Giveaway #1 - Cottage Country Candle

CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED! A HUGE THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO PARTICIPATED!

Welcome to Day One of the "Bargain Hunting Mommy Christmas Wishlist Extravaganza!". Stay tuned for the next 10 days for amazing products for everyone on your Christmas Shopping List, or add a couple items to your wishlist, or perhaps if you're like me you'll add a couple of things to your Stocking Pile!


After a long day there is nothing better then relaxing on the couch with a nice cup of coffee and lighting a candle. The scent from a candle can do so much for your mind frame.

Whether you like an energizing scent, a relaxing scent, or a scent that reminds you of Grandma's kitchen Cottage Country Candles has a scent for you. In fact they have 107 different scents!

Cottage Country Candles create a high quality product with a scent that lasts. The 4oz soy candles have a burn time of about 30 hours, the larger 8oz candles last up to 60 hours! In addition to their wonderfully scented candles you can also pick up Tart Warmers, Dipped Plush (room fresheners without an open flame - ideal for a childs room or forgetful relative), and new Floral Diffusers.

I'd heard wonderful things about the products from Cottage Country Candles but I was not prepared for the amazing quality. I have always been a candle person, but I have also been frustrated with candles that start strong and finish weak, literally have no scent, or candles that leave a horrible black soot everywhere.. Finding Cottage Country Candles has been a wonderful discovery. Not only are the candles triple scented for amazing throw (once lit downstairs the scent permeates all 3 floors of our house), but the soy candles burn incredibably clean. And the burn all the way down to the bottom of the jar.

Upon opening my package from Cottage Country Candles I was immediate impressed with the quality of presentation. The candles smelled absolutely divine, and even better once lit. Being that I am such a huge fan of all things spice my favorites are the Gingerbread & Pumpkin Pie candles. The scents are so relaxing and immediately transport me to my Grandma's kitchen growing up.

Lynn over at Cottage Country Candles has generously offered up an amazing gift set consisting of 3 Christmas Scents. One lucky winner will receive an 8oz Jack Frost, 4oz Christmas Tree and 4 oz Merry Mistletoe scented candles.


You can enter this amazing giveaway by heading over to Cottage Country Candle. While there have a look around. Come back to a Bargain Hunting Mommy on the Go! and let me know what your favorite scent is. Super easy!

Bonus entries can be earned by completing any (or all) of the following:

* blogging about the contest!
* adding my button to your sidebar
* adding my Extravaganza Button to your sidebar
* being a follower of a Bargain Hunting Mommy on the Go!
* making a purchase from the store

**** Besure to come back and leave a separate comment for each of the above that you complete so that you receive all your entries into the contest****

This giveaway is open to Canadian and US Residents, and will end on November 15th at 11:59 pm est.

Cottage Country Candle makes a great Christmas Present for teachers, family, and friends. Candles make amazing gifts, and with the huge selection of scents you can find something for everyone on your list. Use the coupon code "Jaime sent me" in your comments to receive a 10% discount on your order (before shipping costs). Coupon code will expire on November 30th!

A Bargain Hunting Mommy loves Cottage Country Candle because the products are high quality, reasonably priced, and have so many delicious scents! Pick up some today!

Happy Halloween

Happy Halloween to all my lovely Bargain Hunting Mommy on the Go readers! The girls are so excited for Halloween tonight. We're going to a pizza party at cousin Xage's then back home to trick or treat with Grandpa. We may head up to the Civic Centre after for the festivities. I believe there will be fireworks tonight, which conveniently happen in our backyard (ok well the field in our backyard to be more fair!). Either way it'll be a great night.

Played around on picnik this morning and created some Halloween pictures! I'll show you both the "normal" & "zombie" versions!

Spooky Zombie Malie!

Pretty Witch Malie!

Pretty Princess Tala Marie

Have a great Halloween everyone!

And remember to check back tomorrow for day 1 of my Christmas Wishlist Extravaganza!

War of Words

As most of you know I have just traveled home to Prince Rupert to live with my Father. The upcoming Municipal Elections caught my attention when a candidate's platform included the apparent local frustration at the City Workers receiving a free recreation pass. A pass that is greatly inflated through the various means. The pass enables city workers to attend the community pool free of charge. But it appears that the pass has not been sufficiently explained to the residents of the city. There are whispers around town that the pass includes free access to the skating rink and even free admission to recreation programs for their entire families. Which is definitely not the case.

So when I noticed that Jack Mussallem was running with the pass as part of his platform I was very disgruntled. To me that is absolutely absurd! I responded via a letter to the local paper as detailed below:

In response to the recent spotlight on Jack Mussallem’s decision to run for mayor I present the following:

City Workers are among the hardest working in the city. Monday to Friday, 8 hours a day they face the elements. Gusting winds and rain are the norm. Definitely not the ideal working conditions; but still they show up every day and work to beautify our city.

One of Mr. Mussallem’s key points in his platform is the supposed anger that the residents of Prince Rupert feel at the fact that City Workers are given free admission to the public pool.

Perks are the norm in many companies. I’m sure we would all love to save upwards of 10% at the grocery store every time we shop. For the average family struggling to make ends meet that would be a huge blessing. But in the words of Jack Mussallem “that’s just not possible”. Does that mean that stores should stop offering perks to their hard working employees? I’m sure people reading this are shaking their heads right now; but why is it any different for city employees?

I suggest that Mr Mussallem leaves the comfort of his office and work outside for 8 hours in the freezing cold rain and wind. Let him become acquainted with the elements that chill you to your very core. Perhaps then he will rethink the merit of allowing city workers their much deserved perks.

City workers deserve their rewards for a job well done. Free admission to the public pool is barely the tip of the iceberg of what they deserve.

My letter was published on October 15th. Yesterday I got a phone call letting me know to check the newspaper as there was a letter to me in it. So I ran to grab the paper and sure enough on page 4 was a letter from Jack Mussallem about yours truly! Here is the letter to the editor:

Recently, Jaime Stephens wrote a letter to you, which was printed in the Daily News on Wed., Oct 15.

Jaime Stephens took exception to my comment about the free use of recreation facilities by city workers and then wrote, "I suggest that Mr Mussallem leaves the comfort of his office and works outside for eight hours in the freezing cold rain and wind."

"Let him become acquainted with the elements that chill you to the very core."

Well, constructive comments are appreciated - baseless comments are not.

Jaime Stephens should investigate the facts before running off at the mouth with that comment.

For the three years Jack Mussallem has worked as a construction worker, as a timber faller, and as a marine cargo surveyor.

All these jobs involve work outside in the "freezing cold rain and wind."

Jack Mussallem

So of course I cannot leave well enough alone as I am now a psuedo celebrity in town here. People are very proud of me and laughing about his letter to the editor.

