Shop With a Mom Blog

Too Cute Babies in Halloween Costumes!

2010-10-20T01:07:00.003-05:00

I get the Reader's Digest newsletter and they usually have some cute stuff in it, but this takes the cake. I just HAD to share it, it was THAT cute!

As I was flipping through these pics I couldn't help by make up some quotes that those babies must be thinking.

Before you go to the link these are my quotes.

Baby #4: "Does this BUTT make my butt look big?"

Baby #8: "Will someone pass the drawn butter, please?"

Baby #11: "TOGA! TOGA!" (I mean what is a toga without an Animal House reference? Know what I mean?

If you need a good chuckle then you have to go and see them. They are absolutely ADORABLE!

Come Play Bingo at Simply Melt Away! Deadline Tomorrow!

2010-10-19T17:27:00.004-05:00

I know it has been a while since I posted anything here, and I apologize. I have been using my Simply Melt Away Facebook Fan Page (which you should come and "Like"!)for most of my updates and things, but I am going to get back to using the blog instead. So you will start to see a lot more posts there with links for crafting, home decorating, working at home, etc. I like to do those kinds of informational posts for my readers and you can't do that on Facebook:o)

So to start off that new commitment to the blog I wanted to let you all know that my store Simply Melt Away is having a Holiday Bingo Game and there is till time to sign up to play! It's so easy and fun!

You simply sign up& confirm you entry in an email you will receive.
You will receive 30 words on at list; choose 10; send them back to me. SAVE several copies!
When the game starts, you will get one of the words each day in an email. If you have it, mark it off!

How easy is that????

Player Rules are here: http://simplymeltaway.com/bingorules.htm

Player Sign Up Form is : http://simplymeltaway.com/playbingo.htm

So come on over and let's play!

Another way to earn cool stuff online!

2010-06-01T17:23:00.002-05:00

It is sweeping the internet! Get lots of cool gift cards to redeem for great stuff. Start now and you could have a great stock of them by the holidays! Can anyone say "Free Christmas Gifts"?

Special Savings at Carrie's Kiddie Closet

2010-05-23T20:05:00.004-05:00

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Special sale at Carrie's Kiddie Closet! Save 10% off your entire order when you enter the word doodle10 at checkout! Sale ends 6/26/10! Carrie sells beautiful note cards, stationery, address labels, and a whole lot more!

Visit her store at http://www.carrieskiddiecloset.com/ and take advantage of this great deal!

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Take Surveys, Get Paid-For Real

2010-05-21T17:08:00.005-05:00

You really can make a little extra money taking surveys. I know because I do it.

I will only recommend the ones I personally use, and the ones that have actually paid when I have requested payment. I haven't gotten rich, and never will doing them, but I have made a little extra money. I have used it to purchase some special for myself, or for extra gas money, grocery money, etc. So you really can make a little extra doing it. Again, I only recommend the ones I personally use.

My Survey -A great one. You earn points then trade the points in for cash or stuff. And they are honest and reliable. Promise:o)

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Survey Savvy

The great thing about Survey Savvy, is that you can not only TAKE surveys and get paid for them, but you can refer others and get paid when THEY take a survey, PLUS when THEY refer others you get money on those surveys too! So it is easy to make a little extra money when you are getting paid on referrals taking surveys. And no matter how much money you have in your account, you can request a check and they pay right away. Very, very, very easy!

You can get to them by using this link, please:

https://www.surveysavvy.com/?id=830282&action=join

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Inbox Dollars

Inbox Dollars not only sends you emails to click for extra cash, they also send surveys. You can make money faster if you take the surveys. You can make money pretty quickly with them if you click all your emails and take all your surveys in a timely manner. You can get a payout at $30 and they DO pay on time. And of course, you get even more if you refer others. Also, if you are going to buy something anyway, if you go through them you can get money back. So they have lots of different options.

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Lightspeed Surveys

This one doesn't have a referral program, and I wish they did because then I could make more money on referrals. However, they really are a good one. They pay to PayPal with as little as $5 or you can get gift cards such as Amazon, etc. I have bought a lot of books with this one:o)
http://us.lightspeedpanel.com/register/join.html

Enjoy!

15 Uses for Your Odds & Ends

2010-05-17T18:51:00.006-05:00

I've mentioned that I just love Real Simple Magazine and the Real Simple newsletter and website. You can get the best info on there! I just love it!

Here is a latest article that I want to share about reusing your odds and ends. It is really interesting and inspiring!

Check it out here!

I hope you enjoy it.

Like Real Simple? Get a subscription from Amazon for either 12 or 6 months! Use the links below and start your sub now!

12-Month Sub

6 Month Sub

Did you know......?

2010-05-17T01:46:00.002-05:00

Simply Melt Away http://www.simplymeltaway.com now offers wholesale/dropshipping! If you are looking for wonderfully scented, eco friendly melts to add to your store, either online or brick and mortar with no minimums, then you must stop in & check us out!

We even offer private labeling and invoicing! Carry our great product, but have your labels on them! Be sure to read all wholesale, ordering & shipping terms before applying!

Sign up now & we'll send you some free samples when you request private labeling! We will only do this for the first 5 retailers, so sign up now and don't miss the freebies!

Great Organization Article-REALLY getting it done...

2010-04-29T23:37:00.002-05:00

Here is a great article I found about organizing once and for all. And the thing I think I like the most about it is that is recommends doing it in small steps, not trying to takle everything all at once.....

I would love to hear any tips you have in the comments!

http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-home/cleaning-organizing/staticslideshowrb.aspx?cp-documentid=23117711

Enjoy!

I like this Inbox Dollars thing!

2010-04-23T00:47:00.002-05:00

I signed up, got $5 for signing up, then get emails in my inbox, click the "click here to confirm" and get a couple of cents for each one of those. I do it while watching TV, and then boom, I reach my $30 bucks and get paid. Pretty cool, actually. I mean to get paid to sit and do a little clicking, I'm there!

You should check it out, if you haven't:

http://www.inboxdollars.com/?r=ref6595211

You can refer YOUR friends and make money when they click their emails too. No scam, you don't pay them anything, you just click or take some surveys (which you get more for), and get money. No too shabby.

You won't get rich, but if you click on your emails everyday (and I only get a few) you can have an extra tank of gas a month, you know?

So check it out when you get a sec:o)

DID YOU KNOW????

2010-04-20T00:27:00.003-05:00

Simply Melt Away now has samples! Been wanting to try some highly scented 100% Dye Free Soy Wax Melts, but you didn't want to have to commit to a 3, 6, or 12 pack? Buy a sample in that scent you want to try out!

Price includes shipping! Sample is basically free after I pay for the envelope, the postage, the paper and ink!

Be sure to read all sampling terms!

Check it out here! http://simplymeltaway.com/category_19/Scented-Soy-Melt-Samples.htm

Try something you already love to see our version, or get something completely new! It is up to you! Just try them! We know you will love them!

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Great Site for Information....On Lot's of Different Topics!

2010-04-14T18:54:00.001-05:00

Hey here is a good article about computers I thought everyone might like and this whole site really has some good info on it! I am downloading the free registry error "fixer", it comes highly recommended, will have to let everyone know how I like it.....

http://www.howlifeworks.com/technology/faster_pc_V2/?AG_ID=333&cid=7030au

If anyone else finds anything really useful on it, please leave a comment and share with us! If you post it on your own blog, then please just leave the link:o)

Unsolicited Site Review!-Occupational Highway-Work from Home Portal

2010-04-12T18:21:00.004-05:00

This is a 100% unsolicited site review of a site I found on my own by looking around. Shop With a Mom likes to provide its followers with these types of sites & products it deems to be reputable and valuable. If you visit them and you contact them, be sure to let them know you saw them on the Shop With a Mom Blog!

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Occupational Highway-Work From Home Portal

I happened across a great site today that has LOTS of work at home opportunities, from full time, part time, seasonal, by-the-job, and lots more. They have a section on scams too so you can find out what work at home offers are really not worth checking into BEFORE you lose your money.

So visit them here: http://www.occupationalhwy.com/ and see what you can find. The perfect work from home job may just be there waiting on you!

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Are you making extra money with Inbox Dollars?

2010-04-07T01:33:00.002-05:00

Just a click on an email and you can earn money! Sign up for free offers, coupons, and more and make even more money. Take some surveys and earn money. You get $5 just for joining and you can collect a payout when you reach $30. Easy, peasy! Advertisers pay Inbox Dollars to have them send emails to you, they pay them for showing you the emails, you get paid to look at them. That's all. And I have found some cool stuff too from the email.

Click the banner to join! Then get your friends to join! It is easy; it is free; it is 100% legitimate. I know, I do it:o)

How to tell if your site has been hacked...

2010-04-06T21:29:00.004-05:00

I get an email newsletter from this gentleman, and I never fail to learn something I didn't previously know. The latest newsletter was a link to one of his great articles about how you can tell if your site has been hacked by an unscrupulous person that wants to get more traffic to his/her crap affiliate program and rake in the bucks.

Anyone that has a site should read this. It is very informative and I would recommend that you do a search on Ezine Articles for more of his stuff because he writes some really good information.

Okay, here is the link to this particular article, I hope you find it informative:o)

http://ezinearticles.com/?How-to-Tell-If-Your-Site-Has-Been-Hacked&id=4061296

Enjoy!

Great free articles, tips, advice on saving money!

2010-03-23T22:29:00.002-06:00

MSN Money has some really great ideas, tips, advice, etc. on saving money, where to buy when DO you buy, the dos, the don'ts, and lot of other great information.

You should check it out. I did and learned a thing or two!

See them here:

http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/SavingandDebt/FindDealsOnline/FindDealsOnlinedyn.aspx?cp-documentid=23708971&gt1=33006

Check out The Little Black Boxes! Get your SMA Samples!

2010-03-19T22:19:00.004-06:00

Simply Melt Away is one of the great businesses featured in March's Little Black Boxes! Wanna try our melts and compare them to others? Then now is your chance!

Simply Melt Away boasts 100% dye free soy wax melts in 100% compostable packaging and 100% recycled and recyclable labeling and packing! If you are trying to be more "Green" and "Earth Friendly" in your purchases, then you must try us out!

So visit http://www.thelittleblackboxes.com/ to get your Little Black Boxes sample kit, then visit http://www.simplymeltaway.com to make your purchase! Find a coupon in your kit and save 25% on your entire purchase!

Check it out! You will not be disappointed!

You really can advertise for FREE and it works!

2010-03-14T00:19:00.002-06:00

You don't have to pay big bucks to advertise your site. Not with the hundreds of Top Site lists out there. I usually don't EVER pay to have my site listed. I use a lot of top site lists, they show up in Google as a link back and they are free. If you click your own link once a day you can move up in the rankings. It is that easy. It takes just a few minutes a day to click your banners and you are in.

I have been getting very picky about the top lists I am using, however. I only list on the ones that are MAINTAINED. Everyone and her sister are making top site lists, then not taking care of them. They sit there, get broken banners, and just basically fall apart. I try to stay away from those. I recenly went looking for some good ones, and I listed Simply Melt Away on a few of the better ones.

If you are looking for some GOOD top sites, that are taken care of, that are actually updated and worked on, then you should check them out. You can find them here: http://simplymeltaway.com/pages/voteforus.htm

These really are some great lists. They look nice, are well maintained, etc. etc.

If you have a top site that you run, that you maintain on a regular basis, etc. then please leave it in the comments! I will mention it on here, I will join it, etc. and help you get more members!

Check out the Simply Melt Away Give Away at Handmade Guru!

2010-02-16T19:19:00.003-06:00

Check it out now! We are doing a giveaway of a 6-Pack of Dye-Free Soy Wax Melts in the scent of the winner's choice! Get in on the giveaway now by visiting The Handmade Guru at http://handmadeguru.com/

Good luck!

