Back To School Pillsbury's Sweet Cinnamon Rolls Giveaway

Back to School is here! We are in our third week of school! Honestly, I still cannot get used to an August school start. However, with Homeschooling it is nice to get started and then have more flexibility during the school year. So on these hot Summer days, we have been at it.

To kick off our year -here's a great Back to School Tip - Easy and HeartWarming Breakfast! I had these lovely Pillsbury Sweet Cinnamon Rolls ready for the Tigers! And the Tigers looked like this...



Add bananas and milk! :) Bliss! Look at those closed eyes! And a plate full of Cinnamon Rolls! I'll admit it, I let them eat until their hearts content. (whole pan)






In an effort to recapture Sunday mornings as the ideal occasion to reconnect with family and loved ones, Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls is teaming up with Melissa Joan Hart, star of the new ABC Family sitcom "Melissa & Joey," for the My Sweet Sunday Moment contest, where you and your family have a chance to win a seven-day "week of Sundays" vacation to California, including a visit to area theme parks and Melissa Joan Hart´s sweet shop, SweetHarts!

Enter today by visiting Pillsbury.com/SweetSunday and telling Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls why your family loves Sunday and why you want more of them for a chance to win.

Treat your family to a "sweet Sunday moment" with the mouth-watering aroma and delicious taste of Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls. Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls are a quick and easy addition to any breakfast that the whole family will love - just place and bake!

To learn more about the contest and Melissa Joan Hart you can visit Pillsbury.com/SweetSunday. Please keep in mind you have until September 2nd to enter this contest through Pillsbury.com.

Enter to Win:

1) "Like" Carolina Mama Facebook page and leave your name in the comments there;
2) "Twitter" this link and you're golden again! Leave a comment and let me know on my FB page.

May the lucky one win! :) Thanks for playing and enjoy! We loved our Pillsbury Kit that was sent to us from General Mills and Blog Spark. Fun things! This is published at "Works For Me Wednesday!" You can find more great BTS tips there.


Warmly, Carolina Mama

My Hanes Comfort and BlogHer 2010 NYC

Thank you Hanes for an amazing afternoon in NYC!


BlogHer 2010 was fabulous to me! New York City! All the Moms, Friends and the Brands! It was rewarding to meet many companies and their PR Represenatatives that I had worked with prior.

Hanes was one of those companies! As you know, I love Hanes. Hanes Comfort is a North Carolina company. So we not only are comfortable and adore them. We like them and enjoy working with them.

Only one small thing, a lot of the great Hanes Comfort Crew live closer to New York City than North Carolina! To say I was thrilled to be invited to their Afternoon of Comfort is a total understatement. It was what I couldn't wait to do. And lucky me, the Hanes event was the first event I attended in New York City for BlogHer.

Literally, it was from john F. Kennedy Airport to drop our luggage to go to the Hanes party! So No Not Me Monday! we did not just go to the Hanes event without even getting to get our fashion on! No Not Me Monday! I didn't miss my Southern girl dress up and have to rush straight to a party without my party dress and contacts! Here you have it raw - looking like the Traveling Mama that I am at the chic event! I wouldn't have missed it for the world. It's a love love relationship with Hanes and me - so here we all are.

Here is a glimpse of what our party looked like in NYC!



I loved meeting the amazing Michael Maloney of Extreme MakeOver! He was so cool and helpful! I organize a lot of things yet I learned new tips from Michael like the new Hanes undies! And Hanes had us custom fit while we were there! Heaven! And the prices of the new Hanes flex-fit bras are so inexpensive. We even got professionally fitted to make sure we had the right size.

Back to Michael Maloney, I loved getting to Organize with him. And I even won the $100 MomBlogger Organization Contest/Game! Really! That was fun! What mother of twin boys couldn't easily use $100 on socks, tees and such for her active growing sons. Or an extra flex fit! :) Just saying I loved them that much.

Thanks Hanes! You're the best! Rumor has it Hanes is having a Giveaway for Fall right her on CarolinaMama! Get ready! Are you a Hanes fan? Does everyone in your family wear Hanes? Hands down, we're a Hanes Family!

Warmly, Carolina Mama

Emmy's and The Mom Bloggers - Best Dressed

Emmy's 2010!



Since some of you know I rarely watch television, the thing I think is best about the Emmy's and Oscar's is the best-dressed!



This year while the world or at least our country was concerted with Who is Temple Grandin? There was a crowd of us Moms, MomBlogger Moms who had all eyes on the look out for our colleagues! :)

Photo by Jennifer James

Really! I was much more interested in Audrey McClellend, Sharon Couto and Jennifer James' amazing Emmy looks than any thing else. Seriously, how cool is that! Cool companies like Suave and Duncan Hines believe in the power of the MomBlogger and in the power of the best dressed Mom Bloggers.

Well, okay it's not all about the dress but it is a whole lot of fun! And yes, I think Audrey, Sharon and Jennifer are the true Fashionistas.

If you haven't already, treat yourself and check out their blogs, Audrey and Sharon write at MomGenerations with Jane. And Jennifer, lovely North Carolinaian, runs MomBloggersClub.

What were your best dressed and best of for the Emmy's 2010?