So this is the letter that I just emailed to the editor is response:

My apologies to Mr Mussallem for my recent letter suggesting he leave the comfort of his office to face the elements as our beloved city workers do on a daily basis. My statement was obviously based on outdated information as he so eloquently pointed out. However, that does not take away from the issues brought forward regarding the apparent frustration over a "free recreation pass" given to city employees. It is interesting that in true political fashion the issue at hand was skirted and the focus shifted. One would think that Mr Mussallem could have used the opportunity to clarify his stand on the subject, to fully explain the perk, or perhaps he could have given the wonderful program "Everyone Gets to Play" a shout out.

And in true skeptic fashion I wonder if perhaps the real reason Jack is seeking re-election is to get out of the elements?

I would however like to sincerely thank Mr Mussallem for taking the time to respond to a newcomer to this beautiful city. I am truly honored to have garnered a response from such a busy gentleman.

And so I will anxiously await to see if the letter has been published, and then wait to see if I garner another response.

Excitement in small town Northern BC!

Interesting enough.. I just googled and found a blog about how my letter to the editor has created a battleground on the letter to the editor page of the Newspaper just in time for the Municipal Election.

Apparently there was another letter that I wasn't privy to:

Jack is right about freebies

To the editor,

In response to Jaime Stephens’ letter to the editor (Workers Deserve Thanks, Daily News Opinion, Oct 15).

Before criticizing Mr. Mussallem, perhaps you should find out the opinion of the majority of citizens of Prince Rupert as it pertains to perks for city employees. Do you think the majority of taxpayers are pleased that not only are city employees receiving a good wage, but they have also been given the use of the pool free of charge? I understand that this perk was offered to some federal employees as well.

You don’t work for a company, you work for a government, so you shouldn’t compare yourself with employees that work for private enterprise. To answer your question, “Why is it different for city employees?” The difference is, there is a perceived conflict of interest when city (gov’t) employees can use a city facility free of charge.

No one is saying you don’t work hard, but you are really blowing your horn if you think you are one of the hardest working in the city. Perhaps you should get out more and see what others do for a living in our weather conditions. I vote for Mr. Mussallem getting behind a desk at city hall

Jacquie Jones

Any thoughts?

Jaime

Buzzing with Excitement

I am buzzing with excitement! And no, I haven't been into the Energy Drinks already. Why is this Bargain Hunting Mommy so excited? My Christmas Wishlist Extravaganza launches in 3 short days! That's right. In 3 short days you will have the opportunity to enter to win some of the most amazing products on the market!

Right now I am busy writing reviews and giveaway posts. Scouring websites/stores for the most amazing products to share with you.

I am preparing to get out there in the internet world and get the word out on the giveaways. The more people who come through A Bargain Hunting Mommy on the Go the more exciting the giveaways are!

And I have some extra special information for you today! The giveaway has expanded! I now have 11 sponsor. So somewhere along the way we will have a Surprise Sponsor.

I would like to thank all the sponsors of the Giveaway Extravaganza... and also all my readers! Without my readers the Wishlist Extravaganza never would have been born. I needed this giveaway to get me into the Christmas Spirit! So thank you to everyone involved!


For more details on the giveaway click the button below!

Zip Zam Zowee!

I have gone 27 years without succumbing to the pressure of Energy Drinks... that is... until last night! Working 2 jobs is exhausting and my golly I needed a pick me up last night after working both jobs. Enter the tempation at 7-Eleven!

So here I am, barely able to stay awake staring foggy eyed at the cooler in front of me. Every single variety imaginable, all with flashy cans that scream "Buy me, buy me". I finally settled on a pretty pink can, Pink Energy Drink.

Absolutely delicious! I cannot believe that I have never picked one of these up before. Not only do they taste amazing, they're also 0 calories, and boy do they make you more alert!

I've been a coffee monster for 14 years, and while I love a nice cup of joe it just doesn't do much for me after all these years. I actually have a severe fondness for a Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks, but trust me! When you work at Tim Hortons showing up with a Starbucks Latte in hand is a serious faux pas! Thank goodness I also work at Safeway, where Starbucks consumption is a huge plus!

And thus an Energy Drink obsession is born! If anyone is looking for me I'll be at the corner store pondering my next adventure!

Winner Announced - Ladybugs and Lullabies Giveaway

The winner of a beautiful Breast Cancer Awareness Clip from Ladybugs & Lullabies has been drawn via Random.org. A huge congratulations to JodyB08 comment #27.

She said:

JodyB08 said... 27

I am also now a follower of your blog :)

October 22, 2008 1:48 PM

Congrats JodyB08! I will email through your blogger profile. If I don't hear from you within 48 hours a new winner will be drawn.

Thanks everyone for making this giveaway such a success! Be on the lookout for a new series of giveaways starting November 1st!

Tiny Prints Holiday Card Contest!

With Christmas rapidly approaching I was excited to be approached by Tiny Prints who have offered up an amazing opportunity to all A Bargain Hunting Mommy on the Go! readers to win the absolute perfect Christmas Card Set Up.

50 cards
72 address labels
60 stamps with matching card design

Will be awarded to one lucky winner!

To enter the contest there are 4 easy steps!

1. head over to Tiny Prints Holiday Photo Cards. Search for the card with the sentence "slushy to chic" in the description (**HINT this card is located on one of the first 2 pages of cards).

2. Using the button "Ask a Friend" forward that card to me with your most creative Holiday Greeting. Use the address imanoptimisticbeauty[at]yahoo[dot]ca (change the [at] to @ and the [dot] to .].

3. Save the design of the card you found in your free account (sign up is quick and easy, only takes a second. Tiny Prints will never sell your info to anyone, nor will they send you their Newsletter unless you sign up for it).

4. Come back to the blog and post in the comments your slogan to obtain your entry.

And that's it. I will choose the winner based on selection of the right card and the most amusing, creative slogan you can think of.

Contest will close on November 7th. I will contact the winner via email and they will have 48 hours to respond with the appropriate information requested. The winners details will be forwarded to Tiny Prints who will be in contact you with instructions on how to claim your amazing prize.

Good luck everyone! Lets some truly creative slogans!

The Small Print
*Contestants can only win once but can enter as many times as you wish.
*Only contestants who have not won a tiny*prints contest in the last 90 days will be eligible.
*Winner will be responsible for the full purchase price of any items that fall outside of contest winnings.
*Contest open from October 20, 2008 to November 7, 2008.
*Contestants relinquish greeting text ownership and allow tiny*prints to use their entries for promotional use.
*Stamps will be fulfilled separately from tiny*prints order

Feeding my Picnik Addiction

Cherub over at Feisty, Frugal and Fabulous got me hooked on Picnik. It is an absolutely amazing image adjusting program that is 100% online. Most of the features are free, and are exceptionally easy to use. Its a lot of fun to play around with the different features including collage, borders, sepia and black and white.

