Mom Spark

Seriously, last call for samples for BlogHer!

momspark — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 08:57:54 PDT

Okay, seriously, this is the absolute last call for BlogHer samples for my swag bags and other donations. If you are interested in donating ANYTHING, please let me know by emailing me at mommadethat@gmail.com. You only have a few days to respond and/or mail your items to me, so please reply soon! Remember, by donating samples or products, you are getting great visibility not only at the events at BlogHer (representatives from Swiffer, Hasbro, Method, etc.), but in my blogs, Whrrl stories, and more. NOTE: I REALLY NEED SMALL SAMPLES/PRODUCTS TO FILL MY BAGS.

Here are some ideas on what you could donate:

roller bag
any clothing
shoes
any sample that can be put into a small bag

Thank you to the businesses who have already sponsored me! I look forward to showing off your fabulous products and samples! Share the whole BlogHer journey with me by seeing my Whrrl BlogHer stories:

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Managing It All

momspark — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 07:11:56 PDT

As far as I am concerned, moms are multi-taking superheroes. We can complete laundry, work obligations, appointments, and diaper changes at the speed of light, and actually seem happy about it. It may seem as if we can do it all, but, alas, we cannot, and this I have learned.

I entered the blogging world last summer with so much excitement and drive that I felt nothing could stop me, but something immediately did-my family. I quickly learned that you cannot manage everything, especially things YOU want to do, and most days you just try to survive. If you are anything like me, with 100 ideas and dreams going through your head at all times, you quickly feel overwhelmed and incompetent because you can never complete as much as you want to. You (and I) must get over this dreaded feeling or we will go nuts. Family is first, plain and simple.

**just got up to administer a snack**

On top of staying home with two children, I run three sites, and it can be completely overwhelming, if I let it. I have learned to relax over the past few months, by trying not to worry about posting new posts everyday, or replying to an email the second I receive it. It is in my nature to accommodate, so it is very difficult for me to do this. I try to focus on my family’s needs, first and foremost, and this mind-set actually helps me justify putting a client second.

It may be impossible to manage it ALL, but it is possible to still make your clients, readers, and family happy. I have a lot to learn regarding time management and prioritizing, but here are a few tools I use to get through each day.

iPhone – I could not live without this great invention. Well, okay, obviously I could, but it wouldn’t make my day as easy. I can check my emails anywhere (grocery store, bathroom, traffic light), which is roughly 90% of my workload. It is also fabulous while traveling.

**just fished an Oreo out of the Blu-Ray player**

Gmail – I know Gmail probably isn’t the most professional of email services, but I love the chat/video chat options it provides (for free) and the fact that all of my emails (I have different ones for each biz) goes to one inbox. Gmail also saves all of my contacts and emails automatically and offers great filtering and filing tools. Love. It.

Twitter – Not only is Twitter excellent for getting the word out about a giveaway, recent post, or news, but it’s a great tool for connecting. Have a question about a recipe? Post a tweet, you’ll get several responses. Having a bad day? Post a tweet, and get the support you need. I have a Twitter app on my iPhone, which keeps me connected anywhere. Follow me on Twitter. Be careful of Twitter, though, some moms get a little addicted.

Nap Time – You must utilize nap time. In my household, it is easier to clean when my youngest is awake, so I don’t clean when he naps. Nap time is used for any task that involves deep thinking or concentrating, like spreadsheets, lengthy emails, or blog posts. Of course, this time is sometimes best used for just relaxing and doing nothing, which is totally ALLOWED.

Outside Time – I try to go outside at least once a day. Letting the kids play outside not only benefits them, you it also benefits you. I have noticed that just talking a walk and breathing the fresh air helps clear my mind. I highly recommend this.

**just got toddler out of the trashcan**

Of course, there are many other tools you can use to execute a productive day, as these are just a few. What tools do you use to get through your day? Do you often feel overwhelmed by all your obligations? I would love to hear from your comments on the issue.

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Latest BlogHer News…

momspark — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 08:00:34 PDT

BlogHer is only two weeks away! I have opposite emotions about the whole thing, which is either extreme glee or terrible nervousness. I know that once I get there, all will be good.

I’m creating “swag bags” to pass out and I hope I have enough goodies to fill them. If you are interested in donating samples, please email me at momspark@gmail.com.

I received my MOO business cards! The quality is top notch and they were a lot of fun to create. Tell me what you think! (you can click to enlarge)

They include a neat little black box to carry them in, which is ultra cool and handy. MOO is running an Independence Day special right now with $20 off a pack of 200, whether they are custom or pre-made, just enter code WH5XMM* when checking out. Offer ends July 11, so get your cards ordered soon, especially if you are in a scramble to get them by BlogHer.

I have a couple of photos of products/businesses that are sponsoring me. I have a dress from A Mother’s Boutique:

A Mother’s Boutique also wrote a wonderful post on sponsoring myself and Mommy Melee, you can read the post here.

I also have a personalized necklace that says “amy” from SimaG Jewelry:

Thank you so much, ladies, for sponsoring me with your wonderful products for moms.

