How We Are Paying It Forward This Holiday Season

This post is sponsored by Stonyfield as part of my ongoing participation in the Stonyfield Yo-Getters ambassador program. All opinions are my own.

I have vivid memories of making a Christmas list with all of my favorite things as a little girl. One year I wanted a Cabbage Patch Kid. Another year I wanted a boom box. As a teenager, I wanted nothing more than a pair of Jordache jeans. Hello, 80s!!!

Christmas wasn't an extravagant affair where presents were piled high to the ceiling, but if there was something on my list that I really, really wanted, chances were good that I received it. I understood that the sky wasn't the limited, but I was also fortunate enough to get at least the "most wanted" item on my list.

This year as part of my Santa responsibilities, I'm placing a focus on giving to other children. While it's always fun to receive, part of the joy of the holiday season comes from putting a smile on someone else's face in the form of giving. Whether it's food, a toy, or a much needed hat and scarf set, giving is often more gratifying than receiving.

We are partnering with Toys For Tots to pay it forward this holiday season. In the past, we have joined forces with friends and co-workers to sponsor a family's Christmas. We've also donated to animal rescue organizations by giving toys, treats, and food for the animals to enjoy during the holidays. But this year, it is all about the kiddos.

Stonyfield provided us with a gift card to make a donation and pay it forward to a charity of our choice. I wanted to involve my daughters in our choice of charities. Since they are always appreciative of what they receive, we wanted to brighten the holiday for other little girls.

The girls chose these creative kits where the recipient can make something. A peace sign, a pair of sunglasses, friendship bracelets, and a collage are items that all girls love.

How cute is this peace sign just ready to be decorated with jewels, ribbons, and printed paper?

We gathered up our gifts and delivered them to the nearest Toys For Tots drop-off location (click here to find the drop-off location nearest to you). All gifts are delivered unwrapped so that Toys For Tots can distribute them appropriately. What a great feeling knowing that our donations will put a smile on a child's face on Christmas morning.

Thank you to Stonyfield for sponsoring this post and providing a gift card to facilitate our shopping experience for our Toys For Tots donation.

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Tips To Avoid A Lunch Packing Rut

The one aspect of any school year that I dread the most is packing lunches. I start the year off on a high note with plenty of momentum and good ideas. But about a month into the school year, I hit a wall. I run out of inventive ideas, and the creative juices stop flowing. But this year, I've vowed to stay out of the lunch packing rut that I so often fall into. Here are 3 ways I plan to do that:

1. Challenge myself to keep lunches healthy and creative

It's easy to throw individual bags of chips and cookies into your child's lunch box. But before you do, think about the lack of nutrients you are providing them. When I challenge myself to keep the packed lunches healthy, creative and fun, I am more motivated to pack them. I try to add a new food item or a fun note or treat every week. It gives me something to look forward to each week, and Harper loves getting a surprise in her lunch box. Check out my Pinterest board for some creative ideas for lunches.

Justin's recently introduced a snack pack that consists of wheat pretzels and a chocolate hazelnut butter blend for dipping. It's a fun treat that's healthy and kids love them. They are perfect for a sweet treat in the lunch box or for an in class treat.

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Stonyfield and Prana Satisfy Summer Cravings {Giveaway}

Summer is teasing us with warm days filled with sunshine, gentle breezes, and children's laughter as they play in their backyards. It's no secret that summer is my favorite season of the year. Long carefree and sun-filled days bleed into firefly-lit nights spent lounging on my deck or patio. What could be better?

As soon as the season starts, my summer cravings hit. There are 3 things I cannot live without in the summer:

• time spent outdoors
• light and breezy clothing
• fresh and easy foods

Luckily, Stonyfield and prAna satisfy two of my cravings. It's up to me to make the most of my time outdoors, and trust me, I absolutely do.

prAna creates versatile, stylish, and sustainable clothing and accessories that can be worn during every activity, every adventure, every day.

I love to spend time on my deck in the early mornings and late evenings reading magazines and books and enjoying breakfast or a light snack. It is so peaceful and quiet during these times of the day, and I am able to enjoy a few moments of relaxation before a busy day starts or after it ends.

With the right conditions, I could spend hours out on my deck. Comfortable clothes are a must for being comfortable. The Quinn dress from prAna is so comfortable and versatile. Here, I am wearing it for a lazy afternoon of magazine reading. But I have also worn it with wedge sandals and a light sweater and dressier jewelry for dinner out.

