What a Weekend this will Be-And Do your Kids Play Video Games?

First off, I have to say a big Happy, Happy Birthday to my son!  Bubbalicious turned a whopping 9 years old yesterday!!  Like my hubby said, he has one year left til he is a "double digit midget"!! ha!

With that, brings me to the title of this post.  What a Weekend!  This weekend will be fun and probably pure chaos.  This year, with our budget, we could not afford to do a big birthday and a big gift, both.  So we gave Bubbs the choice of choosing one or the other.  Let me clarify "big".  A big party is what we have done just about every year.  He always invites his whole class, plus other friends and family and we book a party somewhere, like at a skating rink, play palace, or something like that.  It costs easily a couple hundred or more just for the party.  For the "big" present, now that he is a little older, he wants cool gadgets, electronics, and video game systems for gifts.  So we try to get him one big present and a few smaller ticket gifts.

So this year, he had to choose on either a big party, or a big gift.  He had a hard time deciding, and finally chose the big gift.  So, he will be getting either a handheld video game system, or maybe a mini laptop if I can find one for a good price. 

Since we won't be having a huge party this year, I told him that he could invite a couple friends over for a sleepover, and the next day we would go to Chuck E. Cheese's and hang out, and the family could come there to celebrate with him.  So come Saturday night, I'll have my 2 kids, plus 3 other 3rd grade boys, all hanging out in my little house!  I love having my kids' friends over, and all the kids are really great.  Miss Sassy tries to hang out with the boys, but they aren't so cool with a 4 year old girl wanting to play, lol.

I know they will want to watch movies and play video games.  Who has some ideas on other activities I can do on a budget to keep them entertained?  Of course, it's going to rain all weekend, so that counts that out.  I want to hear your ideas and tips on making sure these boys have fun.

Do your kids play video games?  It has become a regular thing for my son, and it's to the point where I'm going to have start putting limits on how much time is spent playing.  We have already put restrictions on video games that are rated M, and some of the teen games.  M rated games are not allowed, and the teen games we check them out first and decide which ones are ok and which are not.

Our whole family, including me, lol, all love to play video games.  We have a Playstation 3, an old DS, an older PSP, and a Wii.  Personally, the only one Miss Sassy and I ever play is the Wii.  I got the Wii Fit Plus to go with it, and I love it!  I also recently bought Zumba for Wii.  I haven't really tried all of it yet, but plan on it soon.  I'll keep you updated on that.  I think it might be something really awesome!  I really only play with the Wii to help me "work out" because it makes it more like a game, instead of work.  I hate working out.   The game that comes with the Wii Fit Plus is all fitness based, but are really fun and even kind of addicting.  It really makes me want to keep doing it.  My hubby loves watching me do the hula hoop game, but what he doesn't realize is that it's much more funny watching him do it, than me!  hehehe!

Miss Sassy actually just started playing the Wii.  She recently got the Sesame Street Elmo Wii game, and she loves it!  It is an educational game, and teaches her letters, numbers, and more.  She had to have a little help with some of the actions of the remote, but after I showed her how, she caught right on.  She also got sent a Hello Kitty game, but we haven't tried it yet.  There are a couple more games I would really like to get her, like the Nick Jr. Fitness game.  Is has lots of the Nick Jr. characters, like Dora and the Backyardigans and they do fun exercises.  Have any of you tried this game?  I'd love to hear more about it.  Or do you have other fun suggestions for a preschooler?

Bubbalicious and the Hubs both play PS3.  A lot.  Bubbs loves games like Star Wars and Lost Planet 2.  He likes fighting games the best, but it is definitely hard to find them without them being rated M.  I actually was shocked when I saw a game that was rated M.  I wondered if it was just violence to get that rating, so Hubs showed me exactly why it got that Mature rating.  When I started hearing "moans" and bow chicka wow wow music, I looked over and they were even showing boobies!  Ummm....hell no!  And that, my friends, is why there will be no rated M games for my kids.  To be honest, I don't even like hubby playing it.  But whatever.  He mostly plays the popular games like God of War, Modern Warfare, and Infamous.  He's also a kid at heart and plays Batman and Superman games, too, haha!

Tell me about video games in your home.  Which ones do you like?  What rules do you have for your kids?

CLOSED! Zebra Hoodies review and GIVEAWAY

Congrats to elliebunny!