So today I had some spare time on my hands while the kiddos napped, and before heading to my first day working at Safeway (which by the way I am super excited about!). Enter my Picnik addiction. I had promised a couple of pictures to an internet friend to potentially use on her site. The pictures were a tad over exposed so of course I had to work at fixing them. But I didn't just stop there! I got inspired, and played around with my profile pic, and I absolutely adore it!

Here is the finished product for my profile picture. I think it fits into the theme of the blog perfectly. I added a border, and also the flower accents on the right hand side. I am a huge fan of Sepia, so of course I changed the picture to Sepia, adjusted the level so that it looked just right.


Here are the pictures that got me onto the computer in the first place... take a good long look at these pictures too though as they provide some insight into one of the wonderful giveaways that are looming!
And yes.. the beautiful Halloween Collage from a couple weeks back was also a product of my Picnik addiction!


And thus as any friend who has found something absolutely amazing should do I encourage you to head over to Picnik and play around! I would love to see your creations!

Game Time!

Found this through Keep It Classy and looked like oodles of fun so I thought I'd give it a shot. I'd love to see yours! Be sure to post a link to your own collection of images.

Use google images to track down images to the following questions:

1) How Old Are You?
2) What is Your Middle Name?
3) What is your Dream Vacation Destination?
4) Where were you born?
5) What is your favorite colour?

Here are mine!

How Old Are You?

What is your middle name

Dream Vacation Destination (Greenland!)

Where I was born

My favorite colour (red)

Look forward to seeing everyones images!

Someday...

Someday....

I'll actually have time to finish a blog post! I have come to the conclusion that I am far too busy! I just finished 6 days straight at the Coffee Shop... and now I have 3 days off in a row! But leave it to me to totally over schedule myself on my days off. Tomorrow I have an interview at the premier hotel in town. Hopefully it goes well. I would absolutely love to work there. The money would be awesome, night shift... but it wouldn't work out too shabby. Really it would just transpose my schedule now. I also need to stop by the coffee shop and get my schedule for next week... and then header down to the phone store & justice society to drop of my resumes.

Then Friday I have orientation at Safeway for working in the Deli. 4 hours starting at 4:45 pm, paid of course. They get paid weekly so that's awesome! I'll be rolling in the money come this weekend. And yes... I am totally joking. I might be rolling in the pennies this weekend!

Thursday though is 100% dedicated to the girls. They sure are enjoying their time at daycare and if I can be completely honest (without it sounding odd)... I value my time with the girls a lot more now. Its not that I didn't love being a Stay at Home Mom... but now that I spend my days away from them, the time that I do get to spend with them is that much sweeter. They have both adapted to being at daycare so well that I am so proud. Malie is learning so much in preschool. A lot of it is a refresher course for Tala as I had been doing her preschool lessons at home.. but its great for her to be learning about being in school as she starts Kindergarten next September!

I am so totally and utterly wiped out though that I must confess that I fell asleep at 7:30 pm last night! Thank goodness my Dad woke me up at 10:30 to set the alarm. What would I ever do without my Dad right now? He's my built in Grandpa-Daycare and alarm police!

Here's a quick picture of Miss Tala in her new pants & shirt. I actually picked her up 3 new pairs of pants & 1 shirt as the last time I bought her new clothes was in the summer during the Vancouver Heat Wave and so she had a serious lack of freezing cold wind and rain suitable pants. Paid full price and was frustrated with myself for that - so I called Zellers and negotiated a 30% discount. So that made me super happy! Just goes to show that there is oodles of money to save if you're so inclined!
Next on my list of things to buy (its a rather large list prioritized from must haves - to nice to haves)... is a pair of rain boots for myself! I would love to pick up a pair of those really super cool patterned ones!

So yes I am far too busy.. .and this post is rather everywhere... but as I have always said... its far better to be busy then have nothing to do!

Gotta run... time to pick the kiddos up from daycare! Run, run, run... oi!

R.E.S.P.E.C.T.

Respect is something that weighs heavily on my mind. I know that we hear a lot about how kids these days have no respect. But I think that it really goes a lot deeper than that. Truth is that kids learn a lot from their parents. Which is why I work my pahtootie off trying to teach my children to respect everyone, from all walks of life. We are not better then anyone, nor are we worse then anyone.

In my opinion, everyone is an equal. Regardless of whether you're the richest man in town, a city worker, working at a coffee shop, or down on your luck and without home living on the street. After all, we are all humans and deserve to be treated with respect.

Amanda Marshall said it so well in her song Everybody's Got a Story:

Everybody's got a story that could break your heart
See my eyes, don't see what I see.
Touch my tongue, don't know what tastes good to me.
It's the human condition that keeps us apart
Everybody's got a story that could break your heart
Yeah, everybody's got a story that could break your heart
Na na na na na na

Now who could read the mind of the red-headed girl next door
Or the taxi driver who just dropped you off
Or the classmate that you ignore
Don't assume everything on the surface is what you see
Cause that classmate just lost her mother.
And that taxi driver's got a PHD.
I'm so tired of the fear
That weighs us down with wrong assumptions
Of broken hearts, a natural function

I feel like a Martin Luther King of sorts sitting here saying that I have a dream of a world where everyone can live in harmony. But its true. And until that day I will continue to treat everyone I meet with respect, and I will lead my children by example. They are learning to treat everyone with respect. Regardless of their walk of life. To me this is the most important lesson that I can teach them. One that will bring them the farthest in life.

I currently have my heart set on being hired on a part time basis with the Aboriginal Justice Society up North here. My work would consist of working within both the Justice Society and the Patient Travel Service Department. It would be an amazing opportunity for me, and a job that I could feel so good about working towards. I have such a strong desire to help people. Especially people who have no one else in their corner.

Do you have a dream? A job that you would love to do above all else? Regardless of the salary, or hours you would have to work?

Halloween Fun! Giveaway! Winner is....

The winner in the Halloween Fun! Giveaway! Starbucks $5 giftcard is lucky number:

#9

Congrats Noreen on the win!

noreen said...

my favorite halloween was last year, both Princess A and G could trick or treat at more than one house, it helped that it was not below freezing that year. They were a princess and a ballerina

They are in a video contest right now. I hope you come to my blog, vote for them and enter my contest

October 14, 2008 4:04 PM

Talking about Christmas Presents...

I know that there is lots of Christmas talk around this here blog these days... but bear with me! Its better then me constantly gabbing on and on about the weather... which by the way is usually pouring rain and featuring crazy insane gusting winds (just incase you were wondering).

And so... do you know what makes a great Christmas Present for just about anyone? Photo gifts.

Artscow is currently offering the chance to receive 4 free Puzzles and 8 free decks of playing cards!

Not a member? Well the offer gets even better. Sign up today and you will receive 1200 free prints! That's 600 free 4x6's and 600 free 5x7's! But that's not all you will also receive 3 free credits for an 8x8 inch photobook (free w/shipping) and other great products for free (w/shipping).