Warmly, Carolina Mama

Breyers Ice Cream & Magnolia Grill's Karen Barker

Thank you all for joining us at the Triangle Town Center Kid's Fest in Raleigh! Next stop for the Breyer's Sundae Scoop-Off Charlotte, North Carolina September 10-11 at the Blues, Brews and BBQ Event!

Just in from the fabulous Kid's Fest at Triangle Town Center Raleigh, NC

Loved meeting Karen Barker, Owner and Chef of Magnolia Grill, Durham, North Carolina

Everyone was having a great time!  The weather was beautiful, the Kids Events were great, and 

the Breyer's Ice Cream Sundaes were worth every calorie!  :) 

Remember; You can enter to win the Breyer's Ice Cream Sundae Kit in the post prior to this -click here to Enter Giveaway! 

You'll love it! 

SWEET & SPICY PEACH PECAN SUNDAES

Magnolia Grill's of Durham's Chef Karen Barker Recipe

4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes     Cook Time: 10 minutes     Stand Time: 15 minutes     

1 lb. frozen sliced peaches, thawed

1/3 cup sugar

1-1/2 Tbsp. prepared hot pepper jelly OR 1-1/2 Tbsp. peach jelly plus 1/2 tsp. finely chopped seeded jalapeno pepper

1/8 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper

8 pecan shortbread cookies, crumbled

2 cups Breyers® All Natural Peach Ice Cream

1/2 cup sweetened whipped cream

Bring peaches, sugar, hot pepper jelly, cinnamon and cayenne pepper to a boil over medium heat in 2-quart saucepan. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, until peaches release their juices and are heated through; cool to room temperature.

To serve, arrange 1 crumbled cookie into each serving dish. Top with peach sauce, then Breyers® All Natural Peach Ice Cream. Sprinkle with remaining crumbled cookies then drizzle with remaining peach sauce. Garnish with whipped cream.

This recipe was divine! I loved it! Just a hint of spice and full of flavor! Thanks Breyer's and Karen Barker for the invite!

Sundae Scoop-Off Contest Raleigh, NC and Charlotte, NC and Giveaway

Summer is still here and we're still screaming for Ice Cream!

Join us for the Triangle Town Center Kid's Fest Breyer's Sundae Scoop-Off Contest Showcase in Raleigh!
We love their all-natural ice creams and our favorites are the No Sugar Added!


WHO:
Durham-based chef, Karen Barker. The Magnolia Grill chef’s work has been showcased in numerous publications including Food & Wine, Bon Appétit, Fine Cooking and The New York Times. Her desserts display a distinct Southern sensibility – making creative use of regional ingredients with an emphasis on seasonality and local sourcing.

WHEN: Sunday, Aug. 29, 1 – 5 p.m.
WHERE: Kids Fest Triangle Town Center, 5959 Triangle Town Blvd., Raleigh, N.C.

The Tigers l.o.v.e.d getting to make their sundaes from all from all of the toppings and ice cream in the kits from Breyer's!



As part of the summer search for the best ice cream sundaes, popular Durham-based, Raleigh-local chef, Karen Barker, has teamed up with Breyers ice cream to bring the “Sundae Showcase” to Raleigh for Kids Fest on August 29. Karen has developed a signature Raleigh-inspired ice cream recipe, “Sweet & Spicy Peach Pecan Sundae,” with Breyers® All Natural Peach ice cream, shortbread cookies and cinnamon and spice.

While at the Sundae Showcase event, families can indulge with free scoops* of Breyers® Original All Natural Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough or Homemade Vanilla ice cream, get creative at the build-your-own sundae bar, and enjoy Karen’s sundae demonstrations, games and entertainment.

Ice cream fans can also enter the Sundae Scoop-Off recipe contest at www.Breyers.com for a chance to win $10,000, a trip for four to Chicago and one year of free Breyers® ice cream. The recipe entries will be judged on taste, creativity, use of Breyers® ice cream and presentation.

CHARLOTTE, NC Tour is September 10th and 11th at the "Blues, Brews and BBQ!" Another awesome time!

GIVEAWAY:

You've got a chance to Win a Breyer's Ice Cream Picnic Kit w/Ice Cream for your own Sundae Party!
Enter by:

1) Tweet on your Twitter account;
2) Share on your Facebook;
3) Tell us your favorite flavor ice cream
* leave a comment for each entry and Good luck! It is so tasty!


Warmly, Carolina Mama

Fit Friday at Carolina Mama

Fit Friday at Carolina Mama is talking about Read for Inspiration and then Setting Goals!

Do you Set Goals? We do and we achieve many more simply because they were set. My number one advice, unless you are a real competitive athlete, set your goals for YOU!

Reading Mile Markers by Kristin Armstrong is so inspirational to me on several levels as a Mom and a Runner. And of course, you can find a world of tips in the Runner's World where she writes.

See My Mom Run!

For every day Mom inspiration, check out See My Mom Run! Melanie shares great running tips, routes to take, music and best of all, she has great recipes she shares! Like her, I run to eat! LOL I run for the great feeling, for the escape, for the presence, for the wellness... okay, this is another story! :)

Inspire yourself by clocking your work outs! All the MomBloggers are loving Daily Mile! It is awesome and inspirational. I track my workouts and see my progress. Then challenge myself. Go for your best PR.