Like most ladies, I love cute clothes.  Even when it comes to casual wear, I still want to look fab and have stuff that you don't see on everybody else.  And since I'm a stay at home mom, casual wear is pretty much my main wardrobe right now.

A little while back, I came across a website called Zebra Hoodies.  I think the Zebra part in the name is what hooked me in, haha!  Zebra Hoodies is an online store that offers embroidered and screen printed hoodies, sweatshirts, tees, and uniforms. She has also added a Bling line of shirts, and they are super cute.  And I promise, when you check out the pics on the site, you are gonna want some of your own!  This is a pic of one of the Bling shirts that she has done.

And then came the awesome part--I got to try out a hoodie myself!  I came up with a few ideas and emailed them over, and asked if I could be surprised with what the design would be.  When my package arrived, I tore it open and was extremely happy with the final design!  It turned out so cute, and I fell in love immediately.  Check out my hoodie:

Isn't it fabulous??  I love it, and it makes me one proud mama to show off my kids with my hoodie.  Not only that, but it also is super warm and cozy, which is great in the weather we've had over the last couple of months.

I asked Regina, the owner/operator of Zebra Hoodies a few questions about her business and here is what she said:

1) Can you tell me a little bit about yourself and about Zebra Hoodies?  My name is Regina Bell.  I have been teaching elementary music for 21 years.  I can't cook but I can sew!  I started zebrahoodies when my teaching salary couldn't pay for my very expensive but wonderful boys extras.  Band, Competitive Swim and Theatre.  I started making hoodies using zebra print and zebrahoodies was born.  I now do all types of colors, tiger print and so forth!  I also contract with a local T shirt company in my town for screen printing and I design the art and make things like T shirts for groups, baseball uniforms, softball uniforms and so forth!

2)  Are you the only employee?  I am a ONE WOMAN machine!!!
3)  Do you have a "most interesting" place that you have shipped a Zebra Hoodie?  I have shipped hoodies to NYC, Chicago and London!   However most of my hoodies go to small towns where people can't find affordable places to purchases these cute items.

4)  Can your products be found in any stores, or is it online only?
Currently I am only online at www.zebrahoodies.vpweb.com

However If anyone wants these in their store I am willing and able to do it for them!

Wow, I can't imagine being a teacher full-time, and then working so hard with Zebra Hoodies, too.  Regina is one busy lady!  One thing Regina and I both are passionate about is how important it is to support small, local businesses.  There is so many benefits to supporting small businesses.  Don't you love the personal attention you get when shop and you actually feel like you are wanted and welcome to their shop?  It's such a huge difference than shopping at huge franchises, where you can't even find someone to help you or get a friendly hello.  I'm the wife of a self-employed painter in construction biz, so I know exactly how important it is for people to hire him over a big corporation, because his work is what puts the food on our table, and is not going to fill the pockets of a rich CEO somewhere.  It's exactly the same with Regina at Zebra Hoodies.

Zebra Hoodies has a size to fit everyone from a child XS to adult XXXL.  You can choose your design to be put on several different color options for the shirt, and then pick what colors you want your thread or screen printing to be.  There is also several styles of shirts available, so you are bound to find one (or several) that will suit your taste.  And remember, designs are limitless, so let her know your ideas, and she will come up with something great for you.

All products are backed up 100%.  You also get a discount if you have a large order, and can find a price list on the Zebra Hoodies website.  No order is too large or too small!

I really love Zebra Hoodies, and working with Regina is great.  I have lots of ideas for shirts for my whole family that I want to get.   Actually, Regina is so great, that she is offering one of you lucky BeeCuties a chance to win a Zebra Hoodie of  your choice (up to $36 value)!!  Yay!!

BUY IT

You can purchase your own designed shirts online at Zebra Hoodies, http://zebrahoodies.vpweb.com/default.html .  Prices vary based on styles and sizes.

WIN IT

One reader will win their choice of a hoodie from Zebra Hoodies, up to a $36 plus shipping value.

**Mandatory Entry** You must be a follower of my blog on Google Friend Connect to enter. (Look at the top left corner of the blog and click Join this Site.) Then, go to Zebra Hoodies and tell me what choices of designs you like best. (1 entry total for mandatory) Leave your entries below in the comments. Note: You must enter the mandatory entry before doing the extra entries, or you will be disqualified. Also, you must leave a valid email address on all entries so I have a way to contact you if you are chosen as the winner. Read the rules below for entering my giveaways.  Leave a comment per each entry.