My latest snack obsession is Stonyfield Greek yogurt with a few added toppings such as fresh fruit and a drizzle of honey. If I have a little more time and am in the mood to be a bit more creative, I make yogurt, fruit and granola parfaits for breakfast.

YOGURT, FRUIT & GRANOLA PARFAIT

Ingredients (Yields 2 small parfaits)
1-5.3 oz. container Stonyfield Greek yogurt, any flavor (I like vanilla or strawberry)
3/4 cup sliced, mixed fruit (I used strawberries above, but any combination of berries works wonderfully)
1/2 cup granola
Honey (optional)
Cinnamon (optional)

Preparation
1. Layer the 3 ingredients beginning with the yogurt on the bottom followed by the fruit and lastly, the granola. Continue layering until you've reached the top of the glass.

2. Drizzle with honey or sprinkle with cinnamon, if desired.

Dress | Bag (similar) | Sandals (similar)

prAna is offering Pieces of a Mom readers a 15% discount when you use the code SCS16SHHI. Discount code expires July 7, 2016 and is not valid for influencers, on gift certificates, or any other offers.

WIN IT!

prAna is offering one lucky Pieces of a Mom reader a chance to win the Quinn dress that I am wearing in "Safari Guava". Enter using the widget below.

Win a Quinn Dress from prAna

Disclosure: As a Stonyfield YoGetter, I was gifted the Quinn dress from prAna and received coupons for Stonyfield yogurt to facilitate this post. All opinions are my own.

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Making Organic Affordable and Accessible

For years I had been reading about the benefits of eating organic foods. There were many upsides to eating organic. However, there was a huge downside: the cost. The cost of organic food was often two or three times the cost of conventional foods. Over time, that cost could add up quickly for a family of four who eats a a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

That was years ago. Times have certainly changed. Buying organic is now accessible and affordable. You no longer have to head to your local natural food store to buy organic produce, frozen foods, dry goods, and beauty products. And you no longer 

Tips for Shopping Organic on a Budget:

1. Use coupons.

Check for coupon circulars in your Sunday paper. Clip what you need and immediately put them in your purse so you have them on hand for shopping. 

Check web sites for organic retailers. They often offer coupons to registered users. I download coupons form Stonyfield and Annie's Homegrown on a monthly basis.

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Purchase Stonyfield YoBaby or YoTot Yogurt and Enjoy $20 Off at Shutterfly

I've already started my search for the perfect holiday card. Why so early, you ask? Well, the answer is easy. It takes me forever to browse through all the cards in search of the ideal one. I want the one that matches my daughter's outfit. I want the one with sentiments that echo exactly my own. It must be the ultimate reflection of our family. I have strict requirements for our holiday card.

While browsing Shutterfly's selection of holiday cards, I was quickly distracted by the vast selection of gifts and keepsake items that Shutterfly offers. I had no idea Shutterfly has such an amazing collection of non-stationery related items. From home decor to mugs to wine glasses to calenders, Shutterfly makes gift giving easy.

I still haven't made a final decision on holiday cards, but I did order a monogrammed acrylic tray. I've been searching for a monogrammed tray for months but just haven't found exactly the one I wanted. When I found this one, I thought I had hit the jackpot!

I chose the background and the font for the "H". The tray is available in two sizes: 12x9 and 17x3.

I love this tray for serving cocktails with small dishes of garnishes or chips and dip to guests. Or you can place it on a nightstand to corral all your favorite items such a candles, books, hand lotions, etc.

Treat yourself or someone special to a Shutterfly gift.

• Purchase any Stonyfield YoBaby or YoTot yogurt 6-pack and enjoy $20 off your order at Shutterfly.com.
• Once you have your code, visit shutterfly.com/stonyfield to learn more and redeem your offer.
• Offer ends February 29, 2016
• The offer is only good for 1 per household.

Disclosure: As a Stonyfield Yo-Getter, I received a Shutterfly discount to facilitate this review. All opinions are my own.

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Stonyfield Introduces Healthy and Delicious Organic Fruit Snacks

I love a brand that thinks outside the box. This time that brand is Stonyfield, and this time it's going beyond the organic dairy aisle to offer a kid's snack that's just as healthy and delicious as any of it's organic dairy offerings.

Stonyfield organic fruit snacks have hit grocery store shelves, and moms and kids alike are jumping for joy. Finally there's a fruit snack that kids love and moms can feel good about giving their children.