Try iPhone Apps like: RunKeeper and Trainer. You can check these out in the "lite" version and if you like it purchase the full app. I love Trainer. GPS. I'll take it! My iPod/iPhone Music, I'm in love!

Remember: Read for inspiration and Set Goals that Challenge! What's your next goal?! I'm up for the SAS Championship 5k! Are you - who's joining me?! Please share your reading inspiration and goal setting too. We would love to share comments below. Happy running!


Warmly, Carolina Mama

Bye-Bye To The McMansion

Bye-Bye to the McMansion....

Growing up, I loved our home. We were on two acres and had a red brick four bedroom home. The living room was a favorite because I loved playing the grand piano. We all loved spending time in the kitchen. Cooking, eating, visiting... we're Louisianians! My mother North Carolinian. It's in our blood, gather and eat.

As an adult, I have always said to my Boulder Mountain Man, I do not want a home the size where I don't know where everyone is. Or at least, where we can get lost! Seriously! I love a good size home like the one I grew up in but I love even more the people in it - family!

And I never thought the McMansion's were real fellowship friendly. In fact, for the second year in a row, Americans are agreeing on the shrinking McMansion.

Now, it seems lots of Americans agree. When Boulder Mt. Man was in college and I was home with our twin sons. I loved spending every second raising our children. My peers were all working double income jobs as if the 80s had just hit the small southern town with a large population of DINKS. So I was ahead of the curve. Back then, I used to explain to my girlfriends that when Mt. Man graduated and we moved on, I wanted to "live" in our house! Not just purchase a mega-home only to be gone twelve hours a day to pay for it.

Seriously, do you feel the same way? Now, it seems a lot of us feel that way. Let's don't debate is America coming to that regardless of the home. Sometimes its' the choices we make. What is your choice on this - the McMansion? "Do you know where you children are!" You can usually hear mine! :) Or see the flash of lightning blitz by!

Warmly, Carolina Mama

Rayovac Instant Rockstar Giveaway

You know we're huge Rayovac fans! Well, Rayovac likes to have little parties for its people. :) Really - another Contest from Rayovac! Sounds so fun and you could win!

Rayovac Instant Rockstar Giveaway Video Contest Blogger Promotion
How would you and your readers like to rock out for your chance to win one of the hottest new toys for the holiday season? Rayovac is pumping up the volume with the Rayovac Instant Rockstar Giveaway Video Contest. Consider this your invitation to join the band and get your rock on!



Rayovac Instant Rockstar Giveaway
The Rayovac Instant Rockstar Giveaway Video Contest will begin on August 30 and will conclude on September 26. Let your inner rockstar shine during the first three weeks of the contest when you can upload a video of your best air guitar moves. Find out who makes it to the top of the charts the last week of the contest as viewers vote for the winners. The video with the highest number of votes wins.

The grand prize winner will receive a full line of Paper Jamz instruments (6 guitars, 6 drums, and 6 amps) plus Rayovac batteries. That’s enough product to keep the whole neighborhood rockin’. The second prize winner will receive a Paper Jamz product trio (3 guitars, 3 drums, and 3 amps) plus Rayovac batteries and the third prize winner will receive a Paper Jamz set (1 guitar, 1 drum, and 1 amp) with Rayovac batteries. That’s a whole lot of rock!

Check out Rayovac Facebook for more information on this contest but hurry, you won’t want to miss your chance to rock the video world:

August 30 – September 19: Upload your best video
September 20 – September 26: Vote for your favorite video
October 15 – Winners announced

Feel free to share the Contest with your readers, family and friends with this Embed Widget:
Horizontal: http://cdn.shoutlet.com/server/widget/11370
Vertical: http://cdn.shoutlet.com/server/widget/11372

Contest Rayovac Facebook Link


Warmly, Carolina Mama


Open only to persons in the 50 United States or D.C. who are 13 years of age or older (18 years of age or older for residents of Maine) as of the date of entry. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. PARENTAL CONSENT MAY BE NECESSARY. SEE OFFICIAL RULES FOR DETAILS.

Glass Marker Boards For Your Home

A favorite local Raleigh, North Carolina business, Custom Glass and Doors is asking you a question about Glass Marker Boards.

Look at these beautiful Glass Marker Boards For Your Home!





These boards are going to be ~ 15" wide by 30" tall and will float off the wall with brushed stainless standoffs. We are working on a pen attachment. In light of this will you give feedback to the following questions:

Would you buy one [ ]
If married, Would your spouse buy one? [ ]
If yes, how much would you likely spend $[ ]
Any suggestions for formats you would buy [ ]
Would you order this online? [ ]
Would this be something you would think you could install yourself [ ]
Anything else? [ ]

* I think they are lovely! I would love one in my kitchen! I would love one in our Homeschool Class Room! Elegant and yet functional! Not distracting like the basic dry erase boards. My price point is $49.99. I do not know if I can install. You know I am DIY Challenged! What do you think?

Thanks you for your feedback! Please answer in comments and have fun clicking your answers in the Poll to the right! :)


Warmly, Carolina Mama

BabyCenter® FREE Pregnancy iPhone App and an Apple Giveaway

When we discovered we were having Twins!, the first computer resource I found was BabyCenter®! I still remember the delight of seeing the weekly updates of what our little Tigers were doing to progress and grow! In a pre-digital time, it was magical!