More Freebies From Vista!

2010-02-15T21:39:00.005-06:00

I just placed ANOTHER order at Vista Print!

I got:

100 Regular Postcards
250 Matte Business Cards
1 Window Decal
1 Pen
and a personal T-shirt (it cost me $4.74 for advanced editing).

It all cost me $11.33!

Are YOU ordering from Vista Print? If not you should be! Click the banner now and get your freebies!

Click Here Now and place your order! Doesn't your business deserve the best? Get it from Vista Print!

Cool Money Saving Website....

2010-02-09T21:03:00.001-06:00

I came across this site a long time ago and have just forgotten to share it until recently. I really think it could be a good resource for a lot of women and moms!

Check it out when you get a chance and let me know what you think!

http://www.hillbillyhousewife.com/

She has worked hard to put together a lot of money saving, cleaning and organizing tips and ideas and it is all free. So just visit and enjoy!

Share what you think in the comments if you wish:o)

Half-Time Bogo! EXTENDED!

2010-02-07T17:47:00.004-06:00

UPDATE: The BOGO is extended until Midnight Central Time! You have just 'til midnight to get your freebies! HURRY!

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I'm having a Half-time Bogo sale at Simply Melt Away! This is for my blog readers, Twitter followers and Facebook fans. But you can tell your friends! The more the merrier!

Buy ANY 6-Pack of Melts in ANY of our wonderful scents, and get a 100% FREE 3-pack in ANY fragrance you want! No limit! (You just have to purchase the 6-Pack for every 3-pack you get for free! ) Simply put your freebie(s) in the "comments" area of the shopping cart when you check out! Just list the scents you want there after you put your 6-packs in the cart!

Only during Superbowl Halftime!

So get your computer poised to buy and save! Try us if you haven't. We promise you will be amazed at our soy wax melts! And don't forget, we only package in biodegradable cello, with recycled labeling, packing, etc. We believe in "GREEN".

So go green and hit Simply Melt Away during halftime and get your freebies! http://www.simplymeltaway.com/

Want to know what I just got and how much I saved???

2010-02-03T15:07:00.004-06:00

I just ordered the following from Vista Print this week for my store Simply Melt Away and spent a grand total of $42.00 by the time I was finished. The main reason for the costs was shipping because every time I ordered, they would send me an email later offering me more (and better) free products. So I would place another order. So about $18 ended up being shipping on 3 orders. The rest was to due to some "advanced customization" on the backs of my cards, etc. which is totally optional. So some of that $42.00 was customization too. I am guessing about $15 of it was that. So as you can see I spent VERY, VERY LITTLE and got A WHOLE LOT!

The list of everything I got:

100 Postcards, Glossy Finish, B/W Backside with business mailing info
250 Business Cards with Matte Finish, Blank Backside
250 Business Cards with Matte Finish, Colored Backside with a "Green" Message (customized)
250 Business Cards with GLOSSY Finish, Blank Backside
(Grand total all cards: 750 Biz Cards, 500 Matte, 250 Glossy) Some of these I had little discounts, freebies and things put on them and then covered them with "scratch off" stickers so I made scratch offs from them and people love them!

I also got:

50 Business Card Sized Magnets
1 Keychain
1 Ink Pen with my biz name & link
1 Business T-Shirt with my biz name and link (And it is too cute! Did some customization on that too.)
1 Personal T-Shirt that says "My Daughter is in the National Guard" with an American Flag on it
and finally
Window Decal for the back window of my car with my biz name and link on it.

And like I said, the grand total was around $42.00 How unbelievable is THAT? If you break it down into pieces I spent LESS THAN SIX CENTS per peice for the biz cards/postcards/magnets.

How can you NOT be ordering from Vista Print? The more you buy, the more they offer and you can get your business products completely free, or at drastically reduced pricing! And it is EXCELLENT QUALITY. They also give you a certain shipping time of like 3 weeks, but I ALWAYS get it all MUCH, MUCH faster!

Click Here Now and place your order! Doesn't your business deserve the best? Get it from Vista Print!

And get it for FREE!

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Make money by Tweeting a Few Ads

2010-01-30T21:14:00.002-06:00

Did you know you can make money by using your Twitter account to place a few ads? Your visitors click those ads, you get paid! You can get a payout at just $20 via PayPal.

If anyone does this, I would love to post your review (along with your link to promote you of course!) so that others can see how you are doing with it!

Start Here:

Good luck!

Kandi

Unsolicited Site Review!-Online Business Junction-Check it out!

2010-01-12T03:11:00.003-06:00

I just came across a great site/blog. There is literally a wealth of information contained in this site/blog from all kinds of topics of interest to WAHMs or to anyone that wants to start a business, increase business, redo a business, it is really a great place to get information, tutorials, and a lot, lot more.

Need to set up a website, join a Top Site List, find information on Copyrights, drop shipping, wholesaling, or just about anything else you can think of? Well you can find it here. It really is a great place to get some great information, all contained in one area, so you don't have to go Googling to find everything you need to know. Someone has done her homework, that is for sure!

I think you should check it out! And the best part? It's all FREE info. You can't do any better than that:o)

http://www.onlinebusinessjunction.com/

Check it out when you have a second and be sure to join so you can stay updated!

I just love to do these kinds of unsolicited reviews! I love sharing the cool things I find when I am not even looking for cool things:o)

New Fragrances at Simply Melt Away.com-FOUR NEW ONES!

2010-01-11T01:29:00.005-06:00

We have added FOUR new fragrances at Simply Melt Away! Buttercream Frosting, Frosted Sugar Cookies, Clean Breeze (Downy Type), and our very own EXCLUSIVE Snickerdoodles!

You can't beat our new scents! And watch for more new scents coming soon! We test new scents constantly! So watch as we add at least one new one each month; but more likely 2-5 each month for the next year! Plus we are updating and improving a couple that we think can be better! So watch for a couple of our scents to get even better than they are now!

We would love to hear from you on this, so please visit us at http://www.simplymeltaway.com and use the "contact" form and tell us YOUR favorite! We are open to just about anyone's favorites and if we get the same suggestions a few times, then we will make it a permanent part of our line!

So visit us now and bookmark us/add us to your faves so you can see what all we will be adding over the next year and beyond! If you like things that smell good without unnecessary fillers, additives and dyes, and like the fact that we package in biodegradable cello packaging, use recycled and recylable materials for packing and shipping, then you will love Simply Melt Away! With Simply Melt Away you can "Scent Your Home Green"!

Come on over now and check us out! http://www.simplymeltaway.com

Printable Coupons-NEW!

2010-01-09T22:43:00.005-06:00

Need printable coupons for this week's shopping? Check out our favorite sites. I love the cereal coupons & coffee coupons; I think those are my favorites!

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Happy couponing!

Your Comments Needed!

2010-01-01T21:25:00.002-06:00

I would love to hear from you, my visitors and readers on some things that I am thinking about for Shop With a Mom and the Shop With a Mom Blog.

I would like to "incorporate" the 2 a little more. Make it all a little more "seamless" and useful all at the same time. I am wanting make the main focus the blog, putting the content in different categories while providing much more useful information for moms, for women in general such as fun craft ideas, or home decor ideas, or decluttering, or whatever; some from readers, some from myself and some that I find online. I would like to provide more free work from home ideas and content. More ways to save money by shopping online, but with a focus on getting us moms and women to shop with other moms and women who are all in this together. I might add parenting articles, just general interest type articles, home decorating and where to find the products (from other wahms of course), how to combat dry skin and where to shop with a wahm to find the products for THAT; you know, that sort of thing. I am wanting to put WAHMs first in all those things if possible.

I will, of course, keep a lot of the stuff that Shop With a Mom already offers, such as the shopping directories, and I want to make it affordable for ALL wahms; whether they are just starting, need to boost visitors or whatever, I want to make it where they can afford the lifetime fee, by either keeping the current $15 lifetime special or upping it just a bit, but still to where anyone can afford it (I might even do a 2 payment thing where they can budget a bit more). And text links are so valuable for the search engines, so that is something that I will keep, no doubt. I am just looking for ways to incorporate it all together a bit better; the site and the blog.

I want to keep the current freebies on the freebie page, but again, add a lot more free coupons, free software, free graphics, things that WAHMs/moms can really use.

It would be so nice to have some features where readers can say "Hey I found a free resource I want to share" and get the credit, a link to their site, etc. etc. This would be a total win-win; blog content for me, link for you. Maybe do a feature where if readers are holding a contest, giveaway, coupon, special clearance or something, they would be able to submit it to me, and I could have a post each week outlining all of them. For free of course. This could increase readership, and be such a help to the WAHM that needs the advertising.

This will mean an entire overhaul of SWAM and the blog. It will take time, focus, energy and money of course, and I am willing to put that in if I can make SWAM and the blog a more useful site for all women. At some point if it begins to make a little money, I might actually hire someone as a virtual assistant to help me with updates and posting, etc.

So what I would like from you are your opinions, ideas, things you would like to see, things you see on other blogs that you like and don't like, etc.

I have been in touch with some designers to help me overhaul the look and feel, and I just need some ideas as to what readers like and don't like. Do you like giveaways, contests, unsolicited product reviews, paid product reviews, free coupon links, free anything links, etc. etc. Just anything you can think of that you think makes or breaks a blog or a site. I am also going to ask for some ideas on some of the groups of which I am a member. I plan to compile the feedback and see what I can do.

So if you have a second, give it some thought and post it here, or if you would rather keep it between us, then email me at shopwithamom (at) yahoo.com (replace the (at) with @ of course), and I will see what I can get done with your ideas.

I don't want to be like everyone else, and I would certainly never steal someone else's ideas or designs or anything like that, not at all, I'm not that kind of person, but if other people have things that are working and I can incorporate some small amount of that in my own blog and site, then by all means, let me know about it! I would love to hear from all my visitors and readers because without you, there is no reason to even do this:o)

Thank you so, so much for your time!

I just joined Inbox Dollars! Will have to keep you all posted!

2009-12-13T22:12:00.001-06:00

I just joined Inblox Dollars where I can make money for taking surveys, reading emails, and referring others. Will have to keep you posted with updates to see if this is a good deal or not!

Meanwhile should you decide to join up, here is a link to use! Let's see how well they work!

I'll keep you posted!

Baby It's Cold Outside Potato Soup

2009-12-13T00:59:00.007-06:00

Okay, I got a craving after seeing a recipe for potato chowder. The chowder was a little time consuming so I decided to make some potato soup and share my recipe with you. This is my original recipe and it is DELICIOUS!

Please remember that all measurements are approximate because I just throw it all in the pot without really measuring. Although I am trying to give you an idea of the exact amounts, you can add more or less of anything in the recipe. The recipe will feed 3-4 people, but it can be doubled, tripled, quadrupled or however large you want to make it!

Baby It's Cold Outside Potato Soup
2-3 Large Russet Potatoes
4 Cups Milk (You can use 2%, whole or even skim, we use 1%)
1/4 Cup Butter or Margarine
1 Cup Velveeta Cheese, Cubed
Salt & Pepper
Toppings (See Below)

Instructions: Peel, cube and cook potatoes in large sauce pan until tender. Drain. Remove 1/2 of the potatoes from the pan and mash them slightly with a fork. Return them to the pan. Put in milk, butter, Velveeta and salt & pepper to taste.

Simmer until cheese is melted and soup hot and bubbly stirring constantly to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Toppings:
Ladle soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese, real bacon bits or precooked bacon, sour cream & chopped chives (or we use Hiland French Onion Dip in place of the sour cream and chives).

Serve hot with home baked rolls/bread loaf or buttered and toasted Texas Toast slices. To make the Texas Toast, spray a skillet with cooking spray; lightly butter the Texas Toast on both sides and toast in the skillet, turning as each side becomes browned.

