A Rough Day For Boys

December Win A Stash Sign Ups Open!

TigTagz ID Wristbands

The holiday season is always a dangerous time for children. When you're out shopping this year make sure to use TigTagz Identification Bracelets to help keep your kids safe. They come in styles that every kid  will love to wear. TigTagz are easy to use, they attach just like a theme park wristband and are sweat proof, tear proof (trust me I tried), smear proof, and water resistant. Each wristband contains your child's important information so they can get the help they need. It's a little investment to help protect your child today!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

A Lazy Week

I was pretty lazy this week. Actually, I just had a lot to do and I have been sick on top of that. I did get out Friday night for a bit. I ended up just shopping at Target but I still got some great deals and got some more things checked off my Christmas/Birthday list.

Total Spent: $13.80

Total Saved: $197.61 (93%)

Rewards Earned: $20.00

First Haircut Before & After

The Emerald Talisman Book Blast Giveaway!

The Emerald Talisman Audio Book by Brenda Pandos  
Read by Mary Morgan

You can run from your destiny, but you can't hide.

If for no other reason than to help endure the hormonal rush of high school, sixteen-year-old Julia Parker would trade her ability to feel her fellow students' emotions in a heartbeat, especially half the boys in class.

When the beguiling Nicholas uses his superhuman strength to rescue Julia from the edge of a cliff before she's devoured by a bloodthirsty stalker, Julia is suddenly thrust into an underground world where people and animals are often one and the same. Fellow high school students disappear and only Julia and Nicholas know the truth. While Nicholas, a vampire hunter, is out stopping the ever-growing coven, an old friend entices Julia to join him on the dark side and a psychic tells Julia she alone is the key to stopping the madness, problem is it'll require Nicholas' life. 

Readers are invited to participate in The Emerald Talisman blog tour from 10/26-11/23 hosted by Confessions of a Bookaholic. There will be giveaways, interviews and a scavenger hunt! 

Book Blast Giveaway Details:

$100 Amazon Gift Card or $100 PayPal Cash from Author Brenda Pandos

Ends 10/30/12
*You need not enter your twitter name for each entry.  Simply enter it when you follow Brenda and leave the others blank.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Open to anyone who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent's permission. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

Groove Kids

At the Kerr house not only do we have groovy kids but we also love music. Recently we have had the chance to combine the two with a new Groove Kid Nation cd. It has great kids music that includes awesome instructions on how they should dance to the music. My boys have learned to do lots of new moves including play air guitar. If you're looking for some fun new music for you kids make sure you check it out!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Nonsense

We're just going to call this week crazy. The kids have been sick, I've been sick, and nothing went as planned. Finally, late this week, E took me on a date. We went shopping, romantic isn't it? Anyway, here's what we ended up with after stopping at Walgreens, Target, and Sears.

Total Spent: $20.12

Total Saved: $186.82 (90%)

Rewards Earned: $25.00

Points Earned: 55

Unclaimed Legacy by Deborah Heal

Yesterday I told you about an amazing book, Time and Again, and today I am thrilled to tell you about the second book in this series. Unclaimed Legacy by Deborah Heal is a great continuation of the story of Abby and Merri's odd computer program.
As their summer together continues Abby agrees to house sit for a friend. While they are there the neighbors, fondly called the Old Dears, ask Abby to help them do some research on their family tree. They find an amazing story as they use their time searching methods to learn about the Old Dear's history.
During this book Abby, Merri, and their new friend John learn the truth about a long ago murder, and a great promise that is just waiting to continue it's legacy. I really liked this book as well. These are great reads and I'm sure that you will love them. They would also make wonderful holiday gifts for anyone whole loves some historical time travel.

It's Party Time!

We have made some major strides over the last month here at Kerrific and I'm really excited to share the good news with you so today we are celebrating!

1000 Posts

&

5000 Twitter Fans

To celebrate we have some great news. 

We're giving all our followers 20% off in our store for the rest of October!
Use code SANTA today!

