Blog Sponsorship - You're Invited

I'd like to take a minute and tell you about my blog sponsor, UPrinting. They are such a fun and exciting group to work with. There are so many opportunities with UPrinting. They sponsor contests and giveaways, not only to my followers, but for those they sponsor in appreciation of the work they do for them.

I really enjoy working with them and ....psst....I've even made a little money. That's always nice. So, take the time and read their information. See if their program fits with you needs. I think you'll be pleasantly suprised.


Why UPrinting.com isn't your average printing company:

Blog Sponsorships:

If you are looking to find a sponsor for your blog, UPrinting.com is definitely interested. We offer giveaways, advertising and more for qualified bloggers.

Non-Profit Sponsorships:

The U-Community Program sponsors hundreds of non-profits and education to improve our local communities.

Social Justice Projects:

The UPrinting Kiva account promotes small business growth in developing countries.

Green Printing:

UPrinting supports a sustainable future by recycling, using non-toxic inks, and offering eco-friendly recycled paper stocks for business cards and postcard printing.

CookiesKids.com Laptop Giveaway Sweepstakes

Is your current computer stalling and giving you blue screen nightmares?

Would you love to be able to have one that the kids could use (alas staying off of yours)?

CookiesKids.com feels your pain and has come to your rescue!

Sign up to receive the Cookies Kids Newsletter via email and you're automatically entered to win one of 4 brand new laptops!!

Simply fill out the form to be entered into our Laptop Giveaway Sweepstakes. Please be sure to read the Giveaway Sweepstakes "Terms and Conditions" before entering your information into this form!

Contest ends 9/30/09 at 11:59 AM ET. This contest brought to you courtesy of the Momfluence network.

Tribute Tuesday: Charity Begins With You

Tribute Tuesday is to honor charities, charitable groups and those who go above and beyond for their charities.


Today's "Tribute Tuesday" is nominated by Michelle at My Life on the XYZ List. Thanks so much, Michelle.



Project Linus: Who We Are

Project Linus National Headquarters is located in Bloomington, Illinois. National President Carol Babbitt and Vice President Mary Balagna direct and orchestrate the activities of Project Linus chapters located across the United States. Both have been involved with the organization since late 1998, as chapter coordinators and now as directors and officers. They also maintain a very busy Central Illinois chapter, donating an average of 350 blankets every month to local children. With chapters in all 50 states, Project Linus continues to grow. Blankets are collected locally and distributed to children in hospitals, shelters, social service agencies, or anywhere that a child might be in need of a big hug.

“I am extremely pleased by the outpouring of support Project Linus has enjoyed.” states Babbitt. “The comfort brought to a child by a Project Linus security blanket should not be underestimated. Thanks to our many blanketeers and our chapter coordinators, millions of children and their families have been given comfort and security at a time when they need it most. In addition, blanketeers are given an opportunity to use their talents and abilities in most rewarding way.”

Rarely a month goes by that Project Linus isn’t featured in a national magazine or program. Parade, People, Reader’s Digest, Family Circle, Ladies Home Journal, Quiltmaker, Quilters Newsletter, Guidepost, Parents Magazine, Real Simple, Woman’s Day and many others have helped to spur interest. You may have seen or heard segments about Project Linus on the NBC Nightly News, Today Show, Oprah, and The Glenn Beck Program.

The Project Linus Mission

Project Linus is comprised of hundreds of local chapters and thousands of volunteers across the United States. Each volunteer and local chapter all work together to help us achieve our mission statement, which states:

First, it is our mission to provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new, handmade blankets and afghans, lovingly created by volunteer “blanketeers.”

Second, it is our mission to provide a rewarding and fun service opportunity for interested individuals and groups in local communities, for the benefit of children.

Together we have distributed over three million blankets to children in need since our inception in 1995.




Mr. Linky is here if you would like to post a link to your own Tribute Tuesday or you may also nominate the charities of your choice by giving me their link, once done, enter a comment telling me that you nominated them and give me your contact information. I will then contact them, collect the information needed and feature them. I will place links to your blog and let people know that you are the one honoring them.

Chex Mix Winners

Thank you all for entering my contest for the Chex Mix Turtle Bars. All 3 winners have been chosen and have accepted their prizes:

Gypsy Fox at Gypsy Fox
Mandala Michelle at My Life on the XYZ List
Robin at Cold Pizza for Breakfast

Congratulations, ladies!

Scroll to the next post and enter to win the fabulous Cowgirl Art Mug and visit "Relax and Enjoy all your Serene Moments" for the second chance at another fabulous mug from them, as well.

