Alternative Easter Basket Ideas, Chicken Soup for the Soul giveaway, and more

Today at Everything Easter Egg-stravaganza we have some great ideas for alternative Easter baskets, a simple craft you can use as your center piece, another yummy treat and the perfect giveaway for your Tween.

Don't forget Join us April 6th 1:00-3:00 PT for our first LIVE Easter Egg-stravganza right here at www.247moms.com.


EGG-stra FUN Easter Baskets:

Do you use the traditional Easter basket that is used each year or do you use a double use Easter basket – fun and useful container/basket/ item that has another use after Easter is over ?

Today I have put a list together of alternative ideas for Easter Baskets. I also asked our Facebook friends and Twitter followers for some of their ideas to share with you. If you have a fun idea, leave a comment and share it with us.

Double use Easter basket ideas

Baseball Cap
Dump Truck
Dress-up Hat – fireman; army; hard hat, etc.
Doll stroller
Shopping Cart
Pillow Cases
Sand Pails
Wagon
Beach Bag
Purse
Sports Duffel Bag
Batters Bag
Flower Pot
Make-up Container
Decorated Paint can
Storage Containers
Back Pack
Fishing Tackle Box
Jewelry Box
Our Facebook friends had some fun suggestions:

Angie Martinez Warrington at 6:19pm March 8

A fuzzy handbag

Julie Shook Ward at 6:25pm March 8

because I "have" to be practical one of those cute plastic storage basket things

Susan Beck Fox at 7:11pm March 8

when on vacation for easter a couple of yrs ago, I packed easter goodies and used cute easter gift bags as the basket.

Angie Ratliff at 7:44pm March 8 via Facebook Mobile

We usually get new bike helmets for the kids each year and fill them up with candy and goodies:)

Tammy Boring at 9:23pm March 8

Plastic berry baskets... we wove ribbon through them.

Krisy Szolomayer Trnavsky at 7:18am March 9

We used a sand bucket one time and Sophia loved it!

Tami Strilcov Wilkinson at 9:32am March 9
Not really original, but I decorated a specific basket for each of my three kids and used it each year, even when I forgot whose was whose, they knew. It's been about 16 years and they still want to see their baskets at easter.

We got some great ideas from our Twitter followers:

StudioStyle@247moms Paper mache containers. Hollowed out gourds. Hand-sewn purses (for girls) made from repurposed fabric

DowntoEarthMama@247moms I have used Storage locker bins that have Disney characters on them. Got them from 5 below.
JoBrielyn@247moms One year, I found a small plastic wagon and stuffed it with a huge bunny, yard toys, etc. Perfect for toddlers

MidwestMoms@247moms Last year, my mom gave my daughter a pink Red Sox cap filled with goodies. It was so sweet and she wore it all year!
Blindfaith73@247moms I bought some plain canvas bags and some fabric paint and let the kids decorate their own " Easter " bags


Today's Egg-stravaganza Giveaway:

Do you have Tweens or Teens in the house? I am always looking for creative ideas of things to put in their baskets. Chicken Soup for the Soul just published a series of 3 new books "Teens Talk"

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Teens Talk Middle School

101 Stories of Life, Love, and Learning for Younger Teens

Almost everyone hated middle school. It’s a very tough time for adolescents. This “support group in a book” is specifically geared to younger teens -- the ones still worrying about puberty, cliques, discovering the opposite sex, and figuring out who they are. Meant for middle school students ages eleven to fourteen, stories cover regrets and lessons learned, love and “like,” popularity, friendship, tough issues such as divorce, illness, and death, failure and rising above it, embarrassing moments, bullying, and finding something you’re passionate about. The stories provide emotional support, humor, and inspiration for the young teens making their way through the tumultuous middle school years.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Teens Talk High School

101 Stories of Life, Love, and Learning for Older Teens

This book focuses on issues specific to high school age kids, ages fourteen to eighteen. Teens in high school have mainly moved past worrying about puberty and cliques, so stories in this book cover topics of interest to older teens such as sports and clubs, religion and faith, driving, curfews, growing up, self-image and self-acceptance, dating and sex, family relationships, friends, divorce, illness, death, pregnancy, drinking, failure, and preparing for life after high school. High school students will find comfort and inspiration in the words of this book, referring to it through all four years of their high school experience, like a portable support group.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Teens Talk Getting In... to College

101 True Stories from Kids Who Have Lived Through It

These days, colleges are deluged with applications, and the application process has become something traumatic that students and parents experience together. This book isn’t about how to get into college -- it’s about providing emotional, not tactical, support. The stories in this book are written by kids who have been there and want to pass on their words of support to the kids about to go through the whole ordeal. Story topics include parental and peer pressure, the stress of grades and standardized tests, applications and interviews, recruiting, disappointments, and successes. Parents and students alike will find Getting In... to College a great source of inspiration.


