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Drive One 4 UR School - Ford Motor Company Raises $1 Million

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Thu, 24 May 2012 15:09:00 +0000

Ford never ceases to amaze me. As you know, we "test drove" the Ford Edge to Florida for our i.See Kissimmee and Disney Social Media Moms trip. It was fabulous to take along the amazing Ford Edge For the Road Trip!

It was comfortable, stylish and outfitted in the best of GPS, Keyless Entry Doors, my favorite, personalized Heated Leather Seats! And now, Ford is helping out High Schools!

Check out the $1 Million they have raised for High Schools. And schedule your school for a Drive One 4 UR School Fundraiser! :)

Ford Motor Company and Dealers Expect to Achieve $1 Million April Fundraising Goal for High Schools

DEARBORN, Mich., May 23, 2012 – In April, Ford and its dealers partnered in a special challenge to raise $1 million for local high school programs through more than 300 Drive One 4 UR School events throughout the U.S. Today, both announced that based on initial reports that are still coming in, they expect the $1 million goal will be achieved.

Since its inception in 2007, the Drive One 4 UR School initiative has raised at least $11 million and provides up to $6,000 per event through test drives of Ford products. More than 1,150 dealers have hosted more than 2,800 events, partnering with their local high schools to participate in the program. Funds raised can be applied to any area where the school needs support – athletics, music, even to fix damages from natural disasters.

“We are excited to congratulate the schools, dealers and communities who worked so hard to reach this challenging goal in April,” said Tracy Magee, Ford Experiential Marketing manager. “The Drive One 4 UR School program was developed as a fun, engaging way to help high schools raise and apply money where they need it, and we realized that if we really focused our efforts in April, we could make a difference by raising money to protect important educational programs and services.”

How Drive One 4 UR School events work

For each Drive One 4 UR School event, Ford and Lincoln dealers work with a local high school to schedule a test-drive fundraising event. The dealers provide the cars to be test-driven, the high school organizes the event itself, and both work together to get the word out to their community. For every valid test drive completed, Ford Motor Company donates $20 to the participating high school, up to $6,000.

Click on the link below to watch a video and learn more about Drive One 4 UR School:

http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=3030580444243.

# # #

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 166,000 employees and about 70 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit http://corporate.ford.com.

Warmly, Carolina Mama

Wordless Wednesday - IKEA Goods

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Thu, 24 May 2012 03:48:00 +0000

Our IKEA Fun!

This Sprint Called Motherhood

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Tue, 22 May 2012 04:11:00 +0000

On a beautiful Spring night, I found myself among my handsome husband and dear friends who share our homeschooling journey.

Most notable was the couple who mentors us along the way. As we sat in their charming, quiet, expansive Southern home, relaxing, I relished not a tweet, a phone ringing, xbox, wii, or tv.

In that quiet and stillness of yesteryear, I changed. My heart was captured in a different way, regarding my children and husband and our family - our future. I was forever moved.

It was a classic Southern night, the beautiful pond, the ducks, a full moon, us out on the patio with great food and laughter. Amazing home cooked meals, beautiful people, gorgeous home and acreage. Yet, these were not the things that drew me in, it was the spirit.

It has been a while since I have felt such a spirit of greatness in such a small setting. Thankfully, most Sundays I feel that blessing and community in our home church as we listen to amazing lessons by a pastor God ordained.

Our hearts were eager, hungry for more from this classic, humble, knowledgable and grounded couple who's once young sons are now grown and finding their own way. Their relationship was filled with frequent visits and calls and relationship with their

parents - sharing them with us here.

There was something about the quiet calm and the company of greatness that was poignant. As a boy mom, I knew that one day these same walls were targets for darts, and fingerprints, and paper airplanes. These same walls held the hopes and fears of this then young mom as she raised her own generation "for such a time as this." This same Mom had dreamed of order and sanity amongst the long, rambunctious life she undoubtedly had with two young boys.

In some ways we stepped back in time, a classic original radio flyer red wagon here, wooden toys there, children's books everywhere. They had it all. A library, a play room, the perfect kitchen, bedrooms decked out, nooks and crannies, a dress up room.

And times still marches on.