Variations:
You can add cubed ham along with the milk, butter and Velveeta if you prefer and skip the bacon pieces.

Add a can of corn (drained) or 1 1/2 cup of frozen corn to your soup for a little different texture & flavor. Add in the milk, butter & Velveeta step.

Need a Last Minute Gift or Stocking Stuffer? Send a Gift Certificate Starting at Just $5!

2009-12-12T16:12:00.008-06:00

Know someone that would LOVE Simply Melt Away Dye Free Tart Melts, but you aren't sure what fragrance to choose?

Send a Gift Certificate to ANYONE right up to Christmas Day! Email it or print it! Have it sent to YOU or to THEM! We can even send it to a secret pal and keep it anonymous! http://simplymeltaway.com/certificates.htm.

Starting at $5.00 these make GREAT stocking stuffers!

Send them the gift of Dye Free Earth Friendly Fragrance! It's so easy! Just visit this link, fill out the form, make your payment and we will do the rest! You know they would LOVE it, so what are you waiting for! Get yours NOW!

http://simplymeltaway.com/certificates.htm

Get a FREE Printable Calendar from Simply Melt Away!

2009-12-06T23:42:00.002-06:00

Visit Simply Melt Away and download your FREE printable calendar! Add a couple of stick-on magnets to the back and hang it on the fridge! No magnets? It also makes a great bulletin board calendar!

Click here to visit Simply Melt Away and get the calendar now!

Great Site for Learning to Sew

2009-12-06T00:50:00.003-06:00

I like to dabble with sewing when I have time (which isn't much), and I am getting ready to do a couple of projects, both for myself and for a couple of gifts. I am not the BEST seamstress, but I think it is fun when I actually have the time to enjoy it and not stress about it.

I was browsing around and came across a really cool site that has some great information; from beginner basics, to advanced stitches, free patterns and more! They have everything from baby sewing to teen sewing ( I LOVE the bean bag pattern!). I also saw some super easy mitten patterns that would make AWESOME stocking stuffers or if you have scrap fabric and want to do something valuable with your time and talent for the holidays, sew up a dozen pairs and donate them to your local kid's shelter!

http://www.sewing.org/

You should check it out when you get a chance. Really, really cool stuff!

If you have a favorite site for sewing tips, free patterns or anything like that, leave it in the comments and I will make a post about them all together so everyone can enjoy them! Even if it is your site and you offer FREE stuff, I don't mean you sell stuff and have one or 2 freebies, but you have a site dedicated to free patterns and things, then by all means, leave it in the comments and I would love to plug it for ya!

Enjoy!

Do you Bonanzle? Come to my Bonanza on Sunday at 6pm Central Time!

2009-12-04T23:50:00.004-06:00

Stop by my 30% off Bonanza on my dye free scented tart melts on Sunday, December 6th starting at 6 pm Central! Get this great discount on my 6-pack of melts, and if you tell me that you saw this on the blog I will send you a free gift with your order!

Stop by and chat with me. Ask questions, get to know Simply Melt Away!

http://www.bonanzle.com/booths/simplymeltaway/

Check it out Sunday Evening! Save money, get to know us and get some AWESOME gifts for anyone on your list. Secret Pals, gift drawings at work, day care providers, teachers, ANYONE! And get a 6-Pack of melts for 30% off regular Bonanzle prices and a free gift for every order! Plus we ONLY charge actual shipping. If we ship for less than you paid, we happily refund the difference!

So stop by and say "hi" Sunday evening starting at 6 Central/4 Pacific running for just 3 hours!!

http://www.bonanzle.com/booths/simplymeltaway/

See you there!

Just 7 days to holiday deadline!

2009-12-04T02:42:00.005-06:00

Just 7 more days to order the most yummy tart melts you will every smell!

These are perfect gifts for moms, teachers, day care providers, stocking stuffers and more! http://www.simplymeltaway.com

Order now! Due to rising supply costs, my prices will have to go up a bit after the first of the year! So if you want them, get them NOW!

We just added 2 brand new fragrances; Blackberry Sage and Green Apple Lollipop! And watch for the two new fragrances coming soon! Sugar Cookie and Snickerdoodle! You are gonna love 'em!

HURRY! Don't miss out on giving someone the gift of sweet fragrance. I can assure you these are THE best melts you will find anywhere!

http://www.simplymeltaway.com

Mention this post and I will send you a FREE SAMPLE melt in the scent of YOUR CHOICE with any order! Just mention the post in the comments area at checkout, and leave the scent preference there too and I will take care of the rest!

Order for friends, family, or anyone on your list! Go now while you still can!

Restocked Printable Coupons!

2009-12-03T17:12:00.002-06:00

Printable coupons have been restocked! Check them out, lots of great ones! I just love this printable coupon thing!

30 Quick Decor Ideas from Real Simple

2009-12-03T01:11:00.001-06:00

They really have some great ideas here:

Check them out!

http://www.realsimple.com/holidays-entertaining/holidays/our-most-festive-holiday-decor-ideas-00000000025371/?xid=weeklynews-12-02-2009

FREEBIES from Vista Print! You STILL haven't checked them out???

2009-11-21T22:28:00.004-06:00

Did you know you can get FREEBIES at Vista Print? Get your holiday cards NOW! Get your business cards for your new or existing business! Car door magnets, biz card magnets, postcards and so much more! ALL FREE! Or you can customize them with your own logos, wording, photos, etc. for just a few dollars! If you have a very low ad budget, like I do with Simply Melt Away, then Vista Print is the ONLY way to go for your promo materials! The great thing is you can put magnets in with orders so that they will have something to keep to remember you the next time they order, you can exchange with other businesses, put THEIR promo materials in with YOUR orders and they do the same for you, you can leave them around town, the options are basically limitless!

Not only that, but Vista Print has PERSONAL stuff too like Holiday Cards, 2010 Calendars, T-shirts and more that you can add artwork or photos to! And it is all free or EXTREMELY inexpensive, and very, very good quality! And they are having a sale this weekend for the more customized stuff so you can get it even cheaper!

Vista Print is THE place for both personal and business stationery, note cards, 2010 calendars and more! And most everything can be obtained FREE or at exceptionally low cost! You just pay shipping on most things!

If you don't know about Vista Print, you, my friend are missing out! You can't do business without them!

Visit them NOW!

FREE 3-Pack of Tart Melts from Simply Melt Away!

2009-11-21T03:08:00.005-06:00

Would you like to receive a FREE 3-Pack of Tart Melts in your choice of scent???

Order one of our BRAND NEW Tart Warmers, or place an order for any other product(s) totalling $17.99 or more and get a FREE 3-Pack of melts in your choice of scent! This is a WEEKEND ONLY SALE so get your orders in now!

Stuff those stockings! Give a nice gift to the hostess of the holiday parties you attend, give gifts to teachers, care givers, co-workers (3-packs are only $2.29 each! Buy for the whole office!) and ANYONE else on your list that loves things that smell good (and who doesn't?)

This offer will end at 11:59 pm Central Time Sunday, 11/22, so you MUST order over the weekend to get this great deal!

Just add your freebie scent in the comments box at checkout and we will take care of the rest! Buy a warmer and get the melts, place them in a basket or gift bag and have the perfect gift for mom, your sister, or anyone else! Show your appreciation to someone you love! Give them the gift of great fragrance!

HURRY! Don't miss this weekend special deal! We'll even throw in a pocket calendar, a certificate for another free sample and a refrigerator magnet, all FREE! What a GREAT DEAL!

http://www.simplymeltaway.com With simply melt away you get THE BEST dye free tart melts in earth friendly packaging that you will find ANYWHERE! And that is our promise to you!

GO NOW!

Pumpkin Bread Recipe-Make a delicious treat for Thanksgiving!

2009-11-20T01:35:00.004-06:00

I LOVE a good moist pumpkin bread and this recipe is just amazing!

My sister shared this with me. This recipe makes ONE loaf and can be doubled, tripled, quadrupled if you need a bigger supply of bread to give as gifts.

Pumpkin Bread

1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar

1/2 cup of vegetable oil

2 eggs, beaten

1/2 lb. canned or fresh pumpkin

1 3/4 cups of flour

1/3 cups of water

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. salt (I use just a 1/2 teaspoon of this in mine)

1/4 tsp. ground cloves

1/2 tsp. EACH of cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg
(OR 1 1/2 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice, which contains ginger, so if you like ginger, then use the Pumpkin Pie Spice, if not, use the separate ingredients. I have done both and they are work equally well in my opinion.)

Mix sugar, oil and eggs together; add pumpkin. Add dry ingredients, and finally water, stirring just until mixed. Pour batter into one (1) greased and floured 9x5 inch loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for one hour, until toothpick or cake tester inserted into center comes out clean or top of loaf springs back when pressed.

This is also great to make in muffin cups (filled 3/4 full) or greased & floured mini loaf pans.

To give as gifts, after bread has cooled, wrap well in plastic wrap, tie on a bow and there you go. If you are going for that "country" look, first wrap the loaves well in plastic wrap, then overwrap in brown paper, secure with tape and tie on a torn strip of country fabric. Put a few small loaves or muffins in a fabric lined basket to make it and even more inviting gift or centerpiece for your hostess' dinner table.

And who doesn't like pumpkin bread? (That is rhetorical, no need to leave comments about hating it:o)

Happy Baking!

Need Software? Great Holiday Gifts! See my Ebay Listings! CHEAP!

2009-11-15T18:23:00.004-06:00

I have some great software titles listed at Ebay right now, for EXCELLENT prices! For example I have Hallmark Card Studio DELUXE 2010 listed for $9.99 with NO RESERVE! This software is worth $49.99 retail!

All of the software is new. I opened the boxes to check it for breakage, etc. but never installed any of it.

If you want to check them out you can find them here http://www.auctiva.com/stores/viewstore2.aspx?id=775428&styleid=12&siteid=0

I could use the extra Christmas money and I know someone could use these as gifts and get a great deal!

So check them out when you get a chance and get your bids in. Bidding started at 2pm this afternoon and 2 of them already have bids, so get yours in if you are interested!

Again, you can see them all here http://www.auctiva.com/stores/viewstore2.aspx?id=775428&styleid=12&siteid=0

Did you know???

2009-11-12T20:15:00.006-06:00

Did you know that Simply Melt Away http://www.simplymeltaway.com/ now has not only soy wax tart melts, but our brand new soy wax tart "Chunklettes™", our new 100% natural carpet deodorizer and the newest item of all: Electric Tart Warmers! We are only carrying the warmers in one style and in one color (Ivory) for now, but we will see how it goes:o)

The perfect gift for the tart melt loving person on your holiday list is our new Ivory Ceramic Tart Melter along with either a 6-Pack of our dye free scented tart melts or a bag of our dye free scented soy wax Chunklettes™! Make a basket out of it!

Anyone will love it!

Check out the entire line of Simply Melt Away products at http://www.simplymeltaway.com/

What is YOUR favorite fragrance type?

2009-11-08T01:20:00.005-06:00

Do you have a favorite fragrance "family"? You know, such as "Bakery/Food Scents", "Fruity Scents", "Beverage Scents", etc. ?

Well Simply Melt Away wants to know what that favorite "family" is! Please take a sec and go and vote and help me to get the types of fragrances that YOU want! This is a precursor to the brand new "Suggest-a-Scent" program that is coming in January 2010 where I will be giving away a 3-pack of melts EVERY month! So while you are there voting in the poll now, bookmark SMA so you can check back and suggest a scent each month starting in January and possibly win free dye free soy wax tart melts all year long!

For now though, please take just a sec and let me know what "scent family" is your fave. http://simplymeltaway.com/pages/polls.htm

I want to add 1-3 or maybe even more new scents each month over the next year and this will be a great help to get me headed in the right direction!