Stonyfield Organic Fruit Snacks:

• Have 70 calories per pouch
• Are made with real organic fruit and vegetable juices
• Contain no artificial flavors or preservatives
• Are USDA-certified organic
• Are available in two delicious flavors: Mixed Berry and Strawberry
• Are gluten-free and fat-free
• Provide 100% of the recommended daily requirement of Vitamin C
• Are free of pesticides and GMOs (genetically modified organisms)

These adorable, cow-shaped fruit snacks have saved us from episodes of low blood sugars, from post-gymnastics workouts, and sugar cravings. I'm ashamed to say that the adults in this house may just be enjoying the Stonyfield Organic Fruit Snacks more than the kids are. At first we didn't realize that they were in the shape of cows. We just tore the packages open and started snacking, oblivious to what shape the snacks were.

They make the perfect addition to any lunchbox. Or you can throw a few packs into your purse, briefcase, carry-on, or beach bag for a quick and satisfying snack on the go.

For our family these fruit snacks are a lifesaver. Harper relies on fruit snacks when her blood sugar is low. They are a quick way to raise her blood sugar effectively with sugar-laden sodas and fruit juices.

For more information about Stonyfield, check out Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.

As a Stonyfield Ambassador, I received complimentary fruit snacks and monetary compensation to facilitate this post. As always, all opinions are my own based on my use of the products.

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Stonyfield Introduces Oh My Yog! Tri-Layer Yogurt

I love yogurt. It's my go-to breakfast food. Served with a side of fresh berries or a banana, a cup of yogurt fills me up until lunch time. But yogurt gets boring fast, even if you change up toppings and mixings.

Stonyfield recently introduced its Oh My Yog! yogurt. It's a three layer yogurt consisting of a top layer of cream, a middle layer of honey-infused whole milk yogurt, and a bottom layer of ripe fruit or vanilla. When mixed all together, it's divine, and this new concoction is just what I needed to shake up my yogurt routine! These three layers of organic deliciousness in a colorful, striped cup will have you making multiple trips to the refrigerator.

Oh My Yog! is available in 6 exceptional flavors with a robust punch of fruit in each cup. I loved the big chunks of pears and apples. Available flavors include:

• wild Quebec blueberry
• apple cinnamon
• gingered pear
• orange cranberry
• Madagascar vanilla bean
• Pacific coast strawberry

Whether you dip your spoon into the yogurt and nosh away like that or whether you choose to stir it up and combine the three layers well, Oh My Yog! is definitely an adventure for your taste buds. It's a different kind of yogurt experience. At first I wasn't sure if I'd like it since I am not fond of whole milk. But when combined with the yogurt and the fruit, it was rich and flavorful.

I experimented a bit with toppings and mixing items into it. Everything from granola to pretzels to crushed cookies were a big hit. But there's no need to for any add-ons as Oh My Yog! is perfectly suited to be eaten as is.

You can find more information about Stonyfield's Oh My Yog! on the Web site.

Disclosure: As a Stonyfeild Yo-Getter, I received complimentary coupons to facilitate sharing Oh My Yog! on Pieces of a Mom. As always, all opinions are my own.

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Applegate Introduces HALF TIME Lunch Kits {Giveaway}

On most days I am ambitious about packing a balanced lunch for my daughters as well as offering them a healthy snack after the school day is over. But occasionally when I have limited time, have a conference call scheduled in the afternoon or when I am just plain lazy, it would nice to be able to reach for a quick, healthy snack for the girls.

While there are lunch kits available, many are tasteless, use processed meats and cheeses, and offer other snacks that border on junk food.

Applegate, Annie's, and Stonyfield have teamed up to create the perfect grab-and-go lunch kit that you can feel good about giving to your kids. HALF TIME is the first lunch kit that is all-natural and organic to be available nationwide. Three trusted and mom-approved brands have come together to offer a convenient, pre-packed lunch or snack that will energize kids to get through the second half of their day.

HALF TIME is available in 3 varieties: bologna, ham, and turkey. Each kit contains one Stonyfield YoKids Squeezers yogurt, and a yummy snack from Annie's which includes fruit snacks or graham crackers. Crackers and cheese round out the snack kit for a complete lunch or snack to power kids through the second half of the school day.

I love HALF TIME snacks because they are easy to transfer to our favorite Bento-style lunch boxes. In no time at all I have a ready-made lunch that's fun to eat. HALF TIME snack kits have been ideal for my youngest daughter who has type 1 diabetes. The ratio of protein to carbohydrates is well balanced with most kits having less than 40 grams per box. I send her off to school with a HALF TIME in her Bento box, and the carb counting is done for me!

