Tuesday, September 20, 2016

Free Factory Tours in Every State & Free Samples


This morning in my search for free samples, I came across a very cool link to Free Factory Tours in every state.  We usually do a road trip every summer, and have found that some of our best pit stops have been free places to visit.  I look forward to checking some of these out.  if you have toured any of the places listed, please offer some feedback.

Samples are also listed as usual.  I will try to put out 10 freebies a day, provided that they can be found.  Sometimes a sample freebie will direct you to another link at the end asking if you want your sample sooner, I always exit out of these as I try to keep the process as simple as possible.  


Free factory Tours in Every state:
http://www.factorytoursusa.com





If you would like to try Burk’s Happy Mouth Signature Spice, they’d be happy to mail you a small sample asap with no strings attached. Enjoy!   Please email them you mailing information at order@happymouth.net and they say they will send it out

Monday, September 19, 2016

Why I don't let my child fail..... & Free Sample Links

As usual you can scroll to the bottom of the page for the list of free sample links.  There are some neat ones, kids bath fizzes, sewing kit....etc.  It has become a treasure hunt to look for sited offering free samples.  Also, be careful not to give out too much information when requesting samples.  A few sites take you to a survey after you submit for a sample, this is completely optional and does not affect your sample delivery.


Lately, I hear a lot of chatter about kids forgetting to bring home their homework with everyone settling in to school.  Lots of people like to offer tough love parenting advice, many saying let them fail, let the teacher handle it..... it's a lesson.  I for one disagree.  If you know my kids or me for that matter, you would also know that I am not one who coddles my children.  Raising productive members of society, and I have one shot at raising them, so I am going to make it count.

First of all, my kid gets home.....and realizes they forgot their homework.  They have two options:  they can say nothing and take the zero the next day, or they can come to me and tell me they forgot their homework at school.  If they come to me, then they are not intentionally forgetting their homework.  Maybe they were trying to be sure they caught the bus, or lending an ear to a friend in need.  They are miniature adults, do you ever forget things?  I know I do, so in the end its more important in our house that we figure out how to get the homework and do the assignment.  It's problem solving and a life skill.  I'm sure if they could drive and had a car they would have gone back for the homework.  So we discuss what they forgot, and I let them offer solutions.  Sometimes a friend can take a photo of the pages assigned, if the school is still open we go back (we usually don't figure out the work is missing until its too late), or there have even been times that I have put out a Facebook plea for anyone with the same book to send me photos of the pages.  The end result is that we usually find the assignment, sometimes its a little more work than others, but it gets done.  My child doesn't have to fail to learn a lesson, in fact one of the biggest lessons that they learn is that Mom's got their back.  

The same applies if a kid forgets their homework at home and needs it for class, or even their lunch.  We all have bad days and it's ok to forget something.  I understand that teachers can't always take excuses, but singling a kid out for not having a homework assignment is not teaching them anything. I would much rather take my child the homework so that when they go over it in class, they get the real lesson of the assignment itself.  Again, as a mom, that's having their back.

Now mind you, when I have their back, I am usually fussing at them. We work towards figuring out how to prevent this from happening again.  Does it usually happen again, yes, but it's not a regular thing.  Over the years I have delivered, lunches, homework, leotards, him clothes, turned around for forgotten cleats, ball bags.  I have also gone back to the school for forgotten books, homework, driven across town to pick up assignments from friends, driven across town to loan books too.

A few years ago I got a call from my college kid.  One of his friends had taken an adderall (not his own) and the drank a big gulp espresso (studying for a final exam)....and was not reacting well.  He wanted advice as to what to do, I sent them to the ER, and it turns out the young man was fine (a little hyped up.....and just needed to run its course).  That was the time that I realized that my shild understood that I had his back!

It's ok for a child to forget something and it's ok to have their back!

School Planner Sample:
https://www.schoolmate.com/request-info/index.cfm
Breath Right Strips Sample:
https://www.breatheright.com/free-sample.html
Email Nates and ask for free sample of beef jerky:
info@natesjerky.com
Livrelief cream sample:
https://livrelief.com/running_b/?utm_source=ideabar&utm_medium=running-b&utm_content=1200x628&utm_campaign=fb-advertising
First Aid Kit:
http://www.medstarhealth.org/mhs/welcome-to-our-community/#q={}
Pen Sample:
http://www.pens.com/site/freeSample/?
utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=18097&utm_campaign=Logo
Noxema Sample:
http://www.markjcreative.com/sites/noxzema/sample.html
Fizzy Wizzies Sample:
http://www.fizzywizzies.com/form/forms/freesample.php
Kids Chewable Vitamins Sample:
http://naturesplus.com/products/productdetail.php?productNumber=29968
Airwick Car Freshener Sample (after you submit for the sample a survey will pop up, exit out ofit, not required for sample)
http://tampagpcarwash.com/free_airwick_car_freshener.html
Microfiber Cloths Free SampleAirwick Car Freshener Sample (after you submit for the sample a survey will pop up, exit out of it, not required for sample):
http://tampagpcarwash.com/special_offers.html
Sample Sewing Kits (an after survey may pop once your sample request is submitted, I always exit out of it) :
http://hallmanstailor.com/content/speciality/index.php