As a nostalgic mom, I can stop here and cry. Yet, my mind is on fire for the first words I heard as we listened with intent as the husband began to talk about the days, to our husbands, ....fathers.... "It's a sprint."

"This is not a marathon. You are on a sprint. The sprint of your life and one day all too soon it will be over. And you'll be done. Ours is over.....

No parenting is never over. You'll always be a part of their lives, but your everyday, the influence you had, the moment to moment togetherness, will be gone." The wisdom in his voice of experience was sobering. They had run hard and fast and well. I want to be like that.

Tears overcame me. I knew this moment would change me.

So rather than cry and wish for yesteryear and hold on to day - I knew I'd be different. It is a sprint... he continued.

I couldn't agree more. I am in that sprint. And I'm mid-lap. Far enough in that I'm warmed up and close enough to the finish line that I'm gasping for breath. After tonight, I know I am so close and the end comes so fast that I feel it in a way that makes me want to feel and live and love every second, every moment of today with my own two boys and husband I love.

I want to be cognizant of every day - the moments - with our boys. Our boys. The ones who dance on the roof, and enjoy climbing walls, and an occasional swing from a ceiling fan. I'm almost joking. Yet, there are moments when this "feels" true.

Looking back on that night I strive to not forget. To have that "glow!" that I ran, fast and hard and well.

At the end of the day ( or a life) that is the difference I want to make, a difference in lives, people. My people. I too want make a difference for the next generation - my own. Everyday I to know I am in this "sprint" as we "raise greatness!" "For such a time as this."

Are you there? In the Sprint?

Warmly,
Carolina Mama

Warmly, Carolina Mama

Raleigh Flea Market

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Sun, 20 May 2012 00:37:00 +0000

Raleigh Tradition continues at the Raleigh Flea Market!

"The Raleigh Flea Market at the Historic State Fairgrounds has been a Triangle tradition since 1971. Our fun, family-friendly atmosphere draws tens of thousands of shoppers every weekend. The flea market showcases more than 600 vendors, offering everything from antiques and collectibles to handicrafts, furniture, homemade goodies, clothing, jewelry,

and…well, the list just goes on and on!"

Who knew! We decided to check out the Raleigh Flea Market today.

As it turns out, Saturdays are great days and there was still plenty of free parking.

See, look at this fun! "SALE!"

This fun Giraffe print caught my attention as well art he whimsical Lamp! Love!

The Kettle Corn is only the beginning of the food offerings! Remember, this is the South y'all.

So "FOOD" is going to be a large part of the story. And see it... Sweet Tea!

So of course, my eyes caught this beautiful tureen from China. Isn't she beautiful!

My "missing Disney" me, spotted these adorable Mickey and Minnie Mouse statutes and

made me daydream of our Disney Social Media Moms days in April!

Then my inner Designer fell in love with this ....

And see every kitchen needs this Welcome Bird - the Pink Flamingo! :) I laughed so hard.

The Tigers wanted to buy it for me but my inner, "neat girl" said no! Thank heavens! :)

The beauty looks like it would brighten anyone's day, every day!

I love all the sunny colors.

Then I took a quick and unexpected walk down memory lane,

Raggedy Ann! Yes! A real-life Raggedy Ann!

She is adorable! The boys have such big hearts, I heard them again

saying, "Dad, we 'need' to get that for Mom." So precious.... so no mistaking, I do not

need or want this sweet little girl! Even though I have good memories of her hay day.

So I told the boys one of my mottos, "I loved my childhood but I do not

need to relive it!" i.e. do not buy this doll. :)

We we can look at how cute she is! My older sister had the set of

Raggedy Ann and Andy. So fun!

I almost think they would still be in our Doll House at the Homestead....

Memories.

Then I came home and got my game on to my gourmet cooking side!

That was complete success!

Cajun Tilapia, Fresh Grilled NC Corn, Roasted Broccoli and Kale with

Fresh Watermelon and Berries.

Life is good and Summer is coming!

