Interview with Mia Hamm’s Mom and Gatorade {Plus, a $100.00 gift card Giveaway!}

Winner has been chosen!  Contest Closed! 
It is not easy being a Mom!

Much less a Mom to active, athletic, energetic, never.still.for.a.moment-children.



Most of the time I feel like a Circus Clown.  Juggling home education, exercise, family life, the calendar, friendships and making nutritious meals - all while roller-skating around the house on an unicycle dusting the ceiling fans wearing pearls.  (I know- true talent!)
 
I wouldn’t trade it for the world!  (Well, maybe the unicycle.)

When I was picked as one of the Gatorade Sideline Moms to ask Stephanie Hamm, the mother of retired American soccer player and U.S. Olympian, Mia Hamm, I was ecstatic!

When I get to speak to any Mom or really any Person who has walked the road of life and had life experiences that I’m about to go on – I close my mouth and I listen.

I listen to not what exactly they did -  but - what they wouldn’t do again.

My question to Stephanie was simply this:

“When all was said and done at the end of the day or before they moved out of your home, was there something specific you as a Mom would have done differently?”

Stephanie Hamm responded:  “More time!” 

She wanted more time to spend with her children!  It went way too fast!  She is now spending time with her grandchildren.  So many parents that I speak to now say – “Enjoy your time.  Your children grow up before you know it!”

She also stressed on how her husband and her made a good tag-team.  They had other children who played sports (other than Mia).  They had to make things priority i.e. stocking the car with good snacks and drinks like Gatorade.

Stephanie Hamm video

As Sports Mom, she stressed a good breakfast for young athletes.

Not only being physically prepared but mentally also by letting the kids talk through their frustrations.  I.e. a referee making a bad call.

I thought this was so good – sometimes in my own family – those moments are the best teaching moments for good character!

Stephanie Hamm also commented on not only being competitive on the field but also in the classroom.  “Sports can be helpful but is not usually a life long wage earner.   

Not every person is going to be the next Mia Hamm  but they need to be well-rounded!”

I just loved that!

After the interview with Stephanie Hamm – we got to hear from GSSI scientist, Lisa Esposito, who talked about the science of sports nutrition for young athletes.

I was floored!  I had no idea what went into that Fave sports drink.
 
It is Science in a Bottle!  (Okay, not really.  But, then again, really!)

Since 1985, GSSI (Gatorade Sports Science Institute) has tested metabolism, heat stress, hydration and so on…it is too technical for me to even spell.  Seriously, I had no idea!  (I think I already said that!)

I loved how they had a strategy, before, during, and after for athletes.

Before strategy: 

• One of the main things that could be life-changing for our young athletes is monitoring the color of their urine.  Yep, I just said “urine” on my blog.  I’m officially a Mom-blogger!
  • “If the pee – is yellow like lemonade – it is good pee.
  • If the pee  - is dark like soda – BAD!  Go to HOSPITAL!
  • If the pee – too clear – Over-Hydration.  Drink slower!”

My kids and I need to have a serious “pee” talk soon! 

• Weigh in before exercise.

During strategy:

• Drink every 15-20 minutes. 

After Strategy: 

• Weigh in again.  For every 1 pound lost drink 16-20 fluid ounces.

There was so much more!  For more info – go see Gatorade Moms.

Fine Print:  I will say – you should not take my blog as medical advice.  If you have worries, questions, or just want to talk to someone about your child – call your doctor.

Now for the Giveaway!

How would you like a $100.00 gift card to Dick’s Sporting Goods?

Rules: No duplicate comments.
You may receive (2) total entries by selecting from the following entry methods:

a) Leave a comment telling your favorite exercise or sport as a child.
b) Tweet about this promotion and leave the URL to that tweet in a comment on this post.
c) Blog about this promotion and leave the URL to that post in a comment on this post
d) For those with no Twitter or blog, read the official rules to learn about an alternate form of entry.

This giveaway is open to US Residents age 18 or older.  Winners will be selected via random draw, and will be notified by e-mail.  You have 72 hours to get back to me, otherwise a new winner will be selected.  Official Rules here.

Official sweepstakes dates:  6/1-6/30/2011.