24/7 MOMS and Chicken Soup for the Soul are giving away a copy of Teens Talk Middle School . To enter for your chance to win, enter your name and email address in the box below you will be signed up for today's giveaway as well as be added to the 24/7 MOMS E-list (if you are not already a 24/7 MOMS subscriber)







Egg-stra Easy Craft:

Looking for a SIMPLE easy centerpiece to use for you Easter Dinner/Brunch? I found a QUICK and SIMPLE one that not only can you use it this year but for years to come as an Easter decoration in your home.

Easter Tree
From: Hershey's Site
Materials:

• HERSHEY'S Candy-Coated Milk Chocolate Eggs
• 2-3 Small tree branches 12" - 18" long
• Small plant pot
• Block of green floral foam
• White spray paint
• 2 yards each of 1/8" pastel satin ribbons in variety of colors
• 1/2 yard each of several embroidered trims and 1/8" rick rack
• Small silk flower blossoms.
• Glue stick or low temp hot glue gun

Directions:
Decorate each egg by gluing embroidered trim or rick rack around the center of egg. Cut an 8" length piece of satin ribbon and tie ends into a bow, creating a loop approximately 1'' long. Attach bow to top of each egg. Decorate at least a dozen egg ornaments. Fill the small pot with a piece of floral foam cut to fit. Decorate the pot as you like. Group the branches together to form a mini tree. Wrap wire around the base of branches to form the trunk of the tree. Spray paint branches white or the pastel color of your choice. Insert the trunk into the center of the foam. Secure with a little glue. Cover the foam with Easter grass, or moss and nest a few eggs in the grass.

Complete your project by hanging the decorated egg ornaments on the branches, and gluing the small silk flower blossoms to the ends of each branch.

Completed craft is for decorative purposes only. Candy used in craft should not be eaten.



Egg-stra Yummy Recipe:

Since I was a little girl I have been a BIG fan of homemade Rice Krispies treats. So, finding this yummy recipe was Egg-stra great today. The question is should I make this yummy treat today? I happen to have all the ingredients. I know shocking isn't it? ( yes, still a kid at heart)

Easter Egg Dippers
From: http://www.ricekrispies.com/


Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons butter or margarine
• 1 package (10oz., about 40) regular marshmallows
• - OR -
• 4 cups miniature marshmallows
• 6 cups Kellogg's® Rice Krispies® cereal
• 1 1/2 cups semi-sweet chocolate morsels or milk chocolate morsels
• 5 teaspoons shortening
• Multi-colored sprinkles

1. In large saucepan melt butter over low heat. Add marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat.

2. Add KELLOGG'S RICE KRISPIES cereal. Stir until well coated.

3. Using 1/4-cup measuring cup coated with cooking spray divide warm cereal mixture into portions. Using buttered hands shape each portion into 2 1/2- x 1 1/2-inch egg shapes. (Or, coat insides of plastic snap-apart Easter eggs with cooking spray. Press cereal mixture into eggs. Remove cereal mixture from plastic eggs.) Cool.

4. In small saucepan combine chocolate morsels and shortening. Cook over low heat until melted, stirring constantly. Dip bottoms of cereal eggs into chocolate. Decorate with sprinkles. Place on wax-paper-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate until chocolate is firm. Individually wrap in plastic wrap. Best if served the same day.

MICROWAVE DIRECTIONS:

In microwave-safe bowl heat butter and marshmallows on HIGH for 3 minutes, stirring after 2 minutes. Stir until smooth. Continue with recipe as directed above. Microwave cooking times may vary.
Note
For best results, use fresh marshmallows.
1 jar (7 oz.) marshmallow crème can be substituted for marshmallows.

Diet, reduced calorie or tub margarine is not recommended.