How was your Saturday?! Did I tell you we broke a record today,

20 Yard Sales BEFORE the Raleigh Flea Market! Yes and it was all a total bust!

And I am done! I love a good bargain but not at this cost! :) However, it

was fun. And lead to some family conversations about staying focused on what

we set out for early that morning. :)

Tell me what your Saturday looked like. Were you "yarding?"

Warmly, Carolina Mama

Homeschool Mom's Night Out

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Fri, 18 May 2012 02:52:00 +0000

We both agreed we needed a night out. For us a night out means, a night off from cooking dinner and cleaning. ;) And answering to, "Mom, hey, umm, Mom, I've got a question...." ;)

As much as I love it, at the end o a semester, a girl/homeschool mom needs a few hours out. And after all, we needed to celebrate another great and blessed year.

My girlfriend and I were on the same schedule - it's time. School's end, testing, end-of-semester!

So we met at a little Italian Restaurant. It was perfect. We talked over sweet tea and pasta.

And we were both rejuvenated get out get together.

How do you get away for a few hours? Do you need it, love it? Of course, I miss my family, yet it is a helpful thing to do.

Warmly,
CarolinaMama

Rayovac On-The-Go Charger and Six Flags Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Wed, 16 May 2012 04:21:00 +0000

This Spring has been golden. As you know, we had the amazing Disney Social Media Moms Conference in Orlando last month at Disney World. Rayovac surprised us all with these amazing Universal USB Chargers. They get powering up Moms. So this was perfect for the conference and playing in the Disney Parks. Who doesn't need another Power charger for the car or the wall!

So this charges so easily in the car! So we stayed Powered Up in Florida.

With Summer approaching, parents are always trying to find fun activities to do as a family that don’t break the bank. Rayovac returns this Summer with their ever-so-popular Six Flags Sweepstakes.

They also make Powering Up a priority! So not only is Summer Fun important to Rayovac so is power - a Mom Blogger's "Juice!"

Enter the Keychain On-The-Go Charger:

This is Rayovac's newest Portable Power product, the keychain On-The-Go Charger! It's Instant power to keep on your keychain, in your purse, pocket or car; never go without Power when you need it most! Charge your Apple or micro-USB device for any emergency situation.

Insanely great!

I love that the Rayovac On-The-Go Charger is white! It is so pretty to this Apple loving girl. So white is a yes! And it is light-weight. It is simple to use and it COMES powered up already! Thanks Rayovac! Also, Bonus:

You do not have to take off your Otter Box case to charge it. The charger fits over the Otter box Case! Thank you Rayovac. Also, it comes pre-charged already! Double bonus!

Enter to Win the Rayovac Six Flags Sweepstakes Details -
When: May 9 through May 30th;
Where: Rayovac’s Facebook page for a chance to win;
What: Family Fun Pack which includes 4 general admission tickets, a regular Flash Pass for 4, one Family Meal Pack along with free parking to a location of the winners choice!
How: Enter to Win on the FB. The Tickets are valid at US Locations and Expire at the end of 2012.

BONUE GIVEAWAY! Giving away (4) Rayovac Six Flags Tickets good in the US and tickets expire at the end of 2012.

Enter:
1) Leave a Comment on Carolina Mama;
2) Carolina Mama Facebook saying when you want to go to Six Flags before the end of 2012.
3) Tweet this link so others know. (share link to tweet in comments below)
4) Pin it! :) (share link to pin in comments below).

Good luck in this fun Giveaway!

*Enter once for each. Contest open until May 21st. Open to US Residents.

For more Rayovac Fun you can join the conversation:
Rayovac Facebook Page and the Rayovac Twitter.

See I told you we were powered up in Disney! Here are kids are using their Indestructible Flashlights to check out the Globe at the Disney Yacht Club. So fun!

Warmly,

CarolinaMama

* FTC Disclosure: I am a proud Rayovac Power Blogger. Opinions are all my own.