If you're curious about the quality

Coupon Code for the Free puzzles: FREE4XPUZZLES
Coupon Code for the Free Photo Playing Card: FREE8CARDS

Artscow delivers a consistently high quality product. I have ordered numerous photobooks and each one is absolutely beautiful. I love the fact that everything is so customizable. There are literally hundred of design choices. You can see my full review here.

Definitely head over and check it out. You can't beat the price, and the quality is among the best that I've seen, and quite honestly I've seen just about them all!

Much Need Surprise/Job Update

I arrived home from my first day at work to a much needed contest win arriving! A huge thanks goes out to Jen over at Clean Canada. Recently she hosted a contest for a sampling of soaps from local vendor Bohemian Bubbles.


The first thing that I noticed when I opened the envelope was the smell. I was surrounded by wonderful aroma. I tried the lip balm out immediately and my goodness does it do the trick. It feels great going on, and the smell is heavenly. I received the strawberry. Delicious!

I have to keep this short as I'm just running a tub of water to test out the soaps! Both girls are at daycare for another hour and a half so I'll have a nice hot bath.. without little fists banging on the door and voices chanting "let me in".

Work was good. I worked 5 hours today, and will have the same 5 hour shift through the end of next week. At which time I will move to 8 hour days. Which is a good thing as it does take a little getting used to being back at work. Working as a daycare provider was hard work, but being on your feet making coffee all day is tiring.

It felt good to work, be around adults! I did really well (I overheard my coworkers talking about me)... everyone is super nice. I'll get my first paycheque next Friday so that's pretty awesome as well!

We had a hard time getting up this morning. Somehow I missed the alarm and got up an hour late! So I had to run around and get the girls ready to go. Then I had to bug my Dad to give us a ride to preschool and then to work so I wouldn't be late for the my first day. I didn't have time to feed myself and so the day really dragged on towards the end and I was so faint by quitting time that I had to eat right away. So big note to self: Eat!

The hardest part of the day was being away from the girls. I was going to pick them up right after work but Malie was sleeping so I decided to let them stay until 4. I'm sure they had a great time today though, they love their preschool.

Bargain Hunting Mommy's Christmas Wishlist Extravaganza

Well I've gone and done it! What exactly is it? Well I've managed to arrange the most amazing series of reviews and giveaways for my wonderful readers.

I have scoured the internet trying to find the most innovative, beautiful, budget friendly, and gift worthy items on the net. And boy have I delivered.

Each day for 9 days commencing November 1st I will present to you a product spotlight. For each product spotlight you will have the opportunity to visit the official website of the product and select your favorite colour, scent, design and report back to me. For doing this small task you will receive one entry into the draw to win a special gift from the sponsor.

But that's not all! You have the opportunity to receive more entries into the draw by:

* blogging about the contest!
* adding my button to your sidebar
* adding my Extravaganza Button to your sidebar
* making a purchase from the store

That's 5 entries in total for your chance to win some of the most amazing gifts imaginable. Each item that you complete must be commented on separately to be eligible for all your entries!

Each draw will last a minimum of 7 days!

Now you're probably wondering what amazing sponsors I have tracked down. Well that's the surprise. How much fun is it to open presents that you already know what they are? Each sponsor will remain a secret until I reveal them on their assigned day. I have compiled a huge assortment including: divinely scented candles, luxurious bath products, chic knitwear, innovative wallets, adorable baby products, notecards that you will fall in love with, stationary that will bring a smile to your face, exquisite jewelry and a very special surprise from the the 2007 SavvyMom Mom Entrepreneur of the Year!

In addition! Each entry received throughout the length of the contest will be entered into a draw for your chance to win a Hand Blown Christmas Pickle Ornament courtesy of A Bargain Hunting Mommy!

Stay tuned for more details & be sure to add my Extravaganza Button to your blog or webpage for an additional chance to win!

Seeking Participants! BHM Christmas Wishlist Extravaganza!

A Bargain Hunting Mommy on the Go is currently planning a huge and wonderful Giveaway for my loyal readers. And I'm looking for your help!

Do you have (or know someone) who has a Product or Service that should top my Christmas Wishlist? Then I want to hear from you!

I am looking for up to 10 companies who want their products on the forefront of people's minds as we enter the busy Christmas Season. This could be an amazing opportunity for you to increase sales and get your product out into the public eye. Research has shown that word of mouth advertising is the key to a successful business in this day and age.

Blog Reviews & Giveaways are perfect for increasing your client base. Contact me at imanoptimisticbeauty@yahoo.ca today for more information on this amazing opportunity!

Whether you choose to have a product reviewed and or sponsor a contest for my blog readers I look forward to talking to you.

If you would like to see the basic setup of the contests sponsored through a Bargain Hunting Mommy on the Go please visit my current giveaway for Ladybugs and Lullabies. A similar setup will be used for this giveaway, but with a shorter contest closing date.

Only family friendly products will be considered! This is first and foremost a family blog and I strive to keep it great for all members of the family, from toddlers right up to Grandma & Grandpa!

Its the Little Things

Its amazing that when you're entire life is in transition and you're starting off with next to nothing how much the little things matter. Its the little things that can make you smile, feel like everything is okay and things are back to normal.

My little thing for the week was new sheets! Seems so small and insignificant. I had never thought about it before I moved home to my Dad's house with my daughters. There were no fitted sheets in the entire house, so for the last 2 weeks I've been frustrated to the extreme with a flat sheet draped over our bed that I had to get up numerous times during the night to fix (as I'm just that particular about sheets gosh darn it!).

Zellers had an advertised special for sheets @ $3.97 so I decided they were in my price range. Headed down and wouldn't you know it... sold out. However I prevailed and tracked down a flannel sheet set, regularly $29.98 on sale 40% off, plus 10% Student price Card discount. So for $16.19 I got a new sheet set, but more importantly... normalcy.

And so without further ado I present...

my new sheets (complete with adorable sleeping model as I couldn't just take pictures of my new sheets - that would just be weird!)

My new sheets are wonderfully soft and I had the first full nights sleep in a long time!

I encourage everyone with the cold winter season approaching to gather up any extra coats and jackets and bring them to the nearest homeless shelter to help those who are less fortunate. Its the little things that happen, and especially the acts of kindness that make all the difference in the world when you feel like life is spiraling out of control!

Ladybugs and Lullabies Giveaway

A great big thank you to Allyson over at Ladybugs and Lullabies for sponsoring my latest contest!

Ladybugs & Lullabies is quickly taking the Baby Accessory world by storm. Allyson makes absolutely beautiful clips that actually stay where they are supposed to. Not only do they stay where they're supposed to they are also extremely customizable.. so you can make the clips exactly how you want them to be. Ladybugs & Lullabies clips are so amazing that they hold onto even a few strands of peach fuzz.