Store no more than two days at room temperature in airtight container. To freeze, place in single layer on wax paper in airtight container. Freeze for up to 6 weeks. Let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving.

Kellogg's has reduced the sodium content of Rice Krispies to meet current consumer flavor- and nutrition-preferences. Rice Krispies Treats made with the lower sodium cereal taste great without any added salt, but, if you desire, add 1/4 teaspoon salt to the butter before melting. Continue with recipe as directed.

Join us again tomorrow for more Egg-stra great Easter fun.

Live ONLINE Easter Giveaway Show

Join us April 6th 1:00pm-3:00pm PT for an Egg-srta - Egg-citing time of Giveaways, Easter Ideas and Momversation right here at www.247moms.com.
Stop by to WATCH and CHAT with us LIVE.

Invite all YOUR Mom friends to join us.

Post our button on your blog so your MOM friends don't miss out on all the Egg-stra Egg-citing FUN on April 6th

Here is the Code for our button - Copy and paste is all you need to do

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Everything Easter Egg-stravaganza - Name Your Tune Giveaway, Family Fun Ideas and Recipe

Today we have MORE great fun at the Everything Easter Egg-stravaganza - First I want to tell you about an Egg-citing LIVE event to be held right here at www.247moms.com. On April 6th from 1:00-3:00PT we will host a LIVE web Easter Egg-stravaganza giveaway - 2 hours of giveaways, Easter ideas and Mom conversation. Mark your MOM calenders and join us for two hours of Egg-citing fun.

Now for today's Everything Easter Egg-stravaganza - where you will find an Egg-citing family fun idea, another GREAT giveaway and even an Egg-stra yummy Easter treat to bake.


EGG-citing Easter Family Fun:

Over 10 years ago I came across a new family tradition called "Resurrection Eggs". You can either purchase this or create your own. I happened to purchase mine which came complete with 12 eggs filled with various items to assist me in telling the Eater story to my Children along with a booklet that had the story broken down to go with each egg. We have used this fun tradition to share the Easter story with our children each year.





There are several ways to use these Resurrection eggs.

1. Daily countdown - Open and egg each day telling a portion of the Easter Story.
2. Tell the entire story at once opening each egg at the appropriate time in the story.
3. Host a Easter Party for friends, neighbors and family and share the Easter story with the children using the Resurrection eggs.

If you are interested in purchasing your Resurrection eggs I found a great deal at Christianbook.com they are on sale for $6.99. I also Posted below directions for you and your kids to create your own set of "Resurrection Eggs".

Resurrection Egg Countdown By: Easy Fun School

Many of you have seen the plastic Resurrection Eggs that are used to tell the story of the Christian Easter celebration. Did you know that these can easily, and frugally, be made at home?

First, purchase 12 plastic Easter eggs, the kind that you can open and fill. I recommend the size that can fit in a Styrofoam or cardboard egg carton. You can reuse one that you bring home eggs in from the grocery. This makes for easy storage so that you can use these many times without losing any of the bits and pieces.

If possible, try and have each of the 12 eggs a different color. This makes it easier as well. If having 12 different colors isn't an option, use a permanent marker to write the number 1 through 12 on each egg and then put them in the egg carton.

Into each egg place the item and scripture reference written on a small piece of paper.

Egg #1:

Message -- Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey. The people waved palm branches.
Passage -- Matthew 21:1-11
Item -- Piece of palm branch. Another option for those of you with extra leggo parts or plastic novelty beads would be to place a small plastic leaf in the egg

Egg #2:

Message -- Mary poured expensive perfume on Jesus' feet.
Passage -- John 12:2-8
Item -- Small perfume sample or cloth with perfume or a piece of cotton with cologne on it

Egg #3:

Message -- Jesus shared the Last Supper with His disciples.
Passage -- Matthew 26:17-19
Item - a piece of Chex cereal; or take clay and make a small bread-like shape

Egg #4:

Message -- Judas betrayed Jesus for 30 pieces of silver.
Passage -- Matthew 27:3
Item -- 3 dimes or plastic ,silver money

Egg #5:

Message -- Jesus carried His own cross.
Passage -- John 19:17
Item - toothpicks or Popsicle stick cut and glued in a cross form; or, a small plastic cross from a Christmas ornament or necklace.

