Moms Wear Your Tees Blog

Happy Father's Day Nap

>> Sunday, June 20, 2010

How sweet!

EvoraPlus Probiotic Mints for Complete Oral Care Giveaway

Have you ever heard of probiotics for oral care? I had not, but because I am aware how helpful probiotics are for my digestive system and for boosting my immune system, I was very excited to try probiotics for oral care.

Many situations – including eating a diet high in sugar and other processed carbohydrates – cause oral bacteria to become out of balance. After we eat sugars and processed carbohydrates, the opportunistic bacteria convert the carbohydrates and create the by-product lactic acid, which erodes the tooth’s protective enamel and affects the dentin within the tooth. EvoraPlus™ is the first probiotic mint specifically designed to support gum and tooth health, naturally freshen breath, and gently whitening teeth.

"Daily use of EvoraPlus™ is a fast, easy and effective way to naturally promote oral health and economically replace mouthwashes, tooth whiteners and breath fresheners.
Within 30 days of using EvoraPlus™ twice daily, the natural healthy oral balance of good bacteria will be greatly restored and you will begin to notice a whiter, brighter smile and long-lasting fresh breath."

I was excited to try Evora Plus and reap the benefits of natural tooth and gum health protection, and natural whitening. I followed directions, and just let a little tablet melt in my mouth twice a day. I usually try them after breakfast or lunch or when I don't get to brush after eating. They are a very nice minty flavor without being too strong. I find so many mints overpowering but the EvoraPlus was just right. It really freshens my breath and leaves me with a feeling that I just brushed my teeth for hours. It even works on coffee breath! The other night before climbing into bed I was trying to remember if I had brushed my teeth already because they still felt so fresh and clean. I really like these EvoraPlus mints!

You can purchase EvoraPlus on their website and/ or you have a chance to win it right here!

GIVEAWAY DETAILS:
One lucky reader will win one box of EvoraPlus (which is a 30 day supply).

Giveaway Dates: June 20- July 12, 2010 Midnight CST

How To Enter:
To enter this Giveaway, you need to do one or more of the following and post a comment below about each action you took. Each comment will count as a separate entry so your chances of winning increase but only the #1 entry is required.

1. Required: Visit EvoraPlus and leave a comment with an advantage of EvoraPlus
2. Follow Moms Wear Your Tees Blog in right margin w/ Google Friend Connect or RSS
3. Like the Moms Wear Your Tees Blog Facebook page in right margin
4. Like the EvoraPlus Facebook page
5. Follow MWYT on Twitter and EvoraPlus on Twitter
6. Tweet or about this Giveaway:
Enter to #win EvoraPlus Giveaway- Probiotics for Oral Care and Whitening http://www.momswearyourtees.blogspot.com @MWYT @EvoraPlus
7. Place my blog button on your blog or website and leave web address I can visit
8. Blog about this giveaway and include a link, leave web address I can visit (+2)

Giveaway Rules:
Open to residents of USA and Canada, age 18+ to enter. Winner selected through random.org GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED! Congratulations to Janice Crespo.

EvoraPlus did provide me with a box of EvoraPlus to try in the hopes that I would share my honest opinions. I received no monetary compensation and the opinions expressed are my own.

10 Helpful Things to Do before Starting a Successful Home Remodeling Project

>> Saturday, June 19, 2010

Someone recently asked me what I would love to blog about if I had no limitations of money. I would love to blog about remodeling my home. I like to see before and after shots. I think it is absolutely amazing the difference small changes can make. I would love to document the process with photos and let others know what to expect from different projects! Maybe someday...

This guest post is written by Vicki M. Thompson of Delaware remodeling contractors. She shares some good tips.

Before you start you start your remodeling project, be sure to sketch out your ideas; figure out whether you will do it yourself or hire a contractor; plan your budget and funding; consider building code requirements and other issues; think of your home value; choose your construction materials wisely; have a list of options where you will purchase your materials; consider your home’s total efficiency; set up special rules; and think how you can make use of your old home materials.