And remember, shop with Simply Melt Away this year for awesome gifts for teachers, co-workers, secret pals, sisters, moms, teens, or just about ANYONE else! Our 3-packs are the perfect low-cost and high-scent stocking stuffer! Tuck a 3-pack in with your mom's holiday gift! She will love it! With Simply Melt Away you get a LOT of gift, for a LITTLE money! Since our melts are created and scented so well, even a 3-pack will last for a long time and your recipient will be thrilled with the gift!

Go and vote and let's get the holidays off and running and start thinking of big things to come in the new year!

http://simplymeltaway.com/pages/polls.htm

Stocking Stuffers? Teacher Gifts? Anyone else?

2009-11-07T18:54:00.003-06:00

Then check out Carrie's adorable note card designs and more at http://www.notecardgirl.com . Her site is filled with hundreds of adorable gift ideas, you could buy for anyone!

Need invitations to your holiday parties? Thank you notes for your holiday gifts? What about your holiday greetings and gift tags?

And don't forget to check out her personalized mint tins! These are the PERFECT stocking stuffer!

People love personalized gifts! So check out Carrie's site and get your gifts ordered now before the holiday rush!

Note Cards
Invitations
Gift Tags
Labels
Stationery
Mint Tins
So Much More!

Check it all out! http://www.notecardgirl.com

The FREE Plug Board is Back!

2009-11-06T23:11:00.006-06:00

Scroll down a bit and look on the right and plug your site for FREE!

And don't forget you can plug PERMANENTLY for just $5!!! This will give you an awesome search engine back link (helping you move up in the search results), you will have your plug on a steadily growing blog, and you won't have to worry about it anymore! Just buy the spot ONCE and you are all set:o)

Hurry while you can still get near the top!

My Friend with Thirty One Gifts is having a ONE DAY BOGO SALE!

2009-11-06T11:31:00.003-06:00

Directly from my friend Phyllis O'Neill with Thiry One Gifts:

In celebration of October being the HIGHEST SALES month in the company - AND my 31dreams Team being in the TOP 10 HIGHEST SALES in the company, I am having a special BOGO SALE - TODAY ONLY (Friday, November 6)!

Purchase ONE item and get ONE FREE! Yep, you heard it right!! This is INSANELY CRAZY I KNOW, but I'm SOOOOOOOOOOOO excited and I want YOU to see our products in person, if you haven't already!

Note: This is MY PERSONAL SPECIAL and is only redeemable through me!!

Now, here's the deal:

This is limited to ONE BOGO only -- you'll pay for the highest priced item and get another item of equal or less value FREE! You'll pay tax and shipping on the full retail amount.

You can see all of our products www.SoManyCuteBags.com. You can shop from all of our catalogs, including our new Holiday Shopping Guide!

*** You must CALL ME with your order - otherwise, I have no way of giving you this BOGO special offer!! ***

My phone number is below. HAPPY SHOPPING!! (psst - you are welcome to forward this email to all your friends!!)

p.s. Are you looking for a ground floor, fun, incredible, phenomenal, top-notch, home business? Call me and let me tell you about Thirty-One!! It's the most AMAZING business EVER and I'd love to share it with you! Just be careful -- my excitement might be contagious!! :) **I'm even offering a FREE KIT OPTION, so if $99 isn't in your budget right now, be sure to ask me about this!

Phyllis O'Neill, Independent Director, Thirty-OneHome: 816-456-3484 Cell: 816-591-7043

********************************************************************

Remember everyone, you can only get this deal WITH PHYLLIS! So don't try to get it through the company! Call Phyllis with your order at her phone # above!

So You Aren't Doing Surveys with Survey Savvy Yet?

2009-11-05T19:40:00.003-06:00

Why not?

Did you know you can take dozens of surveys a month, or even a week, get picked for studies and get paid or get free stuff, and you can refer others and you can money when THEY take surveys! It gets even better! You can get money when THOSE referrals make money too! So why haven't you signed up yet?

I get surveys all the time, and have ALWAYS been paid when I requested it.

So if you need extra money for the holidays, and don't expect to get rick quick or anything, check them out!

Click Here Now! What are you waiting for?

$5 for Permanent Ads? Anyone? Anyone?

2009-11-01T18:51:00.003-06:00

Okay, who wouldn't pay $5 for a permanent plug button on a growing blog? My blog gets new followers on a regular basis! We are growing! Plus I am constantly tweeting about it on my Simply Melt Away Twitter account! So who knows how many followers there will be next month, or next year and you could be showing off your site to them. Not to mention the search engines will LOOOOVE the link back!

Get your pluggie near the top of the list now! First come, first listed! Just $5 FOR LIFE!!! You can't beat that!

Printable Coupons Restocked!

2009-11-01T15:11:00.002-06:00

Printable Coupons have just been restocked! So go and check out the new ones! I see coffee and creamers ones that I can use! WOO HOO!

UPDATE: Ooooh! They even have toy coupons! I have been thinking of getting the little guy that I babysit for part time a Mr. Potato Head for Christmas. There are coupons for them this update! Check them out! Lots of goodies! Just click the banner!

Come Check out my Bonanza!

2009-10-30T23:56:00.003-06:00

I just joined Bonanzle and I am holding a Bonanza from 1pm to 4pm today! I am having a 25% off sale on all my tart melts! So instead of $4.49 for a 6 pack that makes them $3.37, which is cheaper than you can get them on Simply Melt Away!

Need to get some product moving people! So check it out! Everyone has someone on their holiday list that loves stuff that smells good! So now is your chance to get them at a good price! Fast shipping too!

Check it out here: http://www.bonanzle.com/booths/simplymeltaway

If you leave me a message there, I will get back with you first of the week. I have to work at my part-time "real" job all weekend! UGH! See why I need sales? I hope to come home to some! So check it out!

Check out this Giveaway at Monkey's Momma Blog!!!

2009-10-29T21:02:00.002-06:00

The giveaway box is worth $275-$300 and you can get lots of entries for doing very simple things!

You can't win if you don't enter it! Get on over there and enter!

http://monkeysmomma.blogspot.com/2009/10/etsy-surprise-box-giveaway.html

NEW! Lifetime Pluggies $5!

2009-10-29T15:47:00.005-06:00

I have decided to open up a space for 88x31 plug buttons with LIFETIME addition for just $5 ONE TIME. Pluggie buttons MUST be 88x31 ONLY.

I know how hard it is to find good advertising, and my blog is growing little by little, (doing well under "mom blogs" on Google even) plus my twitter account is growing well and this blog will be promoted there as well, so I thought I would give others an opportunity to add some exposure here. If you have a pluggie and want to add it here forever, then I am opening the space for that. Get yours:o)

It is just $5 ONE TIME payment to be included forever! Family friendly only! I reserve the right to reject any plug I deem inappropriate for this blog.

So if you want to get your lifetime ad on the right hand side of this page, then just fill out the little form and we will take care of it. Most plugs will be posted within 24-48 hours! Please have your plug hosted on your own server and provide the URL (link) for the plug image. Once you have done that, DO NOT remove the plug from your site's files or the link will break and it will be removed. If you want to change the plug, simply create the new one, then upload it with the same name to your site files, overwriting the current one and it will change automatically. Don't let the image break and lose your spot! We will take the part of your pluggie URL that contains your website link unless the site link is different. For example if your pluggie link is http://www.mysite1.com/mybutton.gif we will use the site link http://www.mysite1.com to link the pluggie to. If you need it linked to a different web link then email us and let us know. Otherwise we will pull the link from there.

Need a pluggie? I'll make you one! Email me shopwithamom[at]yahoo.com. Can show you past examples. I charge just $5 for the button. I have made several including the Simply Melt Away and the Shop With a Mom one you see on the pluggie area. Just email me for more examples! (Change the [at] to @ in that email addy above).

I LOVE this site and magazine!

2009-10-29T15:18:00.002-06:00

I subscribed to the "Real Simple" newsletter and they have some of the coolest articles, tips and ideas in there!

Check out this one
http://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/quick-cleaning-solutions-every-room-10000001168532/?xid=askrsnews-10-28-2009

SPAM! Don't Buy It!

2009-10-29T00:34:00.003-06:00

GREAT site!

I came across this site and it says the same things I have been saying for years. DON'T USE SPAM!

Some people still don't get it. I see posts on groups where people will say "I got an email from XYZ Company and I was thinking of using them. What should I do?" DELETE THE EMAIL. THEY SPAMMED YOU!

Never do business with a spammer. Period. It will never stop until we stop it!

Check out this site and spread the word! No one benefits from SPAM except the spammer who is doing it ILLEGALLY. You are supporting a CRIMINAL when you support a spammer.

Want to make a little money just for adding a link to your site?

2009-10-27T00:30:00.001-06:00

Then you should join the brand new Simply Melt Away Link Partnership program!

Simply sign up. Simply add a link to your site. Simply earn 10% for every customer that you refer to Simply Melt Away.

It's Simple!

http://www.simplymeltaway.com

The Couponizer-Cool Tool!

2009-10-25T02:26:00.003-06:00

Want to save $100s on groceries and household items? Want to become a Coupon Coach and teach others how to save? Learn how you can do that and earn money!

The Couponizer has all the tools you need to get started with using coupons! It's not just an organizer; it's a whole system to help you learn the best ways to use your coupons, a free newsletter packed with more money saving tips, and a whole lot more!

Check them out by clicking the banner below and make saving money FUN!

OMG! What did I do....RIGHT???

2009-10-25T00:13:00.003-05:00

Simply Melt Away http://www.simplymeltaway.com is #1 on Google for the search term "Dye Free Tart Melts" and under page 5 for several other terms that I am trying to target! I just opened on October 1st! I am not sure what I did right, but WOW. I just about died when I put in that phrase and popped up in FIRST PLACE ON GOOGLE! How exciting is that?

Now I just want to get moved up further with shorter terms such as just "tart melts" and "soy wax tart melts" because those are some more that I want to be found on quickly. But those are more coveted keywords, so it will take some work for those.

But I am sooooo proud to be #1 on "Dye Free Tart Melts", I was just tickled to death when I saw that! Now I have to work to stay there!

WOW! WOW! WOW!

Unsolicited Business Review-Boutique Mama Web Design

2009-10-24T15:52:00.004-05:00

Of course I have posted here about recently opening Simply Melt Away http://www.simplymeltaway.com but I haven't posted a review of the great business where I got my beautiful template.

Normally I would just build my own template, but I didn't feel like it this time and wanted to get the store opened in time to take advantage of holiday sales this year. So I went looking for a template that would fit the "green" image of my product. I was so excited when I found Boutique Mama Web Design I found the perfect template that fit so well with the theme of my products, and Robin was so professional and nice! She did a wonderful job, getting it done just when she said she would, etc. It was installed on the day she said that she would install it and it was perfect.

I just wanted to thank her and let everyone know if you need a template, whether a pre-built, limited edition or custom, then you should go see Robin at Boutique Mama Web Design! She will take care of you!

Thanks again, Robin!

Dusted Off an Old Halloween Article...

2009-10-20T23:29:00.007-05:00

I wrote this article a few years ago and each year I bring it out, dust it off, add or take away a little from it and renew it again for that year.

If you have a blog or newsletter, feel free to reuse it if you wish, just leave my byline intact please:o)

--------------------

Halloween Tricks to Make it a Treat
by Kandi Traxel

If you are like me, you don’t want little ghostie's and goblin's, door to door visits on Halloween night turn into a visit by the tooth fairy; or worse, a visit to the emergency room of your local hospital!

Here are some healthier alternatives to giving out candy, and some tips for being safe on Halloween night. Use your imaginations and I am sure that you can come up with tons more ideas!