Sunday, September 18, 2016

How to Get Coupons For Free stuff & more

Most who know me know that I like to save money.  It's actually a hobby, and fun.  I think it originally started when I was a single mom raising 2 kids on a shoestring.  Since, my life has drastically changed, but my shopping habits have not.  Saving money is simple fun.

Below is a list of samples that can be had for free.  Yes, once again free.  I never post links that require too much personal information or surveys.  Many of the samples I get, I pass along to charities in toiletry bags, or give to friends who might have an interest in a  particular product.  They are great for travel too.

Did you also know that you can email companies and they will often send out coupons for free products.  I am including links to 2 that I know will send coupons.  I will update this as I come across companies that I know send out stuff.  Simply use the contact form of a company of your favorite products.  Tell them that you love their products and ask them if they ever send coupons to please send you some.  Please share your results.  I would love to hear what you get.  Below are 2 coupons that arrived at my house this weekend.  Who doesn't love free stuff at the grocery store.

Last but not least, tomorrow (Sept 19) is dress like a pirate day at Krispy Kreme.  Wear your favorite pirate costume and get  dozen free donuts.  My kids love this because ether each beta  free dozen donuts to call their own.   You only need 3 items to complete your costume.  The link is listed. I hope you have Krispy Kreme in your part of the country as this is an amazing deal!!!!  Fun too!!!!

Special Deals:

Krispy Kreme Dress like a pirate day:

Companies that will send coupons for free items:

Cape Cod Chips:
http://www.capecodchips.com/about-us/contact-us.html?view=form
Hostess Cakes:
http://hostessbrands.com/Contact


Samples for free:

Odor Remover Sample:
http://funkaway.com/
Seperntine Belt Checker Sample:
http://www.gates.com/products/automotive/tools-and-sales-aids/belt-wear-diagnosis/belt-wear-gauge/request-form
Coffee Sample:
http://www.caffemonte.com/free-sample-pack.html
Face Mask Sample:
http://gaiaearthworks.com/
Pain Relief Strips
http://www.myhealthyinfo.com/survey/FGSAHS/?HIT_ID=5454259&SHOW_PIXEL=1
Free journal:
http://pandorasjournal.com/order-your-dream-journal/
Vinyl Bag Sample:
http://variouspackaging.com/samples.php
Soap Sample:
http://uncleearlssoapblog.com/subscribe-and-receive-a-free-sample/
watercolor Sample:
http://www.mijelloart.com/sample-request.html
Insect Repellant Sample:
http://landersnaturals.com
Tempatations Cat Treats Sample
http://wm6.walmart.com/Whiskas-Temptations?





Saturday, September 17, 2016

Almost 20 more Free Samples

Yesterday I posted 20 free samples with links to sign up.  here's another batch that I have confirmed are still giving out free samples with little information needed.  (Just your name, address, email and phone number).  As I have said before, I have created a separate email for coupons and samples, it cuts down on the junk mail in my regular email account.  I never give out my real phone number....just make one up.

If you are submitting for samples, please like the link on my Facebook page, or let me know.....so I will know if I should keep posting bargains.  Tomorrow I will include a list of companies that if you contact will send some impressive coupons (many for free items).

Happy Saturday!


Nutrigold Vitamin Sample:
http://www.nutrigold.net/free-sample
Nivea In Shower lLOtion Sample:
http://www.niveausa.com/experience/ext/en-US/NIVEA%20Evergreen?prcmp=us-NIVEA-20141215-155-458&dpl=deeplink-samples
Shark Sticker:
http://blueyork.org/sharks
Miracle Gel Sample:
http://freemiraclegel.com/#free-sample
Always Discreet Sample:
http://www.alwaysdiscreetsamples.com/sampling/en-US
Harley Davidson Sticker:
https://ridefree.harley-davidson.com/darkcustom/
Pen Sample:
http://officeinstock.com/office-savers-club/
Loreal Paris Hair Care Sample:
http://www.lorealparisusa.com/en/offers/samples/advanced-haircare2/register.aspx
Billabong sticker:
https://us.billabong.com/page/help/request-stickers
ASPCA Kit:
https://secure.aspca.org/form/free-pet-safety-pack
Purina One:
https://www.purinaone.com/cats/tender-selects-blend
AquaSkin Sample:
http://aquaskincare.ca/free-sample-request/
Bio 35 Sample
https://bio35.com/request-a-sample/
Link to sign up for a free journal for teen girls:
http://aurora-girls.com/index.php/journal/
Saline Soothers Sample:
https://www.salinesoothers.com/500-giveaway/
TENA Coupon for a full free pack to be mailed:
https://www.tena.us/on/demandware.store/Sites-Tena_US-Site/en_US/Coupons-Show?couponType=14
Biofreeze sample:
http://samples.biofreeze.com
Lancome Make up sample:
http://www.lancome-usa.com/TIU-Sampling.html
Free Cooler bag:
http://variouspackaging.com/freesample.php






