?  Thankfully, the process was quick and painless.  The fun part is, I learned enough in the beginning to successfully use the software, but every time I use it, I discover something new.  

My Memories Suite is not only for the cutesy scrapbooker-type either. It is useful for any blogger. My first project was updating my "get acquainted" page.   Then I designed a super-quick button for the bottom of my Baking With Kids post to add a bold streak of color to my snickerdoodles photo.  

Would you like to win a copy of My Memories Suite digital software?  Fill out the Rafflecopter from below to enter. Giveaway runs now through Friday, November 30. 


***The giveaway is now closed, but the winner was Lauren!  Congratulations!***


a Rafflecopter giveaway

31 Days, 31 Smiles {Day 31}: In Conclusion

This month has come to a close and there are still ideas I want to share about having simple fun with your kids without stress!  Perhaps I'll continue to share FUN ideas and tips in the next few months throughout my regular posts because November and December, while full of holiday joy, can also deliver their share of "losing your cool" moments. 

Today, though, I have the pleasure of announcing the SIX winners of my "Having Fun Without Losing Your Cool" Giveaway! 

The winner of the Custom Kids Sewing Card Set donated by Nicoletta Leonardo Design is  Kayla!  The winner of Ramona the Brave and Biscuit Finds a Friend is    Brooke! 
The winner of A Busy Bag Bundle donated by Allyson @ All Our Days is    Tee! 
The winner of the Magnet Puzzle donated by Jess Fabulous Designs is    Donna Jessica! 
The winner of Set of Sidewalk Chalk donated by Extra Money For Mommy is   Laura!
The winner of the Felt Rainbow Puzzle is    Tiffany! 


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


And in case you missed anything this month, here is an index of this month's topics. 
(Click on the light blue words and the post will open in a new window.)

{Day 1}: an Introduction
{Day 2}: Identify the Craziness
{Day 3}: Shapes For Lunch
{Day 4}: How Do You...Aside Time For Fun?
{Day 5}: Having Fun at Bath Time
{Day 6}: Getting the Wiggles Out Before Bed
{Day 7}: Sunday Meditations
{Day 8}: Do Something Unexpected
{Day 9}: Nature Scavenger Hunt (with free PDF file to make your own Nature Treasures bag)
{Day 10}: Having Fun At School Time
{Day 11}: How Do You...Find Time For Your Own Fun?
{Day 12}: Couch Potatoes
{Day 13}: Happy Food
{Day 14}: Sunday Meditations
{Day 15}: a FUN Giveaway (closed)
{Day 16}: Having Fun When Daddy is Away
{Day 17}: Easy and Seasonal Crafts
{Day 18}: How Do You...Do Crafts With Multiple Kids?
{Day 19}: Simple Canvases
{Day 20}: Having Fun While You Work
{Day 21}: Sunday Meditations
{Day 22}: Getting YOU Involved
{Day 23}: Fun And Silly Reading
{Day 24}: Playing With Rice
{Day 25}: How Do You...Find Places For Children's Artwork?
{Day 26}: Rainy Day Fun
{Day 27}: YOUR Fun Photos
{Day 28} Sunday Meditations
{Day 29} Magazines
{Day 30} These Are A Few of My Favorite Comments


*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Now that my series is over, I may have a few spare moments to read a few others'.  Are there any 31 Days series that you read and recommend? 

31 Days, 31 Smiles {Day 15}: a FUN giveaway (closed)

This giveaway is closed. 

Since this series is about


having fun with your kids without losing your cool,

I'm giving away a few activities that are sure to bring a smile to

your child's face
(because children love fun)
and your face
(because each item is the easy, simple fun we've been talking about all month!).    

There are 6 prizes which means there will be 6 winners. You can earn up to 6 entries, too. 

To enter, use the Rafflecopter form at the bottom of this post.   Open to US readers only. 

Giveaway ends on Monday, October 29 at 11:59 pm EDT and winners will be announced in the conclusion of my series on Wednesday, October 31. 



Prizes:

#1: Custom Kids Sewing Card Set donated by Nicoletta Leonardo Design

As the winner of Prize #1, you will be able to choose the shape and color of your sewing cards which are perfect to occupy little ones during school time...or any time! 

For more from Nicoletta, you can browse her Etsy shop or be inspired by her blog. 

#2: A Pair of Books: Ramona the Brave and Biscuit Finds a Friend

As the winner of Prize #2, you will win a copy of Ramona the Brave, a great book for families to read aloud together.  I shared my thoughts on Beverly Cleary books here.  You will also receive a copy of Biscuit Finds a Friend, which is part of the My First I Can Read series. 

For more early reader suggestions, go to this post or read the comments on this post. 

