Charis By Design

What does Happy Father’s Day mean to you?

Posted on June 16, 2013 by | 5 Comments

Today is the day when you give thanks to your dad, grandpa, uncle or that special person who has helped you be the person you are today. I am thankful to my dad because he worked so hard to give us the best that he could offer. For years, he worked as a taxi driver late nights and mornings to provide us the life that he didn’t have when he grew up. He always told me the story about how in the Dominican Republic his dad made him work when he was a kid instead of going to school. It really breaks my heart that he changed everything around and gave us the best so that we didn’t have to work and focus more on our education. He truly is the best dad that I could have asked for and I will always appreciate all of his hard work. His love was unconditional and giving.

Another special person in my life is my husband. He is the best dad to my kids that I could have ever asked for because his love for my kids is unconditional. He provides for them, takes care of them and even changes their diapers. He is patient and loving and I am grateful for him.

On this special day, what does Happy Father’s Day mean to you? There are so many things that you could do for them.

Personalized gifts from albums, t-shirts and pens
Golf set
Tickets to a game

Gifts could be endless, really. Honestly, the best gift that I have found are not what you give them but how you spend the day with them. Tell your special person that you love them and make the day count. Even if things don’t go as perfect as you planned it, it’s about how you handle it and make the best of it. I remember one time that I was making breakfast in bed for my hubby, the kids started screaming and acting up and everything that I planned for just went down the drain. In the middle of all the chaos, my daughter gave me a kiss and a hug and that moment melted my heart and it made me remember what the real meaning of Father’s day is. It’s about giving thanks for all of their hard work.

Share your favorite story about your dad or that special man in your life regardless if they were the best dad or not. I think sharing memories makes it even more special. I would love to hear all types of stories in the comments below.

→ 5 Comments

Posted in Fashionable mom

Add some fun to your summer!

Posted on June 12, 2013 by | 6 Comments

Summer Fun Giveaway Event

Organized by: Mom to Bed by 8

Summer is finally here and with that there are so many fun activities that we can do. From jumping into a pool to cool down, BBQ with the family or just watching the kids have fun. Don’t miss out on your chance to win this giveaway where you can enjoy a summer fun activity.

Prize Package Includes:

Skywalker Bounce-N-Learn Trampoline

Your little ones will love to get their bounce on in the Skywalker Trampolines 5-ft. Seaside Adventure Bouncer, which features a fun ocean theme and excellent bouncing capability. This fun bouncer offers a steel frame construction, woven jump mat with numbers, dual zipper enclosure. It’s recommended for children 6-8 years of age and has a weight capacity of up to 100-pounds. Kids will love to jump and play as the secure elastic stretch bands provide bouncing fun.

Intex 10′ x 30″ Metal Frame Swimming Pool

Easy to set up, this Intex 10′ x 30″ Metal Frame Pool is supported by strong, durable steel frames, which are powder coated for rust resistance and beauty. Triple strong, super-tough laminated sidewalls of the Intex Metal Frame Swimming Pool are reinforced with an all-around band to keep frame legs firmly in place. For clean, refreshing water, connect the new economical and environmentally friendly Krystal Clear Cartridge Filter Pump. The Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter is an added safety feature that shuts off the pump if electrical current is exposed to water.

Glenmeadow 6-Piece Folding Patio Dining Set with Umbrella

The Glenmeadow 6-Piece Patio Dining Set comes with four chairs that fold flat for storage, a glass-top table and an umbrella that is easy to open and close. This patio dining set with umbrella is covered in 100-percent outdoor furniture sling fabric that is UV-rated fade-resistant and constructed of durable, powder-coated steel. Each chair of this patio dining set with umbrella holds up to 200 lbs and comes with a safety lock feature. The table is tempered glass and scratch resistant. Your folding dining set cleans easily with soap and water.

Flexible Flyer Swing Free Metal Swing Set

The Flexible Flyer Swing Free Metal Swing Set will provide backyard fun all summer long. This swing set allows your kids to play and get some exercise at the same time. It comes with four different activities that can keep up to six kids busy and active. The sturdy, steel frame of this backyard swing set is built to last and can have parents feeling confident that their kids are safe. The swings, trapeze swing, air glider and slide provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun.

20″ Huffy Rock It Boys’ Bike

The Huffy Rock It 20″ Boys’ Bike has just what he needs to have a great adventure. It has a quick adjustable seat post for your growing teen and the padded seat is fully decorated with the logo on it. The heavy duty steel black frame makes it sturdy, durable, and stylish. A single speed bicycle in black and blazing orange, it is fully equipped with coaster brakes for instant control while racing at high speeds. The attractive orange blast handlebars and rich black pedals with orange blast 28-spoke rims add to its trendy look. This steel frame bicycle is easy to assemble and includes the instruction manual.

Thank you to each reader who is taking the time to visit, read and entering to win this amazing summer fun prize package. Please take a moment to also visit our lovely co-hosts whom without them great things such as these would not be possible: 365 Things to Do In Southwest Florida, Celebrate Woman Today, My Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Life, Coupons In Motion, The Stuff of Success, Budget Earth and Baby Costcutters.

Five lucky people will win! Each receiving one of the following: Skywalker Bounce-N-Learn Trampoline, Intex 10′ x 30″ Metal Frame Swimming Pool, Glenmeadow 6-Piece Folding Patio Dining Set with Umbrella, Flexible Flyer Swing Free Metal Swing Set & 20″ Huffy Rock It Boys’ Bike!