My kids aren't big bologna eaters, so it goes without saying that they love the turkey and ham varieties the best. The accompaniments were, of course, old favorites. My daughters love "playing" with their food. Sometimes they make cracker sandwiches with the HALF TIME, and other times, they eat all the kit elements separately. Whatever floats your kids' boats!

At the end of day, you can feel good about giving your kids a nutritious and organic lunch or snack whether they just need to refuel, relax, or recharge.

WIN IT!

One lucky reader will win a HALF TIME prize pack which includes:

• All three varieties of HALF TIME
• Lunch Bag – personalize it!
• Set of Markers – to decorate the lunch bag!
• Fun activity book
• Coupons to use to stock your fridge with HALF TIME

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This post was created in partnership with Stonyfield. As a Yo-Getter, I received complimentary packages of HALF TIME snacks to facilitate this post. All opinions are my own.

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Stonyfield Yogurt Pouches {Giveaway} - CLOSED

When yogurt pouches first hit the market, I wasn't sure my daughters would have any interest in them. Yogurt pouches seemed better suited for the little hands and little mouths of babies and toddlers. They are a fun way to get kids to eat their calcium, but would my girls go for it?

When Stonyfield offered to send me coupons to try their new yogurt pouches, I was skeptical. I wasn't convinced that my girls would love these more than the yogurt cups. Since I love the Stonyfield brand and mission, I was certainly willing to give them a try.

Stonyfield Pouches are certified USDA Organic. That means that there are no GMOs (genetically modified organisms), no toxic pesticides, no artificial hormones, and no antibiotics in Stonyfield Pouches. You can feel good about the food you are feeding your children.

But did my daughters, who are 8 and 11, like them. Yes! They loved them. They were easy (and fun) to eat. There was no mess, and they loved taking them on the road with them. Whether it was in the car for a quick trip to the gymnastics facility or it was a 2 hour road trip, Stonyfield Pouches are the perfect grab-and-go snack.

If your children would prefer a different type of snack, try adding a Stonyfield Pouch to a smoothie. We love smoothies and the addition of yogurt gives your smoothie a silkier and smoother texture.

Layer yogurt with fresh berries and granola for a parfait that's as pretty as it is delicious.

Add it to school lunches for a mid-day calcium kick.

WIN IT!
Are you ready to try Stonyfield yogurt pouches for yourself? They are available in grocery stores nationwide. Or enter to win for your chance to receive ten (10) FREE coupons for Stonyfield single-serving yogurt pouches. One winner will be selected at random. Coupons will be mailed to the winner.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

As a Stonyfield Yo-Getter, I received coupons to cover the cost of the yogurt pouches. All opinions are my own.

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Rock the Lunchbox ~ Back to School 2013

I have to admit. I enjoy the summertime break from packing daily lunches. My daughters never buy the school cafeteria food. And on top of that, they are extremely fussy lunch eaters. They don't eat sandwiches. They love fruit and veggies, but they need more than just that.

Packing lunches for two is a daily challenge for me. And to keep them healthy and balanced is an additional weight on my shoulders.

But I've become fairly adept at working with their preferences. But my biggest challenge is changing up what I give them. For example, if I give whole grain pretzels and cheese sticks more than 2 days in a row, they refuse to eat those food items anymore.

Constantly trying to change up what I include in the lunches can be exhausting, but I know that I have to do it to keep the girls interested in what they are eating.

So, over the years I've developed a list of items that I am constantly rotating in and out of the lunch boxes.

As a parent, I know first hand how tedious and monotonous packing lunches can become. As a Stonyfield Yo-Getter, I was invited to participate in the "Rock the Lunchbox" campaign. I received some product samples and/or coupons as part of my participation.

Annie's, Organic Valley, Honest Tea (makers of Honest Kids), and Stonyfield have partnered on a collaborative promotion to inspire parents to pack healthy, wholesome lunches that kids will look forward to eating day after day.

Here's what I typically pack for my 11 year old daughter. She doesn't eat sandwiches, and isn't a big meat eater. So, I have to be creative with her sources of protein.

What's in her lunchbox:

• Pita bread
• Cucumbers
• Hummus (source of protein).
• Annie's cheddar bunnies (salty snack)
• Granola bar (sweet treat)
• Stonyfield YoKids smoothie (her source of calcium)
• Honest Kids pink lemonade

Sometimes she dips the pita and cukes into the hummus. Other times, she'll make a pita pocket and put the cukes and hummus inside. On occasion, I add a few jarred roasted red peppers.