Egg #6:

Message -- Soldiers placed a crown of thorns on Jesus' head.
Passage -- John 19:2
Item -- Small thorny branch, or a large thorn all by itself.

Egg #7:

Message -- Soldiers parted Jesus' garments and cast lots for His coat.
Passage -- John 19:23
Item -- Swatch of burlap and a nail. I've also seen miniature dice used for this one.

Egg #8:

Message -- Jesus was nailed to a cross and pierced in His side.
Passage -- John 19:18,37 & John 20:25-29
Item -- A nail

Egg #9:

Message -- They gave Jesus vinegar mixed with gall on a sponge to drink.
Passage -- Matthew 27:34
Item -- A small sponge

Egg #10:

Message -- Spices to prepare Jesus for burial.
Passage -- John 19:40
Item -- 7 or 8 whole cloves, or other whole spices

Egg #11:

Message -- The stone covering Jesus' tomb was rolled away.
Passage -- John 20:1
Item -- A small rock

Egg #12:

Message -- The napkin around Jesus' head was lying separately from His linen clothers. He was not there. He has risen!
Passage -- John 20:6-7
Item -- A scrap of linen-type fabric

Note: I have seen these done slightly different, or using slightly different items. If you have to substitute and use different items, that's OK. The point is to get the story across from the point that Jesus rides into Jerusalem riding on a donkey (now celebrated as Palm Sunday) to when it is discovered that is no longer in his tomb but has Risen (Easter Sunday, also known as Resurrection Day).


Everything Easter Basket Filler Idea:

Who doesn't love music? Cd's are great for all ages. My youngest boys enjoy listening to both music and stories on CD where my teenagers prefer to take their Cd's and load them to their IPods. Placing CD's in my kids Easter baskets is one of my favorite ideas as I can also get some great deals on CD's ( see today's Name Your Tune deal below) at a variety of places from Amazon.com, half.com, ebay.com or watch for sales at my local stores.


Today's Egg-stravaganza Giveaway:



Name Your Tune is an exciting new Children's music compilation that is made-to-order and personalized for each child. Children will hear their name more than 80 times throughout 14 much-loved songs. A great way to enjoy music, have fun, and learn together!

Listen below to these fun kid engaging songs. My kids have always loved hearing their names personalized in music and books so I know that these Name Your Tune CD's will be a FAVORITE with your kids.



Name Your Tune is offering our 24/7 MOMS a special BOGO deal ( Buy one get one FREE) That's right buy one and you get one FREE - This is an AMAZING deal if you ask me. To get this great Deal use the code 247moms at check out. Coupon code expires April 7th, 2009 at midnight. Click here to order your CD's today.

Name Your Tune Playlist

Click to Listen!

Hello, How Are You? If You're Happy And You Know It Old MacDonald Oh How I Want to Go Wheels on the Bus Boom Boom, Ain't It Great To Be YOU! Down By The Park The More We Get Together Head and Shoulders There are Seven Days Rainbow Song ABC Medley I Don't Want To Live On The Moon Instrumental Lullaby

Name Your Tune and 24/7 MOMS are giving away one personalized CD. To enter for your chance to win, enter your name and email address in the box below you will be signed up for today's giveaway as well as be added to the 24/7 MOMS E-list (if you are not already a 24/7 MOMS subscriber)



Egg-stra Yummy Recipe:

BAKER'S ONE BOWL Easter Egg Brownies
By: Kraft Foods
Prep Time: 15 min
Total Time: 1 hr 20 min
Makes: 2 doz. or 24 servings.

Ingredients:
4 squares BAKER'S Unsweetened Chocolate
3/4 cup (1-1/2 sticks) butter
2 cups sugar
3 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
1 cup flour
1 cup chopped PLANTERS Walnuts
Assorted decorating gels
Assorted candies

Directions:

HEAT oven to 350°F. Line 13x9-inch pan with foil, with ends of foil extending over sides. Grease foil; set aside. Microwave chocolate and butter in large microwaveable bowl on HIGH 2 min. or until butter is melted. Stir until chocolate is completely melted. Add sugar; mix well. Blend in eggs and vanilla. Stir in flour and nuts until well blended; spread into prepared pan.

BAKE 30 to 35 min. or until toothpick inserted in center comes out with fudgy crumbs. (Do not overbake.) Cool completely.

