Monday, January 26, 2009

$25 Amazon.com Gift Certificate Giveaway (Bloggy Giveaway Carnival)

If you are new to my blog and have come here through Bloggy Giveaways, welcome to Many Little Blessings!

My name is Angie, and I'm a Catholic homeschooling Mom to three kids (ages nine, seven, and four). Our oldest son has Asperger's Syndrome (high functioning Autism) and our other son has issues with high anxiety, and then when you throw in a sometimes sassy little sister, interesting things are always happening at our house. Really though -- we have been blessed by three pretty darn good kids.

Here at Many Little Blessings, I write mostly about faith, family, and household management topics (cooking, cleaning, menu planning, and the like), as well as posts about crafting, homeschooling, going green (including gardening), and attempting to live a more content life.

From time to time, I even add a new free downloadable Mommy Calling Card design!

Speaking of giving away things, I'm sure that you're here for the giveaway! So, I won't waste anymore time.

One randomly chosen winner will receive a $25 Amazon.com gift certificate! There are three different ways to enter the drawing. You can do one of them, two of them, or all three!

The contest starts now and will end on Friday, January 30th at 11:59 pm EST. You can enter by one (or all) of the following ways:

1. Leave a comment on the post with one tip that works for you around your house or in your life OR you can leave a comment about something you would like to hear me write about in the future (about one of the topics listed, such as homeschooling, going green, cleaning, menu planning, crafty stuff, etc).

2. Post on your blog or twitter about this giveaway, and then come back and post a link in the comments.

3. Subscribe to Many Little Blessings. No need to post here that you have subscribed, just drop me an email with the code that you'll find at the bottom of the feed.

Bloggy Giveaways Quarterly Carnival Button


Photo Sharing and Video Hosting at Photobucket

477 comments:

Patricia said...

I have found that EFT has been excellent to take away the pain of a toothache. You can download a free manual on how to learn this easy to learn and do technique from http://emofree.co.uk
It's not my site and I have no commercial interest in it. However I have just blogged about my experience. :-)

tara said...

great giveaway!
One tip: I have one shelf in my kitchen cabinet where I put all potentially reusable containers (old spice jars, empty Parmesan cheese containers) --they have a place and I'm not spending $$ on storage containers!

Bunny B said...

I'm interested in topics on crafty stuff and cleaning! Thanks!
bunnybx at gmail . com

Bunny B said...

Tweeted: http://twitter.com/bunnyb/status/1149072169
bunnybx at gmail . com

heidi @ ggip said...

Hi. One tip I have for moms of babies is to have an upstairs and downstairs changing station. I keep a basket in the family room stocked with tons of diapers, wipes and most other supplies I use every day.

I am running a contest also for a gift card to a restaurant. Thanks!

Jolanthe said...

Amazon is my favorite. :) The biggest help around our house is actually planning meals and sticking to the list. :) Saves a bunch on the groceries for sure. I like to plan a month at a time, but it definitely makes life easier for me.

Anonymous said...

Tip: I always use recycle bags for groceries. Not only is it good for the environment but you can carry about 4 bags of groceries in one of those recycle bags!

Anonymous said...

I'm interested in topics on crafty stuff and cleaning! Thanks!

Sammirichardson@yahoo.com

Sheila said...

My kids are currently in a private Christian school, but homeschooling is always in the back of my mind, so I like hearing about homeschool topics. One tip on my mind: fixing school lunches the night before makes the mornings go so much smoother!

Tracey said...

Tip: I clean a different area of my home every day and by the end of the week (Sunday not included) I've cleaned the entire house.

Shalee said...

Tip that works for me: I make my dish washing chore easier by putting about an inch of soap into a small spray bottle and filling the rest of water. When I need to wash one thing, I just spray, wash and rinse. Easy as pie!

Anonymous said...

awesome giveaway! Thanks!!!

Sarah said...

one thing that works around here for us is to encourage my nearly 5 year old to practice his piano is our contest. we keep track of his and mommy's practice time. whoever practices the most in the week gets to choose dessert on saturday night. he gets his check if he simply sits down and plays through each assignment, carefully, once. mommy has to practice for a solid hour though.

Angie said...

I have to wait a week before I buy anything... I am such a little shopaholic!! I really have to put thought into it before I buy it.

The Short Stack Librarian said...

Cloth Diapers have gotten easier and cuter than when we were kids!!

No more rushing to the store when we run out!

But a tip for cloth diapering mama's ... don't feel guilty when you use paper on trips and for overnight! Sanity is important!