My 7 year old daughter is a little less picky than her older sister. She likes more fruits than veggies in her lunches. She loves yogurt. It's easy to pop a YoKids Squeezer or a container of YoKids low fat yogurt into her lunch.

What's in her lunchbox:

• YoKids blueberry yogurt with granola (main item)
• Banana and apples which she dips into
• Peanut butter (fruit and protein)
• Annie's honey graham bunnies (sweet treat)
• Annie's organic fruit snacks
• Honest kids apple juice

I add a sweet twist on the apple slices by cutting out the core with a small heart-shaped cookie cutter. This isn't something I do everyday, but occasionally I like to do it. It's a fun surprise when she opens up her lunch box.

I also use these Bento-style boxes for their lunches. Obviously, not all items fit into the box, but those that do are kept neatly organized and separated. For items that require more room or an ice pack, I place those into compartments in the kids' lunchboxes.

And there you have it! Two balanced and healthy lunches for two hungry girls.

I would love to hear what you pack for your children and the challenges that you encounter on a daily basis when packing lunches.

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On The "Moo-ve" with Stonyfield Yo-Kids Smoothies {Giveaway}

Day trips with the kids are outings that we always look forward to. While these trips offer a chance for fun and for learning, they are not always wallet-friendly. In addition to the admission fees, the cost of food can be quite expensive for a family of 3, 4, or more.

Before heading out on a recent excursion to the Liberty Science Center, I decided to pack a few goodies for the ride there and back. I knew we couldn't bring food into the venue, but we had the flexibility to eat in our car before we entered and on the drive home.

I packed the basic essentials: water, granola bars, Pirate's Booty, baby carrots, and apple slices. But we needed something more. Something a bit more substantial. I had the perfect thing: Stonyfield Yo-Kids SMOOthies.

I make smoothies on a daily basis for my kids. In fact, one of our favorites is a blueberry banana smoothie, but the homemade ones are difficult to transport. You must drink them immediately or else they'll spoil and separate. But Stonyfield YoKids SMOOthies are perfect for packing up for on-the-go travel.

I grabbed an insulated bag, a 6-pack of SMOOthies, and a container of Stonyfield Blends for myself, and we were on our way!


As part of my participation in the Stonyfield Yo-Getter brand ambassador program, I received coupons for free SMOOthies to faciliate this giveaway. I also received a gift card which covered travel expenses and admission fees for the Liberty Science Center.

We weren't on the road long before someone was hungry! The YoKids SMOOthie was the perfect cross between drink and food to keep her satisfied.

We had an hour's long drive ahead of us. Rather than stick their heads in their iPads, they played a game of cards. Stonyfield sent us a deck of cards, "52 Fun Things to do in the Car". What a fun way to pass the time.  It was so much more fun than listening to music...or listening to the girls argue. Yes, it happens.

One of my favorite cards was the "One Word Stories". Someone starts the story by saying one word, such as "A". The next person says the next word, "girl". And the game continues. Pretty soon we had "A girl who had blue eyes and a big dog. She wanted to go to the city, but her brother wanted to go to the beach..."

After a few Stonyfield YoKids SMOOthies and a few other assorted snacks, it was time to go into the Liberty Science Center. We had been here several times before, and it's always a fun visit. The exhibits change every few months, and we were excited to see what was new since our last visit.

Our first stop was the BASF Kids Lab, an interactive chemisty lab where children have the opportunity to learn about cause and effect. The girls loved this exhibit.

Once the goggles were on, it was time to see how porous a piece of chalk is.

The Liberty Science Center also has a fun Curious George exhibit that continues through May 5, 2013. It was a bit young for my girls, but if you have children ages 5 and under, it's worth checking out.

After a long day, and much time logged learning about science, medecine, architecture, and tecnology, it was time to get back on the road. We were hungry, and we were beat. There was no way I was spending $40 for the three of us to eat in the cafe.

We headed to the car and grabbed our Stonyfield yogurt and YoKids SMOOthies. They hit the spot! The kids were happy. I was happy. It was a great end to a fabulous day.

Wouldn't you love to try Stonyfield YoKids SMOOthies?

WIN IT!