My girls practically live in Ladybugs & Lullabies clips. And its not just my kiddos! Violet Affleck was recently spotted sporting Ladybugs & Lullabies, and Brooke Shields was kind enough to send a personal thank you note to Allyson!

Ladybugs & Lullabies has just launched a new clip, the Breast Cancer Awareness Bow. Partial proceeds from the purchase of each of these bows will go directly to helping support Breast Cancer Research.


Allyson has very generously offered one reader of A Bargain Hunting Mommy on the Go! one of these beautiful clips.

For your first entry please head over to Ladybugs & Lullabies, browse the site, and come back and tell me your favorite clip design.

Up to 5 more entries can be obtained by completing the following. Please be sure to come back and leave a separate comment for each item you complete:

1 entry for blogging about this contest
1 entry for being a follower of A Bargain Hunting Mommy on the Go!
1 entry for putting my button on your blog (underneath the button you have the option of selecting share. Click on it and copy the code and you're set)
1 entry for making a purchase from Ladybugs & Lullabies
1 bonus entry if you purchase the Breast Cancer Awareness Bow!

This contest will close on October 25th at 11:59 pm est! Please ensure that I can get ahold of you! If your email address isn't available in your blogger profile please be sure to leave it in your comment. Remember... if I can't get ahold of you, you can't win!

For a limited time you can save 25% off your entire order at Ladybugs & Lullabies. Use code "Halloween08" at checkout and your discount will be reflected immediately. Shipping is insanely reasonable at only $2. Allyson is making a high quality product at amazingly reasonable prices. Head on over today to treat the little girl in your life!

Halloween Fun! Giveaway!

I love Halloween. Seeing the girls all dressed up and bubbling over with excitement is absolutely amazing. The vast amount of energy that they possess is contagious.

This year will be our first Halloween up North in Prince Rupert and I'm estimating they will come home with oodles and oodles of special treats! The girls are excited to make the rounds with their Grandpa Gordie, who has quite the reputation of knowing all the best houses in town! I can't remember a year that we didn't come home with at least a pillowcase full each. And with 5 kiddos that's an awful lot of sugar to bring into the house!

Tala will once again be dressing up as a Princess. Malie will be bringing one of Tala's old costumes back to life. She will be the Spider Princess! I cannot wait to see the girls all dressed up!

The memory of Malie (in her Devil Costume) trucking up to front doors, knocking, garbling out (she was only 18months old at the time) "Trick or Treat" and holding up her treat sack makes me smile. She was so adorable and so serious. She was so thankful for each and every piece of candy that was put in her sack, and another garbled sentance was uttered before she trucked onto the next house. A very polite little devil was the consensus on our block.

Here is a collage of my favorite moments from the last 2 Halloweens. Malie's first halloween she was a gosh darn adorable Bunny Rabbit. It was also Tala's first Halloween out trick'or'treating as the Spider Witch.


"The Princess scared of the Devil" has become a Halloween Classic photo for me. The photo just happened to be taken at the exact right moment. Malie actually just crowded in and "stole" Tala's photo and she was reacting... but with the costumes it just lends itself to the title so well. Both girls picked out their own costumes.

In celebration of Halloween and Fall I am offering up a $5 Starbucks giftcard to one lucky reader! Entry guidelines as follows:

First entry will be assigned for sharing your favorite Halloween moment, your children's, yours. Its your call.

Additional entries will be granted for each of the following. Please be sure to comment separately for each of these that you complete:

* blog about my contest (and post the link)
* follow my blog
* post my button on your blog (right under the button you should see the option to share it.. click on it and you're in business!)

And finally ... you can receive an extra entry for posting a link to a picture of your little ones dressed up in their Halloween Costumes!

That's right, you have up to 5 chances to win! Contest will close October 18th at 8:59pm pst. Winner will be contacted by email and will have 48 hours to respond with their mailing address. I am hoping to get this giftcard out to you in time for a trick or treating treat for you!

Please remember to post your email address in your comment if you don't have it listed in your blogger profile! If I cannot get ahold of you, you can't win!

Daycare Relief Ahoy

As most of you know our little family is going through some changes... and one huge concern has been alleviated for us. We found a daycare!

Its just up the street... which is great. But for those of you who have never been to Rupert you need to be up on the lingo. Up the street literally means Up the street! This entire town is full of hills. From my Dad's house we have to walk all the way up a big big big hill (Tala's technical term)... and then down it on the other side to get downtown. So when I say "Just Up the Street". I actually mean up an insanely large hill! C'est la vie. We'll survive. The bus does go right by so on rainy days we can bus up there.

The true blessing for me is the Childcare Subsidy offered by our Provincial Government. The subsidy will cover $30 for Malie and $27.50 for Tala. So instead of costing me $70/day I am looking at $12.50. A huge difference that is actually bringing childcare into reach for me!

I don't actually have a job yet... but I am searching endlessly. Hoping to come up with something very soon!

Just had to share my joy at finding daycare for the girls. The daycare provider is actually an ECE and does preschool in the morning from 9am to 11:45 pm. Lunch is at noon, then quiet time. Tala & Malie went for about an hour yesterday and boy oh boy did they scream when we left! They're both looking forward to their first day on Tuesday. I'm dropping them off at 8:45 to do the preschool portion and picking them up after lunch.

Malie is absolutely ecstatic to be going to school as she has spent the last year and a little bit watching Tala take all these fun classes and sitting on the sidelines. This will make a huge difference for her!

And just incase anyone is wondering... the teacher has received strict instructions from me not to allow Tala to convince her that her "real" name is Cutie Pie. LOL.

Sleeping Beauties

Don't you wish you could sleep like a child again? Both my girls have been amazing sleepers for such a long time that I can't help but wish that I could sleep like they do. Instead, here I am up late blogging and searching out new and interesting contests.

Which brings me to the purpose of this post. 5 Minutes For Mom is hosting the most amazing contest that I have encountered! Home & Bedroom Furniture has graciously offered up a bedroom set for one lucky entrant into the contest. You can get more info on the contest here.

This contest couldn't have come at a better time. Winning the Lily Rose set would be a blessing for us in our new home. My 2.5 year old daughter Malie is currently without a bed as we had very limited room in our move up North in my Dad's truck. She's been such a trooper through the whole experience that she deserves a beautiful bedroom set for a beautiful little girl.

Here's my sleeping beauty fast asleep on the floor. She's such a rambunctious little girl that she just keeps going until she drops!


This photo was taken during the insane heat of a Vancouver summer. You know, the sort of heat that wearing any clothes more then absolutely necessary is unbearable. For the little ones that usually means running around in a diaper!

Wish me luck! I'd love to be a finalist in the contest!