Please link to the BlogHer round up page and mention there are more chances to win: (use the link below)

Prizes & Promotions section

Blessings to you!  You are loved!

Just a note:  This has been a sponsored post.  However, all views expressed have been my own.  Again, please talk to your own doctor if you have any questions…I just juggle kids, oranges, and dust balls.

The Secrets Beneath Review and Giveaway

The Secrets Beneath
by:  Kathleen Fuller

From the publisher:

Rebekah Yoder loves a good mystery—that is, until she becomes a part of one.
Rebekah Yoder has always been curious . . . or nosy depending on whom you ask. When a Yankee stranger moves into the house next door, she’s fascinated. Who is this strange old man who never waves or smiles? When Bekah sees him digging holes in his back yard, she’s sure there is a case to be solved.
Unfortunately, when her cousin blabs the story to the whole school, rumors fly. Is he hiding something? Treasure? Victims? And worst of all, annoying Caleb Mullet is now determined to solve the mystery with her. What they don’t realize is there’s not just secrecy lurking next door—there’s danger. Will Bekah take her curiosity too far?
Readers will love journeying with Bekah Yoder as they learn the danger of gossip, the importance of prayer, and the real story of The Secrets Beneath.

My Review:

I love the Amish!  There ways are just impressive to me.  This author lets you have inside information in the Amish community.

This book takes you inside a family's home and gives you a sneak peak of what it means to be Amish and some of their problems.

As an Englisher Mom, I want my children to have gain perspective from the Amish culture.  They are hard workers and yet - still are people.  This author catches that in her book.  

The book is clean and family friendly.  However, there was a tad bit of drama that some parents might want to read first just to make sure the younger children are prepared.

I would definitely recommend this book!

Note:  I was sent complimentary copy for review purposes only.  This review has not been monetarily compensated.  The review was my honest opinion and views and not influenced by the sponsor in any way.

OKAY - Now for the Giveaway!!!

Being a Tommy Mommy - I get to give away - one book to a ilovemy5kids reader! (within the continental US)

This is going to be simple....

Enter by:
1.  Leave a comment here leaving your name and who it would be for!  

(Make sure I have an email to get hold of you...if I can't find it easy - I will pick another winner!)

Yep, that is EASY!

What are you waiting for - go ahead and enter!!!

Blessings to you!  You are loved!

Like a voice-mail from Jesus...Giveaway!

Jesus Calling: 365 Devotions For Kids

My family tries to use this book every day...it has brought me to tears...it is like a voice-mail from Jesus.  Our lives has truly been changed by reading this along with the scriptures it has in it.

Click here to see my orgininal review of Jesus Calling.  

 

So many things have changed since the initial review.  God has used this little book to speak spark conversations and provoke thinking about Him in our home.

We use it as fast little devotions in the beginning our of school day.  It truly is like getting a message from the Lord - all based out of scripture.

Would you like one?

As a Tommy Mommy - they are letting me give one away!  (I was supposed to do this last month but got the flu...I'm much better now!)

Tommy Nelson is also giving ALL my readers - 2 free weeks of devotions.  

There is even one for adults.  

Great for this time of year to give Christ a place in the Christmas season!

How do you enter you ask?

SIMPLE!

Leave your name and an email for me to reach you.  EASY!

I'd love to hear how the Lord is working in your life! 
(But that is not mandatory!  I just love hearing testimonies!)

Feel free to follow ilovemy5kids Facebook page, Twitter page or become a Follower.  (I won't mind...really, I won't.)  :)

Praying you have a wonderful DAY!  

Blessings to you!  You are loved!

Note:  I was sent complimentary copy for review purposes only.  This review has not been monetarily compensated.  The review was my honest opinion and views and not influenced by the sponsor in any way.

The Boy Who Changed The World by Andy Andrews Book Review and Giveaway

Keep reading for the surprise…
it is at the bottom of this page!
 