Lucky you! I am giving away four (4) coupons for free 6-packs of Stonyfield YoKids Smoothies and one (1) deck of "52 Fun Things to do in the Car" cards. To enter, use the Rafflecopter form below.

All entrants must be 18 years or older and must reside in the continental U.S.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: As part of my participation in the Stonyfield Yo-Getter brand ambassador program, I received coupons for free SMOOthies to faciliate this giveaway. I also received a gift card which covered travel expenses and admission fees for the Liberty Science Center.

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Stonyfield Introduces Blends Yogurt

I love yogurt. In fact, so much so that I eat it on a daily basis. It's perfect for breakfast with a little granola tossed in or as an afternoon snack when I am feeling sluggish. I mix it in my smoothies, and I have even traded in sour cream for plain Greek yogurt!!! What? Crazy. I know. Try it, and just maybe you'll make the switch too.

But there is one type of yogurt that I am not crazy about: fruit on the bottom. So, when Stonyfield recently introduced its newest yogurt, Blends, and sent me free coupons to try it, I couldn't resist.

This thick and creamy yogurt is made with all natural and organic ingredients with full fruit blended in. Stonyfield Blends are available in both Fat Free and Low Fat varities and eleven different flavors, such as strawberry, blackberry, raspberry, and lemon. Smooth and delicious, Blends is a good source of calcium and protein.

I loved this yogurt for its smoothness. I want real fruit in my yogurt, but I don't like the texture of bits of fruit. Blends fully incorporates the fruit but without the chunky texture.

Blends is available in supermarkets and grocery stores throughout the United States and retails for about $1.10 per 6 oz. container.

Disclosure: I am a Stonyfield Yo-Getter and received coupons for free containers of Stonyfield Blends yogurt. I did not receive compensation for this post. All opinions are my own.

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{Giveaway} 5 Coupons for Free Stonyfield Farm Organic Milk - 5 Winners!

I'm giving away 5 coupons for free organic milk from Stonyfield Farm to 5 lucky winners!!! 

Stonyfield farmers don't treat their cows with antibiotics or synthetic hormones. Instead, they rely on good nutrition and minimal stress to keep their cows healthy, happy and productive.

Have you ever tried Stonyfield Farm organic milk? Stonyfield Farm Organic Milk is available by the half-gallon and comes in the following varieties:

• Fat Free
• 1% Milk Fat
• 2% Milk Fat
• Whole Milk

I am giving away 25 coupons for FREE milk. Each coupon is good for up to $5.29 per half gallon. You can save over $25 in milk! The coupons expire on August 31, 2013 and are accepted at mass retailers and grocery stores.

I will choose 5 lucky winners. You must live in the US or Canada and you must be 18 years of age or older to participate. Coupons will be mailed to the winners via USPS. Enter your information below. Five (5) winners will be chosen at the contest's end and notified via email or Facebook. Winners will have 48 hours to respond. If winner fails to respond within given time frame, a new winner will be chosen.

Enter below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Vote For Me in the Stonyfield Farm Recipe Contest!!

Stonyfield Farm invited its blogger brand ambassadors, Yo-Getters, to participate in a recipe contest. I thought it sounded like fun, so I was game. I'm always up for a good throw down every now and again.

I was sent the required item for the recipe from Stonyfield: organic whole milk along with my recipe category: desserts. Oh, yeah! Just my thing: DESSERTS!!!

I chose my dessert, Tres Leche Cake, a delicious moist cake prepared with 3 different milks. It's mouthwatering, rich, tasty, and downright irresistible. But now it's game time, and I need your help.

Voting takes place here: http://www.facebook.com/stonyfieldfarm/app_433032826761685

Starting today, December 6th through December 12, you can vote daily on Facebook for my recipe. And of course, I'd be totally grateful if you did. For each entry made, you are entered to win a $1,000 gift card to Cooking.com. Even you benefit for placing a vote!

Go on, vote!

Thank you, friends! xoxo

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Be a Food Superhero & $50 Whole Foods Gift Card Giveaway

Do you know your food? I mean, do you really know what you are putting into your body?


Do you know if it is whole or processed? Do you understand the difference between the two?


It's never too late to know your food. The best way to get started is to become a Stonyfield Food Superhero!! What's a Food Superhero? Food Superheroes know their food and make food choices that protect their health, family farmers, animals, and the planet.

For each Food Superhero that is created, Stonyfield will donate $1 to FoodCorps, a national nonprofit organization that addresses childhood health through food by working directly in schools in limited-resource communities. 