Sketch out your ideas

To fully materialize your desired outcome, you need to sort out your ideas in drawing and in writing. You can either draw your planned layout yourself, hire a professional, or use a computer software to help you out. List your detailed plans and special instructions to make remodeling smooth-flowing. List down questions you might need to ask your contractor when planning to hire one, or questions to ask some experts if you decide to do the project yourself.

Figure out whether you will do it yourself or hire a contractor

Ask yourself if the project is manageable enough to do yourself or are you going to need a contractor? Smaller renovations can be done by yourself and some helpers. It can help you save on costs of labor, but may take longer time to finish, not unless you work full-time on it or you are not in a hurry. Make sure you have had experience on smaller home projects before you decide to work on a more critical home project. Do not forget to ask advice from experts, too. Bigger and more complicated home remodeling projects are usually better done with contractors than yourself and some helpers. There just might be some details that need the hands of experts to be properly completed. Just make sure you find a reputable contractor, considering the costs you need to spend for them.

Plan your budget and funding

Another important consideration before you take on remodeling your home is to plan for your budget and your funding. You need to be aware that there might be some unexpected increases in the price of construction materials, as well as other unexpected expenditures you might have overlooked. Give allowance for possible problems and cost-related concerns. Think of the materials you are going to use and possible equally great alternatives. You can also research on ways to save on home remodeling costs.

Consider building code requirements and other issues

You need make sure that your renovation plan meets the building code requirements in your area. You can ask your architect or your contractor about this or inquire from your local building authority. You also need to consider other issues , such as complying with zoning issues and submitting building permits before you can go about your home renovation.

Think of your home value

When you are planning to sell the house after the renovation, it is important that you evaluate its home value first by the time the project will be completed. You need to see if your planned layout, planned additions, and planned materials are attractive to buyers. For example, you can ask yourself if your room addition is taking too much yard space. A swimming pool, too may not be very attractive for buyers due to costly maintenance. These considerations, however, depend on your area and target market.

Choose your construction materials wisely

Efficiency and beauty are the words. You have to choose the right construction materials, such as tiles, flooring, ceiling, and roofing materials, among others, that answer to your specific needs. Choose materials that look great with your current theme, as well as those that are easy to maintain, long-lasting, energy-efficient, and cost-saving.

Have a list of options where you will purchase your materials

As with any shopping, you need to canvas the best place to purchase your construction materials. List down shops in your area and ask for recommendations. Do not hesitate to go over customer reviews and the inquire from Better Business Bureau to ensure good performance. Look for shops that offer free deliveries and warranties.

Consider your home’s total efficiency

Not only do you need to make sure of the materials’ efficiency, but also the layout and other details of your newly renovated house. See to it that spaces are well-utilized, rooms are well-ventilated and well-lit, and room sizes are proportionate. Check also if electrical wiring will not be difficult to install.

Set up special rules

To avoid accidents and lessen possible problems, you need to set special rules with your helpers or your contractor, especially when undergoing a bigger project. Inform your people about parking their equipment, how to deal with delays, equipment problems, supply shortages, and other problems that may come up during the renovation. Contractors may have their own rules to follow, but do not hesitate to include yours for more convenience.

Think how you can make use of your old home materials

Finally, and often forgotten, you have to think how to properly dispose of your old home materials. For example, you can donate your old wooden materials to furniture-makers or landscapers. You can also make use of your broken bricks and stones during your construction or offer it for other construction projects.

Remodeling your home may not be that easy, but it helps a lot to be prepared. You must be well-conditioned for the work done at home and be comfortable with workers in your house. There may be small problems and glitches along the way, but it will be very rewarding for you in the end. Your time, money, and effort will all be well-spent.

You may also want to take a quick peek at my Wordless Wednesday: Proud Mama post to see some of my son's artwork that would make you want to remodel too!

6 Tips to Save Money by Being Green

This is a guest post written by Liz C. She runs MyCCFinder, a printable coupon site helping everyone on the Internet save on a daily basis.