USE foil handles to lift brownies from pan. Cut into egg shapes with 3-inch oval cookie cutter. Decorate with decorating gels and candies to resemble Easter eggs.

Kraft Kitchens Tips:
Use Your Stove and Place chocolate and butter in medium saucepan; cook on very low heat until chocolate and butter are melted, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Continue as directed.

Substitute:
Substitute 13x9-inch glass baking dish for the baking pan. Prepare brownies and bake as directed, reducing oven temperature to 325°F.


Do you have an Egg-srta fun Easter idea? Share it with us by leaving a comment or emailing it to us trisha@247moms.com

Everything Easter Egg-stravaganza - PEEPS sugar free receipe and Easter Basket idea giveaway

Welcome to Saturdays edition of Everything Easter Egg-stravaganza where you will find a YUMMY sugar free recipe and another giveaway. Enjoy!



Everything Easter Basket Filler Idea:



Placing books in our Children's Easter baskets is one more opportunity to inspire them to read. Choose a new book they have been asking or maybe another book in the series they are currently reading. For your teenagers who love gift cards think about purchasing a local bookstore gift card to place in their Easter Basket. To save money head to your local Goodwill, thrift store, half price books or Children's consignment stores to purchase gently used books.




Today's Egg-stravaganza Giveaway:



Through the use of kid appealing illustrations and words that make sense to little people author Kathleen Long Bostrom assists us as Moms and Dads in answering questions our children have about God in away that relates to them in the book Kids Tyndale book "Questions from little hearts".

This book combines 4 Little Blessings volumes (What is God Like? What Is Prayer? What About Heaven? Are Angels Real?), all of which use whimsical rhyming text to answer questions about God, heaven, angels, and prayer. Little Blessings “questions” books are known for their heartwarming text and delightful multicultural characters. Each question is answered using Scripture, fun poetry, and the adorable characters. The questions include: What is God Like? What Is Prayer? What About Heaven? Are Angels Real? The answers are theologically sound and thorough, yet child-friendly. Bible references follow each section. You can purchase this great book at the 24/7 MOMS store in the Easter department.

See a preview of this adorable book "Questions from little hearts" HERE.
You can view illustration and excerpts form the book.

24/7 MOMS and Tyndale Kids are giving away one Little Blessings "Questions from little hearts" book. To enter for your chance to win, enter your name and email address in the box below you will be signed up for today's giveaway as well as be added to the 24/7 MOMS E-list (if you are not already a 24/7 MOMS subscriber)




Egg-stra Yummy Recipe:
Are you a PEEPS fan? I remember each Easter as a little girl finding my yummy filled Easter basket which included my own personal package of PEEPS to devour. Fast forward to today and PEEPS are not only a treat we place in our kids Easter baskets but a treat we can use in recipes and crafts. And did you know they come Sugar Free now too?

Today's SIMPLE Egg-stra Yummy Recipe is from the PEEPS web site using the Sugar Free PEEPS.

Sugar Free PEEPS treatNow you can enjoy a sweet treat with all your sugar-free PEEPS®! This delicious dessert
is a bright delight that’s sure to make you smile.
Ingredients:
• 2 pkgs. (3 ct. each) PEEPS® Sugar-Free
Marshmallow Chicks
• 1 pkg. of sugar-free lemon flavored instant
pudding mix
- see package for additional ingredients
• 1 8oz. container of sugar-free Cool Whip®
• 1 sprig mint (optional)

Directions:
1. Prepare pudding according to package directions. Chill until set.
2. Fill dessert bowls 3/4 full with pudding.
3. Before serving, top each bowl with sugar-free Cool Whip®, a PEEPS® Sugar-Free
Marshmallow Chick and a sprig of mint.

You can also make this same dessert using the regular sugar filled PEEPS and NON-Sugar free pudding mix and cool whip.

Warning: Excessive consumption may cause stomach discomfort and/or a mild laxative effect.

Makes:
6 small to medium sized dessert bowls

Everything Easter Egg-stravaganza - Craft, Ideas, Giveaway, Recipe

Welcome back to Everything Easter Egg-stravaganza. Today we have more FUN Easter for you along with another giveaway.

Egg-stra Easy Craft:

Jelly Bean Chick
By: Amanda Formaro posted on Kaboose
Difficulty: Very Easy Age: 5 and up

These cute little spring chicks make the perfect gift for teachers, friends or family. A sweet treat lies inside this little Easter cutie!