Extra Entries --Must do the Mandatory Entry first before any Extra Entries are valid.

1) LIKE Zebra Hoodies on Facebook and write on their wall that @BeeCute sent you. (1 entry)

2) Like BeeCute on facebook (top right corner of blog, you can click LIKE on the widget, Please leave your facebook user name) (1 entry)

3) .Follow BeeCute (@mandmvaught) on twitter and leave your twitter name. (1 entry)

4) Subscribe to BeeCute email newsletter. (top right corner, and you must confirm it when you get the confirmation email. I will check.) (2 entries)

5) Tweet this giveaway. May be done up to 5 times daily, at least an hour apart. You must leave the url link of your tweet with your entry. (1 entry per each tweet) You may use your own tweet including a link to this site and Zebra Hoodies and @mandmvaught or you can copy/paste the following:

#WIN a custom hoodie from Zebra Hoodies & @mandmvaught  http://www.beecute1.blogspot.com/  Ends 5/20

6) Tell me where you found this giveaway. (1 entry)

7) Share this giveaway on facebook and link @BeeCute and in the post (may be done one time daily). (2 entries per post)

8) Blog about this giveaway. You must include a link to this giveaway in your post and have at least 25 followers. Leave the link to your blog post in the comments with your entry. (3 entries)

9) Add my button to your blog and leave a link telling me where I can find it.  (5 entries)

Contest will end on May 20th, 2011 at midnight CST. Open to the US only. Winner will be selected at random, and contacted by email. The winner will have 48 hours to respond, or another winner will be chosen.

RULESBeeCute is simply hosting this giveaway and is not responsible for the prize itself. The sponsors of the giveaway are responsible for shipping out the prize to the winner. BeeCute will relay the winner's information on to the sponsor. If there is any problem with the prize, BeeCute will continue to try to work with the sponsor to correct any problems. BeeCute is not liable or financially responsible for the prizes.

You must complete your entries as stated. If you do not complete the entries as stated, then it will be deleted. For example, if you do not leave your user name with your facebook entry, then it will not count. You must leave a valid email address on each entry. This is how I will contact you if you win.

Only one person per home/IP address is allowed to enter this giveaway. If I see that you are entering under multiple names, etc then you will be immediately disqualified and banned from entering future giveaways. I do not tolerate cheating, and will be checking to ensure all my giveaways are fair.

The winner will be selected at random. I will contact the winner by email, and you will have 48 hours to contact me, or another winner will be selected.

BeeCute reserves the right to change any rules if deemed necessary without prior notice.

Disclosure: I was not financially compensated for this post. I did receive the featured product for the review. All opinions stated are completely honest and 100% mine based on trying out the product. Please use your own judgement when choosing products for your family.

CLOSED! Prescription Drug Abuse & Lockmed Medication Lock box GIVEAWAY

Congrats to Paula A. winner, winner, chicken dinner!

Did you know that over 3 million American teens abuse prescription drugs?  Statistics show that each day, 3,300 children begin experimenting with prescription drugs. 60% of teens in the US will have tried prescription drugs--before the age of 15.   That's enough to disturb you, right?  It's very scary to know that one day, our kids will most likely be offered or exposed to some sort of drugs.  Prescription drug abuse is one of the most common for young people because it is so easily accessible at their very own homes. I read in one study that over half of kids ages 12-17 who have tried medications got them for free from a friend or family member.  Do you have your medications locked up?  I don't yet, but after learning all of this info, I'll be putting some serious measures down to keep my meds safe.

Prescription drug abuse is defined as "the taking of medication that is not prescribed to you, or taking altered dosages or for reasons other than prescribed for."   Some of the most commonly abused meds are those that are prescribed for pain, anxiety, sleep, and stimulants, such as those for ADHD.  There is a huge list of effects that abusing these drugs can have that range from physical addiction, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, anxiety, paranoia, and seizures to name a few.

Abuse of medications is growing in the youth at an alarming rate.  In addition to it being so easy to find, a lot of kids think that because it is prescribed from a doctor, then it can't be that bad.  They are not aware that taking meds for a condition that they do not have can lead to new problems that may need to be treated.  Also, they often take too much of a drug and over-dosing, because they are not aware of correct amounts that can be safely taken.