Instead of giving out candy, consider the following alternatives:

Halloween Pencils
Spider Rings
Character Erasers
Bookmarkers
Apples & Oranges
Stickers
Fruit Snack Packets
Raisin Packs
Children’s Flavored Lip Balms
Store Brand Juice Drinks (Less Expensive that Name Brand)
Plastic Cups (Character cups from Wal-Mart with Jack-o-lantern Faces, Bat Faces, etc. are 5/$1)
Small Fun Pads (With coloring pages & puzzles)
Character-Themed Notepads
Temporary tattoos

Scour the local dollar stores and the clearance bins at Wal-Mart and K-Mart and you can find some very good deals. One year I gave away small storybooks that I had gotten from a Wal-Mart sale bin for 10 cents each. They were The Ugly Duckling, The 3 Bears, and some other titles. (Give these to the younger kids and save the pencils and temporary tattoos for older kids.)

Whatever you do decide to give out, make sure that it is pre-packaged, tightly wrapped and safety sealed, (with the exception of fruit of course!) Gone are the days when you could find a couple of popcorn balls in your bag when you dumped out your loot on the living room floor!

Stay in neighborhoods with which you are familiar! Visit the home of relatives, church members and friends! Many stores and malls give out candy as well, so those are also a safe bet!

Many churches have alternative parties on Halloween Night. Most will advertise ahead of time, so be on the look out for those. They are a safer alternative to more "traditional" activities.

Carry a flashlight at all times!

Use face paint rather than masks. (Masks can be difficult to see thru)

If your child has a dark-colored costume, using some glow-in-the-dark paint, spray stripes on the back and front of the costume. It will be invisible in the light, but glow brightly outside in the dark! You may also use white or glow-in-the-dark tape.

Drive slowly down city streets! Small children DO NOT look both ways!

Discourage older kids playing pranks, "egging" houses and cars, and DO NOT buy them silly string! It is flammable and almost impossible to remove once it has been sprayed! Entire towns have outlawed it due to the damage it can cause!

I feel that no child is "too old" to trick or treat. If they are under 18, then by all means, don't turn them away from your door! Our kids grow up so fast, let's keep them young a little longer and let them participate in some old fashioned child-like fun if they want to. Just be sure, as a parent, to remind them of common manners, and if someone doesn't want to give them candy, tell them to politely say "Thank you, anyway", and move on. No tricks. Teens ALWAYS get candy at our door! With all of the things they COULD be doing, I feel that trick-or-treating should be encouraged!

After the fun, dump the candy and inspect each piece for signs of tampering. Throw away any loose candy, badly wrapped candy or anything that looks suspicious. Check fruit carefully for any suspicious marks. Cut it up and check for any type of discoloration or unusual odors. Wash and peel it when you can.

Use some common sense and you and your little ones (and even your teens) can have a fun and safe Halloween!

Kandi Traxel is a stay at home mom and the owner of Shop With a Mom http://www.shopwithamom.com and Simply Melt Away http://www.simplymeltaway.com/ and the author of the Shop With a Mom Blog http://www.shopwithamomblog.blogspot.com/

Simply Melt Away and save 15% by Being a SWAM BLog Reader!

2009-10-16T02:10:00.004-05:00

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Since you are a SWAM Blog reader, you can save 15% on your entire purchase when you place an order of deliciously scented tart melts from Simply Melt Away!

Use the special link http://simplymeltaway.com?code=SWAMBLOG15 and you will save an automatic 15% when you order! All prices in the cart will reflect the 15% discount!

This coupon is good until December 31st, but don't wait. These are PERFECT gifts for just about ANYONE on your holiday list, and those holidays are coming FAST!

Watch for new fragrances coming all the time! And if you have a favorite you don't see, then please let us know and we will see if we can get it for you. We have access to literally THOUSANDS of scents and would be more than happy to add your favorite to our line!

Check us out now! Right now, you can get your 15% off of the INTRODUCTORY pricing!

Click here now to save! http://simplymeltaway.com?code=SWAMBLOG15

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It's FINALLY time to "Simply Melt Away"!

2009-10-02T23:52:00.001-05:00

After doing so much product testing, getting everything together, and all the tons and tons of work that go into such things, my new store is open!

Please visit me here: http://www.simplymeltaway.com

If you like stuff that smells good, prefer scent without the flame, and want to use products that are totally earth friendly, then you should check it out!

I would love some feedback! Whether it is feedback on the site, the product, the idea itself, then please leave a comment:o)

The holidays are coming so don't forget that you probably have a Sunday School teacher, a public or private school teacher, a mom, sister, secret pal or favorite friend who would LOVE to simply melt away!

Add me to your favorites because new fragrances are being tested constantly! And if you have a favorite and want to have it added then drop me a line. I would be more than happy to see if I could get it for you!

Pop Ups

2009-09-28T20:39:00.004-05:00

I want to apologize for the pop ups that have been generated when you visit this blog. I think they are coming from the plug board. I have emailed them to ask them, but they will not respond.

If you look at the advertising you can buy from them, one of the options is obviously pop ups.

I don't know why anyone would pay for pop up advertising in this day and age. I mean doesn't everyone have a pop up blocker? I think it is a waste of money and it is annoying to my visitors and readers, and I hate them.

So I want to apologize. I am going to try to find a different plug board. I actually do have one, but installing it is kinda tricky. It has been a while since I used it, so I am going to have to go back and read over it.

When I get it done I will post. I cannot abide a place that uses pop ups. Like I said, all they are good for are annoying visitors and I don't want to do that.

So anyone that is getting annoyed by them, one good free way to protect yourself from them is to install the Google Toolbar. It comes with an automatic pop up blocker. That is what I am using and it works great and it is free. Fortunately I have not had to see the stupid things.

Again, my apologies. I am going to try and fix it as soon as I can. And if you are using the same service, you need to realize that it is probably annoying your visitors as well and you should probably get rid of it. I will do my homework and see what alternatives I can find.

Thanks everyone for your patience!

Free Search Engine Optimization Ebook

2009-09-18T20:51:00.002-05:00

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I haven't downoaded this, but again it was a recommended by Web Pro News, so I am sure it is good. And it is 100% free, no strings attached. It is an ebook for step by step search engine optimization to get you better results in the search engines.

http://www.ecombuffet.com/WPN090918a.htm

Check it out.

I would really like to hear if you use it and what your results are. If you will post in the comments (you can comment on any post, it doesn't have to be this one) that you used it and what the results were, I will dedicate a blog post to you and link to your business site!

So if you try it, let me know if it helped you out and get that post and link! I will do that for EVERYONE that does it, not just the first person. So let's get interactive here!

I hope some of you will try it and let me know!

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FREE Software that can't be beat!

2009-09-17T01:45:00.005-05:00

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If you don't have a professional version of Microsoft Office then you can get a WONDERFUL alternative that includes programs that are not only comparable, but COMPATIBLE with the Microsoft programs. So anything you create with these programs can be opened in any comparable Microsoft Office program! For example, you can create a word processing document, send it to a friend and they will be able to open it is MS Word!

It is called Open Office, and if you need a feature rich word processor, spreadsheet software, database software, presentation software and more and you HAVEN'T tried Open Office, you are missing out!

The BEST part about Open Office is that it is 100% FREE. Simply download the suite of tools and that is it.

You can find it at http://www.openoffice.org/ We've checked it out and it really is a great software suite!

Be sure to check out all the other free stuff we have on the Freebies page at Shop With a Mom. From free software to free graphics to free craft patterns, you can find it at Shop With a Mom!

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Did you know?

2009-09-15T01:01:00.004-05:00

Did you know that Shop With a Mom is still offering LIFETIME advertising in BOTH shopping directories (with 3 categories on the "Shop by Product" page) for just $15! PLUS you will get a text link on this blog!

That gives you not one, but TWO very valuable links for search engine optimization on TWO separate sites and it is for life!

So hurry on over to Shop With a Mom and get your permanent links there and here on the blog, all for just $15 ONE TIME PAYMENT!!!

http://www.shopwithamom.com Just click on Advertise With SWAM!

Free Twitter Marketing Kit

2009-08-18T17:59:00.004-05:00

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I get a newsletter from WebPro News, and they are a really good trusted source of information for networking, making money on the internet, business promotion, etc. etc. and they recommended this Twitter Marketing Kit ; and best of all it is FREE.

So I wanted to let you all know about it.

If you are using Twitter for business and would like some tips and pointers, this may be just the thing you need to get your business going.

Check it out here:

http://www.hubspot.com/twitter-for-business-marketing-kit/?source=WPNVideo-dedicated-twitter-090817

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Product/Site Endorsement...Kinda....

2009-08-09T16:41:00.002-05:00

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UPDATE! Well little Daxton Matthew decided to make his debut in the world a whole lot earlier than originally planned by emergency C-section on August 10th. But I got the products in the mail a couple of days after he was born and they were just adorable. Not only did I get the products I ordered, but I got a free lip balm and a set of postcards that have the names of her other products on them as well to give to my neice. I took them over to her this evening and she thought they were too cute, and she LOVED the smell of them! As she begins to use them on her son (and herself), I will post further updates for Least Likely to Breed! They are truly a unique line of great products, have EXCELLENT customer service, shipping time, and much more! They were even packed with a free cold pack to make sure everything arrived without damage from the heat. Normally companies charge for this, but not Least Likely to Breed! I was VERY, VERY impressed with everything! Thanks so much Leigh! Everything was just wonderful!

More Updates to Follow!
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Original Post:

Okay, I know that title is weird, but I saw this site a few months ago and I thought the products were absolutely adorable, so I wanted to post the link. I haven't used the products yet, so I can't speak for those, that is why this is only "kinda" an endorsement. If that makes any sense, at all.

Now, I have to warn you, if you are sensitive to mildly strong language (more of the PG-PG13 variety) then you don't want to visit. But if you have an awesome sense of humor and you are open minded and fun you are going to LOVE the names of these products. I just couldn't get enough of them. Just the name of the site makes me giggle.

http://www.leastlikely2breed.net

My neice is having a C-section in 11 days and I just placed an order. She will get such a HUGE kick out of this stuff. Just the names are too cute to pass up!

The only thing I am thinking about this site, is "Why didn't I think of this first, darn it???"

If you visit (and if you place an order especially), leave me a comment and let me know what you think. I think the products are absolutely adorable and unique and once my neice tries them I will post a review of them, 'cause I like telling you guys about great stuff. And it means more (at least it would to me) when you post a review without being asked. And they haven't asked, so once I get permission from them on the product review, I will post one:o)

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Go Back to School With Amy Adele and Save 25%

2009-08-09T01:21:00.002-05:00

In this economy who wouldn't want to save 25%? Check out the wonderful products at Amy Adele!

Click this banner to save now! Be sure to use the promo code lunchbox23 at checkout!

Unsolicited Product Review-Jess' Bee Natural

2009-08-04T22:28:00.004-05:00

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The following is a completely UNSOLICITED product review for Jess' Bee Natural Lip Balms. You can visit Jess' Bee Natural at http://beenaturallipbalm.com/ and get your own great lip balm or other natural product! Please tell Jess that Kandi at SWAM Blog sent you, so she will know that I am letting others know how great her products are!

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I was browsing around the web one night and I am always on the lookout for great natural bath and body products, so I was looking to see what I could find in that respect.

I came across a link to Jess' Bee Natural at http://beenaturallipbalm.com/ so I visited. I loved the look of her products; the site was professional in appearance, etc. so I decided to look around a bit more. I am always impressed with a well built site with good product photos.

Now I want to tell you I am totally addicted to lip balm. I normally use Burt's Bees, and although it has been the best one I could find to suit my needs, it is a little too thick and sticky. It has all natural ingredients, etc. and I only use peppermint, because when I have chapped lips, nothing feels better than peppermint, but it just wasn't the "perfect" balm I was looking for.

