New Momscape Newsletter: Homemade Beauty Recipes, Back to School Coupons

The latest Momscape newsletter just went out to subscribers. It features natural beauty recipes, new articles and ideas, new contests, and lots of back to school savings offers and coupon codes.

You can read it online here:
http://www.momscape.com/news-archives/Issue10vol8.htm

If you aren’t a subscriber, you can get snag a free email subscription here:
http://www.momscape.com/subscribe.htm

New Momscape Newsletter: Family Summer Fun, Back to School Savings, New Coupons

I've just published a new Momscape newsletter, featuring ideas for summer family fun, back to school savings, and coupon codes on everything from shoes to backpacks to last minute travel adventures.
You can read the entire issue online here:
http://www.momscape.com/news-archives/Issue8vol8.htm
or subscribe here:
http://www.momscape.com/subscribe.htm
New subscribers are automatically entered to win a $100 Target.com shopping spree.
See site for details.

New Momscape Newsletter

Here's the latest Momscape newsletter, which went to subscribers this afternoon. It's filled with fun and frugal Fourth of July party ideas & recipes, plus some sizzling summer coupon codes, some of which expire over the next few days.

You can read the entire issue here: http://www.momscape.com/news-archives/Issue7vol8.htm

If you aren't already a subscriber, you can get snag a free email subscription here:
http://www.momscape.com/subscribe.htm

The $1800 Grocery Bill

Darren writes:

Hi Gary,

I am at a loss. My wife and I both work and we have 4 kids. We make good money between us but are always living paycheck to paycheck. One big problem is our grocery spending. I was looking at last month's expenses and saw that we spent over $1800 in groceries over the month at one grocery store (that is not a typo). There were a few other stops in there as well at some convenience stores. The really sad thing is we aren't eating steak and lobster - we eat frozen burgers 3-4 times a week and tacos.

As mentioned we both work and although I appreciate suggestions about making everything from scratch, that is not feasible for us. Most times during the week we are not eating dinner until 8pm. We try to shop at Costco (Sam's Club, etc.) but all that does is rack up a huge $400-600 bill there and then we still "run to the store" 3-4 times a week.

I am at the point of seriously considering paying someone to help us plan our grocery spending and meal planning. Anything I can try first?

Read the response from Gary Foreman (aka The Dollar Stretcher") and get tips for slashing your own grocery bill here:
http://www.momscape.com/articles/grocery-bill.htm

New Article: At Home Spa Ideas

I've just published a new article at Momscape.com:
At Home Spa Ideas: Create Your Own At Home Spa in Six Easy Steps
Creating your own mini home spa is simple and affordable. Whether it's a daily, weekly, or monthly indulgence, here are six steps to creating your own luxurious at-home spa.

New Product Review: Cozy Coupe

I have just published a new product review on Momscape.com:
The Cozy Coupe, by Fisher Price.

Momscape Issue 6.8 now online

I've just published the June Momscape newsletter. You can read the issue here: Issue 6.8: What Our Children Teach Us, Brad Pitt's Diaper Bag and other great dad's day gifts
and click here to subscribe.

Loving Your Terrible, Terrific Toddler

I've just published a new article by parenting expert Laura Markham:

Loving Your Terrible, Terrific Toddler: 14 Tips

Toddlerhood can be a maddening time for parents. But you’ll be glad to know you can reduce your child’s rebellion by giving him freedom to do his developmental work.

How much is he allowed to explore? To set his own pace? To feel in control of his world? To discover that he’s a competent person? Can you appreciate his bids for independence without taking them as personal insults? Can you give up some control so he can develop some sense of mastery over his world?

Your baby is growing into her own person. Your challenge is to keep your sanity and keep her safe. Your best strategy is to cultivate a great relationship with her and enjoy her emerging independence. How?

1. Cultivate empathy for your child. Kids begin to develop empathy (and therefore, the ability to play well with others) as they themselves feel understood. And it’ll make you a better parent.

2. Don't force her to share. Instead, encourage taking turns. Let her put her favorite toys away before another child visits.

Read Parenting Toddlers tips 3 - 14 >

Father's Day Gift Ideas and Coupon Codes

We've just published our 2007 Father's Day Gift Guide, complete with gift ideas, as well as coupon codes and special offers from our favorite online merchants. Make sure to bookmark the site because we'll be adding new ideas, offers and coupon codes as they come in.