DON’T FORGET! Today is the last day to enter our Poken giveaway. I love my new Poken, and it is super duper easy to use and transfer information. Just enter here!

Are you going to BlogHer ‘09? Are you prepared yet? Which parties are you attending?Similar Posts:

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Childrens Artwork Display

momspark — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 12:37:46 PDT

HAPPY FOURTH!! HAVE A SAFE AND FUN HOLIDAY! Enjoy this awesome post from Suzanne from the archives.

I’m not one of those mothers that saves every piece of paper my child has drawn on. Because I work full time, Jaxon goes to an in-home childcare with a lady that we go to church with. She teaches a cirrucilum and he loves it there. He started there when he was about 4 months old. Once he was around one he started bringing papers home! Needless to say – We have a LOT of papers from this kid and he’s only 3! If it is from a workbook I don’t save it – unless he has done something amazing on it. If it is on construction paper and involves paint, especially finger paint, it’s a keeper. Recently I weeded out some of the stuff we didn’t need to keep.

These are the ones that I decided I wanted to display:

They may not look like much but to me they’re little masterpieces!

This is how I decided to display them. I went to snapfish.com and made a 11×14 poster. I should get it in the mail this week. It was under $10.00 and I LOVE IT!!!

I’ll be sure to post a picture once it’s framed and hung!

by Suzanne

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Let Me Take You to BlogHer ‘09! – LAST CALL!

momspark — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 05:39:09 PDT

::LAST CALL::

IF YOU WANT TO DONATE AN ITEM, I’m still looking for a roller bag to carry the swag in, clothing, shoes, jewelry-specifically earrings & bracelets, purses, camera (point & shoot), samples of any kind and gift certificates/discounts. Remember, your business card will be passed out with your samples and/or items. You could also write about your donation on your site or blog, and I will be happy to provide a photo of your samples while I am there! Unfortunately, I cannot take every inquiry I receive, but I will try. I am passionate about my fellow moms in business! Please email me at mommadethat@gmail.com with your proposal.

I want to thank the following businesses who are donating samples, products, and more for my BlogHer trip:

A Mother’s Boutique, SimaG Jewelry, Overall Beauty, Chic Mommy USA, Coquette Bath, Wonderful Wonderbar, Joanne Gilbert, Shabby Lanes Shop, and Grandma’s Shoppe.

To make things a little easier, I am creating “swag bags” for sponsor samples and business cards to pass out to a few lucky BlogHer attendess. Please come see me at BlogHer or email me ahead of time at mommadethat@gmail.com for a swag bag!

***

original message…

As many of you know, I’m headed to BlogHer ‘09, along with 1000+ women, in Chicago next month. If you are headed there yourself, I would LOVE to meet you! Please let me know if you are planning to attend so we can meet-up at one of the parties.

This is my first year attending BlogHer, but from what I gather, it’s an excellent way to network with other mom bloggers, women in business, sponsors, and more. I am attending several parties/classes/meet-ups, including a Ford Ride & Drive event the day before BlogHer with 50+ others. I think by simply attending BlogHer and events, our audience will increase dramatically, but I also want to brag a little about you while I’m there, especially if you cannot attend.

WHAT I’M LOOKING FOR. I’m searching for businesses/blogs who would like to offer items/swag for me to take/wear/show/hand-out during my BlogHer visit. In addition, I will also hand out your business cards.(if you donate an item/freebie/swag) There is a LOT of swag (freebies) that are handed out at BlogHer, and I would love for Mom Made That! to have the best swag around! Also, by wearing items on my person, I can easily talk about them as I network, especially if they stand out. I already plan on wearing my personalized necklace from Kristen’s Custom Creations at an event.

Types of items I am looking for include:

clothing-casual and dressy
shoes-casual and dressy
jewelry-casual and dressy
freebies/swag with your logo/business/blog name on it (this could include keychains, pens, etc., small enough to pack in my suitcase)
bags – I need a big bag to carry your swag in!
purses/backpacks – casual and dressy
electronics – easy point & shoot camera
coupons/gift certificates for your biz
samples from your biz
make-up/bath/beauty products to polish me up at events

I am only selecting a few offers, as I don’t want to seem like a walking billboard or saleswoman. Please reply to mommadethat@gmail.com if you are interested and what you would like to offer.

Thank you for making Mom Made That! so great, and I hope to see or represent you at BlogHer ‘09!

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Thank you for sponsoring me at BlogHer!

momspark — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 08:56:16 PDT

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No-brainer Recipe: Extra Moist Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

momspark — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 21:11:32 PDT

Banana Bread tends to be one of those recipes where everyone has a version that is “The Best.” Everyone and their mother has a tried and true recipe. If you are looking for a twist on an old classic, this is the recipe for you.

Katie from Good Things Catered came up with this recipe for Extra Moist Chocolate Chip Banana Bread, which utilizes a package of vanilla pudding mix, giving the bread a lot of moistness and great flavor. It is my new favorite recipe for banana bread.

Thanks Katie!