National Women's Health Week Goodness

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Wed, 16 May 2012 02:21:00 +0000

It’s National Women’s Health Week this week – May 13-19^th

^{We like to celebrate Health and Wellness like this! :)}

As always, I oved our hike around the pond! :)

You know we LOVE being active. It is a part of our days we love together! So this week we are taking extra necessary steps to get active, get enough sleep and to eat healthy. So this is good news for Mama, I got a great night's sleep last night - except for the thunderstorm and it was a huge loud and bright lightning storm! Anyway, I slept well, drank lots of big cups of cold water,

We start with breakfast to begin to treat your self to good health:

Do you think you don’t have time for breakfast? Blend your favorite fruits with 100 percent Florida orange juice for a convenient, on-the-go smoothie. Want to jazz up your weekend breakfast? Substitute orange juice for water in your whole wheat pancake batter to give your meal a zesty, new taste.

You know how much we love Smoothies! :) Here’s a great Florida orange Juice Breakfast Boost smoothie recipe to kick start your day as well as other healthy breakfast tips:

http://floridajuice.com/health-professionals/docs/Meaningful_Morning_Tip_Sheet.pdf

I remember visiting the Orange Groves as a child! Love Florida Orange Juice! Now, for more yummy recipes including Florida OJ, Please visit http://floridajuice.com/recipes.php

Warmly,Carolina Mama

Happy Mother's Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Mon, 14 May 2012 03:40:00 +0000

Happy Mother's Day and Blessings to all!

Royal Tea and Fashion Show

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Sun, 13 May 2012 02:27:00 +0000

Today was fabulous. I got to MC the 1st Annual Royal Tea and Fashion Show at our Church!

It was outstanding! Some of the most beautiful outfits and models. And feminine, classic, casual, dressy and modest clothing! It was great!!!

Am I the only one tired of seeing young women dressed (UNdressed) in see-through, cut-offs, scooped out tops and clothing?! It's heinous!

We heard an awesome and funny Speaker, Shari Minke! She was great and shared wonderful news and scriptures about friendship!

Enjoy of few pictures! Where do you get Fashion ideas? ;)

"You Are What You Wear!"

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Sat, 12 May 2012 03:17:00 +0000

Love this season...beautiful birds, flowers, 70s. Spring is in the Air!

And "You are what you wear!" Love it and these adorable fashions from Polyvore!

Mom Fashion at its finest! Throw in some pearls and you are golden!

Thursday: Dove Beautiful Skin Campaign in Times Square

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Thu, 10 May 2012 19:33:00 +0000

Dove "Show Us Your Skin!" Campaign in Times Square

has been one fun campaign.

Dove stands for Beauty! And Moms and Women and You!

My Mom used the Cold Cream. I use the Pink Beauty Bar.

I love Dove ... and the fact that they included me in their

Show Us Your Beautiful Skin Campaign in Times Square

made me even love them more.

I do love Dove. I love that they are all about beauty and clean and pure.

And all things beautiful.

They represent great skin, hair care and body products.

Get some Dove Deals here.

Enjoy!

Warmly, Carolina Mama

Wordless Wednesday!

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Thu, 10 May 2012 04:32:00 +0000

The Pecan Atlanta with Chick-fil-A

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Wed, 09 May 2012 02:47:00 +0000

We all had such a warm Welcome from the Chick-fil-A Team in Atlanta.

What a Welcome Dinner we had! The ambiance was truly Southern.

A fabulous locale for couples or corporates like us. ;) And the Iced Peach Tea was something to talk about or "guzzle." lol

The presence of "Coca-Cola" was alive and well. I was a happy Southern belle!

The Seafood was amazing. And we all got to ride in the Chick-fil-A Cow Van. Mooo mooo!

Then my friend Lisa of a Daily Pinch in Charlotte and I went for cosmetics and necessities like a Latte at Starbucks and Target of MidTown, we're fun like that.

Once I got to my room at the Hilton, I was able to get a great night 's sleep for our big #CFABackstage Tour!

Warmly,
Carolina Mama

*Invited and sponsored by Chick-fil-A, opinions are all my own. Affinity for their Chick-fil-A Menu is all my own. ;)

Bonefish Grill Date Night

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Tue, 08 May 2012 03:11:00 +0000

Bonefish Grill is a perfect Date Night for us!

We love our local Bonefish Grill! We have celebrated everything from Mother's Day to Birthday to a

recent Date Night! And when the lights turn low and Boulder Mountain Man and I are

enjoying a quiet dinner....