New Article: California Best Beaches

I've just posted a new travel article on Momscape.com. Plan some fun in the sun this summer with the help of this guide to six of California's Best Beaches:

"When it comes to fun in the sun, southern California has it all. With its year-round tropical climate, a year-round average water temperature of 78 degrees, perfect waves, excellent dining, and numerous oceanfront resorts, this earthly paradise also boasts picturesque harbors and a shimmering coastline filled with sand, surf and sun.

Not only is it home to millions of people but it beckons millions more each year from all over the globe. Whether you are a California resident headed to the beach to soak up the sun for a day, or you are planning a family vacation that your kids will remember for a long time to come, you are certain to find some beaches to add to your itinerary here.

Here are six of Southern California's best beaches. including nice, quiet beaches as well as beaches that are particularly nice for families..."

Continue reading California Best Beaches >

New Product Review: Butterfly Garden Papasan Cradle Swing

I've just posted a new product review:
The Butterfly Garden Papasan Cradle Swing, by Fisher Price.
Read more here: http://www.momscape.com/product-reviews/papasan-cradle-swing.htm

First Birthday Cakes

I've just published a new article by the founders of FreshBaby.com. It's for those of us who want to keep the tradition of a messy first birthday cake but want some healthier ideas.

It begins:

"Parents are often looking for a healthy alternative to the standard, sugary, preservative-filled birthday cake for their baby’s introduction to the wonderful traditions of birthdays. We’ve heard from parents looking for ways to buy an egg-free cake, to those seeking recipes for “healthy” cakes, or even whether to make/buy two cakes (one for Baby, one for adults).

To answer the last question first – there is no reason to create extra work for yourself, make or buy one cake, relax and congratulate yourself for making it through the first year! Most people will be gracious guests and enjoy whatever is served. And let’s not lose sight of the real reason for the birthday cake - THE PHOTO. We do it all for the precious scrapbook shot of your cake-faced little one delighting in being the life of the party!

Here are some ideas that keep the tradition of the birthday cake treat, but add some healthy twists (you can use these ideas for any age!)..."

Continue reading here: http://www.momscape.com/articles/first-birthday-cake.htm

New Product Review: Garmin Street Pilot c320 GPS Navigator

I've just published a new review on the Momscape site for the Garmin Street Pilot C320 GPS Navigator
Reviewer Marie Ynami of Redlands, California, begins:

"I love this gadget. I feel more confident leaving the house knowing that I will not get lost.

The Garmin Street Pilot c320 has a neat touch-screen which allows for quick access to features such as addresses, recent locations, food, and lodging - and it automatically puts you back on course when you make a wrong turn or run into traffic problems.." You can read her entire review here >

As of this writing, amazon.com has these Garmin units at a $470 savings. Click the link above for a direct link to the c320 at amazon.

Breast Cancer Scarves: Home Business Success and Breast Cancer Survivor Story

I've just posted a new article on Momscape.com profiling breast cancer survivor and business owner Barb Gunselman. It begins:

"One day during the holidays, completely bald from chemotherapy, I wanted to feel a little more feminine."

So begins the story of Barb Gunselman, an inspiring breast cancer survivor who is building her own business making beautiful breast cancer scarves (or bandanas, to be precise) adorned with Swarovski crystals.

We love to profile women who have built a business out of adversity, and Barb has done just that. In doing so, she celebrates initiative, femininity, and the power of a woman to rise above a diagnosis to create beauty and freedom in her life.

Read more >

New Momscape Newsletter: Mother's Day Fun, How to Look Thinner, 50% off Shoes, more

Here's the latest Momscape newsletter. If you would like to subscribe, you can do so here: http://www.momscape.com/subscribe.htm

=========================================
Momscape.com UPDATE
May 2007 - Mother's Day Fun, How to Look Thinner, 50% off Shoes, more
http://www.momscape.com/news-archives/Issue5vol8.htm


This week:

* This Week's Features
* New Coupon Codes
* New Product Reviews
* New Contests
* Momscape's Blogs