I have tried other natural lip balms, and I have had lots of bad ones. They would either be too thin, too sticky, too "grainy", too expensive (either the cost of the balm itself or the shipping charges to get it to me), or it wouldn't have NEARLY enough peppermint. The list of problems goes on and on.

I was delighted to see that Jess' Bee Natural has FREE SAMPLES! They just charge a small $2 shipping/handling fee to mail it out. So I immediately placed an order for a free sample of the peppermint lip balm.

EUREKA! I have found the PERFECT lip balm! No stickiness, no graininess, it is not too thick, not too thin and it is loaded with peppermint. It is, without a doubt, THE BEST lip balm I have ever used.

I placed another order with her and again the shipping fees were just awesome. And if there is one thing I can't stand it is being overcharged on shipping

I received the second order very quickly, and the lotion bar that I ordered is AMAZING as well. I have been using it on my dry cracked feet and it has worked wonderfully! Just like her great lip balm, the lotion bar was wonderful. I also ordered more peppermint lip balm and a cinnamon one. Even though I like the peppermint better, the cinnamon one was still great. I am just addicted to the peppermint, so to me nothing is going to compare! Again, the lip balms were not sticky, grainy, too thick or thin, they were just right and had the perfect amount of peppermint. They are just perfect. Period.

I am so glad I found Jess' Bee Natural because her products are awesome. If you are addicted to lip balms like I am, and you want a PERFECT one, you have to get it from her. I can promise you that you will NOT be disappointed! I have been telling everyone that I know about this wonderful product.

And if you have a store that sells all natural products, Jess wholesales her balms too!

Oh! By the way, you don't have to get peppermint like I did with your free sample, there are other flavors (like the cinnamon) if you prefer and they are ALL natural flavors; nothing artificial about these babies!

Thank you Jess! You will be my lip balm supplier from now on!

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Again I want to point out that this review was totally unsolicted. Jess did not ask me to review her products. I simply wanted to let my visitors know how great her products are!

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Print Free Coupons

2009-08-03T16:45:00.003-05:00

Print coupons for your favorite brands and save at Coupons.com.

P&G Everyday Solutions

2009-07-29T01:08:00.002-05:00

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Be sure to check out all the great deals and coupons you can get at P&G everyday solutions! You can get samples, coupons, find out about new products and more!

And who doesn't need to save money is this economy?

Check it out here: http://www.pgeverydaysolutions.com/

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New E-books!

2009-07-27T23:08:00.004-05:00

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Check out the right hand side of the page for a list of FABULOUS new E-books for all types of information! Make money, make crafts, start a business, budget your money, find all these and more!

Get yours now!

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More Coupon Mom Updated Coupons

2009-07-27T16:37:00.003-05:00

The Coupon Mom has just restocked her coupons again so be sure to check them out. You can join the newsletter and find out when they are fresh!

Check them out when you get a sec! http://www.couponmom.com/

REMEMBER: For more great freebies and more great coupons be sure to visit the freebies page at Shop With a Mom.com just click this link and use the top menu and click on"Freebies" to find tons of great free things. We check out all freebies before we post them on the freebies page to make sure they are REAL with no obligations! So you can be sure you will be getting REAL great freebies!

If you have a great freebie that you would like to share, then please email me at shopwithamom at yahoo.com (take out the at and put in the @ of course) and I will post it as quickly as possible!

Plugboard Accident!

2009-07-24T01:09:00.003-05:00

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I am so sorry, everyone! I accidentally deleted everyone from the plug board. I am such an idiot sometimes. Can I use the excuse that it was late, I was tired and I just just gotten home from my part time job? Okay, I'll use that for my excuse! So see you have to forgive me for that! lol

Please, feel free to plug away on the board and get it filled back up, and please accept my apologies! I got carried away when I was trying to remove ONE broken image and you were all victims of my chopping!

So I am sorry, please add your pluggies back and let's fill it back up!

Thanks everyone! And again, I am really sorry about that!

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Get a FREE T-Shirt from Vista Print!

2009-07-12T22:19:00.007-05:00

How cool is this? You can get a free sample t-shirt from Vista Print with your business logo and info on it!

If you are getting ready to do a craft fair, or will be out somewhere where you will be seen a lot and want a great free way to promote your business, then check it out!

Just click the banner!

If you order your shirt, I would love to have feedback on it! Send me pics or write me a review and I will post it for you!

Did You Know You Could Make Extra Money at Survey Savvy?

2009-07-11T23:19:00.004-05:00

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Well, you can! Really!

Of course, you aren't going to get rich, but I get emails to participate in surveys AT LEAST once per week (usually more than that), and many times I get screeners to see if I qualify to participate in consumer testing groups where you can be paid as much as $15-$30 for around an hour of your time online!

Most of the weekly surveys that I get are for $1-$5, but it adds up after a while and it is a good, fun way to make a little extra (and those little surveys take only about 5-20 minutes so it isn't bad money for a little of your time!). And again, if you qualify for the consumer testing groups, you can make even more.

Not only THAT but if you refer others, you get money when THEY take surveys, and you also get money when THEIR referrals take surveys! So it is 3 levels deep! You can just refer people and make money without doing anything! Put your referral link on your home page, blogger, twitter, anywhere and get others to take surveys and you will get money when they do.

I have only one IMPORTANT piece of advice and that is to fill out your profile questions COMPLETELY so you will get lots and lots of surveys. If you don't take the time to fill them out, then you WILL NOT get any surveys and you won't make any money at all.

I have always been paid, each and every time I have requested a check (and there is no minimum, you can request it any time), and I have gotten it quickly. They are a legitimate and great company. I would never post anything on this blog that was a get-rich-quick or downright rip off company. Ever. So you can trust me. They are really great. As a matter of fact as far as survey sites go, to me they are definitely one of the best!

Please use this link since I am the one telling you about them. It is only fair to use my link (you will want others to use yours!)

https://www.surveysavvy.com?id=830282&action=join

Again, once you sign up, then grab your referral link and promote it like crazy. Once you start getting others to sign up, then you will make money off of their surveys by doing nothing. It is really a great way to make a little extra grocery money, gas money, or just a little extra spending money for a special treat for yourself!

Check it out now!

https://www.surveysavvy.com?id=830282&action=join

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Just a Note From Kandi-4th of July

2009-07-04T02:01:00.001-05:00

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Well today's the day to celebrate our independence! But how many of us will REALLY be thinking about what this day is about while we are licking our ice cream cones, spitting those watermelon seeds, and setting off bottle rockets. Please take this time to tell your children exactly what this day means. It means that we have the right to CHOOSE what we do. There are so many in this world that don't have the right to choose where they live, what they eat, what they wear, in whom they wish to worship and the list goes on and on. That is what makes this country so great.

Now don't get me wrong. I know this country has its flaws. Especially in recent months, the flaws are showing more than ever. It seems like every day lately there is some new bill being passed by congress and/or the senate that we DIDN'T get to vote on. I know that and it angers me as well. When my freedom to choose has been taken away from me, or is being toyed with, I get angry and frustrated. Sometimes I see this country as a big pair of denim overalls with patches everywhere where our government tried to "fix" something, "change" something or just plain "hide" something. But this is all we have. And we have to remember that we have a right to use our voices in protest, in voting, letter writing, and for just plain ole complaining if that is what we want to do. And people DIED so that we could do that. Think about someone you know that has died for ANY reason and then remember THAT is what THOUSANDS of men and women have done so you CAN lick those cones and set off those bottle rockets. They had family, friends, children, etc. too and those people missed them when they were gone.

So whatever you do tomorrow, be proud to be an American, and if you can't do that, then please at least raise your flags to those that did what they felt they had to do do defend this country. Raise them for those that lost their lives in all the wars that have been fought, and for those that died at the whim of terrorists on April 19, 1995, and on September 11, 2001.

Give your kids a sense of pride that they can carry with them. They are, after all, the future of this country. Give them a reason to want to make a difference when it is their turn.

Okay, off my soap box now. Be safe today, and no matter what your religious beliefs, or lack thereof, remember those that have died to give us this country, warts and all.

Happy 4th of July from The SWAM Blog!

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ADORABLE Summer Craft Ideas

2009-07-03T14:46:00.000-05:00

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MSN.com has an adorable slide show of family crafts you can check out here: http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-life/family-fun-budget/staticslideshowmartha.aspx?cp-documentid=20099728&gt1=32001

When it is raining or just too hot to be outside, these are PERFECT crafts for the kids!

I just love the bean mosaics and the rock frogs! If anyone makes any of these I would love to post them here on the blog. Just send me the photos and if you want to link to your own website along with them giving you a little boost in advertising, then feel free.

I don't have youngsters at home anymore, but I just may have to make some of those mosaics and frogs for myself! lol

Have fun!

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Coupon Mom Coupons Just Restocked!

2009-07-01T11:31:00.003-05:00

The Coupon Mom has just restocked her coupons so be sure to check them out. You can join the newsletter and find out when they are fresh!

Check them out when you get a sec! http://www.couponmom.com/

New Plugboard!

2009-06-30T21:33:00.000-05:00

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The Shop With a Mom Blog now has a new plug board! Well it really isn't "new", I moved it over from the old blog. Feel free to plug any time!

Just scroll down on the right to plug your site now!

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The Wages of SPAM

2009-06-27T22:19:00.000-05:00

This is an older article that I wrote a while back, but since SPAM continues to plague our lives I thought I would dig it out, dust it off and post it:o)

Feel free to use this article in your newsletters or on your blog or website with the byline at the end fully intact.

The Wages of SPAM
by Kandi Traxel

There have been literally thousands of articles written on the subject of "spam" (and no, I am not referring to the canned lunchmeat); what it is, how to stop it, the dangers of using it. There are whole sites and specific laws devoted to it. People talk about it on groups, in forums and via email. News stories pop up telling us that another big spammer has been caught and arrested. And still it continues to plague our inboxes. The costs associated with the sending and receiving of unsolicited emails is astronomical; not only the costs to individuals who are scammed every day as a result of these emails, but for taxpayers as well, as new laws and techniques to combat it are being enacted every day by law enforcement and government agencies.

Each and every day people are bombarded with electronic correspondence with "tips" on how to improve their love lives, places to get prescription drugs without a prescription, how to get high dollar software for free or at ridiculously low cost, and how to make your fortune online without lifting a finger. And it doesn't stop there. There are literally millions of spam emails sent on a daily basis on every subject one can imagine. It comes from big businesses, representatives of big businesses, work at home moms, small independent business owners, con artists; the list goes on and on. People are taken for millions of dollars each year, by falling for scams perpetrated by the use of these ambiguous emails.

By simple definition, spam is "any deceptive or unsolicited commercial email". In other words, ANY commercial email that the recipient didn't ask for is spam. According to the 2003 CAN-SPAM laws, in any business email (even those from mailing lists that have subscribers who not only subscribe but then have to confirm the subscription) you must identify it as a commercial email, you must include your PHYSICAL business address, and you must provide a way for the recipient to "opt out" of getting any more of them. Now, that doesn't mean that you can send an email to just anyone you want, and as long as you include those 3 things it isn't spam. On the contrary; if it is UNSOLICITED, meaning your recipient didn't specifically ask for it, then it is spam no matter how much “legal” information you include in it.

You have to wonder, if everyone knows what spam is, and if everyone knows that there are laws against it, and if everyone is employing the "bigger and better" spam controls on their email programs, then what could these spammers still be getting out of sending spam? The answer is simple: MONEY. There is always someone willing to open up the spam and "take advantage" of the so-called "great deals" inside it!

