 ***Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Ooma. I have received a promotional item to thank me for my participation.*** Picture this: It's the end of July—smack in the middle of summer. Your kids are at home with a caretaker while you toil away at your 9 to 5. Then, disaster strikes. There's an emergency at home, and your kids have to call 911 for help.
Are your children calling from a cell phone or a landline? And does it make any difference? Surprisingly, the answer is yes. According to the latest data, if you don't have a landline in your home, it could be putting your children in grave danger. Here's a shocking fact: According to an investigation by the USA Today [http://usat.ly/28L5wzD ], the chances of 911 dispatchers being able to find you based on your cell phone's GPS can be as low as 10% in some parts of the country. With a significant share of cell phone-to-911 calls being placed from within residences—and 45% of Americans opting out of landline coverage at home—countless people are left vulnerable in emergencies. The question then becomes not why you should have a landline in the home, but why haven't you gotten one yet? In the spirit of keeping you and your family safe, I recently partnered with Ooma [http://www.ooma.com/] leading Internet home phone service with reliable E911 technology—to deliver three tips for keeping your home safe this summer in addition to owning a landline. TIP #1: KEEP A FIRST AID KIT AT THE READY Whether it's for a small scrape or something far worse, it's always a good idea to have a first aid kit handy. People who call 911 from their cell phone are often surprised at how long emergency workers take to arrive on scene. According to the recent Ooma.com 911 Emergency Response Study, more than one in five cell phone callers feel it takes too long—that's seven times higher than for people who call from a landline. If you're often in situations when only a cell phone is available, consider keeping a first aid kit nearby. TIP #2: WRITE AN EMERGENCY CONTACT LIST Make sure that no matter where you are, it's easy for the people around you to call your emergency contacts. Consider posting your own number, as well as first response numbers, on your fridge so your kids know how to reach you and your family, family members who live close by, or the authorities. Post the name and number of a trusted friend or neighbor, too. With Ooma's home phone system, up to three of these contacts can be notified by text message automatically when a 911 call is placed. In situations when every second counts, this reliable Internet-based technology could save tens of thousands of lives. TIP #3: RECOGNIZE THE FIRST SIGNS OF DANGER Educate your kids about the sights, smells, and sounds of danger. If they hear a smoke alarm or see an appliance overheating, advise your children to get outside as quickly as possible. Planning an exit strategy is key to getting a safe distance away from the house so you can alert a neighbor and have them call the fire department. Consider making a detailed fire plan with multiple escape routes and keeping a printed copy of your fire plan on visible walls around your house. For many people, money is understandably a legitimate concern—but when it comes down to it, we really can't put a price on ensuring that the people we love are safe. Luckily, first aid kits are both lightweight and budget-friendly, while the price of a secure Ooma landline pays for itself in just three months and costs less than a Netflix subscription on a monthly basis. You can learn more about Ooma on their website. You can also connect on Facebook and on twitter. Got any 911 emergency stories of your own? I wouldn't be surprised. In the past five years alone, over a quarter of Americans have called 911 with a cell phone, and in that group, there were many dissatisfied callers. If you've got a story you'd feel comfortable sharing, I'd love to hear about them! Be sure to share your thoughts in the comments below.
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***Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Nudges® Dog Treats and the BlogPaws® Pet Influencer Network™. I am being compensated to help create awareness about Nudges Wholesome Dog Treats available at Walmart but we only share information we feel is relevant to our readers. Nudges Dog Treats is not responsible for the content of this article.***
Speaking of Trouble, recently I decided that she should be part of our mealtime, too. No, I don't give her burgers and fries. She would love that, of course, but it wouldn't necessarily be the most balanced treat for her.
I do give her the next best thing, though. Wholesome dog treats inspired by human food, and made with only the best ingredients. Nudges® Wholesome Dog Treats, which are available at Walmart, offer a couple of lines inspired by summer grilling traditions: Nudges® Sizzlers and Nudges® Grillers.