Anonymous said...

I do a lot of crock-potting. I can throw together everything at night, start it the next morning, and its ready by dinner time!

julielaura(at)hotmail(dot)com

Casey said...

love money for books! I'd love to see more crafty stuff :)

Anonymous said...

my tip is to keep to a schedule so the kids always know what is coming next. Helps to stop meltdowns!

Summer said...

I am a total book addict, so this would be a perfect giveaway for me. :) One trick of mine is using my muffin pan for all sorts of meals. Like chicken pot pie, everyone wants something different in theirs. SO I made several small ones in my muffin pan and everyone can have what they want without complaining. :)

Kathrin said...

My tip is to have set laundry days. Mine are Mondays and Thursdays and I do all the laundry and put it away on those days. Then I don't need to think about it at all on the other days.

Anissa said...

I'm a big fan of freezer meals (i.e. making a double batch and freezing half for later) and it's so economical!

Jenn said...

I love all your posts but would love more and more (and MORE) on Catholic homeschooling...pondering and praying and need all the info I can get!

Mrs_Scotsman said...

I would like to hear more about homeschooling. I'm doing preschool right now and have a LONG way to go.

Jenn said...

Here's the link to my post with your giveaway!

The Hansen Family said...

Having coffee in the morning works for me! :)
Organizing my to do list the night before and keeping it doable..

Deborah said...

small and simple but using a jar to collect spare change really adds up to be used for fun things later!

Anonymous said...

I had a tip, but noticed that someone else has the same EXACT tip as me! I, too, have set laundry days (mine too are on Monday/Thursday) and I do all the laundry/put away on those days so I don't have to think about it on the other days. I also have a set cleaning day (Friday) and a set grocery shopping day (Monday). Great giveaway - thanks for offering!
~Tanya
the4moyers(at)msn(dot)com

Anonymous said...

I would like to know more about homeschooling. Your suggestions and whether or not it something I should attempt to do for my sweet little girl with Down syndrome.
Joany
joanygeorge@hotmail.com

Jeni said...

Something that works for us is cloth diapering - in fact, if I win, the gift certificate will go towards supplies for our baby-on-the-way!

Wanda said...

A tip that I can share?

I was telling my teenage daughter on the way to school this morning about smiling when I talked.
If I smile when I am talking to my husband....HE LIGHTS UP! I can get him to do anything!

She has her first boyfriend...and she's a high maintenance gal! I was just sharing the love/advice with her that works for me.

Anonymous said...

My favorite tip is instead of buying Febreeze and other air fresheners I now take 1/2 cup of my favorite fabric softener ( which I always have on hand anyway) put it in a spray bottle and add water to the rest of the bottle, shake it up and you have a great fresh scent to spray your furniture, rugs etc... with.

Unknown said...

A tip I use to stay organized - I keep a 3-ring binder on my kitchen counter. It contains our calendar/schedules, important medical info., a tabbed section for each child, and in the front pocket, I keep papers that will need to be signed/returned to school, etc. Everything is always in the right place and I don't miss turning in important papers. Thanks for offering the giveaway.

Michele said...

Meal planning while making our grocery shopping list. It's helped us cut our grocery bill down. Also I clip coupons and use the sale ads while making our list too. So far it's saving us some $.

Tiffany @ Lattes And Life said...

We have a very small house, so my tip is to stay on top of the little clutter throughout the day. Otherwise it grows and becomes a BIG task.
give_me_a_latte at yahoo

Michele said...

I've tweeted about your contest:

http://twitter.com/Micha1230

Thanks!

Michele said...

I've subscribed to your feed on google reader.

Sorka said...

I keep a cupboard stocked with easy breakfast food, kid friendly dishes and utensils so that in the morning I can direct them there to get what they want to eat and go!

Jennifer said...

I also save my change in a jar. It would add up more if I didn't pull the quarters out for laundry, but every little bit helps, and it's a pretty painless way to save money.

Kristi said...

Let's see, a tip around the house...I get tired of carrying laundry (or toys) up and down the stairs for the boys to put away so I put a basket on the steps. Each time the boys pass by, they are expected to take the basket up and empty it and bring it back. We're still working on it but they are getting better.

Unknown said...

I have found that if you pick up the little things the night befor that it wont be so bad the next day.

lsfish said...

I always wipe my stovetop after cooking so it doesnt harden, much easier to clean this way

koopermom said...