Cowgirl Mug Giveaway II

***This Giveaway is CLOSED.***

This giveaway has been extended until July 19th at 11:59 CST. Thanks!



Meet Winston. He is the creative mind and owner of Lone Wolf Media Cowgirl Art.



"Ever since I was very young, I have always been drawing something. Seeing pictures in books, or watching a movie would cause me to grab a pencil and paper and start scribbling out my own version of what I had seen. Encouraged by my parents, especially my Mom, I continued to explore the world of art. Although I have never had any formal art training, I have devoured quite a few art, drawing, and anatomy books. Now, at age twenty-six, and after much experimentation and practice, I have finally settled into what I think is a unique illustrative style. My major inspirations have been the works of Norman Rockwell, popular art of the twentieth century, and vintage advertising art of the early to mid-twentieth century. So, from my home studio in my native state of Texas, I want to thank you for visiting and I hope you enjoy my work!"



Winston's Cowgirl designs are placed on mugs, apparel, and totes, among other things. He also uses his creativity to do commission work.

You can contact Winston on twitter: @lonewolfmedia, on MySpace or at Zazzle.

Winston has agreed to share his work with two of my followers by giving away two (2) of his beautiful coffee mugs. One, pictured below, is being given away here and the other can be found at my "Relax and Enjoy all your Serene Moments" blog.


This contest is open to all residents of the U.S. and Canada. All entries must have a link that can be followed to them or you must leave an e-mail address to be contacted at in the event of their winning. Leave a seperate comment for each entry.

Contest will run until July 12th at midnight CST.

Main Entry:

This entry must be completed in order to qualify for the giveaway. Head on over to Winston's Zazzle page and tell me your favorite item.

Extra Entries:

(1) Follow Winston on twitter: @lonewolfmedia

(2) Follow me on twitter: @SereneMoments and tweet this giveaway. Include @SereneMoments so I can find it.

(3) Follow my blog.

(4) Grab my new button.

Thanks to you all and Good luck!

Chex Mix Turtle Bars - Review and Giveaway

****This contest is Closed. Thanks for all the Entries.****



Their Information:

Satisfy your craving with caramel, chocolate, peanuts, wheat and corn Chex cereal and pretzels. With less than 150 calories, a good source of fiber and at least 8 grams of whole grains per serving it’s the perfect treat when you’re craving something sweet.

For Your Information:

I am a member of "My Blog Spark" and they have given me the opportunity to review products through them. Here is my first:

CHEX MIX TURTLE BARS

My Review:

Okay, I am going to be totally honest. I hate chewy bars. There, I said it!

So, to be fair to Chex and to you, my readers, I had my son, Cody, and two of his friends give them a try. Now three young men, 18 and 19 years old, gave me their honest reviews, but it was funny. You ask a teen to tell you about an item, using descriptive words and phrases fit for a blog........

Their Reviews:

"Hmmm.... these are good."

Me: "Okay, but tell me about them. How do they taste? The texture (yes, I asked)? Give me something.

"They're chewy."

"Crunchy."

"Lots of caramel."

"Maybe too much caramel."

"They're good though."

And all 3 agreed, "They sure make you thirsty."

So, there you have it. Overall, I'm going to say that they are good, chewy, have lots of caramel and they make you thirsty."

They loved them.

The Giveaway:

I have been given the opportunity to share the Chex Mix Turtle Bars with (3) of my followers. Each winner will receive (2) boxes to try for themselves.

Make sure that I can either follow your link to you or that you have an e-mail address, twitter id....something so I can find you. I have had to pick a second winner on each of my giveaways so far due to not knowing who they were or how to contact them. Sorry!

Main Entry:

What is your favorite snack time treat? Tell me in a comment.

Extra Entries:

(1) Follow my blog or tell me if you already do.

(2) Follow me on twitter: @SereneMoments Leave your ID so I know who you are.

(3) Grab my new button.

Contest will run through Sunday, 11:59 CST. Good luck!

TRIBUTE TUESDAY: CHARITY BEGINS WITH YOU

Tribute Tuesday is to honor charities, charitable groups and those who go above and beyond for their charities.

WINGS OF ANGELS



Wings of Angels provides Breast Cancer Recovery Care Packages and Healing Gift Baskets.

Healing with breast cancer therapy and other recovery treatments can be painful and uncomfortable. That’s why Wings of Angels creates breast cancer care packages and recovery gift baskets filled with items that comfort and soothe the healing patient.