I've been working closely with Stonyfield Farm as a Yo-Getter brand ambassador over the past year to help educate Pieces of a Mom readers on the importance of making the switch to organic foods, especially dairy products.


But now, we are taking it one step further to encourage you to really get to know the food that you are eating, to know the good, the bad, and the ugly and to do so for a good cause.


Stonyfield is generously giving ONE lucky Pieces of a Mom reader a $50 gift card to WHOLE FOODS MARKET in order to purchase foods that make you a Stonyfield Food Superhero, a Stonyfield "Food Superhero" cape, a FREE 6oz Stonyfield coupon, and some temporary tattoos.

TO ENTER TO WIN:


You have several options, and each will count as one entry (as long as you've followed the specific instructions listed below). This giveaway is limited to US residents 18 years old and above only. All entries must be submitted by 11:59 pm EDT, July 16, 2012. One winner will be chosen via Random.org and notified by email. Winner will have 24 hours to respond to claim the prize. If winner fails to do so within the allotted time frame, a new winner will be chosen.


1. Required entry: Create a Food Superhero profile at https://iwillknowmyfood.com/#create. Come back to this post and leave a comment with your Food Superhero name. Please be sure to include your email address in the required entry.


2. {Optional}: Follow Pieces of a Mom on Twitter. Leave a comment stating that you do so.


3. {Optional}: Tweet the following "Create a @Stonyfield Food Superhero and be entered to win a $50 gift card to @WholeFoods from @PiecesofaMom http://bit.ly/N9EKy0. Pls RT". Leave a comment stating that you tweeted. Include a link to the tweet.


4. {Optional}: Follow Stonyfield Organic on Twitter. Leave a comment stating that you do so.


5. {Optional}: Follow Whole Foods Market on Twitter. Leave a comment stating that you do so.


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For more information about Stonyfield Organic, visit the Facebook page.

For more information about Whole Foods Market, visit the Facebook page.

To stay in the loop of Pieces of Mom's giveaways, please "like" our Facebook page.

*Per Facebook rules, you do not receive giveaway entries for "liking" Facebook pages.

Disclosure: I am participating in the "Food Superhero" campaign as part of Stonyfield's Yo-Getter brand ambassador program. I was not compensated to write this post. All opinions are my own.

By entering this giveaway, you agree to the rules and regulations noted above.

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WINNER - Stonyfield YoKids Lunch Sack Giveaway

CONGRATULATIONS TO TRISH!

She's the lucky winner of the Stonyfield Farm YoKids lunch sack filled with eco-friendly goodies.

You're going to love it, Trish!

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Giveaway: Stonyfield YoKids Eco-friendly Lunch Sack Filled with Goodies

Summer means fresh, locally grown strawberries. After we've picked our strawberries, we'll make everything from strawberry pie to jams to muffins.

In honor of all things strawberries, I am giving away a Stonyfield YoKids eco-friendly lunch sack filled with strawberry-flavored goodies!

YoKids lunch sack is filled with several Tom's of Maine products including a full 4.2 oz tube of Silly Strawberry children's toothpaste, as well as samples of their Naturally Dry deodorant and Daily Moisture soap.  The bag also includes YoKids and YoKids Greek yogurt coupons, YoKids temporary tattoos, and YoKids Strawberry-flavored Eco Lips chapstick!

There's lots of good stuff packed in that sack! You could be the lucky winner.

How do you enter? You have several options, and each will count as one entry (as long as you've followed the specific instructions listed below). This giveaway is limited to US residents 18 years old and above only. All entries must be submitted by 11:59 pm EDT, June 11, 2012. One winner will be chosen via Random.org and notified by email. Winner will have 24 hours to respond to claim the prize. If winner fails to do so within the allotted time frame, a new winner will be chosen.

1. Required: Please comment to let me know if you've ever tried any of the products featured in the YoKids eco-friendly sack. Be sure to include your email address so that I may easily contact you if you are the winner.

2. {Optional} Follow Stonyfield Farm on Twitter. Leave a comment stating that you do so.

4. {Optional} "Like" Stonyfield Farm on Facebook. Leave a comment stating that you do so.

5. {Optional} Follow Pieces of a Mom on Twitter. Leave a comment stating that you do so.

6. {Optional} Tweet this message: “Hope I win the @Stonyfield YoKids eco-friendly sack and goodies giveaway from @PiecesofaMom bit.ly/JHmISR. #contest #giveaway”. Leave a comment stating that you tweeted. Include your Twitter handle.