Even as a Mom of BigKids (gasp! the Tigers did just turn 9 1/2 years old!), I love going to BabyCenter's BigKids and gleaning something new! Now I've more reason to go to BabyCenter... Today, this Social Media Mom loves her Apps! And BabyCenter® just made most Mamas wish they were expecting right now....

BabyCenter® Launches
BabyCenter® My Pregnancy Today Application for iPhone® and iPod Touch® and iPad®

60 Percent of Expectant Moms Want App to Track Pregnancy




(San Francisco) – August 24, 2010 – BabyCenter®, moms’ most trusted parenting and pregnancy site, today announced the launch of the BabyCenter® My Pregnancy Today application for iPhone and iPod touch.

This new, free application guides expectant moms through their pregnancy journey, offering award-winning, medically reviewed health content; advice from obstetricians, midwives, nutritionists, and other experts; daily activities and reminders; and conversation and connection with other moms-to-be in BabyCenter’s community. The BabyCenter® My Pregnancy Today application is now available at www.babycenter.com/iphone-pregnancy-download.

“The BabyCenter® My Pregnancy Today app is everything that millions of women love about BabyCenter right in their purse,” says Linda Murray, BabyCenter editor-in-chief. “Mobile phones are changing the way women get their pregnancy and parenting information, and we want to make sure an expecting mom has all the answers she needs right at her side at all times. Our new app turns your iPhone into an expert guide for your exact date of pregnancy, making it that much easier to enjoy the rich, personal experience that is the journey of new motherhood.”

Application features include:

· Your pregnancy, day by day: BabyCenter’s renowned weekly pregnancy experience now updated and expanded into a daily snapshot of your baby’s development.


· Fetal development images: Our one-of-kind, detailed weekly illustrations developed by expert medical illustrators.


· Pregnancy checklist: An interactive to-do list is filled with activities and reminders to keep you on track with decisions, appointments, and more.


· Award-winning videos: BabyCenter’s exclusive and breathtaking 3-D animations of a baby developing in the womb and live-action videos of women giving birth (from natural to c-section).


· Birth clubs: Instant, at-your-fingertips advice and support from BabyCenter women due at the same time.


· Due date calculator: Quickly find your due date and count down to the big day.


· Nutrition guide: Manage weight gain with tips and recipes to help you eat well.


The BabyCenter® My Pregnancy Today application is the latest innovative BabyCenter mobile program designed to provide the modern mom with trusted advice and friendship that's remarkably right for her needs, and the first of its kind that will launch worldwide

You can read more about the App here

For more on the BabyCenter® My Pregnancy Today application, please visit www.babycenter.com/my-pregnancy-today-iphone-application.

*******
To celebrate the new app, BabyCenter is hosting a BabyCenter® My Pregnancy Today Sweepstakes from August 24 through September 22. Visitors at BabyCenter.com will have the chance to win a $2,500 Apple Gift Card. Go to http://www.babycenter.com/bcsweeps for all contest information and to enter.
That's what every mother needs! It's enough to make this Mama long to be expecting Twins again!

*****
About BabyCenter®, LLC

BabyCenter® is the voice of the 21st Century Mom® and modern motherhood. It's the #1 pregnancy and parenting destination worldwide, reaching more than 8 million moms monthly in the U.S. and more than 20 million moms monthly in 22 markets from Australia to India to China. In the United States, 7 in 10 babies born last year were BabyCenter babies. BabyCenter is the world’s partner in parenting, providing moms everywhere with trusted advice from hundreds of experts around the globe, friendship with other moms like them, and support that's remarkably right at every stage of their child’s development. BabyCenter also works with some of the world’s most prominent brands and institutions to bring them life-stage marketing solutions and a direct line to highly engaged moms. BabyCenter is a member of the Johnson & Johnson family of companies.

Warmly, Carolina Mama

FREE Rachel Ray and Taste of Home Magazines!

Early Tuesday Morning Bargain! :)

A year ago, Boo Mama did this and I am still loving my FREE Southern Living Magazine! After all these years of a paid subscription, a complimentary year has been sweet. Well, look what's going around the internet right now!

Seriously, Every Day With Rachel Ray



and


Taste of Home Cooking Magazines are offering 1-year FREE Subscriptions!



I'd sign up now! And then enjoy the recipes all year long. With the Holiday Season peaking around the corner, I am excited for new recipes! And it's Rachel Ray y'all!

Thanks Kelly @ Faithful Provisions for the word up!


Warmly, Carolina Mama

Raleigh Kid's Fest and Breyer's Ice Cream Sundae Contest

You're invited ... to the Breyer's Ice Cream Sundae Contest! It's held at the Kids' Fest in Raleigh. [Details at the end of this post.]



WHAT: As part of the summer search for the best ice cream sundaes, popular Durham-based, Raleigh-local chef, Karen Barker, has teamed up with Breyer's Ice Cream to bring the “Sundae Showcase” to Raleigh for Kids Fest on August 29. Karen has developed a signature Raleigh-inspired ice cream recipe, “Sweet & Spicy Peach Pecan Sundae,” with Breyers® All Natural Peach ice cream, shortbread cookies and cinnamon and spice.