Of course, it's not only kids that are abusing meds.  Adults are also having the same issues, and a lot of times, it all starts with a legitimate reason to be prescribed the medication, and it then turns to dependence.  I've heard of times that a person has a minor car wreck and get some pain meds, and that's all it takes to get a person to realize they really like how those meds make them feel.  They then will try to continue getting pain meds, and soon become addicted.  The elderly are also at risk because they are prescribed so many medications, and their metabolism changes as they age, which leads to a lesser dosage being more powerful than it would in a younger person.  It can give them a euphoric feeling that they really like.

How do you know if someone you love is abusing prescription drugs?  There are many signs that can be a warning to you that somebody may have a problem.  Personality changes, excessive drowsiness, confusion, difficulty walking, and rapid eye movements are a few to look for.  Also, if a person is going around to several doctors, known as "doctor shopping", then they may have a drug problem.  Also, you may notice a bunch of empty medicine bottles or even blank prescription pads in their possession.  You read all about these warning signs HERE.

So now that you know about prescription drug abuse, what can you do to help prevent it?  Here are some of the most important tips to follow:

1)  Educate yourself and your family about the dangers of prescription drug abuse. Include prescription drugs when you talk to your kids about the dangers of alcohol and street drugs.  Become familiar with street terms and slang for prescription meds if you have kids.  Know who your kids' friends are and their families.

2)  Keep track of your medicine.  Know how much is in the bottle and keep track of refills.

3)  Don't tell people about what medicines you have and limit how many people have access to where you store your medicines.  It's best to keep medications locked up in a box such as Lockmed medication lock boxes.  Ask friends and family members to also lock medicines up.

4)  If your child is prescribed drugs, make sure they are only taking the correct dosage and are not giving it to friends.  You need to be in control and monitor the usage.  This includes ADHD meds.

5)  Dispose of any medications properly.  Remove the medication from the bottle and mix with undesirable material like coffee ground or kitty litter.  Then put them in a bag or can and dispose.  Make sure it is hidden in the trash so people can't see them to take them out.  Remove identifying labels from the bottles before throwing away.  Also, there are places that you could take your medications.  Some free and low-income clinics take unwanted medications and use them for those unable to pay for medicine.  In addition to that, many police stations have a "medication take-back" program, and they will properly dispose of your prescription drugs for you.

Taking action now is the best thing you can do to prevent prescription drug abuse.  It all starts at home.  I do have certain medications that should be locked up, and I plan on purchasing a Lockmed box to keep my kids away from them.

Lockmed is a company that is dedicated to educating and preventing prescription drug abuse.  They make medication lock boxes that range from small to large.  They will have either a key or a combination lock, depending on which size you choose.

In addition to making the lock boxes, they all support a great cause.  Every year, they donate their boxes and funds to communities in high-risk areas.  They have donated to schools, medical facilities, and army bases to name a few.

And, to help get you started with prevention, Lockmed is offering a lock box to one of you BeeCuties!

BUY IT 
You can purchase a Lockmed medication lock box online or at over 100 pharmacies and retail stores such as Target, Price Chopper, and Shaw's Drug.  Prices begin at $18.99.

And here is your chance to WIN one of your own!  Lockmed is offering one BeeCute reader to win the small Lockmed box, valued at $18.99.

WIN IT

**Mandatory Entry** You must be a follower of my blog on Google Friend Connect to enter. (Look at the top left corner of the blog and click Join this Site.) Then, go to Lockmed and tell me something you learned that I did NOT already post. (1 entry total for mandatory) Leave your entries below in the comments. Note: You must enter the mandatory entry before doing the extra entries, or you will be disqualified. Also, you must leave a valid email address on all entries so I have a way to contact you if you are chosen as the winner. Read the rules below for entering my giveaways.


Extra Entries --Must do the Mandatory Entry first before any Extra Entries are valid.