Nudges® Wholesome Dog Treats are made from proteins that are 100% sourced in the USA. These tender treats are made from real USA-sourced meats with beef, chicken, duck, or salmon as the #1 ingredient.
Here's the scoop about Nudges Dog Treats:
100% REAL - Nudges dog treats are made with real chicken, pork, duck or beef. They don’t contain any artificial flavors or fillers – just the good stuff. MADE IN THE USA - Nudges dog treats are made in the USA. We’re proud to say that we meet all pet food safety rules and regulations. TASTY TREATS - Give your dog a delicious treat that will bring him joy. Nudges dog treats are the tasty, high-quality treats that dogs love and dog owners love to give. 
Nudges Sizzlers dog treats made with real chicken bacon feature USA-sourced chicken and pork with natural ingredients and no artificial flavors or preservatives. And who doesn't LOVE bacon?!
When we opened up our Nudges bags to check out the goods, Trouble knew something was up. She immediately went to sniff at the bags. She could tell there was something savory and delicious inside. We had her sit like a good girl, shake paw, and even roll over before we rewarded her with these moist, meaty treats. She was happy to show off her skills! 
Trouble is absolutely WILD about her Nudges Wholesome Dog Treats. These treats are moist, easy to chew, and judging by Trouble's enthusiasm, absolutely delish! Trouble seems to prefer the Sizzlers, but I think that's because they contain bacon. She also loves the Grillers, and won't turn those down, either.
Trouble loves her Nudges because they're tasty. We like Nudges because they're affordable, made in the USA from high quality ingredients, and available at our local Walmart stores. Nudges are also safe for our pups, and have never been part of or associated with any recalls.
If you'd like to love your dog back with Nudges Wholesome Dog Treats, definitely be sure to pick up a bag or two next time you're out! I recommend the Grillers and Sizzlers, since they make including our four-legged friend in our summer BBQs easier and more nutritious than ever!
Connect With Nudges® Wholesome Dog Treats 
You can learn more about Nudges® Wholesome Dog Treats on their website.
You can purchase Nudges online, or check out their handy retail locator to find these treats in a store near you!
Connect with Nudges on Facebook and on twitter to stay on top of their latest news, products, and promotions.
Keep Foods Fresher Longer with Debbie Meyer GreenBags® and Debbie Meyer GreenBoxes™ #Sponsored7/27/2016  ***Disclosure: I received complimentary samples to facilitate my review. All opinions are 100% honest and have not been influenced in any way.*** We eat TONS of fruits and veggies in my home. TONS. I am one of those "mean moms" that forces my kids to eat healthy, nutritious snacks rather than sugar-laden, processed junk. The kids even call me the "Junk Food Nazi". Really, I'm NOT mean at all. I just know that my junk loving hubby sneaks the kids all kinds of things like candy, cookies, cupcakes, and more when I'm not looking. I have to balance it out somehow, so I am the meanie that forces produce on my kids for snacks. Thankfully, they LOVE fruits and veggies, so it works out well for everyone.
The biggest problem I face keeping so much produce in the house would have to be making sure it all gets eaten before spoiling. This can be a real challenge, especially with things like greens, berries, and bananas. I hate wasting food, so I am always looking for ways to extend its life, which also saves my family money. Thankfully, this is where Debbie Meyer can help! You may have seen Debbie Meyer® GreenBags® and Debbie Meyer GreenBoxes™ on TV. These kitchen solutions are specifically designed to keep your perishable foods fresher, longer. We were sent a nice assortment of Debbie Meyer's products to check out for ourselves, and I'd love to take a little time to tell you about them.  Image courtesy of Cedar Point.
The sun never sets on fun! Cedar Point Nights is about to take over the world’s greatest amusement park destination with nighttime activities for everyone in the family July 15 through August 14. With 31 days and nights to experience the park after dark, a visit to Cedar Point won’t be the same!