7. {Optional} "Like" Pieces of a Mom on Facebook. Leave a comment stating that you do so.

Disclosure: To facilitate this giveaway, Stonyfield provided me with a complimentary YoKids lunch sack and its contents. I was not compensated for this review or to offer the giveaway. All opinions expressed herein are solely mine.

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Twitter Party: Tuesday #GNO with Mom It Forward and Stonyfield

Every Tuesday evening, Mom It Forward (@momitforward) hosts a girls night out (#gno) Twitter party featuring a different theme. This week's party is co-hosted by Stonyfield Farm, and the theme is organic living.  Stonyfield, the world’s leading organic yogurt maker, has been providing people with organic yogurt for years. They have been committed to healthy food, healthy people, a healthy planet, and healthy business.

Stonyfield recently introduced the first organic Greek yogurt specially crafted for kids’ choosy palates, YoKids Greek. As the only organic Greek yogurt for kids, YoKids Greek provides families a quality product produced without the use of toxic persistent pesticides, antibiotics, artificial growth hormones, genetically engineered ingredients, or artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners.

Party Details

• What: Girls’ Night Out (#gno) Twitter party (Click here to learn about #gno!)
• When: Tuesday, March 27 from 9-10 p.m. EST (8 CT, 7 MT, & 6 PT)
• Where: Party with Mom It Forward on a Custom Tweetgrid! (Use hashtags #gno and #Stonyfield)
• Topic: Organic Living
• Who: Brand Panelist: @Stonyfield, Community Panelists: TBD, Moderators: @jylmomIF @Dadventurous @troypattee @MomItForward
• Party Favors: Click here to enter the giveaway.
• RSVP: Please RSVP by heading over to Mom It Forward and leaving a comment on this post.

Help spread the word by retweeting the following:

• RT @MomItForward Join the @Stonyfield #gno Twitter party 3/27 (9-10 ET) on organic living http://bit.ly/GFfaxK #Stonyfield PLS RT

Disclosure: I am a Yo Getter (brand ambassador) for Stonyfield. I was not obligated or compensated to write this post. All opinions are mine.

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Exciting Announcement: I'm a Brand Ambassador!!!

When I first launched Pieces of a Mom three years ago, I never imagined the people I would meet, the opportunities that I'd be given, and the path my little ole blog would take. What began as an experimental and creative outlet for me has turned into a business. Go figure.

Three years and over 700 posts later, I am proud to announce my very first brand ambassadorship!! While this may not be big news for big bloggers, it's pretty exciting stuff for me. It opens up doors that wouldn't otherwise be open for me, and I'm elated to be representing a company that I wholeheartedly endorse, Stonyfield Farm.

I had the wonderful opportunity to meet representatives from Stonyfield back in April when I attended a luncheon hosted by Stonyfield featuring Robyn O'Brien. To read more, click here. I was so impressed by Stonyfield's mission and history. I left the luncheon knowing that I wanted to work with this company in some capacity as a blogger. And now I am thrilled to have been given that opportunity.

Stonyfield Farm, the award-winning organic dairy company, was founded in 1983 on a small farm in New Hampshire. With humble beginnings and lofty goals, Stonyfield has blossomed into a thriving business which focuses on sustainable farming practices. Over the last couple of decades, Stonyfield has experienced explosive growth, while introducing many new products: yogurt drinks, frozen yogurt, ice cream, YoBaby, a Greek yogurt we call Oikos, soy yogurts, and fluid milk—all organic.

In addition to producing the finest (and yummiest) yogurt on the market, Stonyfield also prides itself on being a model for socially and environmentally responsible business practices.  Stonyfield established a “Profits for the Planet” program, which commits 10% of annual profits to individuals and organizations working to restore and protect the environment. Stonyfield also uses the yogurt lids—millions each week—to promote causes, organizations, and environmental initiatives. Our plant engineers have worked hard to reduce the energy used to make yogurt, and to recycle as much waste as possible, which has kept tens of millions of pounds of waste from being dumped into landfills.

I am proud to be a Stonyfield "Yo-Getter". I can't think of a better company with which to align myself and my blog. But how do you benefit as a reader? Well, you'll get lots of great information here regarding organic dairy products and manufacturing practices. There will also be fun giveaways and heaps of great recipes that you can share with your family.

In the meantime, head on over to Stonyfield's Web site where you can register to earn rewards on purchases, print coupons for your favorite products, and read about all things Stonyfield.

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