While at the Sundae Showcase event, families can indulge with free scoops* of Breyers® Original All Natural Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough or Homemade Vanilla ice cream, get creative at the build-your-own sundae bar, and enjoy Karen’s sundae demonstrations, games and entertainment.

Ice cream fans can also enter the Sundae Scoop-Off recipe contest at Breyers.com for a chance to win $10,000, a trip for four to Chicago and one year of free Breyers® ice cream. The recipe entries will be judged on taste, creativity, use of Breyers® ice cream and presentation.

WHO: Durham-based chef, Karen Barker of The Magnolia Grill.



The Magnolia Grill chef’s work has been showcased in numerous publications including Food & Wine, Bon Appétit, Fine Cooking and The New York Times. Her desserts display a distinct Southern sensibility – making creative use of regional ingredients with an emphasis on seasonality and local sourcing.

WHERE: Sunday, Aug. 29, 1 – 5 p.m.
Kids Fest
Triangle Town Center, 5959 Triangle Town Blvd., Raleigh, N.C.

What's your favorite Ice Cream Sundae flavor?! This party isn't over. Look for the video of the Tigers making ice cream sundaes.

Warmly, Carolina Mama

Dave Dravecky - "The Worth of a Man!"

Dave Dravecky - "The Worth of a Man!"

Amazing to hear Dave Dravecky's Story tonight! "My value is not is stuff but in who I am in Christ!"

Check out his books for more!

"For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope!" Romans 15:4

My Daddy - Twenty-Nine Years Later - Left A Lasting Impression

Twenty-Nine years ago today, my amazing Daddy was unexpectedly taken from this life - wisked away by the Angels to his eternal home. Since then, I've been longing for Heaven like no little girl could.

That Tuesday morning, our family plan was to pick up Daddy from the Hospital where he had been on breathing treatments for his asthma. Looking back now, I realize this was not normal. He was 46 years old. We became accustomed to his breathing issues. My sister and I once drove him from the CourtHouse where he won his case as an Attorney to a small town in Louisiana to get asthma help.

We had suitcases packed for our vacation out West to consider the idea (gasp for the Louisiana native who loved his homeland). His birthday presents were wrapped. Birthdays are a big deal in our family. And his was two days later which we planned to celebrate on the trip. Instead that morning our brother, the eldest, woke us up to tell us, "Daddy has gone to Heaven!" A loss I still cannot comprehend fully. As the four of us girls lay still in our parents king sized bed, our Mom too, I recall my brother, another bedrock in the family, standing at the foot of the bed, quoting this scripture that has comforted me these twenty-nine years later.


"Sorrow not, even as others which have no hope." 1 Thessalonians 4:13


And so began the life of being a fatherless young girl. We ranged in age from 8 to 22 years old. My dear 'Mommy" is an enigma herself. Thankfully to my Daddy's success and their planning and my mother's fortitude, she saw us all through college, marriage, parenting, etc. She is the bedrock of our family.

It was years later as a new Mother of Twins and Columnist at the Hattiesburg American, that I wrote this tribute during the Tigers' afternoon nap. Today, it still stands true.




*click each article segment above to enlarge. Happy reading!

He is with me every day! And I am so thankful to share him with our sons and you! :) Is your father living today? Did he make your world spin too?!



Warmly, Carolina Mama

Friday Fashion Find! Miraclebody and Raleigh Fashion Spark

My style! This Fall...



Thanks to Miraclebody "Look 10.lbs lighter in 10 Seconds!" These jeans really do get you set in 10 seconds! I love these Boot Cut Savannah's! Thank you Miraclebody for coming to BlogHer and sharing your product with us at Getting Gorgeous! Love them!

“A fashion that does not reach the streets is not a fashion.” ~ Coco Chanel


Fashion is reaching the streets of Raleigh, North Carolina!

We're talking local Fashion that according to Coco Chanel "reaches the streets!" Welcome Raleigh Fashion Spark 2010!

The fashionSPARK Fashion Show, now in its 5th year, is the largest and most popular annual fashion event in the Triangle! fashionSPARK, part of the SPARKcon potluck of creativity, showcases the area’s top local fashion talent!
This year’s Fashion Show will be held Friday, September 17th at City Plaza in downtown Raleigh.


Here's a glimpse at last year's Fashion Spark Raleigh!



Here's a tip, check out the local and latest Fashion and then implement one or two things that fit YOUR Style this Season! Wear it with charm and pride and enjoy! That's fashion! Sometimes it is eliminating things. For me, I'll not be wearing Jeggings. Yet, I will wear my cool boot cut jeans by the company Jeggings by Miracle Body!

Warmly, Carolina Mama

Samsung a Night of Wonder @ BlogHer 2010 With High Capacity Mom Bloggers

Samsung a Night of Wonder @ BlogHer 2010
New York City




It was my delight to be invited to join Samsung USA for the Samsung Experience NYC while at BlogHer 2010! The entire team is the most gracious and hospitable group you would want to associate with any time!

It was so wonderful to be invited to the Samsung Night of Wonder while in NYC for BlogHer! What a privilege to get to know this first class company.