1) LIKE Lockmed on Facebook and write on their wall that @BeeCute sent you. (1 entry)

2) Follow Lockmed on twitter and leave me your twitter name. (1 entry)

3) Like BeeCute on facebook (top right corner of blog, you can click LIKE on the widget, Please leave your facebook user name) (1 entry)

4) .Follow BeeCute (@mandmvaught) on twitter and leave your twitter name. (1 entry)
5) Subscribe to BeeCute email newsletter. (top right corner, and you must confirm it when you get the confirmation email. I will check.) (2 entries)

6) Subscribe to Lockmed's channel on Youtube and leave your youtube user name.  (1 entry)

7) Tweet this giveaway. May be done up to 5 times daily, at least an hour apart. You must leave the url link of your tweet with your entry. (1 entry per each tweet) You may use your own tweet including a link to this site and @LockmedBoxes and @mandmvaught or you can copy/paste the following:

#WIN a medication lock box from @LOCKMEDboxes & @mandmvaught  http://www.beecute1.blogspot.com/  Ends 4/24

7) Tell me where you found this giveaway. (1 entry)

8) Share this giveaway on facebook and link @BeeCute and in the post (may be done one time daily). (2 entries per post)

9) Blog about this giveaway. You must include a link to this giveaway in your post and have at least 25 followers. Leave the link to your blog post in the comments with your entry. (3 entries)

10) Add my button to your blog and leave a link telling me where I can find it.  (5 entries)
Contest will end on April 24th, 2011 at midnight CST. Open to the US only. Winner will be selected at random, and contacted by email. The winner will have 48 hours to respond, or another winner will be chosen.

RULES
BeeCute is simply hosting this giveaway and is not responsible for the prize itself. The sponsors of the giveaway are responsible for shipping out the prize to the winner. BeeCute will relay the winner's information on to the sponsor. If there is any problem with the prize, BeeCute will continue to try to work with the sponsor to correct any problems. BeeCute is not liable or financially responsible for the prizes.

You must complete your entries as stated. If you do not complete the entries as stated, then it will be deleted. For example, if you do not leave your user name with your facebook entry, then it will not count. You must leave a valid email address on each entry. This is how I will contact you if you win.

Only one person per home/IP address is allowed to enter this giveaway. If I see that you are entering under multiple names, etc then you will be immediately disqualified and banned from entering future giveaways. I do not tolerate cheating, and will be checking to ensure all my giveaways are fair.

The winner will be selected at random. I will contact the winner by email, and you will have 48 hours to contact me, or another winner will be selected.

BeeCute reserves the right to change any rules if deemed necessary without prior notice.

Disclosure:  This is not a sponsored post, and I did not receive anything for this post.  It's simply a cause that I feel needs awareness, and the company mentioned supplied the giveaway prize.  All opinions stated are my own.  Please use your own judgement when selecting products for your family.

CLOSED! BabyBond nursing cover Review & GIVEAWAY

Congrats to our winner,  17sirens!

If you are breastfeeding, or plan to breastfeed, then you will probably want some sort of cover-up for when you are in public. Using a blanket, like I did, is not always easy to manage. It usually ends up falling down, the baby pulls on it, it gets hot, or you just don't want to cover up your baby's head.

I recently came across a really cool nursing cover called Baby Bond. It's made specifically to cover up mommy, and not baby.  That way you don't have to show the world your business, and at the same time, can have that special bonding time and eye contact with your baby.

Baby Bond comes in 3 different styles, which all are great.  You can choose which style fits your needs best.
Original  is worn like a sash.  It works like a nursing top, and keeps your back and tummy covered with the double panel. 
Flex  is also worn like a sash, and is similiar to the The Original, but is also includes an option to attach a burp cloth.
Couture  is adjustable and can be customized to fit your changing body.  It is great because not only is it a nursing cover, but also can be worn as a belly band.  With Baby Bond Couture, you can nurse from the top or bottom.  No matter what outfit you wear, Couture will work with it.

Each style comes with a pouch to store it in and are all machine washable.  Another thing that is really great is the selection of colors to choose from.  My favorites are a chocolate brown and also the Riviera, which is a really pretty turquiose.  Of course, there are several other colors to choose from, so you are sure to find one that you love.

I was hoping to get a picture of a family member's newest arrival and show her using Baby Bond, but the lil guy has not arrived yet!  So the wait will continue!

Baby Bond is definitely on my list of must-haves for new mommies.  I love how it's versatile, comfy, and easy to take on the go.  And most importantly, how it keeps you covered, but leaves baby's face from covered up.

BUY IT
You can purchase any of the Baby Bond nursing covers for $35 online and at select retailers.  What is even more fabulous, is that Baby Bond has offered all the lovelies that read BeeCute a special discount of 25% off!  Just use code "BEE" at checkout.