This is the perfect Bonefish Grill dinner for me. See it's ideal.

The atmosphere is relaxing and fun and the food is fabulous. Let's talk about the food a minute.

I had the awesome Chilean Sea Bass with Shrimp and Grilled Asparagus.

Life is good. And I had leftovers. See!

See we were all smiles! Even throughout our meal.

Boulder Mountain Man had the Grilled Salmon. It was fabulous as well.

The vegetables are perfectly grilled.

And did I say, we ordered Dessert for Take Out!

Yes, it was a Southern Favorite: Key Lime Pie! And it was a delight.

And it was a generous portion so we shared.

Afterwards I nearly took a nap on this sofa out front, instead, I just pinned this

pretty pillow, I like! I am supportive like that. And I have good taste. lol

Enter to Win a $500 Gift Card on the Bonefish Grill Facebook Page! Then you can

enjoy your own Date Night, Family Night any more.

We love that Bonefish has fresh seafood choices. They have excellent service and a fantastic

and inspiring atmosphere. Every item we have ever ordered at Bonefish Grill, we loved!

Our sons love it there and the Bonefish Chef made great Kids fare for our boys!

Thanks Bonefish for keeping up great quality and service!

Warmly, Carolina Mama

*Bonefish Grill hosted us for dinner. We were fans long before and our opinions are all our own.

Things I Love This Sunday

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Mon, 07 May 2012 03:34:00 +0000

Faith, Family, Family Hike, Starbucks (anything else new!)....

My Honey, Magnolias!, The South, Our Son in the Creek, Our Son and His Remote Control Jeep....

A Full Moon, A Heavy Rain, Playing in the Rain with our Children! Passing on this tradition to our Boys!

Joy in the Journey! #1000Gifts

Blessings to you this Sunday!

Warmly,
Carolina Mama

Disney Social Media Moms Moments

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Sun, 06 May 2012 02:01:00 +0000

My life seems to be filled with "Moments!" Disney Social Media Moms Celebration was no exception.

These were Magical Moments!

Enjoy some of our favorites.

Thank you Disney!!!

Warmly,
Carolina Mama

Outback Steakhouse Kick Back with the Girls Dinner Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Sat, 05 May 2012 02:01:00 +0000

Mother's Day is a week away and do we love Mom! Moms are amazing and I am not saying that because I am one. I have an incredible Mom. My mother is from the generation that did not talk about a lot of "me" time. They were very service oriented. As I got older, I wanted to do more and more things for my Mom. I would love to have given her a "night out."

Now days, Moms love a "girls Night out" even if it is just to Starbucks. I know I love a girls night out with their Girlfriends to talk about life, shoes and other "important things." And not having to cook would be icing on the cake. Or cream in the coffee!

There’s no question that you are a busy woman as well. This time of year, it seems like the weeks are jam-packed with urgent ‘to-dos’. So, after a long day, wouldn’t it be great to get together with your girlfriends to just unwind and catch up? Outback Steakhouse wants to give you a Kick Back with the Girls at Outback Dinner for 4 Experiencesto get together with the girls! They could always use a break, too!

See you could order my favorite, Grilled Salmon! :)

Or an Land Down Under classic, Steak, Potato and Salad!

The Kick Back with the Girls at Outback Dinner for 4 Experience* gets you two $45 dinner certificates for you and three friends to enjoy shareable Aussie-Tizers, fresh entrees and irresistible desserts.

Outback Steakhouse is giving away 250 additionalKick Back with the Girls at Outback Dinner for 4 Experiences from April 25 through May 4. Tell your girlfriends t00 so they can go online for their chance to win at the Outback Steak Facebook Page!

Join us for the fun! You can Kick Back with the Girls at Outback Dinner for 4 Experience, which includes two $45 dinner certificates for you and three friends to enjoy shareable Aussie-Tizers, fresh entrees and irresistible desserts at Outback Steakhouse.

Enter To Win!

1) Leave a Comment on the Outback Steakhouse FB page;
2) Leave a Comment on the Carolina Mama FB page;
3) Leave a Comment below staying what you would like to order from Outback! :)

Good Luck! Contest ends May 9th @ 6pm EST. Contest open to US Residents.