It's a great time to do some holiday shopping. We just restocked all of our handmade wood toys so make sure you check them out. Our winter hats are also in high demand this year and I'm having a hard time keeping up with the orders so I haven't gotten many listed but we have lots of custom options available. 

We're also having a great giveaway for a prize package that includes some of our wonderful wooden toys!

To enter please use the form below. 

Enjoy the party!

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Time & Again by Deborah Heal

Most people say I am an odd duck but I really love historical fiction. I have recently found a new author that I love! Time and Again by Deborah Heal is a wonderful story that combines the modern technology and the beauty of the past in one amazing story.
Abby is a college student who decides to spend her summer tutoring an eleven-year-old girl, Merrideth, who is considered at risk. When Abby arrives at Merrideth's home she finds a sullen girl in a worn out old home with nothing more than a pile of musty old books to teach from. Merrideth is anything but interested in catching up with her studies and in attempt to find a way to bond with the girl Abby and Merrideth discover a intriguing game on the new computer. You have to wonder whether it is a wonderful new invention from an unknown genius or something more?
As they begin exploring the life of Charlotte Miles, the girl who lived in Merrideth's home 160 years previous they become intrigued with the past and learning about the history of their amazing home.
You'll love this story of time and trials. Abby and Merrideth are wonderful characters that you can't help but fall in love with! This is a great book for pre-teen through adult. I know I sure enjoyed it!

Bows-N-Ties

A tie for dad is a classic gift. At our house it is one that I love to give because E has so many ugly ties, from back in his days of bachelor-hood, that I have to work hard to keep him wearing something that I'd be seen standing next to. Thanks to Bows-N-Ties I can do this a little easier on my tight budget. They have a great selection of ties at a wonderful price and they are very high quality. Check out E's new tie! I'm so glad he likes it! If you're in the market for ties head on over and check out their great selection!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Valentina Goldman's Immaculate Confusion Book Blast

Title: Valentina Goldman's Immaculate Confusion
Author: Marisol Murano
Publisher: Hipso Media
Released: August 1, 2012

Since her arrival in the United States from Venezuela, Valentina Goldman isn’t exactly living the American Dream. She’s living the American Nightmare.

Her late husband, Max, has left her a young widow, a step-daughter whom Valentina didn’t want, and a bi-polar ex-wife. And oh, having given up her dream job in New York, Valentina is also unemployed in Arizona.

Part "Bridget Jones Diary," part "Modern Family," "Valentina Goldman’s Immaculate Confusion" is the story of a woman trying to get a handle on her whacky life in America. In breathless, blog-like snippets, Valentina compares her own story with that of her eccentric sister, Azucena, who has bizarre troubles of her own down in the tropics.

"Valentina Goldman’s Immaculate Confusion" is a funny and moving story about what happens when a passionate South American woman moves to the USA and, like so many of us, ends up with a life she never imagined.

Book Blast Giveaway:

$100 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash from Hipso Media

Ends 10/25/12

Open to anyone who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent's permission. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

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Cover Up With Covillow

There was a day, not so long ago, when I did most of my nursing at home with no one else around and it didn't matter if I was exposed or not. Now that my boys are older and can ask questions and we frequently have guests it has become more important for me to be modest while nursing the baby. I've tried lots of different nursing covers, including a receiving blanket, and this time I am really enjoying my fun pink cover from Covillow.

Not only do I love that this cover's pink, yes I know your sick about hearing more about my pink and purple obsession, but I also love that I am safe from prying eyes in every direction. Unlike some covers this one is really easy to use and it does cover all the way around which is wonderful. The pillow that is attached to this cover is an added bonus to help save your back. I have used it in two ways, either to help hold baby up, or to help support my back if I am sitting in an uncomfortable chair and it works great for both.

I really wish I would have had this cover back when I was pumping at school. It would have saved me a lot of time trying to pump while still staying covered and seeing the pump so you can make sure everything is going where it needs to. This is such a great cover I recommend the Covillow to any mom who nurses and feels the need for some privacy without stress. You'll love it!