As a member of various groups, it is not uncommon for me to see a post that says something like "I have been receiving emails from ‘XYZ Company’, they look good, so I was wondering if anyone had any information on them, good or bad." Well first of all, they sent you spam. Isn't that enough to determine whether they are good or bad? They have engaged in illegal and unscrupulous business activities in order to get your attention and your money. I am going to err on the side of caution and say, "BAD". But that is just me.

Being vigilant in trying to combat spam is all we have when it comes to stopping it. You have to take control of your own inbox. Stop opening spam emails. Stop reading spam emails. Stop forwarding spam emails. And for heaven's sake, stop USING spam emails! If you DO happen to open one, then be sure to forward it to the proper authorities. Most email hosts have an "abuse" or "spam" email address to which you can send the offending correspondence. When you send them one of these emails, be sure to use full headers containing the IP and other information on the sender. If you can't figure out how to do that, then consult the "Help" files in your specific program. Always forward the emails with that header so that it can be determined from where the email originated.

If you receive any suspicious email that appears to be from anywhere you have secure personal and financial information stored, such as PayPal, Ebay, your bank, etc. and you aren't sure about it, then DO NOT EVER click ANY link within that email. Log out of your email program, type in the SECURE link to the business web site (secure links begin with https:), and only then log in to your account and check things out. There are specific factors that determine whether an email is legitimate or fraudulent. Please read any information that these entities provide on what constitutes a legitimate email. For example, if it is an email from a REAL institution such as PayPal or EBay, it will call you by name. If the email starts with "Dear Valued Customer", then you know beyond a doubt that it is fraudulent and should be forwarded immediately to the abuse division of that particular institution. Be sure you are familiar with the other specific details that will help you spot these counterfeit messages.

Of course it is one thing to receive spam. It is quite another if YOU are the one sending the unsolicited emails. If you are a web site owner, an independent representative of any company, or if you do any other type of business online, and you decide to blast emails to everyone you ever emailed (or that has ever emailed you), or if you join groups just to "harvest" or steal, the email addresses of its members, then please reconsider. Remember, it takes more that a subject line of "Do not delete this email; it is not spam", to make it legitimate. If you are using these measures to gain more leads, get more sales, or for any other type of commercial "payoff", then you my friend are a spammer and you are breaking the law! You can be fined thousands of dollars per incident if caught and convicted. If you want to be seen as a legitimate and honest business person, then spamming is not the way to achieve that!

The bottom line is this: we all pay for spam. The only way we can ever hope to make it a thing of the past is to stop giving spammers what they want and to be very sure we ourselves are not engaging in this illegal and deceitful practice.

For more information on spam, please visit the FTC website and read the CAN-SPAM Act for yourself: www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/buspubs/canspam.shtm or www.ftc.gov/spam

Kandi Traxel is a WAHM and the owner of Shop With a Mom http://www.shopwithamom.com and The Shop With a Mom Blog http://shopwithamomblog.blogspot.com

Now THIS is a DELISH Recipe!

2009-06-26T23:54:00.000-05:00

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I am thinking, "Fourth of July family get together" type of recipe.....what about you? My mouth is watering just thinking of these tasty little treasures!

http://www.delish.com/recipefinder/chocolate-mint-ice-cream-sandwiches-3551

- YUM!

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Looking for "Green" Kid's Stationery Products?

2009-06-25T13:28:00.000-05:00

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Check this out! Amy Adele uses 100% recycled paper on their products!

With adorable designs and a "green" philosophy, you can't go wrong with Amy Adele products!

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Save 60% at the HUGE Land of Nod Super Duper Summer Sale!

2009-06-18T01:20:00.000-05:00

Check out the Land of Nod's Super Duper Summer Sale Now!

We're having our huge annual summer sale at The Land of Nod. From June 17-July 15, the temperature may be rising, but our prices are falling. You’ll find markdowns up to 60% off regular prices on everything from outdoor and storage items to our entire collection of rugs, Antique White Jenny Lind Furniture and more.

Just click the banner below to SAVE 60% NOW!

NEW ARTICLE! "Real Ways to Save Money is This Tough Economy"

2009-06-17T20:21:00.000-05:00

Real Ways to Save Money in This Tough Economy
by Kandi Traxel

In this economy it is getting harder and harder for some families to make ends meet. There are articles galore on how to survive the economy, but many of those aren't for people that are really in trouble. If you've had to take a different, lower-paying job, or if you were used to living on two incomes and you are now living on just one, or if higher prices are just sucking you dry, then you aren't concerned about stock portfolios, you just want to survive every day. And you might not know how you can do such LITTLE THINGS to save BIG.

There are a lot of things that real families, in real trouble can do to pinch a penny and it will not hurt a bit.

Save on Your Utilities, Cable and Phone Services

We've all heard this one before, but I am going to mention it, because it is important. Raise your thermostat a few degrees in the summer and lower it in the winter. This can really add up to a lot of savings over a year's time!

If you have a home phone, plus cell phones, ditch the home phone. You are paying a bill that has become completely unnecessary. And if you have astronomical cell phone bills due to overages, then consider a prepaid service. Prepaid isn't what it once was. It is much better and smarter now. Most companies have some excellent prepaid plans that have unlimited options in regards to text messaging, nights and weekends, mobile to mobile, and other unlimited features. Of course with these plans you don't usually get roll-over minutes, but you don't get ANY surprises when it is time to pay the bill each month either. If you have Cricket service in your area, then check that one out first. It is perfect for teens!

If you don't have a water-saving shower head on the shower, then invest in one. If you don't have the money to invest in one (and many people just don't right now), you can still save a ton of money by turning the water on only half way when you shower (or at the sink when you wash your hands). There is no reason to have the faucet going "full blast". You can get just as clean on half the water. You are literally letting your money go down the drain. And never leave the water running while brushing your teeth.

It actually takes more water to fill a tub for a bath than it does to take a short shower. But don't take hot showers. Very hot water dries your skin out anyway, and it uses way more energy. Take lukewarm showers and use a kitchen timer, especially for the kids. If you want to be really frugal, turn the shower on and wet yourself down, turn it off and soap up, shampoo, shave, etc., then turn it back on and rinse off.

If you don't have a water-saving toilet, and again, if you have no money to invest in one, you can still save water with every flush. Take a 16-32 oz shampoo bottle and fill it with gravel, sand or water and put it in the back of the toilet tank. This will make the toilet “think” the tank is full and it will stop running more quickly and you will use less with each flush. Try flushing after placing it in the tank and if there isn't enough water to flush properly, simply remove a little of the sand from the bottle and place it back in the tank. Keep emptying it a bit at a time until you have enough water to make the toilet flush completely.

Run the clothes washer and dishwasher only when full and on the shortest possible cycles. If your clothing or dishes aren’t heavily soiled there is no need to run either machine on a full cycle. And never wash any clothes in hot water. Warm will work just fine for heavy soil, and for anything else use only cold water. And ALWAYS rinse in cold. Never use heat dry on the dishwasher. Once the rinse cycle is finished, prop the door open with a plastic tumbler or bowl to let the steam escape and dry the dishes.

Add 1/2 to 1 cup cheap baking soda to your washing machine and use 1/2 the detergent.

Check your clothes in the dryer half way or ¾ of the way through the drying cycle. You may be able to use much less time than you currently do. You should also have an “automatic” cycle on your dryer that will run only until clothes are dry, also cutting down on the length of time that the dryer is running.

If you don't have any family members that suffer from allergies, hang your clothes out on a clothesline; especially sheets, blankets, rugs, cloth diapers, etc. Not only will you save money, but they will smell wonderful when you remove them from the line!

Drop your cable service to just basic and your cable internet to the slowest speed. Even the slowest broadband is just as good as or even better than what most people need on a daily basis. If you must have your movies, either borrow from the library or use a mail service such as Netflix. We have Netflix and we LOVE it. Not only do you get movies shipped to your door, they have over 14,000 of them that you can watch online FREE, as part of your already paid service. I can't say enough good things about it! And the best part, no late charges when you forget to return a movie!

Pay your utilities, cable and rent on time. I know that one can be tough, but if you will look closely at your bills, most charge late fees of $10, $25 or even more when they are late. Do your best to get on track and stay on track and you could save yourself several hundred dollars a year!

TURN IT OFF! I have walked through my house and found three of our televisions all on, all on the same channel, and only one of them being watched! If you are watching the same thing, do it in the same room. And when you aren’t watching, turn it off. Turn off thing such as printers, computers, CD and DVD players, or any electronic item you are not using. Don’t leave your cell phone plugged in after it tells you that the phone is charged. And, ALWAYS turn off lights and lamps when you are not in the room! Use nightlights on sensors so that they go off during the day on their own and come on when it gets dark.

If you or your kids must have the TV on to fall asleep, always use the timer so that it will shut off after you have fallen asleep.

Save When You Spend

Don't buy refills for your foaming hand soap bottles when you can make it yourself. Save the bottles, then buy regular store-brand liquid soap, place 2 tablespoons in the bottle, fill the rest with water and shake it up. This is a great way to get your kids to use much less body wash in the bath too! Just save your foaming bottles and use their liquid body wash in place of the liquid soap.

Buy store brand products whenever possible. Many things such as sugars (granulated, powdered and brown), cooking oil, flour, corn meal, baking soda, baking powder, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, spices, noodles, cream soups for cooking, and many, many other items are just a waste of money at name brand prices. Skip the brand-name boxed cereals and get the bagged cereals (which are still name brand). My kids liked them better anyway and the price difference is amazing. When you do insist on a name brand, visit the website of the brand and sign up for money saving offers and coupons.

Canned vegetables tend to be cheaper AND healthier than frozen or even fresh because they are cooked right in the can. All of the vitamins stay in the vegetables rather than being boiled or baked out of them.

You will save a lot of money on meat if you use them in soups, stews and casseroles, rather than cooking and serving each family member an entire steak, for example. Use half the steak, and make beef and noodles with off brand noodles and brown gravy mix. Scour the internet for other great recipes, tips and ideas.

If you have the time and inclination, learn to cook in bulk and freeze the meals.

Buy off-brand lawn and leaf bags, instead of name brand garbage bags. Lawn and leaf bags tend to be higher density and the cheap lawn and leaf bags are usually as good as the name brand trash bags. Better yet, if your city is like ours and offers single-sort recycling, take full advantage of it! You will use fewer trash bags and do something so good for the environment! If your city doesn't have a recycling program, try to get them to start one. I put out 2 to 3 times as many recyclables as I do trash because of our program. That saves me on the bags, and I am doing my part for the environment.

Keep your plastic bags from the grocery store and use them as trash can liners in your small trash cans, or to put wet towels and swimsuits in when you go to the pool or beach. They have a ton of uses if you use your imagination.

Keep your kids entertained this summer by getting them library cards and taking advantage of the summer programs they provide. Some cities also have "free movies in the park" nights. Ask your local chamber of commerce if your city does that and see if you can get a schedule.

When you buy clothing, buy wash and wear ONLY. It doesn't matter how much it is marked down, it is NOT a bargain if it has to be dry cleaned or takes an hour to iron it!

For your kids, in the summer, at many places, such as Walmart, you can buy mix and match poly-cotton shorts and tops for as little as $2.50 to $3 each. You can get an entire outfit for $5-$6. Better still, when your child has a birthday, limit the toys and have everyone give them clothing as gifts. My great-nieces love to get clothes as gifts and I can buy them several of the mix and match outfits and it is a big help to my niece and her husband when it comes to clothing her kids.

With all the kid's gadgets and games these days, invest in rechargeable batteries in all sizes. The cost is not that much more in the initial investment and it will save a ton of money in the long run this summer and from now on!

Use your hair conditioner for shaving cream. I started doing this to alleviate my dry skin, and it not only works great for that, it is a cheap shaving cream. Buy a cheap off brand and use it just for shaving.