Good luck to you!

Warmly, Carolina Mama

*FTC Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Outback Steaks. All opinions are my own.

Chick-fil-A Homemade Lemonade Recipe

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Thu, 03 May 2012 17:53:00 +0000

We are at Chick-fil-A Headquarters in Atlanta on an amazing Mom Blogging Event. It has been an incredible time to learn all about the core values of Chick-fil-A. We got to meet most of the Cathy family, I think!

Dan Cathy, James Cathy, Trudy and Bubba Cathy! All an incredible family

While at Headquarters, we got introduced to the Homemade Lemonade! And there was a Contest and we won!! Yes, my new friend and I won the hand-squeezed Lemons Contest! :) Then we made homemade Lemonade! :)

Here's the Chick-fil-A Handmade Lemonade Recipe

8 hand squeezed Lemons
1 C. Sugar
43 ounces of Water

Squeeze Lemons - yields about 1 1.4 cups of Lemon Juice; Stir in 1 c. of Sugar and pour into the 43 ounces of cold water. Stir well.

Pour over ice. Enjoy!

Thank you Chick-fil-A!

Chick-fil-A gave us a Ruler with the quote: "Do unto others as you would have others do unto you." Love it. We have loved learning what built this company.

Warmly,
Malise
@CarolinaMama

A Disney Social Media Moms View and Life Thereafter

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Wed, 02 May 2012 14:18:00 +0000

"When you cannot tell the difference between your work and your play, you've got it!"

Peter Shankman, @ Disney Social Media Moms 2012

The moment I heard this quote reminded me greatly how thankful and blessed I am for my life and all that God has done for me. I LOVE my work and play! And I often do not know which is which so according to Mr. Shankman, "I've got it."

Seriously, I always wanted to be a Wife and Mom and Write! So God knew and in His time, He has me right where He wants me. So even though it is work and I often do not stop working or know the difference, I do know I am blessed and am thankful. And I love it. Here are our boys with me at Disney on "Take Your Sons To Work Day!" I couldn't be happier. Neither could they! Right.

Thank you Disney and Disney Social Media Moms for investing in Moms, Families and Bloggers like us. It was a complete blessing and honor to work at Disney this past week. This week has been a week to remember.

Here we all are - We're a Dualing Family! Star Wars 3D was a huge part of our Disney Trip! We are at the new Art of Animation Resort that opens the Nemo Section on May 31st! This is a fabulous and fun and gorgeous Family Value Resort!

Here is a glimpse of one of the Rooms with the ever-so-popular Murphy

Bed that converts from a practical table to a Nemo Bed for Kids! :)

Yes, they do think of Everything!

Also, I know that is not to be taken for granted. If you are not living and loving what you're doing - you can change it. Lisa Druxman, of Stroller Strides is a Wife and Mom and Business Owner. She candidly shared her experiences of not being where she wanted to be in life. How she had a period of "I Can't!" She decided to change it to her Can! And look she can.

Her number one tip was to Write out Your Goals! Daily. And take Quiet Time Daily. Review the Goals and Review them Weekly and Monthly. See your progress and you will get to your goals.

Believe me, I remember the nights of staying up ever so late to learn HTML because I was a Mom and Blogger and not an HTML girl. But I learned it. And it has been essential to my blogging continuing successfully in the early days - even when I didn't know it. Now, relax new Bloggers, things are much simpler and there is a button for everything so that will not be your particular challenge.

Dream Big. Follow Your Dreams. Each written out Goal at a time. And see the progress. Soon you will be working and playing and not seeing the difference.

Then, "You've Got it!"

What are your Goals? Please share as your are comfortable. I will share, yesterday, I did something that scared me. Something I could have put off, but I did it and I already am so glad I did. What are you waiting for, what can you do today to reach your Goals?