Believe me, Samsung gets Moms.

Samsung USA Believes in High Capacity Mom Bloggers! 

In fact, it was love at first glance when I saw the first slide on the enormous Samsung flat screen television - "High Capacity Mom Bloggers!" My heart melted.



From that point forward I felt like I was talking with an old friend. Really they had me from the minute they sent Georgio to pick us up in our own "President's Mobile!"



Believe me for this High Capacity Mom :) we were spoiled just riding around NYC with our heels up! When we arrived, we looked like this:



The Samsung Refrigerators

They have the best Samsung Refrigerator - Flex Drawer!  And I am dreaming about it still! 

The Flex Drawer Refrigerator is revolutionary for families who, like us, are all about healthy living, home-cooking and spending time in the kitchen! As a homeschooling family, one of the surprises to me was the number of times I am in the kitchen fixing meals, snacks, and drinks. The more you/we are home, the more time we spend in the kitchen.

The Flex EZ-Open Handle Samsung Refrigerator is awesome for people like me who freeze most of their produce and condiments and have a freezer full of half-frozen or soupy ice cream. Samsung has the answers for me in this refrigerator and its features. You could virtually live in the refrigerator - after all the controls are all left up to you!
Check it out:

The EZ-Open Handle™ and the convenient counter-level height make it the most kid-friendly spot. An adjustable drawer divider offers up to four flexible-size compartments for the ultimate in organization. With four different temperature settings, you can store cold cuts, all your kids’ snacks or hors d’oeuvres for any occasion. Samsung refrigerators conserve your energy and your cash.

:) 

We also saw the very large flat screen TV and it represents.  It seriously looks thinner than an 

iPad!  How exciting is that! 

You can follow Samsung USA on Facebook for all their latest as well.

http://www.facebook.com/SamsungUSA

Also on Twitter:  Samsung Tweets 

We all had a grand time tweeting up our event and enjoying learning and sharing with this dynamic 

company.  

Then we had the most elegant, relaxing and enjoyable dinner at Per Se, a French Restaurant, where the food delighted and we were able to dine and visit and enjoy the Samsung Team and Friends.

Again, Thank you Samsung for a Night to Remember! It was my privilege.  

Are you a Samsung enthusiast? What's your favorite Samsung appliance? Just so you know, Samsung is very much interested in what you! If you have questions, let me know? Let them know. They are engaging and sharing the conversation. No wonder they are making a beautiful difference in homes across the globe!

*This story is voluntary and my own information and knowledge of Samsung. I fell in love with the Company, its philosophy and the Flex Refrigerator while I was in NYC. This is the beginning of a beautiful thing.

Warmly, 

Carolina Mama

Traveling Mamas: Mamas 4 Mamas Gulf Shores Charity

This New Orleans native couldn't be happier to share exciting news and aid to the Gulf Coast region of my birth!

You're Invited.... The Traveling Mamas are hosting a tweetup in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach to encourage travel to this oil spill affected destination and to raise funds for non-profits who are suffering due to the strain this disaster has caused.




Some female loggerhead turtles travel 1,000 miles and beyond each year to nest. Talk about your traveling mamas! This year, has been even more of a challenge for these mama sea turtles, as the oil spill and oil spill cleanup crews are affecting their ability to nest on Gulf Coast shores.

So we’re headed to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, this weekend to raise some money to help our fellow traveling mamas out. Friday night, we’ll be at a tweet-up to benefit Share the Beach.

We would love to see you at Live Bait at the Wharf from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday night. We’re asking just $5 for tickets, and those proceeds all go to our charity.


You can join the TweetUp too! August 20, 2010 from 5:30 to 8:00 pm CST. Tweet and support these amazing beaches and this area so that Tourism can thrive! A portion of the funds will also go towards a Louisiana-based charity TBA. Date: Aug 20, 2010. Time: 5:30-8:00 PM Buy Tickets now!


Thank you Shannon Lane and Erika Lehmann for your tireless efforts to help the Gulf Shores/Orange Beach region!

Warmly, Carolina Mama

August Is Back to School & Kids Eat Free! & A Giveaway

Tuesday and Wednesday Nights in August Noodles & Company offer Free Kids Meals!

Last Tuesday night, I took the Tigers to Noodles & Company and it was awesome! Thanks to Boulder Mountain Man we are lovers of this Boulder based company's amazing Noodles! So Kids Eat Free! only strengthened our bond! We met up with Andrea of Lil Kid Things and had a blast! Her little guy Oscar is adorable and my Tigers and her were fast friends!


The Tigers ordered their favorites: Mac and Cheese and Spaghetti and Meatballs! And there was not a bite left. In fact, Tiger A had a second bowl!

A Mediterranean inspired Penna Rosa dish with fresh basil! Mountain Man loves the Indonesian dishes! So go find out your favorite dish! And let the children enjoy some fun games, face paintings, and a great meal.

Triangle Mom2Mom Kids Eat Free in August!
has an awesome listing of Kids Eat Free in the Raleigh-Durham, NC area so I wanted to include it here for you to enjoy!

Just for Fun Noodles & Co is offering a FREE Bowl to a hungry reader!

Enter the Noodles & Company Giveaway here!

All the best!