Stop eating out completely and take your own coffee and lunch to work. A cup or thermos of coffee from home with some flavored creamer is much cheaper that buying Starbucks on the way to work, and a sandwich brought from home can save you $50 a week or more! You could buy a week’s worth of groceries for your family for what you are spending on eating out for lunch!

I do believe for the most part that you get what you pay for, so when you have to make an important large purchase, research all options and don't necessarily go for the cheapest every time because you may get something that you will have to replace in no time. Make sure you are spending wisely by doing your homework first and finding the best price on the best quality you can afford.

Finding Money When You Need It Now

If you need extra cash now, clear out the closets and garage and have a garage sale. Ask the neighbors to have one the same weekend and you will all benefit from having more customers.

List large items on Craigslist! It is free to list on there! You never know until you try, and it will not cost you anything. You might have something sitting in a closet collecting dust that someone is willing to pay you for today!

Never underestimate the old fashioned "change jar". Every time you pay with cash and get change, bring it home and toss it in a jelly jar. When it is full, take it to the nearest Coinstar. You will be amazed at how much money all those pennies and nickels will add up to. Use the money to buy something you have really been needing for which you didn't have the money, to buy groceries, or to reward yourself just for saving it! And don't forget to check the couch cushions, the bottom of the washing machine or your purses and check your jeans and coat pockets!

If you aren't afraid of needles, sign up to sell your blood or plasma. Do an internet search for your closest bank to find out what they require, then give an hour or two of your time and get paid for it. You won't get rich, but you could make gas or grocery money when you have none and help save lives at the same time!

The Bottom Line

If you are having a really hard time making it, then implementing these changes now can make a big difference for you. Even if you aren't in a financial bind, you can make many of these changes to save a lot of money and you will have a great sense of accomplishment once you start seeing the difference it can and will make and the resources you can save!

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Kandi Traxel is a WAHM and the owner of Shop With a Mom http://www.shopwithamom.com and the Shop With a Mom Blog http://shopwithamomblog.blogspot.com

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NOTE: This article is available for reprinting on your own blog, your website or your newsletter as long as proper credit is given by using the information at the bottom of the of the article.

Want to see my other articles that are also available for reprint? Check them out here: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Kandi_M_Traxel

Product Review (Unsolicited)-Thirty One Gifts-Phyllis O'Neill

2009-06-11T18:03:00.001-05:00

NOTE: This is a completely UNSOLICITED product review for Thirty One Gifts, and one of the Consultants of said company, Phyllis O’Neill. I was lucky enough to get to see one of her products and I was very impressed and wanted to tell you about it. She didn't ask me to do it, but I wanted to spread the word about these cute products!

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Shop With a Mom is currently holding a Free Grand Re-Opening Drawing and I have been getting some great donations for the gift box.

One of those donations is the CUTEST bag from Phyllis O'Neill who WAS a Sr. Consultant for Thirty One Gifts and just became a Director-In-Qualification! You can check her site out, and congratulate her for that here http://www.phyllisoneill.com/ When you get there click on the Spring and Summer Catalog link in the left hand menu and flip through it. The handbag she donated is on page 10, the “Small Bow Purse”.

This purse is adorable; it is canvas, hot pink with white polka dots and a little bow sewn on near the handle. It is roomy and very well put together. The lining on the inside is green and white stripes. I turned it over, this way and that, “tried it on” (then got jealous because SOMEONE ELSE is going to get to carry it!), opened and closed it and gave it good “going over”.

If you go and take a look at Phyllis’ site and go through the catalog there are a ton of other bags that are just as beautiful as this one. So if hot pink and white polka dots are not your cup of tea, I can assure you, you will find something you will love.

The catalog has much more than handbags. (You should see the “Personality Buckets”! When I say they would be the PERFECT gift, I really mean it. So someone, go and buy me one! I’ll take that one for pets! HOW CUTE! They are on page 7, by the way, just to make it easy for you to find my gift :o) I am going to send this post to all my friends and family members.)

You’ll find key chains, candles, adorable “girlie” stationery, baskets, word art, and so many more things I can’t begin to list them all here! I spent a lot of time ~~drooling over~~ perusing the catalog and just couldn’t get enough.

Once you have finished with this catalog, be sure to check out the 31Kid catalog and the 'direction “teens”' edition. If they are going off to college this fall, send them in style!

So stop in at Phyllis’ site and if you get a chance to chat with her (or when you are ordering me that gift bucket; whichever works better for YOU) tell her Kandi sent you!

Thanks again, Phyllis for the donation to the drawing. I know that the person who wins the purse is just going to love it!

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FREE Drawing Reminder

2009-06-11T17:23:00.001-05:00

Don't forget the FREE Drawing is still going on at Shop With a Mom! We have some FABULOUS prizes from some AWESOME work at home moms!

There is a beautiful handbag, a delicious assortment of body products, a yuummy scented candle, an adorable CD personalized for your child, the cutest little pair of boxers and a wonderful gift certificate for some fabulous stationery products!

So be sure to stop by http://www.shopwithamom.com and enter. It's free. There is nothing to join, nothing to buy, no obligations whatsoever. Just enter. After the drawing, the names, emails, etc. will be discarded. I adhere to a very strict privacy and anti spam policy!

So what have you got to lose but about 30 seconds to sign up and verify your entry!

You can't be the winner if you don't enter, so go on over and do it!

Mmmm....Warning....YUMMY Recipes from Pillsbury!

2009-06-09T22:21:00.001-05:00

Find some awesome recipes from Pillsbury!

http://www.pillsbury.com/recipes/recipelanding.htm

You won't be able to resist so be careful!

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Free Coupons for Malt o Meal Cereal

2009-06-05T20:01:00.000-05:00

More great coupons for Malt-o-Meal bagged cereals. These are a great deal!

http://www.malt-o-meal.com/special-offers/special-offers.php

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Free Coupons for Dishwasher Tablets

2009-06-05T19:58:00.000-05:00

Here is a link for an offer for "Finish" (previously Electrasol" dishwasher tablets. These things are amazing! If you haven't tried them, then get the coupon and do so!

http://www.finishdishwashing.com/

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FREE Shop With a Mom Re-Grand Opening Drawing!

2009-06-05T00:09:00.000-05:00

The SWAM FREE drawing is going on right now! Visit http://www.shopwithamom.com/ and enter to win a gift box worth $139!

Tell your friends! Have a blog or website? Let your friends know the drawing is going on by using this button and linking it to http://www.shopwithamom.com/

Best of luck to everyone who enters!

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In This Economy Who Couldn't Use Coupons!

2009-06-03T16:27:00.000-05:00

Get tons of free coupons for everyday items at Cool Savings!

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Welcome to the ALL NEW Shop With a Mom Blog!

2009-06-02T23:13:00.000-05:00

Welcome friends!

At the NEW SWAM Blog you will find tons of useful information for all types of moms! From recipes, to free coupons, to money saving ideas, household cleaning tips and more! The list goes on and on!

Got an article, household tip, recipe or freebie you would like to share? Then contact us at shopwithamom@yahoo.com and let us know. We can't pomise to use evertying that everyone sends, but we will do our best!

Thanks and I hope you will visit us often!

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Be sure to visit Shop With a Mom often to shop with other moms, find freebies and get great ad rates! http://www.shopwithamom.com

Need FREE Advertising? Visit the Top Home Business Women Top Site List and add your site for fREE! http://homebizwomen.gotop1oo.com

Creating a Contingency Plan for WAHM Businesses

2009-05-30T22:39:00.000-05:00

Note:
You are free to use this article for your own web site, newsletter or blog,
provided that the byline giving credit to Kandi Traxel remains intact.

Creating a Contingency Plan for WAHM Businesses
What your loved ones or assistant would need to know to temporarily run or permanently close your
online business. By: Kandi Traxel

The last question that anyone wants to think about is "What would happen to my
home business if I was to be seriously injured or if I die? Who would tie up the
loose ends?"

It can be difficult to think about these things, but just as it is important to
leave a will and/or final personal wishes for your family, it is important to
leave information regarding your business. If you become seriously ill, are
injured in an accident, or in the event of your death, then you owe it to your
customers, clients, or business associates to make sure that things are taken
care of in a timely and professional manner. They are the ones that helped you
make your business what it is; without them you would not have one. Making sure
they are taken care of is extremely important.

Below is a checklist of what types of information you will need to document,
along with tips and suggestions for the person you leave in charge.

Make a list of all website names, links, hosts (with contact information), plus
usernames and passwords for these accounts. You may also want to leave
instructions for accessing any of your website files on your hard drive, how to
make changes and how to publish those files.

Make a list of all email addresses detailing which address belongs to which
site, along with usernames and passwords for those accounts.

Leave the link to and username/password for your PayPal or any other "merchant"
or payment processing accounts. Also if you have a separate business checking
account, leave the account numbers, and any online username and passwords to
access the account. If you have debit cards associated with those accounts, make
a list of the card numbers that go with each account, along with a description
of the card(s). For example if you have a PayPal account with a blue MasterCard
debit card and a bank account with a red colored VISA, then you could list
something like;

PayPal, Blue MasterCard, Card Number 1234567812345678

Bank Account at First Federal Bank, Red VISA, Card Number 0987654309876543

Leave instructions for accessing your online store account (if you have one) and
retrieving any and all pending orders, plus instructions for filling or
refunding those orders, i.e. where to find products, order products, or how you
want the money refunded. Leave your preferences such as refunds via money order,
business check, PayPal, etc.

If you sell on EBay, Half.com, Amazon (or any other “auction” type site), make
sure to list usernames/passwords for the account(s), and leave instructions for
retrieving any pending auctions or shipments. In the case of Half.com or Amazon,
be sure to give detailed information on deleting your inventory.

Make a list of current affiliates, clients, contacts, advertisers, etc. with
which you are doing business along with all contact information. A database
program such as MS Access would be perfect for this.

Make a list of groups or message boards in which you participate and usernames
and passwords for those accounts. Leave instructions on whether or not you want
a message posted on these groups or message boards letting others know what has
happened to you and when you will be returning to the group.

Make lists of names, addresses, phone numbers of all of your wholesale
suppliers, drop shippers, or companies for which you are a representative, etc.
along with names and email address or phone number of any particular contact
with those companies.

Finally, sit down and type out all of the information that you would like to
have in the email that you want sent out, the info to type on the homepage of
your website, and the info you want to have posted in your groups. This should
include any information on when you will be returning (if you know) or in the
event that you will not be returning, final words, wishes, etc.

Go over all of this information with the person you wish to leave in charge.
Choose someone that would be able to handle the responsibility professionally as
well as emotionally in the event of your death. It would probably be unwise to
leave this responsibility to your husband, your mother, or a grown child because
this would likely be the last thing they will want to think about. If you can
count on a good friend or business associate to do these things for you then it
would be better. If you are personally familiar with your web site host, one of
your affiliates, your business suppliers, etc. then leave some of the
information with them and ask them to take care of it. For example, if your web
host is a friend, leave instructions with them on the type of information that
needs to be posted on the home page of your site, and whether you want all the
pages taken down, etc. If you are personal friends with the owner of any groups
of which you are a member, then leave information with them for posting a
message on the group on your behalf.

It is important that ANY business have some type of contingency plan in place in
the event of an emergency. Remember if YOU were the associate or customer of a
business that suddenly closed (and it happens all the time), and you were left
hanging, how happy would that make YOU? Use this same consideration when making
your own contingency plan. It is not only the professional thing to do, it is
the ETHICAL thing to do as well.

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Kandi Traxel is a WAHM and the owner of Shop With a Mom-The Original "Mod Mom's" Shopping Mall!
http://www.shopwithamom.com/

Top Home Business Women Top Site-FREE Advertising for your WAHM Business http://homebizwomen.go100.com