LISTS! I make lots of lists. To do lists, grocery lists, project lists, all kinds of lists!

Lisa P@www.isitmondayalready.com said...

I love to save money, comments on that make me happy

Ryane said...

I just discovered your blog through MPM and have now subscribed with Google Reader.

I am really trying to be better about planning meals in advance. This is helping me stay organized and save money.

Thanks for the giveaway.

SMG2008 said...

Fun giveaway. I have found something that works for me around the house is to have very small laundry baskets to put the dirty laundry in and as soon as one is filled (not OVER the top - just filled to the top), I HAVE to do it - This way it doesn't pile up too much. I secretly always hope when it is starting to get full that my husband will decide he isn't going to add to it that day (and sometimes I even force myself not to look at the baskets when I know it is getting full - ha), but it seems to work for me!

Anonymous said...

I have a tip that I love!! Used dryer sheets make the best stainless steel polisher!!

Katie said...

I made a daily schedule for myself. Otherwise nothing gets done!
katiekarr at gmail dot com

plhill2000 said...

The one thing that has always worked for me is to get up at least an hour before any one else. Since I had 6 kids the early morning hours by my self help save my sanity.

Barbara said...

My nephew has Asperger and he is now in college working on his Masters and going for his PhD. He is also on the Dean's list. There is always hope with Asperger's children.

Mrs. Sprinkles said...

Coupons--I keep a coupon binder and have saved so much money.

Come enter my Target GC giveaway!

Shooting Stars Mag said...

Hmm...a tip? Always write things down. Okay, I have an awful memory and I'm sure others aren't as bad, but I'm always having to leave notes for myself around the house and it really is good especially if you have a ton going on in your life. so if you have a though, write it down!!!

-Lauren
lauren51990 AT aol DOT com

Tonya said...

I find that it helps me get my day started right if I let the kids sleep for about an hour after hubby leaves for work(We home school)just to get my thoughts together and get a calm start to my day.He leaves at 8 they are up and moving by 9 and I am a much calmer person.They are teenagers(most of them),so they don't mind either:)
tmw1223 at gmail dot com

Tonya said...

I subscribe via Google reader as blssdmmm1 but contest email is
tmw1223 at gmail dot com

Anonymous said...

A tip that helps me in all areas is to have a plan, but be flexible!

Anonymous said...

i love hearing about homeschooling days , to see how i might learn from someone else.

Anonymous said...

i find that carrying a small clipboard with a detailed list of chores to be done keeps me on track :)
sadiekate2001@yahoo.com

Gina said...

My tip: I clean one room in my house a day. That way, it's not overwhelming and most everything gets done every week!

Liz G. said...

I'm definitely the WRONG person to leave a tip! However, I liked the note you put above. I would love to learn what you are doing to go green-- I think it's something that a lot of people are looking for tips on.

Anonymous said...

I would love tosm etopics on crafts, eco-green friendly items too. Many thanks!

shevilkenevil1 at aol dot com

Anonymous said...

I subscribed to your RSS feed via Yahoo also.

shevilkenevil1 at aol dot com

Angel said...

I teach my kids early to clean up their toys when they are done playing!

An Ordinary Mom said...

I have been reading you for awhile ... what a fun giveaway :) !!

What works for me in my house? Going to bed on time, both the kids and the parents. So simple, but it yields such amazing results.

a boy a girl and a pug said...

I would love to hear a great tip on cleaning base boards. It's always such a pain and what's the best way to do it.

Lisa said...

My tip is use vinegar in place of fabric softener. It will take out odors, is totally natural, leaves you clothes soft, and is cheap!

love_Cats05@yahoo.com

Teresa said...

My tip is to do things when you think of it. If I don't do something immediately, it's gone from my mind. Also, when I think I must buy something I wait till the next day and most of the time I change my mind.
TRigell at aol dot com

Unknown said...

My tip is before you buy most anything, do your research because you can often save a lot just buying checking out all the stores, especially online. Thanks for the giveaway!

kport207 at gmail dot com

Angie said...

I always make extra meals on Sunday and freeze them for the week. That way we can have a homecooked meal without all the work. I love my deep freeze soooo much!

Robin said...

I wasn't sure I should post here too. I already posted a comment on the "Messie no more" subject.
so please don't count it twice.
Thanks,
Robin

robin@getiw.com

Wade's World said...

My tip...save all the Wal-Mart plastic bags for dirty diapers. We used that instead of a diaper genie. Much cheaper!!!

Alyce said...