=============================================


NEW AT MOMSCAPE =============================

'MOMFULNESS' EXCERPT: THE RIVER
Here's a lovely excerpt from Denise Roy’s new book
'Momfulness: Mothering with Mindfulness, Compassion, and Grace.'
It’s called The River, and it’s a poignant reminder for parents that
“Everything is connected; everything changes; pay attention.”
http://www.momscape.com/articles/river-of-life.htm


QUICK AND EASY FAMILY MEALS
Time with the kids versus a home-cooked meal? You can have both!
Elizabeth Yarnell has some tips, as well as a delicious and healthy recipe.
http://www.momscape.com/articles/quick-easy-family-meals.htm


WAYS TO LOOK THINNER: 30 TIPS YOU CAN USE RIGHT NOW
You can appear more slender no matter what size you are. Here are quick tips you
can use today, including how to dress to look thinner, how to slenderize
your face using makeup, and how to look thinner for a picture.
http://www.momscape.com/articles/ways-to-look-thinner.htm


DISNEY TRAVEL TIPS AND COUPONS
With a little know how (and the help of the Internet and some online
coupon codes), you can plan the trip of a lifetime for a lot less
than you might think.
http://www.momscape.com/articles/disney-travel.htm


UNIQUE MOTHER'S DAY GIFT IDEAS
As moms, we know that the most endearing Mother’s Day gifts are those
with a personal, sentimental touch. This Mother’s Day, we’ve compiled
six suggestions for those gifts we’d most like to receive ourselves.
(Free free to share this article with your spouse.) ;)
http://www.momscape.com/articles/unique-mothers-day.htm


MORE MOTHER'S DAY ARTICLES AND IDEAS:

Mother’s Day Traditions
http://www.momscape.com/articles/mothers-day-traditions.htm

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas: Top Ten
http://www.momscape.com/articles/mothers-day-gifts.htm

Mother’s Day Gift Baskets
http://www.momscape.com/articles/mothersdaygifts.htm

History of Mother’s Day
http://www.momscape.com/articles/momsday.htm

50 Best Mom Quotes
http://www.momscape.com/articles/mother-quotes.htm

=================================================================



NEW COUPON CODES ================================================

Here are our favorite new offers on Momscape:

EXPIRING SOON:

--> CHILDRENSPLACE.COM: 15% off your entire order
Coupon Code: SMA47
Ends May 6, 2007
http://www.momscape.com/coupon-codes/childrens-place.htm

--> KOHLS.COM: 10% off your entire order
Coupon Code: NEW1829
Ends May 5, 2007
http://www.momscape.com/coupon-codes/kohls.htm

--> LILLIAN VERNON: 20% off orders of $100 or more
Ends May 6, 2007
http://www.momscape.com/coupon-codes/lillian-vernon.htm


NEW MAY OFFERS:

--> COOKING.COM: $10 off orders of $75 or more
http://www.momscape.com/coupon-codes/cooking.htm
--> BEAUTY.COM: $10 off orders of $100 or more
http://www.momscape.com/coupon-codes/beauty.htm
--> EBAGS.COM: $20 off when you spend $100 on luggage.
http://www.momscape.com/coupon-codes/ebags.htm
--> FOLICA.COM: Free shipping and free travel bag with purchases of $75 or more
Plus, folica is now promotinjg a Sedu Special Offer: Free Sedu Iron Cleaner and
free silicone heatproof mat with New Sedu Revolution.
http://www.momscape.com/coupon-codes/folica.htm

--> KOO KOO BEAR KIDS: $5 off orders of $50 or more
http://www.momscape.com/coupon-codes/koo-koo-bear-kids.htm

--> OFFICE DEPOT: $30 off orders of $150 or more
http://www.momscape.com/coupon-codes/office-depot.htm

--> SKINSTORE.COM: 10% off any order
http://www.momscape.com/coupon-codes/skin-store.htm

--> SHOP.COM: $25 off $250

http://www.momscape.com/coupon-codes/shop.htm

--> SHOEBUY.COM: $10 off $30 when you use your Discover Card
Also, 10% off any purchase.
http://www.momscape.com/coupon-codes/shoebuy.htm

--> TARGET.COM: 10% off any order
http://www.momscape.com/coupon-codes/target.htm

--> BABIESRUS.COM: $10 off $30 when you use Google Checkout.
http://www.momscape.com/coupon-codes/babies-r-us.htm

