If you’ve been following my blog, then you already know my kid is a huge fan of Peter Rabbit Organics puree snacks (and so am I)! You can read previous reviews here and here. These snacks are convenient AND healthy, I never have to question the contents!

The Peter Rabbit Organics family of fruit and veggie puree snacks has grown to include five new and nutritious flavors. The new flavor combinations were inspired by customer feedback and will help parents squeeze more fruits and veggies into their kids’ diets through the use of familiar base flavors such as apple and banana.

The addition of the new flavors bring the popular line to a total of 11 delicious flavors including:

• Peach and Apple – New!
• Banana and Apple – New!
• Pear and Apple – New!
• Pear and Pea – New!
• Pumpkin, Carrot and Apple – New!
• Apple and Grape
• Mango, Banana and Orange
• Strawberry and Banana
• Pea, Spinach and Apple
• Sweet Potato, Corn and Apple
• Carrot, Squash and Apple

The new flavors, available at Amazon.com, Target.com and Diapers.com, will be rolling out this spring at current Peter Rabbit Organics distributors Babies R Us, Albertson’s, Starbucks, Publix, Whole Foods Markets, Best Buy Baby Stores and REI. These little pouches retail for around $1.79 each.

My son enjoyed the new flavor pouches (he sampled the 5 combinations highlighted above)! The only one he wasn’t a big fan of was the Pear and Pea combination. It’s strange, he loves pears and peas but just not mixed together. We are hopeful to see the new combinations at our local retailers.

Below are reasons you will love Peter Rabbit Organics pouches.

• Pouches contain a generous 4 to 4.4 oz. serving of 100% USDA certified organic fruit.
• No added sugar, preservatives or artificial ingredients.
• Provides 100% of the recommended servings of fruit and/or vegetables for kids.
• High in vitamin C, have between 60 and 90 calories, 0 fat (of course – it’s fruit!) and 1.5-2 grams of fiber.
• No refrigeration required before eating.
• Pouches are BPA-free.
• Squeeze pouches are easy for little hands (and can be resealed if not enjoyed all at once).
• Contain a no-choke cap making them safe and fun!

I cannot say enough positives about this company and their products! I am VERY excited to offer a giveaway so one lucky reader can also try these 5 new Organic Fruit & Veg flavor pouches!

***One lucky winner will win a Peter Rabbit Organics package containing the 5 new flavors!***

Just enter the Rafflecopter below (please allow time for the Rafflecopter to load).***

a Rafflecopter giveaway

* Peter Rabbit Organics provided complimentary pouches for my son and I to sample and provide an honest review. The opinions expressed are indeed ours. No compensation was received.

More photos from our Washington, D.C. visit…

I am excited to help Sargento spread the word about their “Thin To Win” Campaign. The goal is to encourage Americans to make room for a more relaxed, “thinned out” lifestyle when it comes to our meals, closets and/or bad habits. Sargento started a 45-day Facebook campaign on May 4th, hop over and take the daily challenges and win prizes!

Today’s Challenge: Carve out 30 minutes of “me” time to help manage stressful workloads.

When is the last time YOU took 30 minutes of time for yourself? It doesn’t matter if you are a stay-at-home mom, work a part-time position or are a busy professional, everyone needs to manage stressful workloads and lower stress levels. Don’t say you do not have time, because you do! Find time, your health deserves it.

Every day, I enjoy “me” time by exercising at least 30 minutes (walking, running, doing workout dvds, playing with my son outside, etc.). My preferred stress reliever (aka “me” time) is to strap my son in his jogging stroller and take off. Not only am I helping myself, but also showing him the importance of a healthy lifestyle. I run several miles to the playground then he enjoys a little “me” time. Afterwards, he jumps back in the stroller and I run back home. Some may say “well you stay home all day so of course you have time“. I take care of a 4 year old, am CEO of my household AND run a business. I may be home, but I AM busy and I DO have stress in my life, I just know how to manage it.