What you'll need:

• 1/3 cup jelly beans
• Pleated sandwich bag
• 1 large yellow pom pom
• 3 yellow foam hearts
• 2 small wiggle eyes
• Scrap of orange felt or foam
• Chenille stem
• Small pom pom (color to match chenille stem)
• White craft glue
• Scissors

How to make it:

1. Pour jelly beans into sandwich bag. Gather beans into one corner of the bag and twist chenille stem snugly around the bag.
2. Trim the top of the bag, above the chenille stem, to about 1/2 inch. Fan out the top of the bag as if opening it to expose the center.
3. Put a generous amount of white glue on the yellow pom pom and place on top of the bag.
4. Put two yellow foam hearts next to each other on the table. These will be your chick’s feet. Glue bag on top of the feet so that the rounded ends of the hearts are poking out the front.
5. Cut the third yellow foam heart on half, these two pieces will be your chick’s wings. Glue one to each side of the jelly bean bag.
6. Glue wiggle eyes to the front of the pom pom head.
7. Cut a small triangle from the orange felt or foam and glue on as the beak.
8. Use the scissors to trim the ends of the chenille stem to about 2-3” each. Fold each side of the chenille stem in toward the center to look like a bow tie.
9. Glue small pom pom to the center of the chenille bow tie.
   

Tips:

• If you don’t have pleated sandwich bags you can use zipper bags, just cut the zipper top off before starting.
• You can make full yellow chicks by using all yellow jelly beans, however this may be cost prohibitive unless you buy your jelly beans from a store that sells individual colors in bulk.
• As an alternative you can glue the wings inward toward the front of the jelly bean bag and glue a small slip of paper with the message “Happy Easter” on it in front. Keep in mind that this will hide the jelly beans on your project.

Everything Easter Basket Filler Idea:

Each year I try to find a few practical items to go into my Childrens Easter baskets. Such as items they will be needing for the upcoming Summer season like goggles, swimsuits, flip flops or those everyday teenager hygiene items like shaving cream, deodorant , shampoo or even a new toothbrush and paste. THINK what is it that I am going to have to buy anyway? then purchase it and place it in their Easter Basket. I call that being creatively Frugal.

Our family recently tried out a few products by The Natural Dentist (an all-natural oral care company). These would be GREAT everyday Easter basket filler ideas.

The first one was a great kids toothpaste called Sparkle Berry Blast that contains fluoride for cavity prevention. It is made without SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate), a detergent that can irritate tender mouths. It contains xylitol, a natural ingredient recommended by dentists that also sweetens without promoting tooth decay. My 2 youngest boys think it is "oh" so yummy tasting" and gave the Novotny Kid tested stamp of approval on it. We also tried out the Adult toothpaste which again got the stamp of approval in this house. You can get a $2.00 off coupon by clicking here.

Next we tried out the Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Mouth Rinse in the Peppermint Twist flavor ( also available in Orange Zest).

My Husbands favorite feature is that it is ORGANIC - No alcohol, artificial sweeteners, dyes or preservatives. Along with being organic it has the following benefits:

• Scientifically formulated blend of herbal ingredients (patent-pending) for optimum gum health
• Cleansing ingredients: Echinacea, Goldenseal, Grapefruit Seed Extract
• Soothing ingredients: Aloe Vera Gel, Calendula
• Kills bad breath germs for long lasting fresh breath
• Soothes and protects mouth and gums
• No burning
• No alcohol
• Will not stain teeth

Stop by www.thenaturaldentist.com and check out their other great products.

Today's Egg-stravaganza Giveaway:


Also known as “the toothbrush made from yogurt cups,” the Preserve Toothbrush was designed by dentists and engineers to be an innovation in both oral care and eco-friendliness.
The dentist-recommended 45° curved handle and soft bristles guarantee a thorough and even cleaning of your teeth. Available in seven vivid colors, the handle is made from recycled plastic, including Stonyfield Farm® yogurt cups, meaning that fewer natural resources are used to get your teeth sparkling. Combine that with the Preserve's stylish design and reusable travel case and you're not only living green, you're living happy.