In addition to the fantastic live shows, attractions and world-class thrills during the day, there’s even more to enjoy at sunset: Extended Park Hours When the sun goes down, the fun doesn’t stop! Cedar Point will be open until 11 p.m. weeknights and until midnight on Fridays & Saturdays during Cedar Point Nights. Dare to dive on the tallest, fastest and longest dive coaster in the world, Valravn, in the dark! Or, see the skyline from up above on the Sky Ride. The park’s rides and coasters also come to life with state-of-the-art vibrant LED lighting and beautiful rainbows of color. Beach Blast The summer celebration spills out onto the Cedar Point Beach every night from 5:30 – 9:30 p.m. Guests can kick back and relax next to fire pits while enjoying live music from the Toes in the Sand Band. For those looking to enjoy dinner on the beach, freshly-grilled hamburgers and hot dogs will be available for purchase just steps away. Summer Organization Made Stylish and Simple with Thirty-One Gifts Plus GIVEAWAY #Sponsored 8/107/26/2016 
***Disclosure: I received complimentary samples to facilitate my review. All opinions are 100% honest and have not been influenced in any way.***
This summer, we've been having a blast. We've been really enjoying spending time together as a family while soaking up the sun. Whether it's a trip to Cedar Point, a lazy day at the park, or a day splashing in the fountains at the riverfront, we've definitely spent a ton of time on the go.
Of course like any smart parent, when we head out on an adventure, I always try to be prepared. I often bring snacks, drinks, sunscreen, extra clothing, first aid items, and anything else we could possibly need. Since the kiddos are no longer babies, I try my best to avoid lugging around a diaper bag. I mean, can you blame me? Sure, there are some really cute diaper bags on the market, but we've graduated that phase, since Xander and Sophie are 5 and 6 now. Thankfully, Thirty-One Gifts has some great organization solutions that have allowed us to retire our diaper bags for good. Thirty-One Gifts offers a wide variety of totes, thermal bags, purses, home organization products, and even some really pretty jewelry. Their products are well-made, stylish, and oh so functional. I can see why so many of my friends and family are absolutely hooked on this brand! 
***Disclosure: I received complimentary samples to facilitate my review. All opinions are 100% honest and have not been influenced in any way.***
EVERYONE WINS! In addition to an awesome giveaway below, check out the following freebies and deals:
•FREE Vitamin B-12 –60-Day Supply–1,000 mcg (only pay $3.95 S&H) •FREE Vitamin D–Any D product(baby, child, adult) (only pay $4.95 S&H) •BOGO–FREE Vitamin C (Sour Cherry or Tangy Orange)–500 mg–Buy One Get One Free
As you all know by now, I am absolutely loving Superior Source's MicroLingual Vitamins. I take them daily, since they make proper supplementation simple and painless, even while on the go.They definitely help keep me running strong, despite this oppressive, summer heat. (Can we all agree that it's been HOT?!)
This month, I'd love to talk about some Superior Source Supplements that are perfect for summer. These supplements offer nutrients needed to help your body stay strong and healthy, even in extreme temperatures. These supplements help to protect against heat stress and the sun's damaging rays and their impact on our bodies. What Makes Superior Source UNIQUE: They’re Clean...Pure & Simple! Superior Source Vitamins are MicroLingual®–“Under the Tongue Technology” works fast, as they are quickly absorbed into the body, dissolving in seconds –NO pills to swallow! By swallowing supplements, as much as 50% of the potency is lost in the high acid environment of the stomach. -No pills to swallow–dissolves in seconds -GMO FREE and Sugar FREE -90% smaller than regular vitamins -No binders, fillers, dyes or preservatives -Only 3 clean ingredients -Over 150+ vitamins to choose from Sounds pretty convenient, don't they? We received a great assortment of vitamins from Superior Source that are great for this summer season. I'd love to tell you a bit about each one. 
***Disclosure: As a USFG Blogger, I will receive a complimentary Himalayan Salt Lamp for review. All opinions are my own.***
My kids like to joke around with me, saying I was born in the wrong decade. They swear I should have been at Woodstock, complete with flowers in my hair. (How awesome that would be, other than the fact that I'd now be elderly!) I am an activist for many causes, I've been known to take to the streets in peaceful protest, and I support love and tolerance for all human beings. Does that make me a hippie? Maybe. Maybe not. I'm just ME, and that's all I know how to be.