If you’re a fan of saving the environment like I am and you want to save your money as well, I don’t blame you! When you use green friendly products around your household, you probably don’t want to set out and pay top dollar. Instead, I want to give you a few eco-friendly tips that you can use when you’re looking to save a few bucks.

#1 Take a close look at your appliances

If you have older appliances that aren’t energy efficient and you’re thinking about getting new ones, you will want to highly consider an energy efficient appliance set, because items such as your Washer, Dryer, and many other items can save you hundreds, if not thousands over its life time.

#2 Wrap your water heater

Since being green means saving energy, you’re going to want to probably use as little of it as possible. Did you know that if you wrap your hot water heater with a specialized blanket, you can save 15-20% off your bill? If you’re going to do this, make sure you get a blanket designed for a water heater.

#3 Skip the dryer

Now, if you live in a warmer climate, you can take advantage of air drying your clothes all the time. Unfortunately, in the winter, you’re going to have no choice but to dry them inside. Invest into a $5 clothes line and dry your clothes outside to save on dryer costs. You’re saving energy and money!

#4 Create your own cleaning products

There are some cool recipes online that you can use when you’re looking to create your own eco-friendly cleaning products. Instead of buying name brands, household items such as vinegar, baking soda, and more will do the trick. Google for “eco-friendly household cleaner recipes” to see for yourself!

#5 Skip on the bottled water

Not only do those little bottled water containers hurt the environment, you’re spending too much money. Instead, you’re going to want to invest into a simply water bottle and filter. Many of these filters can filter out 500 gallons of water!

#6 Grow a garden

It doesn’t have to be huge, but you’re going to find that even if you grow a few products in your back yard, it can save you a few dollars over the summer time. It’s going to give you something to do and will help your wallet.

Sure, some of these green tips can be rather simple, but by using them, you should be able to save! Test these eco tips out and see how much you save. Not only are you going to be helping your wallet, you’re going to help the environment as well!

You might also like to read Tips for First Time Gardeners.

Get your family moving and find how fitness can be fun with JumpStart® Get Moving™ Wii Game Giveaway

>> Friday, June 18, 2010

JumpStart is making fitness fun with Get Moving Family Fitness Wii Game. Discover the ultimate family sports game with fitness expert and mom of 4, Brooke Burke (Co-Host & Champion of ABC's Dancing with the Stars). With more than 15 sports challenges in 11 exotic arenas, Get Moving sounds like a fun, new way to keep your family active!

Get Moving Family Fitness Wii Game Key Features:
* Design your own character to race and play.
* Build customized routines for extra challenge.
* Compete head to head or play solo.
* Play underwater, on a farm, in Egypt or 8 other exotic locations.

Brooke Burke teamed up with JumpStart to create a game that is "the perfect way to teach her kids that fitness doesn’t have to be a chore."
* Access expert tips for more ways to stay healthy.
* Train with Brooke to make the most of every motion.
* Track calories burned to see your progress.

GIVEAWAY DETAILS: JumpStart would like to provide one lucky reader with a JumpStart® Get Moving™ Family Fitness Wii Game.

Giveaway Dates: June 18- July 10,2010 Midnight CST

How to Enter:
To enter this Giveaway, you need to do one or more of the following and post a comment below about each action you took. Each comment will count as a separate entry so your chances of winning increase but only the #1 entry is required.

1. Required: Visit JumpStart and leave a comment with something you learned or would like to try
2. Follow Moms Wear Your Tees Blog in right margin w/ Google Friend Connect or RSS
3. Like the Moms Wear Your Tees Blog Facebook page in right margin
4. Follow MWYT on Twitter
5. Tweet or Retweet about this Giveaway:
Enter to #win JumpStart Get Moving Family Fitness Wii Game Giveaway http://www.momswearyourtees.blogspot.com @MWYT
6. Vote for my blog as a top mommy blog by clicking here
7. Place my blog button on your blog or website and leave web address I can visit
8. Blog about this giveaway and include a link, leave web address I can visit (+2)

Giveaway Rules:
Open to residents of USA and Canada, age 18+ to enter. Winner selected through random.org GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. Congratulations to Bev!