When it is time to replace your toothbrush (dentists recommend switching it every three months) send the toothbrush and case back to Preserve using our postage-paid label to be re-processed into plastic lumber for picnic tables, boardwalks and decks.

Features:

• Handle is made from 100% recycled plastic, including Stonyfield Farm® yogurt cups • Curved, easy to grip handle makes it easy to reach every part of your teeth and gums • Soft, virgin nylon bristles placed in a tri-level configuration with softer outer rows to protect your gums and tooth enamel • Available in Medium, Soft, and Ultrasoft

24/7 MOMS and Recycline - Preserve are giving away one toothbrush. To enter for your chance to win, enter your name and email address in the box below you will be signed up for today's giveaway as well as be added to the 24/7 MOMS E-list (if you are not already a 24/7 MOMS subscriber)


Egg-stra Yummy Recipe:
I am a total LEMON cake eater and I am thinking I just found the perfect dessert for our Easter dinner this year. Not only does it look adorable it appears to be simple enough that this Non Martha Stewart mom "ME" can even handle making this one.

Lemon Easter Basket Cake

Original kaboose.com recipe, developed by Wendy Kalen

An Easter basket made from a lemon bundt cake is great fun. It's also really easy - but that can be your secret. So what are you waiting for? Get hopping!




Ingredients

Cake:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup buttermilk
• ¼ cup fresh sqeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh grated lemon peel

Icing:

• 1 pound confectioner's sugar
• ¼ cup lemon juice, milk or water
  

Grass:

• 2 cups sweetened shredded coconut
• A couple drops green food coloring

Cooking Instructions

Cake:

1. Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Generously grease a bundt pan.
2. In a large bowl beat butter until light and fluffy. Add sugar, beating until combined. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing after each addition.
3. Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt together to combine.
4. Add lemon juice to buttermilk.
5. Beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, alternately add dry and buttermilk mixutres to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition.
6. Stir in lemon peel. Pour into prepared pan. Bake 50 minutes to 1 hour, or until cake begins to pull away from side of pan and toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.
7. Let cool 10 minutes on cake rack. Turn out onto cake rack and let cool completely.

Icing:

1. Mix confectioner's sugar and lemon juice to combine. Ice upside-down cake with icing and let dry.

Decorating:

1. Fill hole with plastic wrap. Top cake with coconut, making the edge a little higher.
2. Grass: In a resealable plastic bag, Mix a coconut and green food color to combine.
3. Handle: Fold an 18-inch long piece of aluminum foil lengthwise four times. Secure a ribbon at one end of the foil and wrap to cover. Shape covered foil into long handle. Insert ends of handle about ¼ -inch from the edge of the cake. Add a bow.
4. Top coconut with the Easter candies of your choice.

Make-Ahead

• Cake can be made ahead, wrapped tightly and frozen, un-frosted, up to 6 months.

Share your Everything Easter Egg-stravaganza ideas with us at trisha@247moms.com or leave a comment here.

Everything Easter Egg-stravaganza - Giveaway, Ideas, Recipe

Today is the first day of 24/7 MOMS 2 week Everything Easter Egg-stravaganza. We will feature Daily Giveaways along with a variety of fun ideas from crafts, creative basket fillers to recipes for that special family meal.

Be sure to stop in each day and tell your MOM friends about the 24/7 MOMS Everything Easter Egg-stravaganza.

Everything Easter Basket Filler Idea:




DVD's for the whole family.

Today's Easter basket filler idea is not only one of my kids favorites to receive but our entire family often gets the enjoyment of these gifts as well for years to come. You can choose to purchase new ones or be a frugal mom and purchase used ones. Some great places to purchase used ones are at your local video store, Goodwill, Children's consignment stores or other thrift stores. Online you can purchase used DVD's at Amazon.com , half.com at secondspin.com.

This year one of my children will be receiving The Tale of Despereaux in their Easter basket which will be released on April 7th just in time for Easter.

In The Tale of Despereaux, the world’s bravest mouse embarks on a noble quest that leads to discovery, courage, honor and ultimately redemption. Journey along with Despereaux as he encounters an unforgettable group of colorful characters and learns about life’s important messages in this charming and fun-filled story. Based on the heartwarming children’s best selling book and featuring the incredible voice talents of Matthew Broderick, Emma Watson, Dustin Hoffman, Sigourney Weaver, Kevin Kline, William H. Macy, Tracy Ullman, and Stanley Tucci, The Tale of Despereaux has something for everyone – excitement, adventure, and a hero for boys, a princess and a love story for girls, fun and entertainment for adults and kids alike! For people of all ages, this is a timeless story about finding one’s place in the world.