The Designist Diapers

Diapers, Diapers, and more diapers. Many days I feel like I'm swimming in diapers. In fact, the other day I was doing an assignment on time management for one of my classes. Our job was to find out where all of our time was going and how we could better manage the little moments that get lost during the day. After recording my time usage for two days I discovered that on an average day I spend TWO AND A HALF hours each day changing diapers. That's crazy!
Thankfully, at least while I'm changing diapers I get to change cute diapers right. The Designist just sent us two adorable diapers to try out. The first diaper is a one size purple and black diaper and the other is a pink and yellow newborn size diaper. These diapers function really well. They each have waterproof outsides and a beautiful suede inside. They also come with a microfiber insert.

My very favorite thing about these diapers is the bright colors. Granted, I love print diapers but these are wonderful because they match just about anything. I don't have to worry about having too many prints involved with these fun bright colors. The best news is that with The Designist you can choose your own colors from a great selection. Go check it out and order your great new diaper today!

SnuggyBaby Ring Sling

As a mom of four small children there is one thing I never have enough of, hands. I will forever be envious of spiders and their ability to have extra limbs, or at least I am until I remember how many children a spider has at one time. One thing that has helped me to achieve my spider status is my new SnuggyBaby ring sling. In fact, this is what I look like most days. Yes, that's me in true colors with my sweatshirt and sling.

I love this sling for when I'm doing homework or other simple household tasks. It allows me to keep my baby close. I love knowing that she is safe and comfortable but still having two hands to do other things. I'll also use this sling when I go to the store with all the kids. It makes it so I have one arm to carry D and one hand to hold onto C who holds onto D. Needless to say that going out is stressful with all four kids and knowing that at least one of them is safe and I have two hands to help control the other three is wonderful.

As you can see, baby F is quite comfy and is generally asleep when she's in the sling. If you're looking for a great tool to be your extra set of hands check out SnuggyBaby's  great selection of slings, wraps and carriers. You're sure to find something there that you'll love!

Daddy Scrubs

Moms spend lots of time deciding on outfits for important moments in their lives. I know for me that my "home from the hospital" outfit is one of those. I also spend a ton of time picking out the clothes my kids will wear home and then it is a treasured outfit that I will save. I'm assuming I'm not the only mom that's sentimental so today I am please to introduce you to the perfect outfit for dads during the special time of having a new baby, Daddy Scrubs.

Daddy Scrubs are a great gift for a new dad. E says they are super comfy and he really likes to wear them around the house. I would assume that this would make them a great set of clothes to choose for while your wife is in labor but I can't verify that as we never have long enough to wear anything but our pjs to the hospital. 

Our scrubs have washed up really well and I love that they are holding up through weekly use. If you want a great gift for dad, for a new baby, holiday, or just because, you should consider Daddy Scrubs. I know dad will be thrilled!

CutiePaTooties by Lauren Diapers

I'm still working on expanding my stash for baby sister. There are so many cute diapers out there it's crazy! Recently CutiePaTooties sent me a fun pink hearts diaper to try. It has been super great the few times we've used it with the big boys, until baby F gets big enough to fit in it.

I will note that this diaper is not huge. This picture is of it on D and as you can see, it's a little snug on him at 18 months. The good news is that Lauren offers different sizes on her diapers so that should be fixable to get one that fits your child.

I do really like the way this fits around the legs of my boys. We've only had one leak so far and that was the child's fault (he had his hands in the leg). If anyone knows how to keep a child from doing this please let me know as I've cleaned up more poop over the last month than I care to think about.

If you're looking for fun diapers for you kids make sure you check in at CutiePaTooties as she has awesome prints and is getting new ones all the time.

Happy Shopping!