I am always on the go, but recognize the importance of taking care of myself, too. On January 1, 2012, I made the decision to be healthier for myself and my family. I have changed my lifestyle and lost 39 pounds. Finding at least 30 minutes of “me” time is one key element that helped me reach that goal!

I am rallying YOU to take this challenge with me! Step outside of your normal routine and make some “me” time! If you look hard enough, you will find 30 minutes to dedicate! How about a lunchtime stroll to reduce stress? What about a hot, bubble bath after a long day? Perhaps a walk after dinner or tending to your garden? The options are endless and when you think about it, 30 minutes really isn’t that much time to dedicate to yourself anyway.

You can see how others are thinning out their lives by taking the Sargento “Thin To Win” challenge by following the twitter hashtag #ThintoWin.

Make sure and leave a comment here telling me how you prefer to spend “me” time!

* Disclosure: I received products and compensation from Sargento Foods Inc. and The Motherhood as part of my participation in this campaign. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this post are my own.”

Now through June 30th, Florida Residents can purchase Gatorland single day adult, child, and/or senior tickets for just $9.99.

Proof of residency is required.

Get inspired. Get educated. Get started.

CENTRAL FLORIDA HOME & GARDEN SHOW RETURNS MAY 25-27, 2012

HGTV Designer and Painting Pro Kimberly Lacy to Appear

ORLANDO, Fla. – One of the region’s most anticipated spring events will be here in no time:  the 2012 Central Florida Home & Garden Show, returning May 25-27 to the Orange County Convention Center’s North/South complex off Universal Boulevard in Hall North B. Central Florida’s premier home improvement event features local, regional and national experts in remodeling, building, decorating and landscaping, instructional how-to seminars, contests, giveaways and much more. This year’s home improvement extravaganza will showcase 25 Cool New Products and Services and more than 100 first-time exhibitors featuring the industry’s newest products and services. This is the only place to find smart ideas and fresh advice for gardening, home improvement, decor and more, all under one roof!

Special features include appearances by Kimberly Lacy from HGTV’s Curb Appeal, who will offer easy tips on sprucing up outdoors; “Dog Day Afternoon” on Sunday with a presentation by an international canine training expert, Pooch Parade populated by furry fashionistas, and pet supply expo; and Green Avenue featuring more than 6,000 square feet of spectacular gardens and a fresh foliage and garden marketplace with “cash and carry” items.

According to Marketplace Events, the nation’s largest producer of home shows, including the Central Florida Home & Garden Show and fall Orlando Home Show, consumer investment in home improvement is rising as the economy improves. “Whether they have a specific project in mind or simply want to enjoy a fun day out, local residents can get inspired, educated and started at our show where there is something for everyone“ said Cristian Moore, Orlando show manager for Marketplace Events. “Hundreds of experts are standing by to help consumes maximize their home improvement investment.”

Speaking of fun, Kimberly Lacy, the spunky co-host and painting pro on HGTV’s Curb Appeal will offer valuable, money-saving tips to turn your front yard into the talk of the neighborhood. She brings her talents to the Main Stage on Friday at 6:00 p.m., Saturday at 12 noon and 5:00 p.m., and Sunday at 3:00 p.m.

Calling all fans of man’s best friend! 1059 SUNNY FM’s “Dog Day Afternoon” kicks off on Sunday

at 12 noon with Rick Stacy and a not-to-be-missed presentation by international professional dog trainer and behaviorist Darryl Payne, owner of Pawfection Dog Training in Lake Mary. Payne, a London Police K9 supervisor and handler, bomb detection and counter terrorist search specialist, will share dog training tips and techniques. Then at 1:00 p.m., see the latest in canine couture during a Pooch Parade presented by Woof Gang Bakery. An assortment of furry fashionistas will frolic down the “dog walk.” Throughout the weekend, sniff around the pet supply expo and find great deals on merchandise from treats to toys. Don’t bark up the wrong tree and miss it!