In addtion to the special discount offer, one of you lucky BeeCuties will WIN one of your own!

WIN IT

One BeeCute reader will win one Baby Bond nursing cover of your choice.  Retail value of $35.

**Mandatory Entry** You must be a follower of my blog on Google Friend Connect to enter. (Look at the top left corner of the blog and click Join this Site.) Then, go to Baby Bond and tell me Which style AND color that you like best. (1 entry total for mandatory) Leave your entries below in the comments. Note: You must enter the mandatory entry before doing the extra entries, or you will be disqualified. Also, you must leave a valid email address on all entries so I have a way to contact you if you are chosen as the winner. Read the rules below for entering my giveaways.


Extra Entries --Must do the Mandatory Entry first before any Extra Entries are valid.


1) Follow Baby Bond on twitter. Leave your twitter user name. (1 entry)

2) Follow BeeCute (@mandmvaught) on twitter and leave me your twitter name. (1 entry)

3) Like BeeCute on facebook (top right corner of blog, you can click LIKE on the widget, Please leave your facebook user name) (1 entry)

4) Like Baby Bond on facebook. Leave your facebook name. (1 entry)

5) Subscribe to BeeCute email newsletter. (top right corner, and you must confirm it when you get the confirmation email. I will check.) (2 entries)

6) Tweet this giveaway. May be done up to 5 times daily, at least an hour apart. You must leave the url link of your tweet with your entry. (1 entry per each tweet) You may use your own tweet including a link to this site and @BabyBond and @mandmvaught or you can copy/paste the following:


#WIN a nursing cover from @BabyBond & @mandmvaught A mommy must-have! http://www.beecute1.blogspot.com/  Ends 4/30

7) Tell me where you found this giveaway. (1 entry)


8) Share this giveaway on facebook and link @BeeCute and in the post (may be done one time daily). (2 entries per post)

9) Blog about this giveaway. You must include a link to this giveaway in your post and have at least 25 followers. Leave the link to your blog post in the comments with your entry. (3 entries)

10) Add my button to your blog and leave a link telling me where I can find it.  (5 entries)


Contest will end on April 30th, 2011 at midnight CST. Open to the worldwide. Winner will be selected at random, and contacted by email. The winner will have 48 hours to respond, or another winner will be chosen.

RULES
BeeCute is simply hosting this giveaway and is not responsible for the prize itself. The sponsors of the giveaway are responsible for shipping out the prize to the winner. BeeCute will relay the winner's information on to the sponsor. If there is any problem with the prize, BeeCute will continue to try to work with the sponsor to correct any problems. BeeCute is not liable or financially responsible for the prizes.


You must complete your entries as stated. If you do not complete the entries as stated, then it will be deleted. For example, if you do not leave your user name with your facebook entry, then it will not count. You must leave a valid email address on each entry. This is how I will contact you if you win.

Only one person per home/IP address is allowed to enter this giveaway. If I see that you are entering under multiple names, etc then you will be immediately disqualified and banned from entering future giveaways. I do not tolerate cheating, and will be checking to ensure all my giveaways are fair.

The winner will be selected at random. I will contact the winner by email, and you will have 48 hours to contact me, or another winner will be selected.

BeeCute reserves the right to change any rules if deemed necessary without prior notice.




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. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Sponsored by Tomoson.com

Friday Follows

I'm so glad it's Friday!  This week has been the longest!  Have a great weekend, and join in Friday Bloghops and make some new friends! Also, I'll be posting some awesome new giveaways in the next day or two, so be sure to check back!


              

Coupon, Sweeps, & New Dollar General Promo to Earn Gift Cards and More!

So how many of you watched the new Extreme Couponing show on TLC?  I certainly did.  I am just amazed at how those frugalistas can get all that stuff for basically nothing.  Although I think it's a bit ridiculous to have the huge stockpiles like they do, I still think it's great to save so much money.  I wish I was that good and knew how to save that much.  But you would never catch me buying 35 bottles of Maalox just because it only was costing around 50 cents each.  Come on....really??