Big Brother B

Simple Photo Cards for the Holidays

Last year at my house we had an utter fail with holiday cards. In fact, I finally ordered some photos in January to send in cards and they are still sitting on my dresser. This year I'm going to try a new tactic, ordering pre-made cards and envelopes from Mixbook. They have a great selection of cards and are not too expensive (very important for us since we need a lot). I love the large selection of designs! The hardest part is going to be finding the one that I want.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

A Stash of Dryer Balls!

It's time to win a stash again with Kerrific! this month we are giving away a stash of 12 dryer balls plus a muslin bag to carry them in ($60 value).

The balls are each hand made by Bog Berry Dryer Balls and are the perfect way to get your winter months started. Dryer balls are a great way to save money this winter because they replace expensive dryer sheets completely. They also cut down your drying time (for me by about 30%) which saves us a lot on our electric bill each month.

Each ball is made of 100% wool (not yarn) so they will last a long time!

To enter this great giveaway please use the form below. Good luck!

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Babadoo Designs Stationary

It's time to start considering all those holiday cards and then thank you cards you will be writing in the not too distant feature. As you begin your search for stationary make sure you check out Babadoo Designs. They make high quality stationary on 100% recycled paper. It's a great way to go green this holiday season.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

It's Time! Book Review & $100 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway

As you might imagine, here at Kerrific we are quite fond of children's books. With the holidays approaching here are two we thought you'd enjoy and a giveaway for a gift card to help your shopping budget go a little further this year. Happy Reading!

It's Time for Good Manners!

Part story book, part practice book, all parts fun! Children will learn about good manners -- and how to tell time -- with this colorful, engaging book.

They'll spend the day with Torie, Tad, Tessa and Tyler and discover how it's time for good manners all day long. And then they'll get the chance to practice telling time -- all while enjoying the cute clock designs, and without realizing they're learning!

The Kids' (and parents', too!) Book of Good Sportsmanship 
Do you have little athletes in your family? Then this colorful, engaging book is the perfect way to help them understand what it means - and how important it is - to be a Good Sport. Soccer? Dancing? Swimming? Whatever sport they do, they'll learn easy, basic sports manners through reading familiar situations featuring kids just like them. Parents, you'll also find handy reminders for you with each tip, so that the entire family can learn to be Good Sports together.

About the Author:
Leslie A. Susskind lives with her husband, daughters and two cats outside of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she writes children’s books while working in marketing and trying to keep up with everyone’s activities.
She is a BIG bookworm and loves to read just about anything she can get her hands on. She also loves to watch home improvement TV shows (and tries to convince her husband to do the projects), sing in choirs, and watch movies (especially anything Jane Austin).

Author Website * Book Website

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Open to anyone who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent's permission. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

Peanut Shell Hospital Gowns

Anyone who's spent time in the hospital knows that, besides the food, one of the worst parts is the horrid gowns they put you in. This is a really big problem for me because I am little. When I was in the hospital with B one of the nurses actually asked if I wanted her to go try to find me a child's size gown because the one I had on was so huge!
Thankfully this time I had a beautiful gown from Peanut Shell to use during my hospital stay. My favorite thing about this hospital gown was of course that it fit. I didn't have to worry about huge slits in the front coming open and exposing myself to everyone but I could still easily nurse my baby and didn't have to worry when the nurses stopped in to do tests either.

I know you can't see it very well in the photos but this gown has snaps that open at both shoulders and then all the way down one side. I wasn't wearing the gown during the actual delivery as my bag was still in the car with no time to go get it, but more on that later. I did however wear this gown as soon as they let me change and I was so much more comfortable.
Although I was once one that said it didn't matter and there was no way I was going to haul a gown around with me this wonderful hospital gown has changed my mind. Every mom should have a gown that fits properly when they deliver their little one. And trust me, you will get your money's worth. Not only will you be so much more comfortable in the hospital but the gown works great when you get home too so you have comfy pj's that you can still easily nurse in. Plus, aren't they adorable!
Make sure you check out all the great hospital gowns, and other products, from Peanut Shell and head over to win during Fall Fashionista.