A tip: I use a gallon ziploc bag to organize my tupperware lids so they don't go crazy all over the place in the cupboard.
akreese (at) hotmail (dot) com

Anonymous said...

In order to motivate myself to workout, I buy myself more expensive (read $4 a bottle instead of 87 cents...) shampoo and conditioner to use only after working out. It makes my hair so nice and it's an easy extra reward!

captain_lisaad (at) yahoo (dot) com

Underpaid said...

Like some of the other people who have commented, I only do laundry one day of the week. I try to wash only full loads of laundry. Washing small loads wastes electricity and water.
In the summer I use a clothesline to dry my clothes. Lots of energy saving there!

Alyce said...

I tweeted it here:

http://twitter.com/AtHomeWithBooks/status/1150266788

akreese (at) hotmail (dot) com

Angela C said...

The dollar store by me sales these little stick on airfreshners that smell like fabric softner. I stick them to the sides of my dresser drawers to keep the clothes smelling good.Thanks for the giveaway!
angelacisco at rocketmail.com

scrapper al said...

How about something about scrapbooking? Since that's how I know you.

Lori said...

I make the kids pick up most of what they got out. Then if I need to do a chore, I make myself do it before I can get on the computer--it's like a reward.

lkziegler[at]gmail[dot]com

Anonymous said...

I would love more blogging about going green. It fascinates me.
leekat6 AT verizon DOT net

grace said...

One tip:

Minimize tchotkes. Do you really love that enough to dust it?

Anonymous said...

When making say meatloaf make a extra pan of it to freeze for a easy meal for another day.

samsakara@twcny.rr.com

Unknown said...

Load the dishwasher after every meal instead of letting it pile up.

bridget3420(at)yahoo(dot)com

eyeslikesugar said...

I find that having meals planned in advance helps cut costs and anxiety down a bunch. Thank you for offering this giveaway!
eyeslikesugar [at] gmail [dot] com

Shelley Johnson said...

My tip is to clean a little bit each day so it's not overwhelming. And I like to do all my vacuuming, scrubbing, etc on Saturdays. It's just easier for me that ways.

Bloggytime (a) yahoo dot com

oonagh said...

around here?? never put things off.....always pick up as soon as you are done with something, otherwise things pile up (the kid is 9, and actually better about this than her father....)!
oh yeah, and reading makes brain cells happy, while too much screen time makes us forgetful.....the kid is ADHD, she's learning this slowly!

Barb Szyszkiewicz said...

My tip: I keep my coupon box inside my bag of reusable grocery bags. This way I never forget to bring the bags into the store.

Heather said...

I LOVE tips!

My favorite tip I learned at a hotel. Keep empty trash bags in the botton of each trash can so when you take out a bag you can easily replace it with an empty one.

Christine C. said...

I am interested in tips on keeping the bathroom clean with three kids in the house. Thanks.

donnas said...

I am always interested in reading more tips on how to go green.

Patricia C said...

Here's a tip, when plastic bags or trash bags just won't open dampen your fingertips and they unstick.

CaseyDeuce said...

This is a great giveaway! One of my only tips is - dont sweat the small stuff, but dont let the small stuff add up to where its a huge deal!! I use that in all aspects of my life!!

bauer zoo said...

i keep a blanket on my couch just for changing diapers (i babysit). that way, nothing gets on my couch.
jeffandamyb(at)yahoo(dot)com

Susan said...

I would like to hear more about SAVING green ($) while GOING green!

snkjohnson at gmail dot com

Anonymous said...

Mop often. Sticky stuff on the floor is the worst!

palmersf(at)bellsouth.net

fancyfeet48 said...

my tip is to stay on top of the little clutter throughout the day

Norberto Kurrle said...

Nice prize! My tip: I just learned that rubbing your hands against a stainless steel spoon takes away the smell of garlic!

malleycc said...

Pack the lunches and the backpacks the night before so in the morning no running around.

Unknown said...

I cut up old t-shirts and keep them in an empty wet wipe box next to the kitchen sink. We use them instead of paper towels. They take up no real room in the laundry. We throw them away if they get too stained up.

Carrie said...

What works for me is doing things right away- if I dont, I forget them and they pile up!

GoneGirl said...

We have adopted the "don't put it down, put it away" policy! It makes a huge difference! Thanks!

Anonymous said...

I have stopped buying commercials cleaners and make everything at home. it saves us so much money and ends up being an easier clean up too!

karissag at gmail.com

You have a beautiful blog BTW! I love the clean layout!