Using her own experience, Linda has personally handpicked items that provide comfort and encouragement when the recovering patient needs them most. She has assembled a variety of gift baskets and care packages. For example, the Recovery Care Package contains helpful items to relieve the discomfort due to breast cancer surgery. Other packages are available to comfort and lift the human spirit.

Linda’s Breast Cancer Recovery…and the Story behind Wings of Angels

When I was forty, I was told that I had breast cancer. That day—that moment—changed my life forever. I had all these thoughts of how long I have, what about this, and what about that. I remember I stayed in those thoughts for a while before I was able to think about something other than cancer.

During that time my path crossed with a beautiful lady named Lisa. This lady gave me the strength I needed to help me put my life back together. I remember one day I asked her if my life will ever get to a point where I can smile again…even laugh. Lisa had already gone through this ordeal herself, and she was happy to tell me that I would get to a time where I would enjoy life and so much more.

I remember how those words sounded and thought, I HOPE she is right. It is my pleasure to share with you that she was right and, dear friends, one day you will experience life past cancer. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with cancer, it does not mean life is over.

It took me a while to figure that out, but eventually I realized that this was actually a strengthening experience for me.

I remember how Lisa helped give me the support and encouragement when I needed it most. And now I want to help others who face the challenges of breast cancer and other illnesses. That’s why I founded Wings of Angels—to provide support and comfort to individuals dealing with recovery treatments. Each gift basket and care package is filled with items carefully selected by me, knowing what will soothe and comfort the healing patient. I invite you to browse the selection of care packages and breast cancer gift baskets.

Live your life for today. It is your gift. Cherish it.

Warmly,
Linda Fisher


You can contact Linda on twitter: @wings4you or by going to her website: www.recoverwithangels.com



Mr. Linky is here if you would like to post a link to your own Tribute Tuesday or you may also nominate the charities of your choice by giving me their link, once done, enter a comment telling me that you nominated them and give me your contact information. I will then contact them, collect the information needed and feature them. I will place links to your blog and let people know that you are the one honoring them.

OH, What a DOLL!

Summertime can be so much fun, but, BOY! Can it ever get HOT! In this photo of my great niece, Jazmine, she is trying to find a little relief under the only tree I had in the yard. It was about 5 feet tall but pretty wide. Just perfect for the little ones to get under. Bless her heart! The photo was from last year at Cody's 18th Birthday Bash (my SON). He was a June baby so his birthdays are always scorchers. We had a huge cook out and invited all his friends and the family. What a great time.

This photo is being submitted as part of a Summer Photo Contest being hosted by my blog sponsor, UPrinting.

Online Printing Company

UPrinting.com is a leading online provider of business cards, color brochures and mailing postcards.

UPrinting is always interested in finding new bloggers to sponsor, so, if you're interested, go to UPrinting.com and apply.

TRIBUTE TUESDAY: CHARITY BEGINS WITH YOU

Tribute Tuesday is to honor charities, charitable groups and those who go above and beyond for their charities.


BEAR2CARE2009


Bear Hugging the stuffing out of childhood illnesses!

Bear2Care2009, founded by Jeff Cooper,is an organization th at wants to bring joy to children who are battling Life-threatening Illnesses by bringing them teddy bears..

They also have a list of children who are in different states that they mail teddy bears to.

Bear2Care wants to raise awareness on childhood illnesses, in hopes of finding a cure for those illnesses that currently do not have one.

It is the Mission of Bear2Care to reach every child across America and bring a small amount of joy into their lives.

On July 31st, Bear2Care will be meeting in Chicago at Childrens' Memorial Hospital for their first ever Bear Hug Event. At that time, 250 bears will be delivered to the children at the hospital.

If you would like to make a donation:

http://bear2care2009.blogspot.com/

You can contact Jeff on twitter: @jeff0134

Or mail it to:

Bear2Care
1120 Cedar
Michigan City, Indiana
46360

All donations are used by Bear2Care2009 to mail out bears, cards, and for the general cost of running a charity.




Bear Hugging the stuffing out of childhood illnesses!

You can contact Jeff at @Jeff0134
Mr. Linky is here, so you can post your own Tribute Tuesday or you may also nominate the charities of your choice by giving me their link, once done, enter a comment telling me that you nominated them and give me your contact information. I will then contact them, collect the information needed and feature them. I will place links to your blog and let people know that you are the one honoring them.

We Have Our Winner!

Congratulations to Carol Dziuba on winning the Lil' Baby Cakes diaper cake giveaway! Go to @cdziuba and Congratulate her.

Thanks to everyone who entered!