Susan Brown's Skincare

Every baby deserves the best possible care. Part of that involves finding the best possible product for baby. As you're shopping for your little one make sure you check out Susan Brown's unique skin care items. They are specially formulated for your little one and aim to please. You can't get a better gift for baby!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Shopping Late

So I just got home from shopping this week. It seemed like all week long I'd try to go but something would happen and I had to stay home. I also went back to work this week which has made things a little bit interesting. I did end up getting some good deals however and thanks to tonight's trip the Christmas shopping is just about done. I've got less than a handful of things left to get. I shopped Target, Kmart and Walgreens.

Total Spent: $40.63
Total Saved: $183.05 (82%)
Rewards Earned: $7.00

Small Concept Designer Kids Clothes

It seems like for the last five years I have done nothing but change sizes. In fact, I have so many tubs of clothes that I don't dare throw away because I know I'll need them again it's kinda scary. This time around I finally got a little smarter and began getting clothes that I can wear no matter what size I am. I was really excited when Small Concept agreed to let me review their wrap shirt because I knew it would be one of those timeless items.

I have loved this top and am so glad that I have it as part of my wardrobe. It was a little warm to wear during the summer but I did use it on a couple of occasions. Now that it is fall this shirt has become one of my favorites. Not only does it hide those post baby rolls that I dislike so much but it is super comfortable and, as a bonus, easy to nurse in.
If you are looking for some adorable maternity or kids clothes make sure you check out Small Concept. They have a wonderful selection! You should also head over to win a great prize from Small Concept during Fall Fashionista!

Mega Bloks Party Time

We recently had an awesome birthday party thanks to Mega Bloks! I was so excited when I was invited to host a party with Mom Select because I knew we had a birthday coming up for a boy who would loves to build. We already had a small selection of Mega Bloks and I was thrilled when my party package arrived that included a set of Mega Bloks for each of our guests.
The boys had lots of fun but my favorite part was the cake. I was thrilled with how this cake turned out. Other than being a little melty because of the the heat it looked awesome!
To build a Mega Bloks cake of yoru very own here is what you need.

1. one cake mix (plus ingredients to make)
2. three bread pans
3. frosting
4. food coloring
5. large marshmallows (the stale ones in your cupboard will work great!)

Begin by mixing up the cake mix as directed. Divide between the tree bread pans and bake (I just got a set of mini bread pans and I can't wait to make individual miniature Mega Bloks in the future). Remove from oven and cool. I then cut one cake in half hamburger style. I began with the blue cake. Put it on the platter and frosted it. Then the yellow cake went on to make it look like an L. The red cake went on next with the green on top. To do the bumps I cut marshmallows in half (stale ones really did work best). Stuck them on a toothpick and frosted them and then poked the other half of the toothpick into the cake. Add your candles and enjoy!

We received a set of Mega Bloks free of charge for this post.

Finally Friday at EdenFantasys *Adult*

Halloween is almost here! I know, it sure feels like it should still be January. This week E and I were making sure we had everything covered for the kids for Halloween. I think we're almost there (I still need a hair bow for the baby). After we got the kids figured out E was asking me if I was planning on dressing up. My response was “are you kidding me?” I mean, by the time I get the boys all ready trying to do something for me is a complete joke.

What E doesn't know is that I do have a costume for Halloween, it's just not going to get used until later. I got a great buy at EdenFantasys where all their costumes are on sale. They have a great selection of adult costumes that are perfect for after the kids go to bed. One of my favorites is this Rain Dancing Diva. If it's anything like the last Dream Girl costume I bought it is really high quality and super soft and at EdenFantasys you won't pay nearly as much as elsewhere.

EdenFantasys has lots of great sales going on right now. I love that you always get free shipping and a free item comes with every order. They also have amazing deals (like 90% off) if you like their Facebook page. That means that you can get exactly what you want at a price that doesn't break the bank on everything from lingerie, beauty products, and more. Thanks EdenFantasys!