Get answers for your DIY and home improvement, landscaping and home décor questions from more than 250 experts around the show floor and on the main stage throughout the weekend. Popular green thumb and Orlando Sentinel columnist Tom MacCubbin and WFTV Channel 9 Chief Meteorologist Tom Terry are among the presenters (visit www.OrlandoHomeShow.com for a complete listing of presentation times).

Other experts can help you save in the garden, too. Explore the lush Green Avenue, 6,000 square feet of beautifully landscaped gardens, and get inspired to turn your backyard into your own personal green room. Meet with some of the area’s leading experts in gardening, landscaping, water features and supplies, including Paradise Outdoor Living, Pondtastic Water Gardens, Smithwell, and Florida Landscape Professionals. Landscape Supply’s huge and convenient retail display of garden supplies will make getting started a snap.

How does your garden grow? From annuals for your outdoor containers to indoor foliage, from pots to garden tools, find all of your gardening needs in one place at the Fresh Foliage Garden Marketplace. Planters, pots, decorations, tools, hand-made gifts and other items will be available for cash-and-carry purchase…

There’s no better place than at the Central Florida Home & Garden Show to shop, compare and save on a wide variety of home improvement products and services in one location. Show producers have done all of the legwork to identify 25 Cool New Products and Services, from an L.E.D. Tiki Torch and glow-in-the-dark pool tiles to revolutionary skylights and the world’s first “plug and play” vertical garden. Guests can also shop, compare and save at 250 exhibit booths, including more than 100 that are new to the show, plus enter into contest and prize drawings.

After shopping, guests can take a break, sip a drink and relax in style in Club Cambria, open during show hours, which are Friday and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m, and Sunday, 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.  Tickets are available at the door, and are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors (60+; this discount is ONLY valid at the door and no other discounts apply), $5 for students 13-18 (ID required, only valid at the door), and free for children 12 years and younger.  Advance tickets can be purchased online for a $3 discount off full-price $10 admission at www.OrlandoHomeShow.com.  Convenient on-site parking is available adjacent to the Orange County Convention Center off Universal Boulevard, and is $8 per car.

For more information, visit www.OrlandoHomeShow.com, or call 877-871-SHOW (7469).  The Central Florida Home & Garden Show  and its fall sister show, the Orlando Home Show (October 5-7, 2012) are both produced by Marketplace Events.

Get celebrity tips, home trends, exhibitor discounts, opportunities to win tickets and more by connecting with the show on Facebook and Twitter (@FloridaHomeShow).

***WIN TICKETS! I am excited to giveaway a pair of tickets to one lucky reader! 

Just enter the Rafflecopter below (please allow time for the Rafflecopter to load).***

a Rafflecopter giveaway

* Disclosure: I am receiving a complimentary pair of tickets to attend the show and give to my readers, no other compensation will be received.

Now through May 13, save 20% off your entire purchase at the Polo Ralph Lauren outlet! This coupon IS valid on clearance merchandise!

To print this offer, click here.

Took a trip which involved visiting family, Virginia wineries and the beautiful city of Washington, DC. Prior to leaving, I packed my suitcase with Medifast bars. Even though I am in maintenance mode, I still eat several Medifast meals per day. I knew going into the trip I was not going to stay on plan 100%, but my goal was to enjoy foods and drinks in moderation and NOT completely fall off plan. In addition, I packed my running shoes with the intention of using!

While visiting my parents, I hit the trails and ran 5 miles (over half of the running being on mountains inclines). Talk about a challenge, wow! My legs were sore 3 days afterwards! Not really smart considering we planned on hitting museums and playing tourists in DC, but I cannot even begin to explain how peaceful the run was! I was serenaded by birds and babbling brooks, saw deer and other wildlife and smelled clean, fresh mountain air. There were no cars, buses, horns blowing, sirens, etc.! I turned around once I came to a large creek that could not be crossed on foot, or I probably would have kept going! This run was so different since my usual running routine is with a jogging stroller through the city of Orlando.