Julie Donahue said...

Find furniture that does double duty. My hassock (foot rest) hold our diapers and PJs. We also use it as a changing table.

Jennifer said...

the best thing to do for me is to stay organized. if not, everything just gets lost. I'm an organization freak.

ariyana9501 said...

I have ADHD, so I have to make lists, and menus, and the such in order to run my household. Taking things slower always helps me! Thanks!

Christina said...

My tip is when sorting clean laundry, bundle together baby and toddler outfits (pants & top) and fold them together. Then when dressing the little ones, it's easy to pull out an outfit that you know will match without digging through drawers!

*~Dani~* said...

Would love to hear more about staying organized - a tough one for me.

Marin said...

My best tip is to use a steam mop on your floors. I bought one pretty inexpensively and now I can sanitize our kitchen floors with plain water, no chemicals... and with two toddler boys and a dog, I need to do it a lot!

Re said...

we have a vacuum on each floor of the house.keeps us from lugging it up and down the stairs.

I'm having so much fun making friends and blog-hopping again this year.

Thanks for such a generous giveaway! I hope I'm chosen as the lucky winner!!!

Stacy said...

I would love to hear about how you juggle all the kids but keeping your sanity.

hetz-junk(at)hotmail(dot)com

Emily Kate said...

One tip that has worked great for us in our tiny NYC apartment is to SIMPLIFY! We basically sold all of our stuff before we moved here and it has been so liberating!

emilycake84@gmail.com

Michelle said...

I like to wake up a few minutes before everyone else. That time can be spent getting organized, and makes the entire day go more smoothly! Thanks for the chance to win!

Michelle Olsen Sasak said...

I make "to do" lists. I find that if I do not write things down, I forget them. Lists keep me organized, and also give me a sense of accomplishment when I cross things off :)

Janelle said...

Have a list of quick and easy meals and keep the supplies on hand so that you can turn to the list when you just don't feel like cooking! Much cheaper than eating out!

Ames said...

A brand new thing that works for me is a little white board on my fridge - I put a list of the meals we have all the ingredients for up there and when it's time to think about supper - all I have to do is check the list!!

Robyn said...

Our washing machine doubles as a hamper. I don't have the patience to sort everything out by color, and I wash it all on cold, So as soon as the machine is full, I run it. It's easy to stay on top of the laundry and I only have to do one or two loads a day.
Thanks for the great giveaway, and I love reading your tips on the Homeschool Classroom!

aggiemomof2 said...

I'm big on buying in bulk and then menu planning. I do a version of "Once a Month Cooking" and always make double batches and put the extra in the freezer. We hardly ever eat out so this saves money and the stress of "What's for dinner?"
sylviarj@yahoo.com

Sweetpeas said...

My tip is get the kids involved, alot of people are surprise to realize that even very young children can help out around the house, starting them young gets them used to helping while it's still "fun" :)

Unknown said...

The biggest thing (for me) is when doing laundry, if I fold it as it comes out of the dryer, it's more likely to actually get put away and not just sit in the laundry basket until we use it.

scottsgal said...

One tip we use is relax - don't worry about things out of your control

Amber said...

I'm interested in hearing more about homeschooling. :)

Alibi said...

I would like to hear more about homeschooling. I'm planning on homeschooling my 3 youngest, (would love to for my oldest, but not sure how after he's already in public school) where do you start? Also one subject that worries me is teaching math when they get older.

Andrea Hatfield said...

I would love to read more about craft making with the kids. Thanks!

CG said...

I use wet dryer sheets and a wood skewer to clean in the creases of my baseboards.

Anonymous said...

One tip for helping kids to organize toys. Buy several bins and take pictures of the toys that go in each bin. This gives your kids a visual cue about where everything belongs

InnaC said...

Baking my own bread works for us. It's healthier, cheaper and definitely more delicious than store bought bread.

divaqueenie said...

i always try to do a meal/grocery list for 8 days miminum. It cuts down on the shopping time and the "what am I gonna make tonight?" panic.

FaithfulMommy said...

What works for me - making it fun to get the children to help out with laundry, cooking, cleaning, etc.

You may want to look into Dr. Mercola's site for information that may help. I agree with the first commenter EFT is a big deal and it has worked to stop a headache!

Anonymous said...

I tape a list to the inside of my freezer of all the food that is in there (in groups like meat or baking) and I cross it off when I use it and add to the list when I get food. this way I know what is in there, I don't get something I already have and I don't have to dig through to see what I have and that saves energy :)
thanks
angyla678@hotmail.com

Modern Catholic Mom said...