Anyway, my point is, that ever since this economy went to the crapper a couple of years ago, I've had to really get creative with having to cut back expenses and save money.  At the same time, I didn't want our daily lives to radically change either.  So, that's when the couponing came in.  I also hit the department stores sales' racks, search consignment stores for awesome name brand clothes, and even joined a "resale event" for moms to bring in all outgrown clothing and toys, furniture, etc and sell it, and also buy stuff from all the other moms.  It's almost like a high when I can find brand new Justice clothes for Miss Sassy for less than $5, or excellent condition Tommy or Polo shirts for Bubbalicious for just a few bucks.  Craigslist has also been a really great place to find things we need for great prices.  Just an example, to help with my new weight loss adventure, I found a brand new elliptical machine for sale on craigslist for only $50.  Can't beat that with a stick!  Now if I could just get my butt on it everyday, it might be effective.  hehehe!

Another thing I have started over the past year, is started entering sweepstakes and giveaways.  I started out with just blog giveaways, and started winning.  It was the first time in my life that I had ever won anything, and I can't even explain the happiness it gave me.  So, I found more blogs and was entering quite a few, and then winning at least once a week.  I was hooked!  I only enter for things that I actually need or want.  I don't think it would be fair for me to enter for something I wasn't going to use, when I know someone who does need it is also entering.  Now for those of you that are new to giveaways, trust me, there was A LOT of them that I didn't win.  Sometimes I would want something so bad, and try so hard to win it.  I would do every single entry that was available, and then of course, I wouldn't win.  It's a bummer, but it's just part of the game.  I've been very blessed with all the great things I have won from blogs, and am very appreciative to the bloggers who run the giveaways and the sponsors who offer the items.  Entering all those giveaways on blogs is ultimately what got me here, offering all of you lovelies of BeeCute the cool products that I love and think you will, too!

I have also added in regular sweepstakes that I enter on a regular basis.  They are much harder to win, but the prizes usually have much greater value than blog giveaways.  They also have instant win games with a lot of sweepstakes, and those aren't as hard to win.  I've won several instant win games for things such as gift cards, t-shirts, and household products.  I don't win on a lot of these sweeps, but I try to not get frustrated.  Because I have won several smaller ticket items, that keeps my spirits up.  Just last week, I won a swag pack from Nine West which will include shoes and a shirt, and I'm not sure what else.  Of course, I have to brag about my biggest win--a trip to Jamaica!!  I won the trip about 2 months ago from a one-time entry on a twitter contest, and it shocked the hell out of me when they picked me!  I have filled out and returned the affidavit, and still waiting on them to let me know how I actually will book my trip.  It's very special to me, because my hubby and I never got to go on a honeymoon when we got married, so this will more than make up for that.

The main reason I enter giveaways and sweeps is because that's the only way that I can "provide" all these awesome goodies and extras for my family.  We just can't afford to go out and buy Flip cameras, or video games whenever we want to.  We definitely can't afford to go on vacations, so that is exactly why I enter.  I hope to win a family vacation some day, so my kids can also experience it.  I know it's possible, and just keep hope that one day we will get blessed with something amazing for the whole family to enjoy.

So, do you like to enter sweeps or giveaways?  What not-so-conventional things do you do to save money or get those extras for your family?  I want to hear about your experiences, thoughts, and comments.

Speaking of saving money, Dollar General just started a new promotion called Rhythm & Race Rewards that I think is really cool.  It's based on a point system, and you earn points in exchange for gift cards, Nascar items, or Grand Ole Opry merchandise.  They have created a list of certain items that will will earn one point per item purchased.  I looked at the list, and I was pretty happy with the items on it.  It has things that I would normally buy, like Hellmans' mayo, Hamburger Helper, Betty Crocker fruit snacks, lotions, shampoo, and so on.  It's a big list, and they also have monthly bonus item, such as Huggies wipes or Pull-Ups. The list can be printed off from their Rhythm & Race website.

When you purchase the participating products, they will give you a code on your receipt.  After you sign up for the program, which began April 1st and goes thru July 31st, you will enter your code online or you can even text it with your cell phone.  All it takes is 10 points to start earning prizes.  The more points you get, the better prize you earn.

In addition to that, they are also doing an optional contest based on teams.  Up to 4 people can be on a team, and when you enter your points, those same points will also go towards your team's balance.  At the end of the promotion period, the team with the most points wins a really nice prize.  Each member of the team will have their choice of a trip for 2 to a Nascar event, a trip to Grand Ole Opry, or a check made out to you!  Pretty sweet, right?  I know what I would choose already!