Christmas Planning

Christmas is a hard time of the year for me as my Auntie's passing on December 28th, 2000 is still fresh in my mind. We tried so hard to make her last Christmas special for her in the hospital. It was hard but we prevailed.

So I find that I really need to plan for Christmas to get anything to happen as otherwise I put it off.

This year Jen (over at A Busy Mommy on the Go).... challenged a bunch of Frugallers to a Totally Free Christmas Plan 2008. I've been working my pahtootie off coming up with the absolute best deals possible. I've spent very little on present for the kiddos. Here is what I have so far (and probably in total as they so totally don't need more).

Toys R Us Giftcard redemption (paid $1.10 out of pocket)
Step 2 Easel for Two (value $49.99 on sale for $39.99)
Barn Playset (value $29.99 on sale for $19.99)

Amazon Giftcard redemption (totally free)
MoonThief Book (value reg $15, clearance $5.99)

Chapters Giftcard redemption (totally free)
Animal Stackers Book (value reg $22.99 clearance $4.99)

Starbucks Giftcard Redemption ($6.76)
Bugs in a Box Puzzle (value reg $12.99 clearance $5.99)

Point Redemptions/Wins
Jungle Party Print by Stacey Wyman-Posnett (value $130) - cost $free!
2 x Aurora Gator Puppets (value $13.49 each) - cost: $free!
1 x Nursery Rhyme Tease Pudgy Boot & T-Shirt Set size 4T Pink Wheels on the Bus (value $25) - cost $free!
5 x Scholastic Storybook Treasures DVD's (value $14.95 each) - cost: $free

Misc:
2 x Chapstick Giftsets (found at Dollar Store for $1 each, value $8.95 each): cost: $2

Total Value of my Christmas Stash: $367.37
Toal Paid (out of pocket) for my Christmas Stash: $3.10 (not a typo!) Now that's some great shopping!

I'm still in the market for:

More Books!
Scrabble Tile Pendants from Etsy Seller Home Studio. My girls are major Cody Fans and would go crazy over the Penguin Scrabble Tile, at $6.95 each you can't go wrong!
The All Natural "Play Dough" From from Do Si Dough has caught my eye for stocking stuffers!

My wishlist is small:

In desparate need of a new wallet!
Starbucks coffee mug

LOL... I'm scouring the net trying to find the perfect wallet for my present. There are so many amazing products available! So far the Tooled Patent Flat Wallet from Bright & Bold is in the lead.

Hopefully we have an amazing Christmas this year on a seriously tight budget. It would sure help a lot if Boomertowne comes through on the $250 worth of giftcards I'm waiting on!

Hockey Mom Alert - and Darn Proud

As of 1:30 this afternoon this Bargain Hunting Mommy officially became a Hockey Mom... and darn tooting I am so proud! My little girl did amazingly well, especially considering it was only her 2nd time on the ice!

My Dad took her skating on Sunday and they skated for close to 2 hours and came home full of grins and BIG stories. I smiled, enjoyed my treat (family tradition to enjoy a treat after a successful class/practice).

This morning we busied ourselves getting her gear ready and headed off to the Arena (conveniently located in our backyard) for her first class of Tiny Tots Hockey.

She did so good. Had quite a few spills but she's learning how to fall and more importantly how to get up. And all I can say is boy can that girl handle the puck!

Uploading 2 videos for you guys in typical proud Mommy fashion! Enjoy. She truly did absolutely amazing today and I am still grinning ear to ear!

And yes... in video #2 that is me giggling like a school girl!




Important update.... as you may have noticed that I've split my blog into 2.... I love blogging about contests but was afraid it was taking away from the whole family update portion of a Bargain Hunting Mommy on the Go. I hope its a change for the better. If you're looking for contest updates head on over to Contest Canuck!

Contest Call!

Another Day more great blog contests for you!

The Giveaway is hosting a contest for a custom bag by Mimsi. $75 value. You will have control of picking the fabric for both the inside and outside of your bag, to ensure it is totally you! Hurry on over as this contest closes (today) October 6th.

Little Ida is hosting a contest for a wonderful collection of Craftsbury Kids! While you're there be sure to check out the new store of Craftsbury Kids. I absolutely fell in love with 2 items, the Baby Mushroom Dolls and the Baby Gnome Dolls. I am so tired of all the plastic toys on the market these days and I'm sure I'm not the only one! Contest closes (today) October 6th!

Green Mom Finds is currently hosting a contest for a $25 giftcert to Best Baby Organics. Head on over today to fill out the easy entry form. My choice for my favorite product was the Strawberry - Organic Cotton Soft Teethers - the less plastic in my house (and my kiddos mouths) the better. Hurry on over as this contest ends (today) October 6th.

Emily Allyn is hosting a contest for an adorable pair of Umi shoes. Head on over and so a super quick easy survey and you're entered to win. Contest closes October 7th.

The Pitter Patter Boutique is hosting a giveaway for a free pair of Baby Legs in 1 of 7 designs. If you're not familiar with Baby Legs they are a must have for all little babes & toddler girls especially. We have several pairs and my girls adore them. Perfect for extending dress season into the fall, for little babies crawling, and for making a fashion statement. Winner will be drawn on October 9th!

Vixen's Den is currently promoting a new apron shop with a contest. Head on over for your chance to win an absolutely adorable apron. I personally am the hugest klutz in the world and rely heavily on aprons to keep my clothes wearable during the day. Perhaps its from working in the meat cutting industry for so long or something, but for some reason I cannot keep clean without one. Convinced? Well head on over for chance to win! Contest closes October 10th!

Stir Crazy! is currently hosting a contest for a Scrabble Tile Pendant from Present by Design. Contest closes October 10th.

The Giveaway is hosting yet another amazing giveaway. Carla Sonheim is an absolutely amazing artist that I can see myself purchasing from for setting up Tala & Malie's New Room. She proclaims herself a "Painted of Girls". Head on over to be treated to a viewing of some amazing pieces of art. Contest closes October 11th.

Changing My World One Moment at a Time is currently hosting her first contest for 3 puretracks downloads. Head on over for your chance to win an amazing gift of music! Contest closes October 12th!

Wishing Willow is hosting a contest sponsored by Do Si Dough. Winner will receive 2 containers of their 100% Natural "playdoh". Besure to check this one out as we can all use more natural products for ourselves and especially our children! Contest closes October 13th.

The Giveaway is also hosting a contest for a decorative tile coaster from KippyGo Contempo and $8.50 value. Head on over, contest closes October 14th!

The Giveaway continues their amazing streak of droolworthy products with their giveaway for a divine wallet from Bright & Bold. Don't miss your chance to win this beautiful wallet valued at $24.95.. but be warned... if you win I will be so insanely jealous! Contest closes October 15th!

MySpecialK's is hosting a contest in celebration of her 1 year blogging anniversary! Head on over for your chance to win an amazing giftbasket. If she receives over 200 posts she will send out 2 baskets. So head on over today. Contest closes October 16th.