BONUS FEATURES:

THE TALE OF THE TALE OF DESPEREAUX: A (MOSTLY) NON-FICTIONAL MAKING-OF: In this behind-the-scenes featurette we see how a modern animated film is made from beginning to end – starting with the story’s initial conception and taking us through all the various animation steps. The piece will showcase all of the amazing talent behind the creation of this film.

TOP TEN USES FOR OVERSIZED EARS: Our hero and role model for the child with similar physical anomalies demonstrates with enthusiasm and creativity the exemplary benefits of having oversized ears, in a top ten countdown.

SNEAK PEEK OF CURIOUS GEORGE 2: FOLLOW THAT MONKEY: Only on the Tale of Despereaux DVD, be the first to see an exclusive sneak peek of the all-new movie, Curious George 2: Follow That Monkey!

Here is a quick clip of these adorable movie. You can pre-order it now at the 24/7 MOMS store

The Tale of Despereaux Film Trailer - kewego

Today's Egg-stravaganza Giveaway:




WOW! WOW! WUBBZY!: Pirate Treasure DVD Another great DVD idea for your Child's Easter Basket. Especially if you have a Pirate fan as I do in my home.

Set sail for adventure as Wubbzy and his friends discover a whole new world of fun in this collection of wild escapades and silly songs from the Nick Jr./Noggin animated sensation. Tag along with Wubbzy, Widget and Walden as they search to find buried pirate treasure. Find out what happens when Wubbzy gets lost in the woods and why Walden is afraid of the beach. Take a trip with the gang to the nearby town of Plaidsville! Get ready for hours of singing, dancing, laughing and learning in this Emmy®-award winning series that puts the WOW! WOW! back into pre-school entertainment!

You can purchase your child this fun DVD at the 24/7 MOMS store

Thanks to MOM Central , 24/7 MOMS and Anchor Bay Entertainment we are giving away One DVD of the WOW! WOW! WUBBZY!: Pirate Treasure DVD. To enter for your chance to win, enter your name and email address in the box below you will be signed up for today's giveaway as well as be added to the 24/7 MOMS E-list (if you are not already a 24/7 MOMS subscriber).



Eggstra Yummy Recipe:

Scrambled Egg Nests
By: Family Fun



In these easy and charming bites, shredded potatoes are baked in a muffin tin to form crunchy cups, which are then filled with scrambled eggs to make a festive and kid-friendly finger food.




Ingredients:

	1 (3 1/2-cup) bag frozen shredded potatoes, defrosted (we used Simply Potatoes)
	1/3 cup vegetable oil or butter
	1/2 teaspoon salt
	1/4 teaspoon pepper
	6 eggs
	2/3 cup milk
	1/2 cup finely diced onion
	1/3 cup finely diced bell peppers
	3/4 cup diced cooked breakfast sausage Shredded Cheddar
	Chopped parsley for garnish (optional) Directions:

1. Heat the oven to 400°. In a large bowl, toss together the potatoes, 1/4 cup of the oil or butter, salt, and pepper. Spoon about 1/3 cup of the potato mixture into each cup of a 12-serving muffin tin. Press the mixture into the bottom and up the sides of each cup, then bake until golden brown, about 30 to 35 minutes. Remove the nests from the oven and allow them to cool.

2. Meanwhile, whisk together the eggs and milk. Heat a large nonstick saute pan over medium-high heat. Add the remaining oil or butter to the pan and heat. Add the onions and peppers to the pan and saute until both are soft and the onions are slightly golden, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the sausage and cook until heated through. Add the egg mixture and stir until the eggs have set and small curds have formed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Remove the potato nests from the muffin tin and place them on an ovenproof platter or cookie sheet. Fill each cup with some of the egg mixture, top with a sprinkling of the cheese, and place the nests in a 375° oven until the cheese is melted, about 2 to 3 minutes. If you like, garnish each nest with a little parsley. Serve warm.


Share your Easter Ideas, Recipes, Crafts and Traditions with us at trisha@247moms.com or leave a comment.