Ok, so here's the deal.  I want to start a team.  I go to the Dollar store a lot, because it's very close to my house.  I know I can rack up some points quick!  So I need 3 more people who want to be on my team.  If you shop at the Dollar General and want to join in on this contest, send me an email to savvylissa@gmail.com and be sure to include your full name and email address.  Also, if you want to be on my team, please don't sign up yet and wait for my team invitation to sign up.  I'll get them sent out quickly, so you can begin earning points.  Of course, you can still shop and just hold onto your code til we are all set.

I hope to hear from some of you fellow DG shoppers and create a Divalicious team.  I don't know that Dollar Store and Divalicious should really be in the same sentence, but hey, we can bring sexy back to being frugal, right.  Oh, and by the way, they do take coupons there, and I heard they have a new revised coupon policy on their main website.  I'm off to check it out, and will be anxiously awaiting to hear from you!

Follow Me Back Tuesday!

It's Tuesday again, and been awhile since I've joined this bloghop, so I thought I better get back in the game and join up with some of my fave blogs!  Join up with these hostesses and make some new friends at the
Follow Me Back Tuesday Bloghop!  You can also find their button over on my right sidebar, right under my facebook box.  Have a great week, and excited to meet new peeps!

Boobies, Babies, & A Blog
Survey Junkie
Little YaYa's

Are we wrong as parents??

Parenting is not easy.  We all know that.  But some things arise that seem silly at first, but then later on make you wonder if you did the right thing. 

Here's the deal:  As I'm in Bubblicious's room hanging up laundry one night, he informs me that he wants me to buy him some skinny jeans.  (Note:  Bubbalicious is one of many names I have for my almost 9-year-old son.)  (Another note:  I HATE skinny jeans on the male gender.)  So, I just mumbled something like "Oh, really.  Wow!" and he started talking about something else.  End of discussion, right?  I couldn't get that lucky.

So, a few nights later, my lovely mommy and step-dad were over visiting, and I had walked out of the room, but everyone else, including hubby and kids, were all chit-chatting.  Bubbalicious once again brought up these not-so-fabulous skinny jeans that he wants.  I think he did it at that moment because "Ma" is always buying her favorite (and only) grandkids new clothes and goodies.  I'm pretty sure he thought he could say that he wanted them, and next time Ma came over, she would bring them.

Lucky for me, and unlucky for Bubbs, Hubby was there when the skinny jeans convo came up.  As soon as the words came out of Bubbs' mouth, Hubby exclaimed "NO WAY!  You are not going to be wearing skinny jeans!"  Since I wasn't in the room, I didn't hear if there was ever a reason given to him as to why he cannot wear skinny jeans, but in a way, I think it may be better to not have a reason. 

Like it or not, we parents are role models.  Some better than others.  And, as the older I get, I can really notice how the majority of kids grow up to be similar to their parents.  None of us actually want to admit that we are like our parents, but the truth is, well....the truth hurts!  hahaha!

So, what got me to thinking about this whole skinny jeans situation, is are we wrong for telling him no, just because we don't like skinny jeans?  It's not that we are trying to mold him to be just like us, because that is sooo not what we intend.

Hubby and I talked privately about why we both, at separate times, discouraged the skinny jeans.  In our opinions, we think that style of jeans look great.  On GIRLS.  And girls only.  Now, I know that is being totally judgemental.  But that is the truth of how I feel.  I know that skinny jeans are wildly popular with dudes, just as much as it is with the ladies, so please don't send me hate mail.  It's just my opinion and I'm entitled to that. 

I want my kids to have their opinions, their own style, and their own way of doing things.  In a way, I feel bad for not letting Bubbs wear the pants he wants, but where do we draw the line?  If he wanted to wear a dress, I would not let him.  Thank the Lord that was not what he asked for.  But if he asked for a neon-green pair of Nike shoes, I'd probably be okay with that.  It's just a matter of what type of clothing it is.

I think the main reason we don't agree on the skinny jeans, is because as parents, we don't want our children to have to deal with any negative attention.  I know that going to school is rough, without any extra attention on what the kids wear.  I know there would be some kids that would make fun of boys wearing skinny jeans.  But then again, obviously he has seen someone wearing them, or why else would he ask for them?

Maybe I am over-analyzing this way too much.  He has not said anything else about them since Hubby said no.  So, what do you think?  Would you let your 3rd grade son wear skinny jeans, and why or why not?