I've Turned into One of "Those" People

I am sad to admit that I've turned into one of those people who complain about not winning contests but don't actually enter! With the move looming I stopped contesting and have had trouble getting back into it... now I find myself scouring contest sites seeing all the contests that people are winning and my golly am I jealous!

Yes, I've been entering lots of blog contests, and they're a tonne of fun! I am thoroughly enjoying searching through the blogs for contests, and winning the contests has been very awesome! I've discovered so many products that I wouldn't have known about otherwise, and my golly I cannot wait to receive the Halloween Treat Bag I won from Wishing Well Creations! I'm hoping that it gets here in time for Halloween! Its being personalized with the name "Cutie Pie" on the back... (poor Tala actually thinks her name is Tala Cutie Pie. Her ballet teacher is having troubles remembering her name and confessed to me that she's taken to calling her Cutie Pie in class and of course Tala responds everytime!)

But I just can't seem to get back into the so called mainstream contesting. So begrudgingly I have bookmarked 28 contests for daily entry and hopefully that will be the motivation to get back on the bandwagon.

If anyone is curious about getting into contesting there are oodles of sites online that actually list out contests for you. Frugalshopper is by far my favorite. You can find contests broken down into Instant Win, Daily Entry, Weekly Entry, Monthly Entry, One Time Entry and Unlimited. There is also a section for Member Only Contests. Check out Frugal shopper here. Great resource for contests, couponing, saving money, and great friends!

Contest Call!

More contest for you guys! After 4 blog wins in the last month you can (definitely) say that I'm hooked! I love blog contests!

Pink Ribbon Review is hosting a month of daily contests. Everyday is a new prize. Today's Prize is a Pair of Pink Boxers. Contest closes (tonight) October 5th at 11:59pm est. One entry per day.

Citybird Designs is hosting their very first giveaway! Prize is a set of adorable paper goodies valued at $25. Contest closes (tonight) October 5th at midnight. One entry per person. Winner will be announced tomorrow.

An Island Review is hosting a contest for 1 of 2 copies of BabyBabyOhBaby DVD's. The DVD's are intended for bonding with your baby/child through massage. What an awesome concept! Contest closes at midnight on October 7th.

Side note on this contest.. I strongly feel that massage is instrumental in retaining that connection with your baby. Touch is so important and I feel that these days it is becoming less and less common. I’m happy to see dvd’s like babybabyohbaby on the market encouraging parents to connect with their children physically.

Momma In Flip Flops2 is currently hosting a contest for 4 sets of 2 beautiful notecards from Black Butterfly Stationary. Contest Closes Monday, October 13th.

Pittsburg Craft Collective Blog has an awesome contest for 3 x 5oz bars of soap from Sunstone Soap. Head on over today to earn up to 3 entries. Contest Closes at Midnight (et) on October 31st.

My Baby Pajamas Giveaway #2

In my drive to win the My Baby Pajamas Giveaway I found another blog offering up a similar contest to that at The Giveaway.

Mom of 2 Dancers is currently hosting a contest for any 1 pair of pajamas from the My Baby Pajamas website up to $48 in value.

Contest closes on November 2nd, and there are many opportunities to enter! Head on over today for your chance to win. And I'll be so jealous if you win "my" pj's!

And a word of advise to everyone entering this contest! Don't let your clothes horse 4 year old pick out her favorite! I have not heard the end of her excitement and she is now referring to the Baby Steps Rhonda Tie Dye set as her very own and my goodness how will I ever succeed in getting out of this one without a purchase? I may have to bug Grandpa for an early birthday pressie!

My Baby Pajamas Giveaway

A definite must enter contest! The Giveaway is hosting a contest for your chance to win one pair of pajamas valued up to $48 from My Baby Pajamas.

There were so many absolutely amazing pj choices on the site that I had to get Tala involved in the decision making process. Her final decision was Baby Steps Rhonda Tie Dye. Which I do totally agree with. She has amazing style sense for such a little girl!

Head on over the The Giveaway for your chance to take home a beautiful pair of pajamas for the youngin in your life. My Baby Pajamas features sizes up to age 14 so there's really something for everyone!

Amazing Gift Idea

Do you have someone on your list who is a little difficult to shop for? Or maybe you want to grab something special for a teacher or the newspaper carrier. Well I believe that I have found the absolute fit all present imaginable!

Home Studio is an Etsy seller and in my personal opinion offers the very best product for the most reasonable price.

$6.95 will get you a beautiful scrabble pendant, and an extra $5 covers the cost of the necklace. There are other less expensive options, but I prefer the snake necklace.

I found Home Studio through a contest they sponsored on Everything Up Close. I found a pendant on there that perfectly spoke for the current direction of my life. The Dandelion Trio pendant spoke to me, and there aren't many products on the market these days that catch my attention so much. For a long time I have been a huge Silver by Sajen follower. Silver by Sajen offers very unique pieces of jewelery and I'm happy to report so does Home Studio. Since receiving my pendant I have been barraged with inquiries as to where I got it from. And being who I am I cannot help but let everyone know.

The prices are so unbelievably reasonable that you can afford to order a couple, and trust me, you might have a hard time picking a couple.

The sets come in beautiful little giftbags, and are presented exceptionally well.

For a limited time Home Studio has offered a discount for A Bargain Hunting Mommy readers. 10% off your total purchase price. Use code BHM10. Your 10% discount will be refunded after you pay for your order.

My personal favorites are the Dandelion Trio featured here and also the Bold Poppy, Bird on a Branch, and Live Simply (don't we all need to?).

For Christmas I think I will order the girls the Penguin Pendants for their stockings as they are obsessed with Cody from Surf's Up. The girls love having jewelry and at $6.95 I'm not going to panic if something happens.

Don't miss out on this amazing chance to own beautiful scrabble pendants at an unbelievable price. Home Studio is currently offering free shipping so that sweetens the deal substantially.

All pieces are handmade, and well worth the price tag.

Free Dove Bodywash - Hooray!

A scoop for all of you. Visit Waking Up Hannah to sign up for a free Dove Bodywash.

Simply provide your first & last name and email address. Then check your email for your very own authentic link to save.ca to claim your free bodywash! Great deals!

Save.ca is a reputable company and I have been very fortunate receiving amazing coupons through them in the past!

Thanks for registering to receive a FREE Dove® go fresh™ bodywash (354mL).

Please click the link below to register for your coupon on save.ca. You will receive your coupon in the mail in 5-7 days.

Thank you to frugalfeline over at frugalshopper for this great find!

Everything Up Close Does It Again!

Everything Up Close is once again hosting an amazing contest. Kudos to IHCHICKY for yet another amazing giveaway!