Friday, September 16, 2016

If you love mail.....Samples, Samples, and more.....Free Samples!


Most of us love getting stuff in the mail, I know I do.  Samples are a fun way to try a product to see if you like it.  An added bonus is that the company usually will send you some pretty generous coupons with your samples.  Getting samples is fun, and can be easy.  Keep in mind when you order a sample, it should be simple.  I don't post any sample sites that require you fill out a survey.  All of the sites I have posted ask for your address, email, and generally phone number.  I also have created a separate email, it minimizes the junk in my daily email.  I do give a legit email because often companies email coupons.  I never give my correct phone number, I usually just reverse a couple of numbers, that way if I ever have to contact a company, I can simply say I made a mistake :)

Below I have posted listings and links to over 20 sites that are currently offering samples.  These will run out over time, so get yours soon.  (I did verify that each site is still offering samples as of this morning).  I have personally ordered for each of these companies listed for myself or someone else.

I will make an effort to post a few times a week, links to the latest samples and free stuff...... so let me know if this interests you!  Of course, always let me know what kind of free stuff you get.

It's so simple..... it's easy...... and always fun!

Packet of flower seeds:
http://feedabee.com

Gigi Oxygen Prime Sample:
https://gigi.shortstack.com/skhwll

Whiskas Cat treats sample:
http://wm6.walmart.com/Whiskas-Temptations?u1=Vjl2SGl3b0tNcXNBQUpmVmotc0FBQUI1&oid=368707.1&wmlspartner=NKa3hZyYoHA&sourceid=26912007850265747057&affillinktype=10&veh=aff

2 Minute Miracle Gel Sample:
http://freemiraclegel.com/#free-sample

Centrum Vitamin Sample:
https://www.centrum.com/free-vitamints-sample

Bring Fido Samples:
http://www.bringfido.com/promo/detail/free_samples/

Lifestyles Condoms:
http://www.lifestyles.com/free-sample/

Shea Hair Care Moisturerizer:
http://samples.sheamoisture.com/sample/raw-shea/

Leavers Book & Candy Sample:
https://www.leaversbooks.com/request-a-sample

Drawstring backpack:
https://m.4imprint.com/product/7194/promotional-drawstring-sportpack

H & H Home Remedies Sample:
http://www.handhremedies.com/request-a-sample

Twinnings Tea Samples:
http://dealseekingmom.com/twinings-tea-free-samples/

Meow Mix (these are coupons that will be mailed for free products):
https://www.purrfecttogether.com/coupon

Nivea for Men Sample:
http://www.niveamenusa.com/local/us/samples-iframe

Loreal Age Defying Creme Sample:
http://www.lorealparisusa.com/en/offers/samples/age-perfect/register.aspx

Back Country Sticker:
http://www.backcountry.com/Store/global/stickerRequest.jsp?cmp_id=sm_stckerpg1&no_mobile=1

POGO Lip Balm:
http://ecolips.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=011000cb93bc8edd7284a572b&id=13a10e0142

Sweet Additions Cane Syrup Samples:
http://sweetadditions.com/sample

Sample Box from Sams (no membership required):
https://www3.samsclub.com/best-deals/samplesamsclub/

Playtex Sample Pack:
http://free-tampon-pad-liner-samples.playtexsportoffers.com

Nature Plus Kids Vitamins Free Sample:
http://naturesplus.com/products/productdetail.php?productNumber=29968

Fancy Feast Cat Food Sample:
https://www.fancyfeast.com/DiscoverMedleys/





Thursday, September 15, 2016

Home Depot Workshops for Women FREE!!!! (Oh and fun, too!)

One of my goals is to become more consistent with posting free stuff, coupons, and  bargains.  Anyone who knows me also knows that I have to pay full price for anything......

A few weeks ago a friend told me about a clinic that Home Depot offers for women.  It's a chance to learn to use power tools, and walk away with a fun project.  I actually really enjoy woodworking, so I was all in.  It is usually offered on the third Thursday of the month, in the evening.  It's casual, fun,the associates are great..... oh, and the best part......it's FREE!  The website states that you pay for materials, in reality the materials for the project itself are included in the FREE, you pay for anything extra to finish your project, like stain or paint.  I personally left mine unfinished to finish at home, but there were women who stayed to finish their projects under the guidance of the associates at the store.