--> OVERSTOCK.COM: $14 off $140
http://www.momscape.com/coupon-codes/overstock.htm

--> ZAPPOS.COM: Shoes up to 50% off
http://www.momscape.com/coupon-codes/shoes.htm


Don't forget to subscribe to our weekly deal alert for even more
coupons: http://www.susies-coupons.com/subscribe.htm
==================================================================



NEW PRODUCT REVIEWS ==============================================

See what Moms are raving about: http://www.momscape.com/product-reviews

BOOK REVIEW: Momfulness:Mothering with Mindfulness, Compassion, and Grace
Denise Roy, author of My Monastery is a Minivan has published a new
“spiritual handbook” for busy moms. Here's our review:
http://www.momscape.com/product-reviews/momfulness.htm
MICRO SPY KIT
If your kids like Spy Kids, they’ll love this:
http://www.momscape.com/product-reviews/micro-spy-kit.htm

ALBA BOTANICA PINEAPPLE ENZYME FACIAL CLEANSER
http://www.momscape.com/product-reviews/alba-botanicals.htm

BUGABOO CHAMELEON STROLLER
http://www.momscape.com/product-reviews/bugaboo-chameleon-stroller.htm

==================================================================


NEW CONTESTS =====================================================

WIN A HEATHROW/PAVILION LIVING SET ($2,994 value)
Monthly sweepstakes from The Bombay Company.
http://www.momscape.com/contests/


BABY PHOTO CONTEST
Enter your baby pictures into Babies Online's Photo Contest and
win hundreds of dollars in cash and prizes. Free Entry.
http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-296961-514030


==================================================================



MOMSCAPE BLOGS ===================================================

Don't forget to visit and/or subscribe to our blogs:

MOMSCAPE'S FAVORITE THINGS
Fun finds from across the world wide web.
http://www.momscape.com/wordpress/category/momscapes-favorite-things/

Susie's DEAL OF THE DAY BLOG:
http://www.susies-coupons.com/daily-picks

Susie's TRAVEL DEAL OF THE DAY BLOG:
http://www.susies-coupons.com/travel-picks

==================================================================

Hope you're having a great day so far!

Susie Cortright
Founder & Publisher, Susies-Coupons.com and Momscape.com

Ways to Look Thinner

I've just posted a new article on Momscape:
Ways to Look Thinner: 30 Tips You Can Use Right Now
You can appear more slender no matter what size you are. Here are quick tips you can use today, including how to dress to look thinner, how to slenderize your face using makeup, and how to look thinner for a picture.

Unique Mother's Day Gift Ideas: New gift guide at Momscape

This year, we decided to compile a list of the Mother's Day gifts we would most like to receive ourselves. (Who better to ask then a mom, right?)
Here's our 2007 Unique Mother's Day Gift Ideas

New Article: The River, excerpted from Momfulness

I've just published an excerpt from Denise Roy's new book "Momfulness: Mothering with Mindfulness, Compassion and Grace" on Momscape. Enjoy!
http://www.momscape.com/articles/river-of-life.htm

Review of Jeep Wrangler All Weather Stroller

We've just published a new review on Momscape.com: The Jeep Wrangler All-Weather Stroller. Even if you have a nice jogging stroller or another stroller for every day use, every parent needs a simple, throw-in-the-trunk kind of stroller that's easy and quick to set up, so your baby is never in need of a ride. Read what Sarah Grant from Rosemond, California had to say about the Jeep Wrangler Umbrella Stroller.

New Product Review: Alba Botanica Pineapple Enzyme Cleanser

Andreea is raving about Alba Botanica Pineapple Enzyme Facial Cleanser. She begins, "I was looking for a face cleanser and found the Alba Botanica line. It's inexpensive, and because it smelled really refreshing, I decided to give it a try. As soon as I got home I tried it and my face felt so soft and refreshed afterwards."
Read the rest of Andreea's review: http://www.momscape.com/product-reviews/alba-botanicals.htm

This product is available at a discounted price at VitaminShoppe.com, and we've compiled this month's VitaminShoppe.com online coupon codes here.