I am interested in reading about going green in an affordable manner. Sometimes it is just so expensive to save the earth!
Thanks
Freeman1737@netscape.net

simply_unique said...

I'm interested in topics on cleaning

Kristy said...

Make a project/to-do list to help keep track of everything that needs to be done.

ksieker(at)hotmail(dot)com

techyone said...

Tip - To be more organized, I write everything down on post it notes and stick them up in the room the reminder is for. For example, on the fridge might be one to remind me to toss leftovers that day. Otherwise, I'd never remember anything.

Tes283 said...

If you have not already blog about Angel Food Ministries, then please go to their site:

http://www.angelfoodministries.com

They have no requirements other then you eat and live in the USA. They are almost everywhere in the USA.

For the $30 you spend at the beginning of the month you get around $70 in food.
This will help a lot of people.

Tes283 said...

If you have not blogged about Angel Food ministries. Please do. For $30 you get around $70 in food.
You must live in the USA and eat. That is the only requirements.

They are all over the USA.

http://www.angelfoodministries.com

Stacy said...

We have a Roomba vacuum and love it because we both hate vacuuming. It does a good job keeping the car hair under control.

Aimee Fontenot said...

Something that works for me around the house is when I think of something I have to do, I just go do it, instead of trying to remember later.

Selina said...

I find it easiest to do things as I go, pick up the toy, put on the washing whatever it is. It's easier than having a set time to do things and doing it all in one big go.

Sheila Hickmon said...

I set a morning routine, when I wake up, I play on the computer, then I get everything done! If I dont follow my routine, I mess everything up! Oh and if you put peroxide in a spray bottle, your kids wont think it burns when you put it on sores!!

Linda said...

One thing that works for me is to have my 12mo. old granddaughter come over - she puts everything in her mouth and pulls everything off every flat surface she can reach! So whenever she is coming - I clean house! lol.
Thanks for the giveaway!
robin
cokelush at gmail

Stephanie said...

My husband and I have a date night once a month to have some alone time.
tvollowitz at aol dot com

nicki72182 said...

One thing that we do around here is shop using coupons and watch for sales. We save almost half off our grocery bill. Also, when I find a good deal on meat, I buy alot of it. Then I cook up meals to freeze for easy dinners for nights when I don't feel like cooking. It saves us a lot of money in the long run :)

Lydia said...

We've divided up the chores around our house and rotate them each month. Everyone learns how to do everything well, and takes turns doing all the worst chores.

delightfulconfection[at]gmail[dot]com

Crunchy Green Mom - Suzanne said...

I get EVERYTHING done at night. Kids packed up and coats, bags, etc all sitting on the kitchen table (sometimes packed in the truck), for the next morning.

That way.. when my coffee maker is making my coffee, I can get dressed, change the babies diapers and put them on the futon.. grab my coffee, run a brush through my hair and leave the house.. by 6am..

It's a busy life, but I need to be organized as a single mom of six kids..

Oh.. and I make my bed the moment I get out of it. That way.. when I come home after work (around 4:30pm), I have a bit of a sanctuary.


LilithSilvermane(at)gmail(dot)com

Anonymous said...

Schedule, schedule, schedule!!! That is what keeps everything running for me!!

Anonymous said...

Twittered!!

http://twitter.com/AjBeede/status/1151424622

the schros said...

I always try to mean what I say. If I know I'm not going to follow through- then I don't say it.
katelynthames at yahoo dot com

Kara said...

I have tried menu planning by the month, and I have found this very helpful. I'm not trying everyday to decide what we're having for dinner, and I save money grocery shopping because I have a plan.
millkara [at] gmail.com

Anonymous said...

Tip of life: A smile and a thank you goes a long way.

pollyq121@yahoo.com

Kaycee said...

Yay! Amazon! I would love to win this! Lets see I would love to hear about:

1. Your homeschool schedule (mornings? every day?) and how you fit in house chores...
2. How to get a toddler ready for homeschooling (I know they are too little! But do you have a schedule of learning, even at this age? Should you use a curriculum?
3. Any books or resources for someone to learn more about homeschooling before they start
4. Any cool going green books for kiddies

Thanks!

kayceewilliams at gmail dot com

Kaycee said...

Tweet! (username:iloveyouhecried)

kayceewilliams at gmail dot com

Mindy said...