Warmly, Carolina Mama

*FTC Disclosure: I was invited to the Disney Social Media Moms Conference. I paid a fee to participate. All opinions are my own.

eBay Mother's Day Gifts, and Twitter Party Prizes

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Tue, 01 May 2012 02:43:00 +0000

Magic happens at Disney World! I have to tell you out of all of my visits to Walt Disney World, this one had me remembering my sweet parents the most. Memories of my Daddy here, memories of my Mother there. This was a great encouragement to me as I want my sweet boys to remember special moments they have with their parents.

eBay is celebrating Mother’s Day by ‘Creating New Memories’ with the important Mothers’ in their lives. And what better way to celebrate than by hosting a number of social media giveaways!

The Mother Daughter relationship has many memories. And they keep coming. :)

Join the fun! There will be a Twitter party for Moms on May 1 (from 12-2 PT) and compiling a gift guide of items that the mothers in your lives will love.

Also, Mother's Day is the perfect time to sell items you no longer love! Just think, your item could be an eBay Hot List listing! :)

eBay shows you several ways to celebrate the Moms you love, and win prizes!

• Memorable Moments - eBay Facebook photo Sweepstakes with daily winners;

• Keep an eye for giveaways on eBay Twitter and eBay Pinterest #eBayMom.

Great Mother's Day eBay Finds:

· Fashion Outlet – Up to 60% off Spring fashion trends, lots of Mother’s Day Gift options available at the Fashion Outlet!

· Fashion Vault – Check out the Fashion Vault for amazing deals on outstanding brands. I LOVE THE Vault! http://fashionvault.ebay.com.

· Fashion Vault – The Watchery – Mother’s day luxury watches up to 70% off – 4/30 to 5/7. View the sale at:http://fashionvault.ebay.com.

· eBay Flowers Promotion – Buy ProFlowers through eBay and get $10 to spend on eBay – running 4/18 – 5/12. Check out http://www.ebay.com/evt/mothers-day-gifts.

Join the eBay Mother's Day Twitter Party here for more Prizes and Giveaways!

Warmly,

Carolina Mama

* I am an eBay Parent Blogger. All opinions are my own.

Food Lion Kitchen Makeover Sweepstakes

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Tue, 01 May 2012 02:09:00 +0000

This time of year has me actually longing to be in the (gasp) kitchen! I know, she cooks and she likes it! :) I do!

Seriously, I do love cooking for my family and this time of year makes it even more fun to find fresh produce, and organic choices that keep my family happy.

So you know, since I love the kitchen, I was thrilled to work with Food Lion again and share this awesome Kitchen Makeover Sweepstakes opportunity for you! See, social good! :) Really, I do love sharing great ideas, wins and more with you all.

If I won a Kitchen Makeover I would add something to make my kitchen resemble Mrs. Paula Dean's.... brick oven! Love and adore the old world charm of a brick oven. Add in the extra spacious island and I'd be happily cooking away. I'm already happily cooking away, I would just do so with more space.

Enter Food Lion a North Carolina company. Food Lion is here to help, they are hosting a Kitchen Makeover Sweepstakes on their Facebook page.

Imagine the win, a new Kitchen of your Dreams. Enter here: Food Lion Facebook
Certain Food Lions are participating in this contest, enter your zip code to see if your Food Lion is participating.

How to Enter:

Food Lion MVP shoppers will can enter by registering your MVP Card and completing the entry form on FoodLion’s Facebook page. Once entered, Customers (you! :) will be made aware of additional ways to enter including:

1. Purchasing any My Essentials brand product; and scanning your personal MVP Card;
2. Checking into your local Food Lion via Foursquare or Facebook
Prizes:
There will be a Grand Prize, a 1st & 2nd place prize, as well as multiple Food Lion gift card giveaways.
Grand Prize: $25k Home Makeover Package
1st Place: $10k in cash
2nd Place: Free Groceries for a Year
100 weekly $20 Food Lion gift cards (400 total)

Food Lion makes the Carolinas proud, so go ahead and enter to see what prizes you will Win!

Warmly, Carolina Mama

*This post is sponsored by Food Lion and Mom Central. I received a promotional item to thank me for participating. All opinions are my own.

Take My Sons To Work Day

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 20:16:00 +0000

Took my sons to work with me day, we did it. (Star Wars Yoda speak!) They came to work with me - Disney Social Media Moms Conference in Orlando, Florida.

It is priceless still. How cool, the Tigers and Boulder Mt. Man got to run around Walt Disney World while i was at Disney Social Media Moms.