Windy Hill Designs is hosting a contest for a matching wallet & key fob in your choice of design. Her products are absolutely amazing and I love the designs. Everything is very unique and there are oodles and oodles of choices. My personal favorite from Windy Hill Designs is the Mini Wallet/Business Card Holder in Chez Moi Posh At only $6.50 what a great deal for a great looking little wallet. Windy Hill Designs is definitely going onto my Christmas Shopping List!

So be sure to head on over for your chance to win! I can't wait to see what other goodies IHCHICKY has up her sleeves in the coming weeks :O)

Everything Up Close

New Look!

Thank you to Jen over at a Busy Mommy on the Go! She inspired me to chance things up around here a bit. I absolutely love this template from PYZAM.

http://www.pyzam.com/bloggertemplates

My girls picked out the theme and I have to admit I love it! They're all about pink. Pink everything.

I'm on my own with the girls this weekend so I have a feeling I might play around with the templates a little bit more between now and when my Dad returns home. Tonight we're supposed to head out for supper with family but Galaxy Gardens is calling my name.

Yesterday was a tough day as it was my cousin Berendt's funeral and I still cannot believe that he's gone. Only 25 years old and taken from his family and friends too early. Both girls were so well behaved during the funeral and reception that I was amazed. Everyone in attendance was surprised as well. They truly are amazing little girls. There was so much family there that I hadn't seen in years. Some of which hadn't seen me since I was 6 years old. That's 21 years ago! So needless to say they were pretty shocked to see me back in town all these years later.

The good news is that I was able to get some great leads, and have a huge backing for my political aspirations! I need to do some research today and see if a School Trustee position is what I really want to pursue at this moment. I've been strongly urged to go for it, and when a Town Council member urges you to do something then its worth pursuing!

Contest Call!

Another batch of awesome contests for you guys! Blog contests are a great way for sponsors to get their products in the public eye and this latest batch is amazing! Kudos to the blog owners for such amazing giveaways!

Wishing Star Creations is hosting a contest to win 1 of 3 absolutely adorable customized Halloween Treat Bags! The treat bags are made by Gund and perfect for the little ghoul in your life. Pop on over and comment for your chance to win. Don't forget to leave your email address. Contest closes Saturday, October 4th!

Cottage Days & Journey's blog is celebrating her 100th post by hosting a contest for a Rachel Ray Cookbook & beautiful hand stitched ornament. Head on over for your chance to win. Up to 2 entries into this great contest are available. Contest closes: Sunday, October 5th!

Calling all parents! Sweet Peas Doula is currently hosting a contest for a Ring Sling. To enter head over to her blog and comment! Sling is suitable to a child up to 35 pounds so head on over today. Contest closes:

Sweet Figments is currently hosting a contest sponsored by soapdeli. Pop on by for your chance to win a Pomegranate Bar & Matching Hand Lotion! 1 entry into the contest, but be warned! You are required to drool over the wonderful products at soapdeli! Amazing products! Contest closes: October 7th!

Everything Up Close is hosting a contest for a personalized bag tag from TagsonBags... an etsy seller. Head on over to EverythingUpClose for your chance to win. You can earn up to 5 entries into the the draw for one of these adorable tags. Contest closes: October 11th at 11:59pm est.

Wishing Willow blog is currently hosting a contest for a Cathy Nichols' print. Visit Wishing Willow and comment for your entry. And extra entry for subscribing to her feed. Contest closes: October 8th.

Wish List Worthy has an amazing contest to win a freshwater pearl bracelet by Dee-Zigns. Up 2 entries available. Contest closes: October 8th.

Guilty Pleasures?

My guilty pleasure is 110% a Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks. I love them. They're addicting. The good thing is that since becoming Internet Savvy I haven't had to shell out my hard earned money at Starbucks and have been drinking Starbucks for free for quite some time :O) Very happy about that!

MommyKnows is currently hosting another contest for a free $10 Starbucks giftcard. Head on over for your chance to win!

If you haven't had the chance to sign up for Swagbucks/PrizeWish yet you don't know what you're missing! For cruising the web I've earned $50 in Starbucks giftcards which is totally awesome! It is rather slow going at first, but if you search for every site you visit in the day you have more success. Another great way to earn more points is to share your referral link with friends & family. For every swagbuck they earn you'll get one too up to 100! That's $10 in free starbucks just for referring a friend! Check it out here!

QOTD: What is your guilty pleasure?

Sarah's Key Winners Announced

Without further adieu I present the winners of the Sarah's Key Contest sponsored through St. Martin's Press.

With the help of my lovely assistant Miss Malie I drew 5 names.

Winners are:

mommyknows
Jen
Kim
headly
gadgetgrl


Those of you who have an email address listed in your profiles or who have left it in the blog will be contacted via email directly. Otherwise you will have 48 hours to contact me at imanoptimisticbeauty[at]yahoo[dot]ca to claim your prize. If I don't hear from you I will draw another name.

Congrats to all the winners! I hope that you enjoy Sarah's Key as much as I have!

MASSIVE Update!

Did you miss me? I'm back with internet connection, currently sprawled out on the floor just outside of the foyer as silly me didn't think to order a wireless router. There's only 1 phone jack and its located in the foyer. So here I am. How's that for dedication!?!

Tala started her dance class the 2nd day we were here. Now I'm anxiously awaiting the arrival of my cheques so I can pay them for October! She had a great time and the teacher was very impressed with how well she did. She looked so cute and so grown up and all dressed up for class. I cannot wait for my next class... err... I mean her next class.

One of the stipulations set forth by my Dad in us staying with him is Tala MUST play hockey... so Monday I brought both girls to the arena to meet the coach (an old family friend) and watch the class. Tala is of course ecstatic to take the class and so will make the start this Monday. Which means after dance class we will load up the truck and header off to Terrace (about 75 mins away) to pick up skates, helmet, gloves & stick. Oh my gosh I've turned into one of "those" Mom's! LOL.. run run run.

Miss Malie went a tad bit batty on the long drive up North and got into a stash of feminine products on the way. Oops! Poor Grandpa was none-too-impressed... but what can you expect when you have a house full of girls? LOL. Yes, those are always pads stuck to her head....

Both girls were absolutely ecstatic to meet up with their cousin Xage on Sunday. They had a blast tearing around his Grandma's house while me and my SIL caught up. There were sad to leave, but he's super close and there are bound to be more playdates in the very near future. They're all pretty close in age. Tala takes the lead at almost 4, Xage just turned 3 and Malie is just about 2.5.


They were equally ecstatic to spend time with their Great Grandma Yoy in Hazelton. Gramma was so excited to have the girls visit her and is looking forward to many more visits in the coming months. Miss Malie is definitely a Gramma's Girl!

Winning entries in the Sarah's Key contest will be drawn later today and be posted tomorrow. Entries into the contest are now closed. Thank you everyone for making the contest such a success! I hope to have more contests coming up in the new future!