I have a tip for mothers of babies/potty-training kids: Put two layers of sheets/mattress covers on the bed/crib. When your baby/child inevitably throws up/pees/poops all over the bed in the middle of the night, all you have to do is peel off the top layer, and voila, the bed is already made and you're ready to go back to bed!

Hetal said...

Make a list of things to do every week and put it on the fridge. Everyone tries to keep up and when they are done, can cross off. Kids love this.
herry123_us@live.com

An iMperfect wIfe said...

Costco works for us. We pay a little more at each trip but we save by not hitting the grocery store each week. Sometimes we only need to go once every 3-4 weeks! It is a real budget saver to plan meals in advance and shop in bulk.

Jenny

Anonymous said...

to avoid spending too much time cleaning, i just clean up right after i see a small mess. it makes a huge difference in the long run!

texan_michael(AT)yahoo(DOT)com

Anonymous said...

I would love a post about more homeschooling details (because I'm seriously considering it now for my youngest, 2nd grade, probably has ADD). For instance - do you still have "me time" when you home school? Do you fear down-the-road choices like HS'ing for high school? All these thoughts are running through my head. Thank you for a great giveaway!

2nd Cup of Coffee said...

I'm interested in going green tips. Thanks for doing this.

lindacrow-at-comcast-dot-net

Steph said...

I print out menu planners online that have the shopping list on the side. That way everything stays organized.

Jeanette H. said...

Timing is everything. I hate being late and have to always be on time. This works for me. Unfortunately, it doesn't work for my DH and im usually stressed because of it.

Thanks for the giveaway!

JH33194(underscore)2002(at)yahoo.com

Anonymous said...

I do my spring cleaning in February and March so when it warms up alittle I can be outside! monk5@charter.net

Anonymous said...

I usually cook extras of whatever I am making that night and freeze the leftovers. At the end of the week, we end up having a pot luck dinner (a little bit of this and that). My family really enjoys the pot luck dinners - it's like a buffet.

Thanks for the chance

eldize at aol dot com

Anonymous said...

A tip for coupon cutters - cycle the coupon packets with your neighbors...not everyone uses the same products and getting extra coupons from your neighbors lets you stock up on sale items at an even more discounted price. Thanks for the great giveaway.

Jody said...

I have a very detailed weekly schedule that I print out and keep in my planner. It helps when I have to schedule things but it also helps me remember to clean my house!

JLHalsted(ta)hotmail(tod)com

Jody said...

Tweet! http://twitter.com/iatraveler/statuses/1152083536

JLHalsted(ta)hotmail(tod)com

Jody said...

Subscribed!

JLHalsted(ta)hotmail(tod)com

Linda Stewart said...

The one thing that works for me best around my house is 'if you take it out, put it up when your are finished'. Thus I have less clutter and less mess to clean up. Everything has it's place and that is where it should be when not in use.

michelle said...

I like to bring one load of laundry down with me in the morning and get it started. It helps me stay on top of the mountain that could otherwise accumulate.

michelle at northofthe49 dot com

Deanna said...

My tip for life: Try again tomorrow! Just because maybe everything's not going perfect, there's always tomorrow to give it another shot!

Deanna said...

Tweeted! http://twitter.com/calidreamin87/status/1152143502

Julie said...

I use a chore chart for my son. It helps us keep the day moving and keeps him motivated to do the things he needs to without so much fuss!

AudreyO said...

When I write up a recipe I also include a grocery list so that I know exactly what I need to buy.

Jessica said...

One thing that keeps me sane is I take care of my mail right away. I open everything, file what needs to be filed and throw away the junk. I hate when mail piles up.

jesshekman (at) hotmail (dot) com

Diane said...

My best tip is to menu plan and shop the sales. That way you always know what you need for dinner and there's no panic! Thanks for the awesome giveaway and the chance to win! Have a wonderful day!

diane@diane-anderson.com

okaat said...

i meet my friends online and we clean our houses together in ten minute intervals and we get alot done, its fun to clean with a buddy.

Anonymous said...

You can reuse your swiffer dusters by washing them in the washing machine. Don't dry them, though.

CrystalGB said...

To make mornings go smoothly, I lay out clothes and prepare lunches the night before.

April said...

I love to read about all things crafty! And not too hard crafts, I'm not Martha Stewart (or her team). Thanks!

aprilwatkins(at)hotmail(dot)com

Trish said...

I'm in! I know that this is old news to many, but the best thing I do to stay organized and save money is to do menu planning. What a revelation!! Just planning a week/month of meals leads to better organization/savings when I shop and helps me be on top of things at home.