Extra Moist Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Makes 12 servings
View printer friendly recipe

1 3/4 c. plus 2 Tbsp all purpose flour
1 1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 package instant vanilla pudding mix
1 heaping c. chocolate chips
2/3 c. granulated sugar
1/2 c. shortening
2 eggs
2 Tbsp milk
1 Tbsp vanilla extract
3 large extra ripe banana

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prepare loaf pan.

2. In medium bowl, combine all flour but 2 Tbsp, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pudding mix. Whisk to combine and set aside.

3. In small bowl, combine remaining flour and chocolate chips, tossing well to combine and set aside.

4. In bowl of stand mixer, combine shortening and sugar. Beat on high until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.

5. Add eggs, one at a time until thoroughly combined. Add milk and vanilla, then banana mixture, and combine well.

6. With mixer on low, add flour mixture until just combined then fold in chocolate chips.

7. Spread into loaf pan, tap to remove air pockets, and place in oven to bake. Bake loaf in oven for 1hr or until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean. Let loaf cool in pan for 5 minutes, then turn out onto wire rack to cool completely

Recipe from Divine Domesticity, as posted by Good Things Catered Similar Posts:

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Win a Poken for BlogHer! – ONE MORE DAY! + Video

momspark — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 07:13:26 PDT

::GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED:: Winner-Liz@thisfullhouse

Okay, okay, I’m giving everyone one more day to enter or submit extra entries (by tweeting, blogging, or subscribing) for the Geisha Poken. I’ve also made a video to show you how they work. (see below)

Meet Franky, he is my Poken. I plugged Franky in the USB drive of my MAC computer, and then added my social and business information, like my address, websites, Twitter address, and more. Once all of my information is stored inside Franky, I can then take him out into the world and meet other Pokens. When I meet a new contact with a Poken, Franky and the new Poken simply perform a “high five” (or “high four”) to transfer our information. Cool, huh? Looks like Franky will be coming with me to BlogHer ‘09.

Meet Geisha. She just may be YOUR new Poken to take with you to BlogHer ‘09! Wouldn’t it be neat to carry all of your social and business information in a neat little character, like Geisha? Learn more about how Pokens work at www.startpoken.com. Wanna know how you can win Geisha?

Check out this video that shows you how Pokens work, made by me. Don’t laugh:

::HOW TO ENTER::

To enter this giveaway, you must be a BlogHer ‘09 attendee! Just leave us a comment telling us why you need a Poken to take to BlogHer ‘09!

Earn extra entries by:

Blogging about this giveaway (mention in comment)

Becoming a subscriber, or if you are already a subscriber. Subscribe here. (mention in comment)

Sending a tweet here about this giveaway. (mention in comment) You can also follow us on Twitter here.

Contest ends July 6, 2009 July 7, 2009 at 6:00 CST. USA & CANADA only, please. Good luck!Similar Posts:

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No-brainer Recipe: Grilled Bananas with Chocolate

momspark — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 08:45:59 PDT

posted by Ali at Divine Domesticity

Fruit on the grill — it doesn’t get much simpler or tastier, but have you ever considered bananas on the grill? Believe it or not, this tasty treat is quick and amazingly delicious.

All you have to do is take you favorite chocolate candy bar, we went with a milk chocolate bar with nuts, and slit a banana down the middle. Stuff banana with chocolate. Let it grill for just a few minutes. Serve it immediately with ice cream, whipped cream, or even plain.

Now that is what I call melty chocolate deliciousness!

Grilled Bananas with Chocolate
Serves 6

6 large bananas (don’t use overly ripe bananas)
1 large bar chocolate, with or with out nuts (Snickers, Milky Way, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Symphony or Dove chocolate bars)

1. Slit bananas down the middle, leaving peel on. Stuff with pieces of chocolate.

2. Grill for a few minutes. When chocolate starts to melt, they are done! Serve with whipped cream.

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Kids Crooked Houses – $300 Special Discount for Mom Spark Readers Only!

momspark — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 10:58:12 PDT

::OFFER HAS EXPIRED::

Oh my goodness, I cannot believe it! Remember the adorable Kids Crooked Houses we saw on Monday night’s Jon & Kate Plus Eight episode? You know, the whimsical, cartoon-like playhouses there were totally customized to fit each Gosselin child’s personal taste? If you have been thinking about ordering your own Kids Crooked House, now is the time as I have a special $300 discount JUST FOR MOM SPARK READERS!!!

I’m so honored that Kids Crooked House is offering this discount just for us! To claim your discount, please visit the Kids Crooked House website at www.kidscrookedhouse.com and take a look around. (their website is great) You will see three different sizes of playhouses, as well as original or custom designs. When you are ready, simply place your order by calling at 888-447-5446 or by using the contact form on their site and they will call you. IMPORTANT: Please speak directly to Bryan Smith or Amanda Pike when placing your order, and you must reference Mom Spark to receive your $300 off discount. This discount is only good through June 30, 2009, so order soon!

I would like to thank Kids Crooked House for providing Mom Spark readers with this generous discount. We know how busy they have been after Monday night’s Jon & Kate episode and appreciate them taking the time to respond to our inquiries.

Do you plan on ordering a Kids Crooked House? Have you ordered one in the past? We would love to hear your thoughts and experiences with Kids Crooked House, so please leave a comment.

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