The Boy Who Changed the World
by Andy Andrews
Retail Price: $16.99 US (Hardcover)
ISBN-13: 978-1-4003-1605-2 

From the Publisher:

The Boy Who Changed the World teaches children how
their actions can set off a spark that, in turn, influences
the lives of others. As Andrews explains, “Every choice
you make, good or bad, can make a difference.”  Who would dream that a boy playing in Iowa cornfields would save the lives of more than two billion people?
This is the incredible story of Nobel laureate Norman Borlaug, a simple boy with a desire to feed the hungry—but Borlaug couldn’t have accomplished this without the help of Vice President Henry Wallace, who was influenced by inventor George Washington Carver,
who in turn was rescued by farmer Moses Carver.
This delightfully illustrated children’s book tells the
stories of how each life is interwoven by decisions—both
big and small—of others. These stories show that the
decisions you make today truly can change the world.

My Review:

I love how this book uses history to tell a story!  My kids not only learned that every one of their action could have effect on others but it could “change the world’.
It really was a simple book was a major message!
The pictures were beautiful as well!  Even my 4 year old – got this book!  (He did tell me he thought it was kind of long after the 2nd time he begged me to read it.)
This would be a great book to add to any library!  I could just see some kid who doesn’t have much - getting this book and his and the world’s life change forever!

Are you ready for the surprise???

There are 3 books to giveaway!  Yep, 3!  Do you want one? 

Entering is easy! 

Tell me in the comments of this post: 

1st and Mandatory Entry

“I would give this book to ___________ because ______________.”

  For a second optional entry:

Tweet the following:

I want to win @tommynelson The Boy Who Changed the World on @loving5kids blog http://bit.ly/luv5kboywsw

Then come back here and comment in the comments on this post.

For a third optional entry:

Follow this blog and comment that you did!

For a 4th optional entry:

Like my Facebook Wall and comment in the comments on this post!

Little Details:

Anyone can enter – you do not have to have a blog!  Don’t forget to leave a way to contact you.  I won’t look long…so leaving your email is the best bet!  I will give the person 48 hours to get back with me once I email the selected name or I’ll find someone else.

The book giveaway ends October 29th! 

Only 4 possible entries per person please!

Blessings to you!  You are loved!

Note:  I was sent complimentary copy for review purposes only.  This review has not been monetarily compensated.  The review was my honest opinion and views and not influenced by the sponsor in any way.

This works for me!

Back to School giveaway!

We home-school in our dining room!  Where there is school there is CHALK!  When I saw these puppies – I got a little excited!  Who doesn’t like ANTI-DUST??? 
 
My kids LOVE chalk!  We use chalk for the sidewalks, the walls, and even actual chalkboards, sometimes.

I'll do just about anything to let my children have fun writing and practice their letters!  I really LOVE when they write on the sidewalks outside - but writing is writing and the more they do it, they more they will be better at it!  (This Works for Me!)

However, I don’t like dust and this is ANTI-DUST!!!  Have I mentioned I’m ANTI-DUST???
How fun is that for a Teacher or Mommy? 

Want to win a box?

Mandatory Entry:

Leave a comment here telling me what you would buy from a CSN store   {They HAVE EVERYTHING!!} (if money were not an issue) using the phrase “I would buy ________ from a CSN store!”

Other Entries:

Leave a comment if you follow this blog!

Leave a comment if you follow ilovemy5kids’ Facebook Page!

Leave a comment if you follow @loving5kids Tweets!

Rachael Ray Giveaway

CSN is giving me a chance to giveaway Rachael Ray' Bubble and Brown 12 oz. 2-Piece Au Gratin Set in cobalt blue.  CSN sells everything from Baby Cribs to Zebra sheets.  (It took me some time to find something I liked…there was sooooo much to chose from!)
I love cobalt blue!  It is my utmost favorite color!  My kitchen walls are a burnt orange (University of Texas orange) and cobalt blue!  I love the colors!
One of the reasons I love Rachael Ray is that she uses my colors!  They just make me happy!  And when Momma is happy well you know…
If I had these dishes I would make Quick Carbonara or Black Bean Salsa.

Rachael Ray Bubble and Brown 12 oz. 2-Piece Personal Au Gratin Set in Blue - 55222 by Rachael Ray  SKU #RRY1171 | Part #55222
Retail Value:  $28.95
Want to win it? 
I’m making this easy!!! Only one way to enter!

• Leave a comment on this post.  That’s IT!
  (Make sure I can find your email.) 