I was extremely active and my motto was “moderation”. I made sure to eat lots of vegetables and drink adequate water. I knew my mom would make sausage gravy for breakfast and other country favorites, and I did have small portions. I also enjoyed a day at the wineries with my husband (let me just note that we NEVER leave our son anywhere, but my mom kept him for the day so we could have some fun) so YOU BET I enjoyed a few glasses of wine, cheeses and snacks.

The scale was kind, no gain! I am still maintaining, even after a lovely trip to Virginia wine country. But, I guarantee you if I wasn’t active and pigged out non-stop, then I would have definitely gained.

Take a look at this photo. This puts my loss into perspective. My son weighs 39 lbs and that is how much I have lost! Just ask my husband how it feels to carry 39 extra pounds around, because he carried the kid for several miles in DC!

Here are two comparison shots, these photos were taken one year apart (May 2011 and May 2012) at Virginia wineries!

Again, this has been a lifestyle change and NOT a quick fix. Sure, I could have said forget it, I’m on vacation and eat and drink whatever…but I didn’t. M-O-D-E-R-A-T-I-O-N is key! I was not about to undo everything I worked so hard for.

Yesterday, I woke up in my own bed and couldn’t wait to get back to normal. Medifast oatmeal then 5.5 miles of running and various fat burning workouts. Felt great!

Now it’s YOUR turn to make a lifestyle change! No more excuses! Time to feel better and look your best.

Medifast recently introduced a new customer savings program. If you use my coupon code, UNEMPMOM56, and sign up for Medifast Advantage when you order $250+, you’ll receive 56 free Medifast Meals and free shipping! Medifast Advantage has a lot of perks, including free customizable meals and a free BlenderBottle® with minimum purchase.

Here are the details: For your first order of $250+, use my code, and enroll in Medifast Advantage to receive 28 free meals. Do the same on your next order and you’ll receive ANOTHER 28 free meals! This offer is only valid if you enroll in Medifast Advantage, and it’s limited to one per customer. It’s not valid with prior purchases, any other promotions or discounts, or for Medifast Ready-to-Drink Shakes. Check out Medifast’s website for complete details on program and discounts.

For more weight loss inspiration, check out these Medifast rock star bloggers!

• Stephanie at Goober Monkey
• Kelly at The Turnip Farmer
• Stephanie at A Grande Life
• Jenni at Jenni From the Blog
• Alison at O My Family
• Mariana at The Domestic Buzz

Disclosure: I receive free product in order to evaluate and comment on my experiences on the MedifastProgram. Medifast products and the Medifast Program are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or illness. Any medical improvements noted while on the program are related to weight loss in general, and not to Medifast products or programs. 

This savings just hit my inbox! Now through June 17th, save 10% off your purchase of $75 or more OR 20% off your purchase of $125 or more at the J. Crew Factory Outlet store!

In order to print this offer, you must visit the Premium Outlets VIP Lounge here.

If you are not already a member, what are you waiting for? The coupons are INSANE! I never shop without them.

Here are a few shots from Washington, D.C. taken earlier this week (now you know why my blog has been so quiet).

]]> http://theunemployedmom.com/2012/05/09/wordless-wednesday-family-fun-in-washington/feed/ 3 http://theunemployedmom.com/2012/05/02/wordless-wednesday-4th-birthday-fun/ http://theunemployedmom.com/2012/05/02/wordless-wednesday-4th-birthday-fun/#comments Wed, 02 May 2012 11:59:03 +0000 The Unemployed Mom http://theunemployedmom.com/?p=16063

To say my kid had a magical day is an understatement! Here are a few photos from the day!

Opening presents.

Shopping spree at Target!

He selected 2 awesome LEGO sets!

The Orlando Mounted Police must have heard it was his birthday, they brought the horses by to say hi!

Dining with Mickey at Garden Grill!

Visiting with Pluto.

Loving on the birthday boy!

Cutest birthday cake ever!