I signed up online for myself and a friend.  We arrived a few minutes before 6:30.  The project area was set up in the lumber area, the staff was ready and waiting.    A very friendly associate greeted us, and passed out instruction sheets.  All project pieces were prepped, which made it a ton of fun for me, as I am usually the one who does the prepping for craft project, an extra specie treat.  Everything we needed was on the tables, occasionally one might have to wait a few minutes for a tool, but the ladies were all friendly.  Associates spent time going from table to table offering assistance and making sure we had everything we needed.  In the end, we all went home with a super cute wagon for fall decoration.  It's good sized, made with one of the crates that they sell for $11.  

If you are local, join us for the next workshop, we would love to see you there (no I am not a Home Depot employee).  If you are not local, check it out and find a Home Depot near you, gather a few friends.....it's a ton of fun!

The link for the website is here:
(If the link doesn't work, google Home Depot women's workshops)

Finished product is below, took it home painted and stained it.



Tuesday, July 19, 2016

Kids and sports......how do we choose

In our house the chosen sport is softball...... and it is that time of year....... the nerve wrecking process of finding the perfect team to play with for the upcoming season.  The choices are pretty much unlimited.  Travel ball, rec ball, team close to home, team far away, team with friends, stay in age bracket, play up an age level or even two, play on a pay to play team, play on a good team and fight for play time, or simply play it safe and play where you know what is expected.  One would think that the process would be relatively simple...... what happened to just playing with the kids in your neighborhood?  It all seems to have become so complicated.



Finding the balance, seems to be the challenge.  In our house it seems as though there are two basic types of teams. The really good teams where they work really hard and dedicate a lot of time to the sport with little time for exploring other sports...... the parents wear all the gear, the cars are all dressed for ball every other weekend, and the kids have been playing together for years.  Breaking in to these groups can be tough, especially if you are a fairly new player with raw talent.  The average teams tend to have a pretty high turn over of players...there seems to always be a key player or two missing which usually leaves a gap... the coaches are most generally dads who dedicate a ton of time which we are all so thankful for, but with the dads usually comes favorites.  There tends to be a bit of drama on these teams, but the personalities can be fun.  Which team is the right fit, and which team can help your child rise to their capabilities?

What do you do with a kid who has a lot of raw talent, but not the years of play time?  Under the right coaching, they could move from good to amazing.  Where do you find the right team, and when do you know that you have found it.  We all think our own children are amazing and they all are in their own way.  How far do we push them?



Tonight I drove my child and another to an open practice.... when I picked the girl up her dad said give 110%, almost the exact same thing I had said on our ride over.  Our conversation included, make good throws, when you feel you've pushed hard, push a little harder, and always give 110%.  One would have thought that her career hinged on this very practice.... it really was just meant to be a pep talk about giving it your all.  Needless to say, the practice was fun, and the coaching was amazing.  I like it when a coach stops a kid and talks them through what they are doing wrong , gives them tips and encouragement as to how to fix their mistakes.  The kids were very kind and encouraging, when a play didn't go exactly as planned, you always heard someone telling them to shake it off, it's ok.  My kid got an opportunity to try a new to her position, she felt a little awkward, but as I said.... raw talent.... lots of raw talent.  (I'm sure you are thinking, sure her kid is great..... no claims that she is great, just a good kid who has a ton of potential, and excited to see where it leads).


Still relatively new to the travel ball circuit we are still searching for that perfect place, one where the coach will encourage, challenge, and push our child.  The team where there is no drama, the girls are all friends, and they are dedicated to becoming better ball players, good students, and great people.  We hope that we have found that place, however time will tell.  Teams will soon be finalized and we will land somewhere..... will it be the perfect place, we sure hope so.  In the real world is there even such a perfect place?

We all want our children to be the star on a team, but is it really doing them any favors?  We don't want them to be the worst player on the team who is the one riding the bench every tournament while you sit in the stands hoping they get a little play time.  A team that will be enough of a challenge that your child is going to work to step up their game, a team where they are given opportunities to get better, to earn their time and their place.

So how do we make the right decision without screwing up or scarring our kids for life?

In the end, its just ball...... a chance to make lifelong friendships and learn some life lessons.  The days of driving across town to practice, the car that stinks of smelly cleats and is littered with takeout food bags, and packing the car for weekend tournaments will only last so long.  The children will one day lace up the cleats for the last time, and move on to bigger and better things......but hopefully they will have taken some great life lessons and gained some great friends in the process.  We are letting our child make the ultimate decision as to where she will play, and to what extent, the time and commitment will be hers, I will be the driver and the cheerleader from the stands.  This will be her life lesson......