Erika said...

I try to space put my chores throughout the week so I am not working on the whole house all at once.

Claire Roach said...

A morning prayer always starts my day off right. I focus on being grateful for what I have and things that I want to do better that day. Thanks for the giveaway!

Holly (2 Kids and Tired) said...

Menu planning keeps me sane! Awesome giveaway. Thanks.

Staci A said...

One tip we have: try to stop bad habits before they become routine. It's so much easier to stop things before they turn in to habit. Although I definitely need to work on this since my son's "I can't sleep" has turned into watching a movie in the middle of the night, equaling no sleep for me!
princess3sah(at)cs(dot)com

Sarah said...

I caught your blog from the bloggy give aways but I am intrigued by the parenting of a high anxiety child. I also have some of those issues and I just know if I have children one day that they will probably inherit my anxiety issues!

www.firethehousewife.com

Gina said...

I'd love to know how you decided to homeschool rather than send your kids to public schools and how did you make the transition from everyday at home life to bring in schooling time.

Gina said...

Tweet Tweet: http://twitter.com/wrestlingaddict/status/1152520280

Vi (pronounced Vy) said...

i don't have children, but i do have 2 cocker spaniels who like to take their toys out of their basket each and every single day! i find it's best to pack them all up at the end of the night so as not to trip over a squeakie toy on the way to the bathroom in the middle of the night!! i bet the same could go for kids' toys!! hehe.

she
pookielocks [at] ymail [dot] com
http://www.shebecameabutterfly.net

Vi (pronounced Vy) said...

i blogged about you!

http://www.shebecameabutterfly.net/?p=824

she
pookielocks [at] ymail [dot] com
http://www.shebecameabutterfly.net

Anonymous said...

One thing that works for me is never going up or down the stairs empty handed. That way things get put away -- at least on the right floor of the house.

Lindsey said...

The only thing that has worked for our household is Flylady. It has saved my marriage and my sanity!

Jodi said...

I'd love to hear if you do crafty things with the kids, and if so, what kinds? Thanks so much for the giveaway!

Candace said...

I always love to hear more about going green.

Nickolay said...

Focus is my tip. Never loose it. I like to listen to music and just keep my eye on the prize

jason@allworldautomotive.com

bren j. said...

Hm. A tip. We encourage 'clean-up time' several times during the day. Our daughter is only 19 months old, but she loves to help clean up toys, laundry, recycling - anything!

Jessica said...

I buy the really inexpensive baby washcloths and keep them in my kitchen towel drawer. They are just to wipe little faces and little hands. I get grossed out when we go over to someone's home and they offer their dishcloth (that has washed the dishes, wiped the counter or floor) to wipe my child's mouth. Gross. So, I just keep the little washcloths in the kitchen and I know they're only for face and hands.

Thanks for the opportunity to win!!

Anonymous said...

Don't ever leave home without coupons.

restinginus@hotmail.com

Mrs. McB said...

I've found that when cleaning, it is easiest from me to go from the front of the room to the back. Also, I've found it is best if I pick up a room at day. :)

Anonymous said...

My tip would be to use baby wipe containers for storage of things like markers, making your own handmade wipes, or storing plastic bags in to use for diapers, or trash bags. They store nicely and do not take up a lot of room. thanks.
leslierose at gmail dot com

hayley said...

one thing i do to help with laundry, is to have a mesh garment bag for each persons socks. that way i don't lose socks and it's a lot faster to fold. after the socks are folded, i stick the socks back in the bag and dump them in the right persons drawer.
mrspotts0817(at)yahoo(dot)com

Joyful Noise said...

My oldest (of three) just turned 5 - we are still debating whether or not to send him to private school or to homeschool...I'll have to come back once the giveaways settle down.

Thanks for the chance to win!

Bezen Hindistan said...

I would like to see more crafty stuff

Courtenay said...

Something that works for me around the house is to put separate cat areas in each room so if the cats want to play I don't have to go looking for something in another room.

Kimberly Gail said...

One thing that helps get my kids moving quicker in the mornings is having a 7 space hanging cubby in their rooms. On Sunday we fill each space with the outfit they will wear for each day of the week. It saves a lot of time and trouble in the mornings.

Amanda H. said...

I plan my menu for the week, use the recipes to create a grocery list, then double check to see what I already have. I organize the list by the layout of the grocery store, so I don't ever have to double back to get something further down the list.