#3: A Busy Bag Bundle donated by Allyson @ All Our Days

As the winner of Prize #3, you will be given a PDF file with instructions, printables, and labels to make 16 educational and fun busy bags.  Busy bags are handy for school time, quiet time, or play time, and once they are assembled, provide hours of simple fun. 

For more from Allyson, you can read her 31 day series this month about busy bags and quiet time activities.  If you don't want to wait for the giveaway to end, you can also purchase the Busy Bag Bundle yourself at Teacher's Notebook.  

#4: Magnet Puzzle donated by Jess Fabulous Designs

As the winner of Prize #4, you will be able to choose from any of the puzzles themes available-- from Toy Story to farm  to Batman.  What kid wouldn't like to do a puzzle that sticks to the refrigerator?  And what mom wouldn't like an activity that occupies the kids while she's working in the kitchen?

For more from Jessica, you can browse her Etsy shop or Like her shop page on Facebook. 

#5: Set of Sidewalk Chalk donated by Extra Money For Mommy

As the winner of Prize #6, you will receive either 1 set of Cupcake Sidewalk Chalk OR 1 set of Superhero Sidewalk Chalk (your choice).  Sidewalk drawing is a great way to pass an autumn afternoon.  Maybe you could even sneak in a  little pleasure reading while the kids are occupied.

For see more of her products, including shaped crayons, visit Lauren's Etsy shop. or Like her shop on Facebook.  

 

#6: Felt Rainbow Puzzle

As the winner of Prize #6, you will receive one felt rainbow puzzle, perfect for little hands that have moved beyond peg puzzles, but are not quite coordinated enough for fitted puzzles.

If you'd like a free printable from All Our Days to make your own rainbow puzzle, click here.  

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a Monday giveaway

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED!  The winner is Melanie L.  Congratulations! 

Our family has been watching the What's in the Bible?  series for family devotions.  Don't let the puppets fool you.  Yes, there is humor, but this series is rich in Biblical information and integrity.  Each DVD in the series tackles a book of the Bible or a section of books.  The series goes beyond a general review of the well-known "children's"  Bible stories and delves into who wrote each book, the historical setting, and the lessons God is daily teaching us through His Word. The series aims to show us our need for a Savior and map out the rescue plan God has for each of us who surrender to Him.   DVDs 1-8 are available now and cover Genesis through the Song of Solomon.  (DVD 9 is due out on August 14 and the New Testament DVDs are scheduled to be released starting in January.)

My giveaway, though, is for a What's in the Bible DVD that is an accompaniment to the main series.  It features two of the main characters, Clive and Ian, as they ask questions about God such as "How old is God?" and "Does God tell the truth?" 

Clive and Ian's Wonder-Blimp of Knowledge: 5 BIG Questions About God!

To win this (pre-viewed) copy, enter the giveaway in the form below. 
Contest runs through midnight (EDT) on Saturday, August 4. 
(Will ship US only.)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tri-Moms Share the Love Giveaway: Day 6

Giveaway is now closed.  The winner is Hannah.  Congratulations! 

Welcome to the final day of
Tri-Moms Share the Love Giveaway Week!


 

Today's giveaway would be the perfect companion to Day 3's giveaway! 

This Dover paper doll set  (American Family of the Colonial Era)  contains 8 dolls with 32 costumes and is sure to delight any little girl. 

No need to click away!  Today's giveaway is hosted right here!  Follow the directions in the Rafflecopter form below to enter.  Giveaway ends Saturday, March 3.



a Rafflecopter giveaway

***

There is still time to sign up for all of the Tri-Moms Share the Love Giveaways:

crochet patterns from Knot Sew Cute Etsy shop
Mornings With Jesus 2012 devotional
A is For Abigail by Lynne Cheney
Don't Make Me Come Up There by blogger Kristen Welch
Speak by Laurie H. Anderson

And please do, come back the first and third Tuesday of every month for fun discussions. 
  

Upcoming Topics:

February 21: Romancing Your Husband

March 6: Celebrating Spring

March 20:  Gardening with Kids

April 3: Celebrating the Meaning of Easter
April 17: Spring Cleaning
May 1: Reflecting on the Past School Year
May 15: Summer Learning Plans

Tri-Moms Share the Love Giveaway: Day 5

 

Please join Christy @ A Living Homeschool where she is hosting today's book giveaway.  (Click here to go to Christy's blog for a chance to win!) 

Tri-Moms Share the Love Giveaway: Day 4

Welcome to the Tri-Moms Share the Love Giveaway Week!

Today, please join Allyson @ A Heart For Home for your chance to a copy of Don't Make Me Come Up There by blogger, Kristen Welch.  (Click here to enter at Allyson's blog.)