My style, though, is definitely full of natural beauty, peace, and love. I guess you can say it definitely appears that hippies live here. I wouldn't have it any other way. My house is warm, colorful, and inviting. (When the kids haven't destroyed it, of course.) We have gorgeous tapestries, Buddha statues, and other globally-inspired pieces that inspire hope and unity. Recently, I added something very special to my home's decor. I had heard all about Himalayan Salt Lamps, and I have to say, I was intrigued. These beautiful, natural lamps are made from the highest quality Himalayan Salt, and they not only provide a soft, soothing glow, they can also help clean your air! 
***Disclosure: The PEEPS & COMPANY® products, information, and additional gift pack have been provided by PEEPS & COMPANY®. All opinions are my own.***
During the summer months, we try to get out with the kids and enjoy family time as much as possible. Thankfully, here in my awesome little town in NE Ohio, there's tons to do for families. We love heading to one of our several neighborhood parks, hiking in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, or even just heading down to the Riverfront to watch the kids play in their fountain. There's just something about life in a very family oriented, small town that makes summers extra magical.
Recently, we received a great summer package from the folks at PEEPS & COMPANY® to help us put some sweetness into our summer fun. Included were several products perfect for the pool or beach, as well as some great ways to transport them. No matter where the season takes us, we'll always be rocking our PEEPSONALITY! 
***Disclosure: This post was sponsored by WaterWipes as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central. I received complimentary products to facilitate my review.***
I have a little confession to make: Even though my youngest children are now 5 and 6 years old, I still buy baby wipes. After back to back babies, born only 12 months apart, we kinda just got used to using wipes for well...pretty much everything!
Whether it was for their intended purposes or something unconventional like cleaning tabletops or removing makeup, baby wipes have made themselves quite at home in our household. They truly are incredibly versatile, even long after the diaper days are over. Even though our usage of baby wipes has evolved, I still make sure to check ingredients to make sure that I'm buying the safest, gentlest wipes possible. After all, when wiping sticky hands or faces, I care about what the kids are coming into direct contact with. This is especially true with Xander, who has somewhat sensitive skin. Artificial fragrances and harsh alcohol tend to irritate his skin, so I try to avoid products that contain these things. 
Aside from the people who are vegan, most everyone I know buys meat, eggs, or dairy at some point during the week/month/year. And those of you who do – have much more buying power than you probably even realize. By buying welfare-certified animal products, or more plant-based products, you send a strong message to food companies that you care about the treatment of farm animals. Just an average size family spends hundreds of dollars a month on meat. Imagine if every single consumer used that buying power to purchase welfare-certified meat instead of the meat from inhumane factory farms. What a difference that would make! As you may already know, most of the nearly 9 billion animals raised for meat, milk and eggs in the US are suffering in inhumane factory farms. And animals are not the only affected, as factory farms impact human health—they can be breeding grounds for dangerous pathogens and the antibiotics used to prevent disease create the potential for dangerous, drug-resistant bacteria to develop. To fully harness the power of our collective purchases and demand better lives for farm animals, the Shop With Your Heart initiative launched by the ASPCA gives consumers the resources to recognize, locate and demand meaningfully welfare-certified meat, eggs and dairy products as well as plant-based alternatives. Will you take the pledge? Everyone who signs the pledge also gains access to an exclusive Shop With Your Heart Grocery List, including welfare-certified and widely available plant-based brands. Make Heart Hands for Farm Animals! Pose with your hands in a heart shape and post a photo using the tag #shopwithyourheart and @ASPCA to let your friends know you believe in a more humane world for farm animals. Don’t forget to tell them where you shop to find more humane products—give the stores a shout-out by tagging them, too! |
  PR Friendly Mama!
I'm Brandy, a happily married, proud Mom of 3 amazing kids. If you're interested in building a working relationship, please feel free to e-mail me at: NewlyCrunchyMamaOf3@gmail.com 
 
 
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