Stay tuned! Another giveaway is standing by to be posted!

Memphis-Style Hickory-Smoked Beef and Pork Ribs Recipe

Folks, you haven't had barbecue until you have had The Neelys' Memphis Style barbecue. The Neelys have their own show on the Food Network.

Of course, barbecue is just done better in the South.

Now, you Northeners, I know you do barbecue a little different, but have an open mind and give this a try.

Memphis-Style Hickory-Smoked Beef and Pork Ribs Recipe

Neely's Dry Rub:

* 1 1/2 cups paprika
* 3/4 cup sugar
* 3 3/4 tablespoons onion powder
* 2 (about 4 pounds each) slabs beef spareribs
* 2 (about 3 pounds each) slabs pork spareribs
* 2 cups Neely's BBQ Dry Rub
* Neely's BBQ Sauce, recipe follows

Directions

For the rub:

Add all ingredients to a bowl and stir until combined. Keep in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

For the ribs:

Rinse and dry ribs. Place on a clean cutting board and pull off the membrane, the thin fatty skin that lines the underside of the ribs. Trim the ribs of excess fat and meat. Liberally season both sides of the ribs with 1/4 to 1/2 cup Neely's BBQ Rub. Wrap ribs and refrigerate for at least 8 hours so flavors can permeate.

Preheat grill to 250 degrees F. using hickory and charcoal.

Use indirect heat and cook with the cover down.

Place ribs, meatier side down, on the grill away from the coals. Cook beef 2 hours, adding more coals as needed. Turn and cook for 45 minutes more, or until the ribs "bend" and the meat easily separates from the bone using a fork. Cook the pork ribs 3 hours. Turn and cook another hour, or until ribs bend. Remove from grill.

For dry ribs: Sprinkle extra Neely's BBQ seasoning over ribs, cut bones and serve.

For wet ribs: Coat ribs with Neely's BBQ sauce, cut and serve.

Neely's BBQ Sauce:

* 2 cups ketchup
* 1 cup water
* 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
* 5 tablespoons light brown sugar
* 5 tablespoons sugar
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1/2 tablespoon fresh ground black pepper
* 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
* 1/2 tablespoon ground mustard

In a medium saucepan, combine all ingredients. Bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat to simmer. Cooked uncovered, stirring frequently, for 1 hour 15 minutes.

TRIBUTE TUESDAY: CHARITY BEGINS WITH YOU

I know that, recently, I have been neglecting my Tribute Tuesday post. Life sometimes just gets crazy.

What I want to share with you, is that, from now on, Tribute Tuesday will be to honor charities, charitable groups and those who go above and beyond for their charities.

Mr. Linky is here, so you can post your own Tribute Tuesday or you may also nominate the charities of your choice by giving me their link, once done, enter a comment telling me that you nominated them and give me your contact information. I will then contact them, collect the information needed and feature them. I will place links to your blog and let people know that you are the one honoring them.

So, sound good?

Great! Here we go:

LIL' BABY CAKES GIVEAWAY

*************This Giveaway is CLOSED*****************

You're planning a baby shower and all you ever find are the same old, same old, everyday items offered at your local discount stores and party shops.

NOT ANY MORE! I give you Lil' Baby Cakes:

Lil' Baby Cakes is an online gift store featuring unique, baby diaper cakes. Each diaper cake is created by Candy, the owner and creative director. The designs are handmade, using the finest ingredients such as Gund plush baby products, Burt’s Bees, Johnson & Johnson, and of course, plenty of Pampers Swaddler diapers.

Candy has been kind enough to offer one of these fabulous diaper cakes to one of my readers.


Candy says "Our 4 tier "Captivating" features Gund's Manni bear. Manni is the most lovable, huggable bear with a sweet smile on his face."

This 4 tier cake is a sweet version of the 6 tier.

What's included in the "Captivating Cake", Baby 4 Tier Diaper Cake?

* Approximately 70 Pampers Swaddlers brand diapers
* Gund Ultra Soft, Babies New Best Friend Manni
* Silk Daisy Flower Accents
* Burts Bees Luxury Baby Soaps, Shampoo & Lotions
* Cute Embellishments & High End Ribbon & Bows

Each Lil’ Baby Cake comes beautifully wrapped with premium ribbon, bow & white tulle - ready for giving.

So, who wants to win this astonishing work of art?

This contest will run until midnight CST on June 22nd and is open to all US and Canadian residents.

Make sure I have your contact information or your entry will be disqualified.

MAIN ENTRY:
Visit Candy at Lil' Baby Cakes and tell me which cake is your favorite. If this entry is not completed, your comment will be disqualified.