Micro Spy Kit X2: New Product Review

We've just published a new product review for a popular toy: The Micro Spy Kit X2

From the review, by spy gadget enthusiast Caleb Lauth:
"If your kid likes Spy Kids, he'll like this toy. My favorite tools are the secret agent pen and spy motion alarm. Sometimes, when my brother isn't looking, I turn on the spy motion alarm. And the secret agent pen lets me write secret messages to my friends." Read more >

New Review: Bugaboo Chameleon Stroller

We've just published a product review of the Bugaboo Chameleon Stroller.
It begins:
"Bugaboo products are known for their functionality and simplicity of use, and the line's Chameleon stroller is no exception."
Read more: http://www.momscape.com/product-reviews/bugaboo-chameleon-stroller.htm

New Essay: Cherish the Wood Chips

I've just posted a lovely new essay on parenting by Brook Noel:

Cherish the Wood Chips
"I glanced at my watch, if we hurried we could be back in thirty-minutes, enough time to satiate your needs for the outside world without interfering with my needs on the inside world..."

Breaking the Sugar Addiction: 16 Tips

Here's another article by Jamie Jefferson. Please feel free to share it, reprint it, or republish it as long as the About the Author Box stays intact following the article.
Also, add your own ideas on breaking the sugar addiction in our MamaWisdom forums:
http://www.momscape.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=21

Breaking Your Sugar Addiction: 16 Tips
by Jamie Jefferson

Description:
It seems as though sugar is in everything these days. Learn why too much sugar is bad, how much is too much, and what you can do about it.

Keywords:
breaking sugar addiction, breaking the sugar addiction, sugar addiction

It seems as though added sugar is in everything these days, from ketchup to salsa to soup. It’s in everything, I suppose, because we have come to expect it to be.

And it’s not just the white stuff we need to worry about. “Refined carbohydrates,” such as white bread and white flour products, produce the same reaction in our bodies.

Researchers have linked sugar consumption to everything from cavities to wrinkly skin, as well as wide range of much more serious health problems.

Some research has been cited that says sugar has not been proven to be a direct cause to these health problems and may not even be directly linked to them, but when you consider that added sugar is basically non-nutritional calories, the lack of nutrition and obesity can cause health problems in themselves.

Sugar, some researchers say, can lead to the damage of healthy cells, and can lessen the effectiveness of white blood cells, leading to a weakening of the immune system. Too much sugar means lots of empty calories, too, which can lead to obesity. As any parent knows, when you fill up on sugar, you simply aren’t hungry for nutritious meals. And sugar can make you hyperactive and irritable, too, as it knocks your body out of whack.

When you eat sugar, your blood sugar spikes. So your body secretes insulin, which sends your blood sugar crashing. The result? Irritability and fatigue. Plus, you’re hungry again and probably craving another hit of sugar, and so the cycle repeats itself anew.

One of the nicest things you can do for your body (and your mood) is to reduce your intake of added sugars and refined carbohydrates.

What is the Daily Recommended Sugar Intake?

The World Health Organization recommends reducing your intake of added sugars to less than 10 percent of your total caloric intake. That means, if you eat 2,000 calories, you should eat less than 12 teaspoons of sugar each day. The US Department of Agriculture also recommends limiting your consumption of added sugar to between 6 and 12 teaspoons of sugar each day, depending on your daily average caloric intake. (Six teaspoons a day for people who eat 1,600 calories; 12 teaspoons if you eat 2,200 calories each day.) Keep in mind that a single 12-ounce soft drink contains 10 teaspoons of sugar.

To find out how much sugar is in some of the items in your cupboards, look for Sugars (measured in grams) on the Nutrition Label. Then divide the number of grams by 4 to get the number of teaspoons. So, 12 grams of sugar is 3 teaspoons of sugar. Sixteen grams of sugar is 4 teaspoons.

How to Break Your Sugar Addiction

So how do you start to reduce your sugar intake? Here are some tips.

Try decreasing your intake of added sugar gradually. It can be difficult to suddenly cut all added sugar and refined carbohydrates. Try taking a week-by-week approach. One week, add less sugar to your morning coffee. Next week, replace your afternoon soda with bottled water. The following week, replace white bread with a whole grain alternative. Before long, you will find that the foods (and drinks) you used to love now taste sickeningly sweet. And you will likely find it easier to keep your moods on an even keel, too.