Then it was back together for an incredible private evening - only Disney does it so well - Dino Mite Nite Party at Disney's Animal Kingdom Park! The Park and the Rides were open just for us.

We loved riding Expedition Mt. Everest at night!! And we learned only a few people in the world have done this!
Just one example of the many ways Disney can spoil!

Warmly, CarolinaMama

*Opinions all my own. I was invited to the Conference and chose to attend with my family. Attendees paid a fee. Opinions are my own.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium - Winter of Dolphin Tale

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 05:14:00 +0000

Loving Florida! There is SO much to do in Kissimmee, Florida and Central Florida!

It is an easy ride to the Atlantic Ocean Beaches and today we drove under two hours to the lovely Tampa Bay area.

We loved the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. Our boys loved meeting Winter of Dolphin Tale. We LOVE Winter. And this Boat Ride on the Bay was fabulous. We loved this so much.

Here are the boys and the Twin Turtles at Sawyer's Passage where the movie, Dolphin Tale was filmed! :)

It was truly a magical experience. Then we hit the Beaches - my stomping grounds on the Gulf Coast side! ;) I do hale from New Orleans easy access to the Gulf Shores! Nonetheless, they are as white an sandy beaches as ever!!

We had a blessed and wonderful day together.

Remember to check out the Ford Edge EcoBoost. We are working with Ford and Thank you Ford for the cool Ford Edge ride in Cinnamon. It is very comfortable. We love the Sirius Satellite Radio! And the GPS is beautiful and easy to use. We love it! See it stops regularly at Starbucks, too! :)

Warmly,
Carolina Mama

Rayovac Steve Spangler Science Contest and Build a Light Bulb

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 03:23:00 +0000

As a Boy Mom, Science is so fun! My boys love to experiment and create. I will never forget our first Dinosaur Dig. I ordered a Dinosaur Dig Kit and we explored and 'dug for Dinosaur teeth." It was great fun. The Tigers were younger then and they gave it their whole heart. We all learned and loved that science experiment. "We brought Science to Life." Sort of.

Now, I get so excited about Steve Spangler Science - I love that Rayovac is teaming up again with Steve Spangler Science to provide three educators entrance into the Spangler's hands on Science institute, Science in the Rockies! July 10-12, 2012.

So now the Exceptional Teacher in your child's life can bring Science back to life at the cool Spangler Science Institute. Take a look at this Build a Light Bulb Science experiment. Now that's a Science Experiment. I have to do this with the Tigers.

Teachers Bring Science to Life Contest:

Through May 9, educators at any grade level can nominate themselves for a chance to win one of three admissions by submitting an online essay, up to 300 words, at www.rayovac.com/science , explaining how they inspire students and bring learning to life.

Three inspirational teachers will be selected by Rayovac to win admission worth $895 to attend Science in the Rockies, where attendees will learn great classroom techniques and engaging experiments sure to inspire and captivate their students. More information, the official contest rules and the entry form can be found at www.rayovac.com/science.

You can find more info on Science in the Rockies workshop: http://www.stevespanglerscience.com/teacher-training/science-in-the-rockies

I love this contest and the Institute and all that it does to help kids fall in love with Science. Did you love Science or have an amazing Teacher bring Science to life for you?

Now, go sign up your favorite Teacher for Steve Spangler Science! :)

Warmly, Carolina Mama

*I am a Rayovac Power Blogger. My love of Science and Rayovac is all my own.

Ford Edge EcoBoost Family Road Trip

noreply@blogger.com (Carolina Mama) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 23:10:00 +0000

Welcome! Please follow our journey as we work with Ford.

Hello Ford Edge EcoBoost. Comfortable, Casual, Cinnamon and look she rides smoothly on the Beach!

Number 1 feature today:

Dual Heated Leather Seats! Yes, mine has been on about 74 all day! It was 47 degrees when we left Charleston, South Carolina this morning. So this temperature has been perfection!

Thank you Ford! We love the Ford Edge EvoBoost and the Mileage as been phenomenal! 27 miles per gallon! We love it!

Warmly,
Carolina Mama