Fine Print:
One email per entry!  Comments will be closed May 17, 2010.  One winner will be chosen by Random.org.  Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email if they haven’t responded – alternate will be chosen.  If email is not found – alternate will be chosen.  Word to the wise:  make email easy to find!
My Disclosure
Blessings to you!!!  You are loved!!!

The Madeline Movie: Lost in Paris (Review and Giveaway)

Have you ever seen the book, Madeline?  Well, now it is on DVD, The Madeline Movie:  Lost in Paris.  My daughters and I had a girls’ day and watched this adorable little movie.  (My boys watched too…although I doubt that they will admit this to any of their “guy” friends.)

They loved the music and songs.  I loved the fact that it was wholesome and talked about Europe (which we just started studying in our homeschooling).  They loved the funny parts.  I loved the fact that I didn’t have to worry about the funny parts being risque or questionable humor for little eyes.

 Here is a Windows Media Download of Madeline

I think Madeline would make an adorable little girl’s party theme.  I’m always looking for themes for parties.  I could see so many decorations being made from Paris, the dog – Genevieve, not to mention the 12 little girls living in “an old house in Paris covered in vines.”

Here is a free coloring sheet:

Are you interested in getting your own copy? 

You could buy it when it comes out in stores nationwide on
April 13th, 2010.

or

You could win a copy here!

Okay, let’s get some things straight…

There are going to be 3 EASY ways to enter the contest.  (You do NOT have to be a blogger in order to win this contest.)

1. First way to enter:
   Leave a comment telling me who you are going to give this to if you win.  (You must do this one or other entries will be deleted.)
2. Second way to enter: 
   Become a ilovemy5kids fan on Facebook and leave a comment telling me you did on here and if you are already a fan then just leave a comment here.  (You have to a leave a comment or you won’t have an extra entry.)
3. Third way to enter:
   Follow me on Twitter (@loving5kids) and Tweet “I’m hoping to win Madeline: Lost in Paris DVD @loving5kids #loving5kids”  (You must leave another comment here saying you did the task or you won’t have an extra entry.)

Mumbo Jumbo aka covering my hide:

Any other comments other than the entries will be deleted if it does not relate to the contest.  Only three comments per email please.  If the winner does not leave an email in the comment or if I cannot find it within two minutes – I will find another winner.  Once the winner has been chosen, after I send an email out – you will have 48 hours to respond or I will choose anther winner.

Blessings to you!! You are loved!!!

Disclosure:  I was not paid to endorse this product.  I was sent a DVD just to review and it didn’t even have to be favorable. 

How about an EASTER giveaway???

Don’t you just love Easter? 
I love Easter for many reasons!  One of them is being with family and preparing a wonderful meal, not to mention it is the holiday that is the reason for my whole being!
In our area, we have a wonderful store…HEB!  (My husband loves going grocery shopping there.  Mainly because ours has a sushi bar.)
This is a deal I’ll probably be snagging for Easter…(I love the Meal Deals)
Easter Meal Deal: Good Thru 3/24-4/6/2010
Buy H-E-B Spiral Sliced Ham, H-E-B Fully Cooked® Brisket, or H-E-B Fully Cooked® Prime Rib Roast, get 8 items free with in-store coupon:

• H-E-B Tea, assorted varieties
• Ball Park 2 lb meat franks, 32 oz
• Fresh Express Premium Garden Salad, 9 - 12 oz., assorted varieties
• Kraft salad dressing, 8 oz, assorted varieties
• H-E-B Entertainer or Bite Size Deli Crackers, 4.4 - 9 oz., assorted varieties
• H-E-B Creamy Creations(R) Churn Style, 56 oz, assorted varieties
• Kraft Natural Chunk Cheese, 7 - 8 oz regular, or 2% assorted varieties
• Handi-foil oval or rectangular roaster

How would you like to win a $20.00 gift card from HEB? 
Here’s how…(three entries possible)

1. Leave a comment telling me why you celebrate or not celebrate Easter? (My answer would be:  We celebrate because Jesus is no longer in the grave but has risen!)
2. Leave a comment telling me you became a fan and leave a comment on my new Facebook Fan Page saying “I’m entering the HEB Easter contest.”
3. Leave a comment telling me your favorite Easter memory or a memory that you want for your children to remember.  (Mine would be that we have an Easter tree.)