Warmly, Carolina Mama

Day Spring Back To School with Purpose!

Day Spring's Back to School with Purpose! We are excited about this Campaign.

Our boys loved the idea of these great scriptures on their school supplies. They also loved the idea of donating a back pack to another child - a girl.

We all fell in love with the cute notebooks and other items!

Even as a Homeschool Family, we love seeing faith inspired scriptures and encouragement on our school supplies!

This Back to School season DaySpring is all about helping you go Back to School WithPurpose with DaySpring Back to School products found at Walmart.

Check out our Whrrl!

More check-ins at Wal-Mart Supercenter

Powered by Whrrl

Join DaySpring’s Back to School with Purpose Campaign to support DaySpring’s $5,000 donation for Adopt-A-Classroom.

Dayspring has partnered with Adopt-A-Classroom to bring needed school supplies to children and classrooms that couldn’t otherwise afford it. Adopt-A-Classrom increases opportunity for student success by empowering teachers with community partners and funds to purchase resources for the classroom.

This Back to School season, DaySpring is celebrating its’ new Back to School products sold at Walmart and their legacy of bringing hope and encouragement every day, everywhere. DaySpring will donate $5,000 to the Adopt-A-Classroom campaign with your help.

How can you join? It’s simple.


You too can join the "Back to School with Purpose!" Campaign and Adopt A Classroom! Read the Rule and How to Participate here.



*Disclosure: Day Spring asked me to participate in this Campaign. I was compensated for my work. The opinions are all my own. And I am thrilled about this initiative! Thank you for reading!

Warmly, Carolina Mama

Shine Yahoo Carolina Mama Interview

While at BlogHer 2010 in New York City, Shine from Yahoo! caught up with Carolina Mama for an interview on family, blogging and enjoying parenting!

Not sure I've been "reinvtented" - it's just me! However, Motherhood has defined me and I can see that as a Reinvention! Thank you Shine Yahoo!

Enjoy!






What's your Reinvention!?!! What defines you?!

Warmly, Carolina Mama

Friday Fit Tip

Rediscovering Elliptical Machine!

Does the heat of Summer ever make you feel like staying indoors and eating popsicles?! Yes! I wanted and needed a workout today and the heat was high. So here's what I did. And I want to share it as a Friday Fit Tip!

Today I had an awesome workout on the elliptical machine! Great cardio and low impact! Mixing it up these hot hot and humid Southern days!

Enjoy! What is your favorite cardio workout this August!?

Love the Samsung Refrigerator with Flex Drawer!

Weight Watchers Tuna Nicoise Salad

Just in from BlogHer 2010 New York City and I am ready for some home cooking! It's hot outside! So I am making an old favorite, Weight Watcher's style.

You know I am a successful Weight Watchers Meetings Member. Well, for those of you who are not members, you too can access the awesome recipes on the WW website. They have a lot of great information available for everyone! Take advantage of it and you will be successful. I count points, so I love the look of this awesome salad. I had this salad in Europe and I tell you it was not "points friendly." Now, i can have this Mediterranean specialty and guilt-free!


Tuna Nicoise Salad!


POINTS® Value: 3
Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 20 min
Cooking Time: 7 min
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Works with Simply Filling

This classic salad seems harmless, but the truth is it's often drowning in fat. Lighten your niçoise by creating your own dressing using broth, vinegar, mustard and just a touch of oil.


Ingredients
4 small uncooked new potatoes, red, quartered
1/2 pound(s) green snap beans, trimmed
1/3 cup(s) reduced-sodium chicken broth
2 Tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tsp Dijon mustard
2 tsp olive oil
1/8 tsp table salt, or to taste
1/8 tsp black pepper, or to taste
4 leaf Boston lettuce
6 oz canned chunk white tuna in water, drained and flaked
2 Tbsp capers, drained
8 items olive(s), sliced in half (use nicoise if available)
Instructions
Place potatoes in a large saucepan and pour in enough water to cover them by 2 inches. Set pan over high heat and bring water to a boil; reduce heat to medium and simmer 6 minutes. Add green beans and cook until potatoes are fork-tender and green beans are crisp-tender, about 1 to 2 minutes more; drain and transfer vegetables to a large bowl.

Meanwhile, in a small bowl, whisk together broth, vinegar, mustard and oil; season to taste with salt and pepper. Add half of dressing to potatoes and green beans; toss to coat.

Place 1 lettuce leaf on each of 4 plates. Top each with 1/4 of potato-green bean mixture, 1 1/2 ounces of tuna, 1/2 tablespoon of capers and 4 olive halves. Drizzle each with 1/4 of remaining dressing.
Chef Tips
We renovated Tuna Salad Nicoise by:
Using fat-free chicken broth to replace oil in the dressing.

Substituting white tuna in water for light tuna in oil.

I use mustard generously as my favorite condiment. What is your favorite condiment? Do you like the look of this salad?!
Find more great recipes at "Tasty Tuesday!"


Warmly,Carolina Mama

New York City

Hilton Hotels, Kendall-Jackson Wineries and Traveling Mamas!
Wonderful time!

Meeting Olympian Bruce Jenner

New York Ciry is a buzz with MomBloggers at BlogHer!

Meeting awesome peopla and learning about their amazing brands!