EXTRA ENTRIES:
You must complete the main entry to qualify for the extra entries.

1) Follow my blog or tell me if you already do.
2) Join Lil' Baby Cakes' site
3) Follow me on twitter: @SereneMoments
4) Follow Lil' Baby Cakes on twitter: @lilbabycakes
5) Tweet this giveaway, include @SereneMoments in the tweet to ensure that I see it.

Best of luck to you all!

Winner of the Kudos Kookies Giveaway

Congratulations to Erica, from "But Mommy...", comment #5 chosen by Random.org! She is the winner of one dozen custom cookies from Kudos Kookies!

Stop by and Congratulate her at http://ehaggins.blogspot.com/ or visit her on twitter @erica_h

KUDOS KOOKIES - Review and GIVEAWAY

THIS GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED! STAND BY FOR WINNER ANNOUNCEMENT!


Yes, it is official. Today is my VERY FIRST GIVEAWAY right here and just in time for VGNO.

Last week, I gave you a bit of a teaser about the giveaway and I truly hope you have been singing Cookie Monster's cookie song all week! heehee

Now, to the review:

Kudos Kookies - Don't just say congratulations, say "Kudos"!

I have to say, my mouth has been watering since the day I spoke with Renee at "Kudos Custom Favors". You just can't believe how much I LOVE COOKIES!

This morning, the package arrived! Neatly and securely placed inside were these beautiful, individually wrapped Kudos Kookies, hand decorated as a Hibiscus flower


Aren't they gorgeous?

Now we all know, I spent 2 seconds looking and the rest of the time ripping off the wrapper! I HAD TO HAVE THAT COOKIE!

I have to say, the cookie was magnificient! It had a cake-like texture that seemed to melt in my mouth and just the right amount of sweetness to ensure you being able to EAT THEM ALL! The icing was thinly placed on the cookie, enough to cover the cookie but not enough to come off and get plastered around your mouth like Saturday night's leftover lipstick. It, too, was not overly sweet or too rich to eat. The decorations, yes, I looked at the decorations.....of the others as I was eating mine.........were delicate and exquisite.

It was an absolute pleasure eating that cookie! It is also a pleasure speaking with Renee. She is so friendly and customer conscious. I encourage you all to stop by and visit her at www.kudoskookies.com and, if you really want to catch her, give her a tweet: @KudosKookies

Here are a few more examples of Renee's work at Kudos Custom Favors:

Oh, look, could it be, yes, it is, COOKIE MONSTER!



How would you like to serve these at your next BABY SHOWER? Everyone would want to attend.





For your little PRINCESS!



Here's one for GIRLS NIGHT OUT!



And, don't forget the happy couple's ENGAGEMENT AND WEDDING DAY





Renee's message to her customers:

Kudos Kookies - Don't just say congratulations, say "Kudos"!

"Kudos" means congratulations and recognition. It's the perfect reason we call ourselves Kudos Kookies. Our unique cookies will commemorate any special occasion, any special reason, or any special person you'd like to celebrate or recognize in a unique and delicious way.

We truly appreciate our customers and enjoy the personal touch we have in meeting your special needs and preferences. Please, always feel free to contact us with questions, comments and suggestions regarding your order. We want you happy and completely thrilled with your cookies, enough so that you'll tell your friends and family about Kudos Kookies and how we helped to make your celebration a tasty success.

So remember, don't just say congratulations... say "Kudos", where repeat customers are our specialty and new customers are our goal!

Thank you so much, Renee, for allowing me to review your fabulous cookies! They were a treat, even though you would not let me eat them ALL!

And, now, to the GIVEAWAY!

I lucky person will win one dozen KUDOS KOOKIES decorated as HIBISCUS FLOWERS!



How To Enter:

One winner will be chosen, at random, to receive the dozen cookies. You must complete the Main Entry requirements to be considered.

For the Main entry, you must take a journey to Kudos Kookies and leave a comment on which is your favorite.

For Extra Entries:

1) Follow my blog publicly (1 entry)
2) Follow me on twitter (1 entry)
3) Follow Kudos Kookies on twitter (1 entry)
4) Tweet this giveaway, include @SereneMoments so I can verify (1 entry)
5) Grab my button. Make sure you leave your link so I can go see it.

I will run the contest through Thursday, June 11th, @midnight CST. Make sure I have your contact information.

Happy Blogging and Have a GREAT WEEKEND!

Oh, yeah, if you're in the market for CANDLES, I am having a CLEARANCE SALE below!