Adorable Hatley Children's Sleepwear Pajamas Giveaway

>> Thursday, June 17, 2010

Hatley is an apparel company that was started by a mother and father team and it is run by their three sons today! The key factor at Hatley is quality and it means that the products Hatley makes are designed to last- "Your PJs will make it to child number three, four and more." Hatley offers apparel lines for the whole family from infant to adult as well as gift and kitchen selection!

I love their adorable designs! It was a tough choice selecting from Hatley's selection of sleepwear pajamas for girls. First my daughter decided to go with the short sleeve and short pajamas then we had to choose from five great patterns. We decided to go with the watermelon ones because we loved the summer colors- Naturally Sweet Girls' Summer Pajama Set. I loved that it says, "naturally sweet". She is my little sweetie after all!

She just loves them and was so excited when we got them in the mail! I really like that they are made out of 100% cotton and it is thick and soft. I also love the super cute watermelon applique on the shirt- the stitching in all the different colors is a really nice touch! The pink bands of color at the bottom of the shorts is a nice detail that ties back to the shirt. I also really like the detailing on the sleeves and neck of the green fabric to match the shorts and the pink stitching. The back of the pajama top even has "hatley" stitched into it in matching green.

Hatley also has lots of adorable pajamas for boys, like this cute Salty Dog pajama set! They are also 100% cotton with lots of great details and unique designs.

GIVEAWAY DEATAILS:
Hatley will offer one lucky reader a choice of a boys’ pj set or a girls’ pj set.

Giveaway Dates: June 17- July 9, 2010 Midnight CST

How to Enter:
To enter this Giveaway, you need to do one or more of the following and post a comment below about each action you took. Each comment will count as a separate entry so your chances of winning increase but only the #1 entry is required.

1. Required Entry
"LIKE" Hatley on Facebook and visit the Hatley website to pick out which pajama set you want to win. Leave a comment letting me know you "LIKE" Hatley on Facebook and which pajama set is your favorite.

Optional Entries:
* Follow Moms Wear Your Tees blog with GFC or subscribe to RSS feed in the top right hand sidebar
* Like Moms Wear Your Tees Blog on Facebook
* Blog about this giveaway including a live link to this post & commment with the URL (+2)

Giveaway Rules:
Open to residents of USA and Canada, age 18+ to enter. Winner selected through random.org GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED! Congratulations to Tabithia!

Hatley did provide me with the pajama set in the hopes that I would share my honest opinions. I received no monetary compensation and the opinions expressed are my own.

Twitter Hop Thursday: Come Make More Twitter Friends

Welcome to Twitter Hop Thursday, hosted by Simply Stacie, The
King's Court IV, Little Yaya's and Blessed, Review Retreat and Moms Wear Your Tees!

Would you like more Twitter followers and be introduced to more neat blogs and businesses out there? Come and join us!!

1. Add your Twitter URL (example http://twitter.com/MWYT) to the MckLinky. It will apprear on all blogs that grab the code.

2. Click on the Twitter ID for the five hostesses and follow each of them on Twitter. Please follow 1-5 so that we can follow you back.

3. Follow as many people on Twitter as you like, but make sure to leave comments with links so they'll know where to follow you! The more people you follow, the more follow you back!

We have selected a Twitterer of the Week from last week’s entries and the lucky winner is Being Tazim!!! They will be in the #6 spot! We will choose next week’s winner from everyone who participated today.

Spread the word by tweeting this link! You can use the share button right below the post. You can also add this MckLinky to your blog! Write your own post or copy and paste this one. Below the MckLinky box, you'll see "Want to be a part of this Blog Hop? Click here for instructions and code...." Have fun Twitter-Hopping along!

If you like this post, you may also be interested in How to Use Twitter as an Effective Social Media Tool.