This morning We had breakfast with o
Olympian Bruce Jenner!

He is so personable and still is a Tropicana representative - Tropicana who sponsored the breakfast!

Meet Mr. Jenner!

Chipotle Food With Integrity

We had a great Triangle MomBloggers MeetUp TweetUp tonight! The TweetUp being @Frelle and me! And lots of Chipotle lovers. Chipotle fans indeed!




Chipotle Mexican Grill has a really awesome new theme that I am very excited about! Food With Integrity is Chipotle's commitment to finding the very best and freshest ingredients raised with respect to animals, the environment and the farmers. Love that! Awesome for an already fantastic restaurant. In the Triangle area of North Carolina, there is a Chipotle in Cary and there are 2 restaurants in Raleigh, NC. Here is Manager Jim Gould and his Crew!

Cary Team!

The food at Chipotle Mexican Grill is always really fresh, and they have some wonderful handmade salsas. The food is plentiful for a very reasonable price. The atmosphere is really relaxed. The staff was very friendly and accommodating, as we have noticed is a regular thing for Chipotle. This is a growing company, so be on the lookout for one in your neighborhood!

Enjoy some fun pictures. (Guest photos were used with permission.) This was sponsored by Chipotle Mexican Grill. And I enjoyed sharing Chipotle Burrito Bucks with the local customers! :)

Local Dentist and his wife are avid Chipotle Fans. They love the fresh ingredients!



Mother and Son say that Chipotle is their favorite! :)



Thanks Chipotle! We'll see you again real soon! Do you have a Chipotle near you? Are you hooked also?!


Warmly,Carolina Mama

My Weekly 5k

Great to see these numbers again. Almost overdid it - never nauseous running until today! ;) Glad I pushed myself . Who's running?!

BlogHer10 North Carolina MomBloggers List

Start spreading the news.... I'm going to be a part of it New York! BlogHer!

MomBloggers. Brands. NYC! So excited when things come together that are meant to be. I'm going to BlogHer 2010! We've got quite a group going from North Carolina! Are you going?!



Just wondering - who's going? When do you arrive? I know a ton of parties all Thursday night. Look forward to connecting with as many of you as possible!

If you need any details from me, please let me know. See you soon!

Warmly, Carolina Mama

VISION: "Greater Things Are Yet To Come!" FBC Hattiesburg, MS

What's your vision?

Greater things are yet to be done in this City! I love this video from the Tigers' home church. We were blessed to be a part of this dynamic body of Christ. And to be involved in the early dream and vision for the new church. They are in the new church now and bringing the gospel of Christ to their fair city.

And greater things are yet to be done there! "Where there is no vision, the people perish." What's your vision?

God of This City [Hattiesburg, Ms] from HR Sweat on Vimeo.

Warmly,Carolina Mama

Pastor: Jeff Clark

So You Want To Start A Blog

It was a warm Southern afternoon in 2006, I moved from reading blogs for information to writing blogs. I've been writing blogs and content ever since. Opposite of a lot of bloggers, I came to blogging to gather information. Then I began to give information. That fact has shaped how I view blogging. I knew early on the power of the blog.

As a writer, I love words, written, spoken, pondered. So writing a blog stuck for me. It was a way I could give back and make a contribution and have a blast all at the same time.

Here are a few tips and ideas to get you started for my friends who have asked about blogging.

1) Know yourself;
2) Be true to yourself;
3) Follow your heart;
4) Chose a topic that interests you and your family and friends; who is your audience;
6) Use your own content and pictures - plagiarism is the same online - integrity matters;
7) Be authentic;
8) Avoid getting isolated and just interacting online;
9) Decide how often you want to post and stick to it;
10) Other pointers are listed below in more detail.
11) Say what you want to say and don't allow cyber bullying;
12) Overall, Enjoy!

Let me forewarn you blogging can be time consuming. Just as it is a wonderful world of information to be had online, it is time consuming. Be discerning. All blogs and sites are not the same. So use your time wisely. As a rule do not click links that look suspicious or come form out-of-the-blue people or strangers.

One of my lifetime lessons that applies to Blogging well is patience. Be patience. Let your blog develop and your online communications develop naturally. Comment on the blogs you like - briefly. Decide beforehand how much time you will spend on this.

Be aware there are evil ones who are not online for altruistic purposes. I chose to make my blog private at first. This is what I was comfortable with at the time. Think about it and decide for yourself and your family. I made the decision with my husband and considered our children. We did make the decision to make our blog(s) public. It is an individual decision.

You can make your blog private and give out your password to those you approve and go from there. It is simple to change it in the game. We made the decision to not use our "IRL" - in real life names. This is a good practice. If you are using the blog for business purposes that may be different. For blog purposes, it is standard to not use your names.

Use your "About Page" to share what you want your blog to represent. Let it capture you and the essence of life. We do not need more of the same or cookie cutter blogs. :) When writing, save often.

You can set your blog up free at Blogger.com. It is a simple few steps to becoming a blogger! Take your time. Remember patience! Enjoy!

Hope this helps! Did I leave anything out that you were looking for today? If you have questions please feel free to leave them in the comments or email me form my contact page. All the best and most of all Have fun!


Warmly, Carolina Mama