Open to US residents only.  Giveaway ends on Easter night!  Comments will be closed.  I will email the winner and they will have 48 hours to answer or I will give it to someone else.
If you looking for easy recipes or ideas, try HEB’s website!
Blessings to you!!!  You are loved!!!

What's in the Bible? DVDs plus Giveaway:

This truly Works for Me and my family!!!

My family and I took a trip and along the way we popped this DVD into the player.  Although, my hubs and I couldn’t see it – we heard something wonderful happening in the back seat.

Humility.
Learning.
Wisdom.

Then our DVD player broke.  So, when we got to our destination we played this again.  Honestly, I was in tears it because it was so good.

Phil Vischer, the creator of Veggie Tales starts off the DVD by telling his testimony about Bob and Larry and how it went bankrupt.  He no longer has anything to do with Bob and Larry.

His humility and transparency caught my attention more than anything.  He totally gave all the glory to the Lord.  This series in my opinion is 100 times better than Veggie Tales.  Even though Veggie Tales brought Bible stories to the minds of children, What’s in the Bible explains why we NEED the Bible and Why we need the Creator of the Bible.
As for the What’s in the Bible, I learned more in this video than in my 28 years of being a Christian and going to Sunday School.  Not that I haven’t been taught – this is just easier to follow than some professor, Berean or Philosopher.

Many of the characters, I recognized their voices from Veggie Tales.  However, this series has a different take than Bob and Larry, it is a multimedia format.  There are puppets, cartoons, and Phil Vischer in person.

It has humor and is something that could be played in Sunday School without wondering if it is going to offend anyone.  I would also recommend this to homeschoolers.  Seriously, it is just so informative.

This DVD series is one that is going to stay in our permanent personal library – it is just that good.
Here are some questions it answers:

• Who wrote the Bible?
• What the difference is between the Catholic and Protestant Bible?
• How long a “Day” is in the seven days of creation?
• What does salvation and redemption mean?
• Why there is sin and what can be done about it?

Oh yeah, it is good!  All those are answered plus more!  Not to mention, it is on a kid’s level.  (Therefore most adults will understand as well.  Hello – my brain does not compute some days and I need this kind of education just so I will be interested to pursue more knowledge.)
Here is a video clip…
 
Isn’t that exciting?

Guess what?  I’m giving away two certificates, one for a free copy of each DVD.

Here are the ways to win: (3 entries (separate comments) MAX)

{You must do #1 in order to be qualified or all others will be disqualified.}
1.  Leave a comment telling me what color is your Bible cover.  (If you don’t have a Bible, then just put “transparent”.)
2. I have a new Facebook fan page – if you are a fan, please leave a comment here and there saying you are a fan.
3.  (Extra Entry)  Tell me something about the Bible that has spoken to you.  Do you understand it?  Do you desire to read it?  Have you ever read it?  I want to know if it is important in your life or just a drink coaster. {I’m all about honesty…so no fibs!}

This giveaway will end on April 10th and is open to the United States only.  I will exercise the right to delete an inappropriate comment.

For more information, please go to www.whatsinthebible.com or www.Tyndale.com.

I did receive a complimentary Review copy from Tyndale Publishers and was not compensated for writing a favorable review.

Blessings to you!!!  You are loved!!!

Vol. 1 – Genesis: In the Beginning,   
978-1-4143-3630-5, DVD,    
approx. 60 minutes, $14.99,    

Vol. 2 – Exodus: Let My People Go,    
978-1-4143-3631-2, DVD,    
approx. 60 minutes, $14.99,    
Avail. March 2010 to Christian retailers

A week of Pampers Diapers and a Liz Lange Designer Clutch Giveaway plus Review

I received a pack of Pampers all-new Cruisers with Dry Max a couple of weeks ago.  They have Sesame Street designs on the front and back.   They also have Velcro-type tabs to fasten the diaper closed (I’m so thankful I never had to use safety pins unlike my parents).  The colors were more of a Prince color than a Princess color.  The diapers have a super soft feel to them, which has always been an important issue to me.  Softness means less friction which makes a happier baby.  Happier babies mean happier Mommies!
Since my baby is now potty-trained and I didn’t want to put a diaper on him, I performed my own “wetness” test.  I figured since bottles were at least 8 oz ~ I poured 1 cup of water in the middle of the diaper.  It did get heavy but it stayed dried.
Want to try it yourself?
HERE’S YOUR CHANCE to win a redeemable coupon for a free week’s supply of the all-new Pampers’ Cruisers with Dry Max AND a Liz Lange designer diaper clutch.  