Keep notes on your sugar intake in your journal or Daytimer. How does decreasing your sugar levels impact your energy levels? Your mood during the day? Your ability to fall asleep at night? When do sugar cravings hit? It might be helpful to start with a Sugar Fast for a day or two. See how one day without added sugars affects you.

Make easy substitutions. Buy brown rice instead of white rice, for example. Brown rice has a nice, nutty flavor, and takes just a bit longer to cook. The next time you go to the store, experiment with all kinds of whole grain alternatives. You might find some new family favorites.

Keep healthy snacks readily available, and rely on a bit of protein in your snacks to keep your energy levels high. Keep a small bowl of nuts on the table, along with fresh fruits. When you are hungry for a mid afternoon snack, opt for lean protein and complex carbs.

Indulge in moderation. If you are a chocoholic, treat yourself to a square of fine chocolate at the end of a long day. When the chocolate is quality, you won’t feel the need to have more and you’ll be more apt to take your time and savor it. When you do indulge in a sugary snack, keep it small, eat it slowly, and eat a bit of protein, too, to help moderate those blood sugar spikes and dips.

Dilute the fruit juice. If you or kids love fruit juice, try diluting it gradually to the point where you are just adding a splash to the top of water.

Become a sugar detective. You can start by knowing the alternate names for added sugars, often found in ingredients lists. These include any ingredient that ends in the suffix “-ose,” including sucrose, dextrose, fructose, lactose, polydextrose, maltose, and galactose. Also, look for the following: corn syrup, high fructose corn syrup, honey, maple syrup, molasses, carob syrup, turbinado sugar, fruit juice concentrate, brown sugar, cane juice, cane sugar, evaporated cane juice, beet sugar, and sorbitol.

Avoid replacing added sugar with artificial sweeteners. Your best bet is to gradually reduce your taste for sweet foods, not to replace them with chemical alternatives. On ingredients lists, look for sucralose, saccharin, aspartame, acesulfame K, and neotame.

Avoid the center of the supermarket as much as possible. That’s where most of the processed foods are shelved. Instead, shop the perimeter for healthy, raw foods.

If you have young kids, go to the grocery store by yourself. You may be less apt to come home with sugary treats. Plus, you can take more time to examine the labels for hidden sugar. If your kids are grade school age or older, take them along and enlist their help as Sugar Detectives. Give them each a list of hidden sugars and artificial sweeteners and turn it into a game.

Carefully measure how much honey you put in your tea and how much sugar you put in your coffee. Aim to put in a bit less each day or each week until you are drinking it either unsweetened or with just a bit of sugar.

Buy items that are not sweetened, and add sugar only if you find that you need to. This will help you wean off the sugar gradually.

Steer clear of sugars for breakfast. When you start your day with a sugar blast and crash, you may find yourself in a vicious cycle for the remainder of the day. Start your day with healthy lean protein and complex carbs. Try natural whole-grain breads and cereals for breakfast, along with a lowfat protein, such as skim milk, cottage cheese, or yogurt.

If you need to lose weight, consider a diet plan that focuses on reducing sugar intake. The Sugar Busters Diet Plan is probably the most well known. The idea of this diet is to reduce your intake of sugar and high starch carbohydrates, focusing instead on lean protein, low starch veggies, and whole grain carbs, in order to lose weight. Many of the low GI diets out there use this method, as well.

Be careful not to make sugar taboo in your household. With children, especially, when you swear off something completely, you run the risk of creating a mystique around the forbidden food. Instead of running a completely sugar free household, make sure your children understand the effects that sugar can have on their bodies and their moods, and then help them understand the beauty of moderation. Encourage them to eat low fat protein and help them develop a taste for healthy whole grain carbs.

Focus on well balanced, nutritious diet, instead of simply swearing off all sugar. Your cravings will slowly and naturally fade once you gain a better understanding of why they are cropping up in the first place.

(This article is for informational purposes only. Please discuss any dietary changes with your doctor.)

About the Author:
About the Author (text)
Jamie Jefferson is a frequent contributor to Momscape.com, where you can find diet reviews and special promotional coupons on the most popular weight loss programs.
http://www.momscape.com/diet-reviews and http://www.momscape.com/weight-loss-review

About the Author (html)
Jamie Jefferson is a frequent contributor to Momscape.com, where you can find diet reviews and special promotional coupons on the most popular weight loss programs.