• Just leave a comment telling me that you want to win!  You don’t have to have a blog to do this.  Just make sure you leave your email address so I can contact you!  (Please make sure you leave some way to contact you or you forfeit your prize.)

For extra entries….

• Follow www.ilovemy5kids-reviews.blogspot.com on a reader, in Google friend connect, or by email.  (Leave another comment saying you did.)
• Follow me on Twitter, @loving5kids and Tweet:   Win a week’s worth of diapers plus clutch #loving5kids  http://bit.ly/aB1Yj7 (Leave another comment with the permalink.)

This ends on March 14, 2010! Open to US only!
Blessings to you!!!  You are loved!!!

This Works for ME!
Note:  I was sent a pack of diapers for review purposes only.  This review has not been monetarily compensated.  The review was my honest opinion and views and not influenced by the sponsor in any way.

CLOSED...You make your own Poster - Giveaway

I love this giveaway – a Poster of your photos!  What better way to showcase your favorite photo, band, or artwork than through poster prints! These high quality prints will be a fantastic way to brighten up any wall.
18x24 Poster Print for One (1) Winner
Paper Stock: High Gloss or Semi Gloss
Specifications: 1 Business Day Turnaround
Shipping: FREE UPS Ground Shipping
Eligibility: Limited to US Residents only
Digital Photo Enlargement - Digital Photos on Posters
The final date to enter will be on 2/28/2010.
I have used Uprinting in the past and they are an awesome company to work with!
Okay, the rules to win…
You must do #1 in order to have extra entries.
1.  Tell me what photo you will use if you win.
Extra Entries
2.  Follow this blog.
3.  Follow my Tweets and Tweet about this giveaway.
Blessings to you!  You are loved!!!

Closed: HEB anyone? 1 Contest and 1 Giveaway

I’m just a little excited about this post. There is 1 Contest and 1 Giveaway! Keep reading!
  My family loves our HEB (It is a grocery store for those of you who might not be lucky enough to have one in your state)!  Ours even has a sushi bar.  Hello….Love it!  Our HEB is so clean and friendly.  Can you tell that I really like our HEB?  It is true – even all 5 of my kids like to go.  They always get free balloons lollipops and a chance to play their Buddy-Buck’s Game. 
First Contest:
HEB is having a contest.
 What’s for dinner tonight?
Moroccan Chicken Dinner?  Veggie Chili?  All you do is Tweet your photos of your #HEBdinner using H-E-B products and you could win a 4-pack of San Antonio Spurs tickets!

It’s easy to enter!
Just tweet @HEB your dinner photos from February 10-25.  Show off your cooking tips and be sure to include the #HEBdinner tag.  Each day we’ll randomly select two winners to receive 4-packs of tickets to the Spurs vs. Hornets home game on Friday, March 5.
www.heb.com/twitter
That is not ALL!!!

A GIVEAWAY
They are giving one of my readers a $20.00 gift card.  (This is ending  on March 4, 2010.)

4 Ways to Win:
1.  Leave a comment on this post showing your link that you tweeted @HEB your dinner photo.  (There contest ends tomorrow, 2/25/2010)

2.  Follow me on Twitter and tweet:
RT I want to win $2o.00 #HEB gift card  #loving5kids @loving5kids http://bit.ly/crNFCp
Leave another comment on this post.

3.  Become a follower on www.ilovemy5kids-reviews.blogspot.com.

4.  You can do this even if you don't have a blog.  Just leave a comment on this post saying you don't have a blog and why you like HEB.

This is open to US only!

Blessings to you!!!  You are loved!!!