Giveaway ends June 24th at 11:59pm, open to US residents, ages 18+. To enter please use the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received no compensation for this publication. My opinions are my own and may differ from those of your own. CHARIS BY DESIGN is not responsible for sponsor prize shipment. Please contact teri@mompoweredmedia.com with questions or to see your business or blog featured on the next big event!

→ 6 Comments

Posted in Breaking news

Win a $200 giveaway to high-end baby products at PishPosh Baby

Posted on June 10, 2013 by | 12 Comments

Welcome to the Pish Posh Baby $200 Gift Card Giveaway!!! Everything Mommyhood and Charis by Design has teamed up with a great group of bloggers to offer this to our readers and fans!

Hosted by: Everything Mommyhood

Check out Olivia Accessories for unique jewelry

Posted on June 5, 2013 by | 9 Comments

hosted by Momma Lew’s Blog

I love finding accessories that make you feel like a million dollars and cost so little. I don’t get to go out too often anymore these days, so when I do, I like to really get dressed up and feel beautiful. I recently had the opportunity to review Olivia Accessories‘ Feather Bangle. Olivia Accessories is a unique, online fashion jewerly and accessories boutique. Using influences from the past and present, Olivia Accessories offers low cost, quality items that create a timeless classic appeal.

The Feather Bangle is perfect for a night out at a bar or club or to dress up that little black dress! It has a simple hinge opening and the feathers are crystal. The bangle sells for around $18. Take a look at their new items for the spring and summer! There are so many beautiful necklaces, bracelets and rings at such a low cost.

Host an Online Jewelry Party with Olivia Accessories and earn 40% of the proceeds of the party, paid in cash after the party! Stay up to date with today’s latest fashion trends with Olivia’s Fashion Blog!

One lucky reader will win their own Olivia Accessories Feather Bangle! Winner must be 18+ and in the US. Enter through the Rafflecopter link below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Good luck!

→ 9 Comments

Posted in Fashionable mom

How do you wear a crop top?

Posted on June 5, 2013 by | 1 Comment

As I walked through the streets of Manhattan, the first thing I noticed was that crop tops were back in style. I just could not believe that the 90s trends has re-entered the fashion world again. I saw so many people wear it the right way but boy did I see so many ways that was worn so badly. When you wear a crop top correctly, it could be cute and sexy. They could add a personality to your wardrobe and make you feel free. But, if you don’t feel comfortable wearing it then please do us all a favor and don’t wear it. If you are going to be pulling on the top and trying to cover yourself then you should have never gotten that top.

How do you wear a crop top? In my opinion, it’s all about individuality.

You could match a crop top with a high-waisted skirt or shorts. I feel that if it is high-waisted, then it prevents you from having an accident from showing a little bit too much skin. In my opinion, you don’t want to show off too much skin so that you can show that you are also classy.
An embellished crop top can be your cute outfit for a girl’s night out. It can be worn a little sexy or just a relaxed look to be out with the girls.
A big no-no is to wear a bra as a crop top. I actually saw a girl walking around in a bra thinking that she actually looked cute. But the bra was not even pretty and it was just not flattering at all.

It’s all about adding your own personality to your wardrobe and making it work. At the end of the day, you are wearing the outfit not the other way around. Have confidence and have fun with your crop top. You could even make your own crop top and make it more personable. Here is a video that I found on how to make your own crop top.

→ 1 Comment

Posted in Breaking news

KiteReaders Kindle Fire and Nook HD Giveaway (ends 6/16)

Posted on May 28, 2013 by | 26 Comments

Hosted by: My Four Littles and Four Littles Media

About Our Sponsor

At KiteReaders, we strive to promote literacy around the world and make reading an activity that children will love through our beautiful eBooks. Our 100+ titles written by award winning authors and illustrators include engaging stories, vivid pictures, and interactive activities and questions that encourage children to delve deeper into the stories they are reading. Our books are available on Amazon, iTunes, Barnes & Noble, Kobo, and Sony. You can learn more by visiting KiteReaders.

You will also receive a FREE ebook available for instant download when you sign up below!

Use the Giveaway Tool form below for a chance to win!

Giveaway Terms

TWO lucky readers will win!

The first winner will receive the Kindle Fire.

Kindle Fire

The second winner will receive the Nook HD.

Nook HD

This giveaway is open to the United States ONLY.

This giveaway will begin May 26th at 12:00am EST and end June 16th 11:59pm EST.

All winning entries will be verified before a winner is selected.

Entry -Form

Disclosure: This giveaway is not associated with, affiliated with, endorsed by, sponsored by, or connected to Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, or any other social media platform in any way. Social media outlets are in no way responsible for sponsor prize fulfillment. The sponsor alone is responsible for fulfilling the aforementioned prize. This blog did not receive compensation for posting this giveaway. Your information will not be shared with anyone without your explicit consent. This giveaway event is hosted by Amanda from My Four Littles and Four Littles Media. You can contact Amanda at contactus@myfourlittles.com with any questions, concerns, or to see your company featured on a Four Littles Media event.

Entry -Form

→ 26 Comments

Posted in Breaking news

What to have in your summer bag

Posted on May 28, 2013 by | Leave a comment

After Memorial Day, the first word that comes to my mind is summer. It is so close that I can almost taste it! I am so excited to go to the beach, amusement parks and picnics. This is why it is so important to have a summer bag where it’s already ready if you want to go on a spontaneous trip or a day at the beach. Here is a list of what to have in your summer bag that I feel are important.

1. Sunscreen is a must and especially one that has the most SPF. I know the whole purpose of going to the beach is to get tanned but protecting your skin is more important for me. The sun can really damage your skin so why take any chances?

2. Leave-in conditioner is my priority in my bag besides the sunscreen. The whole purpose of going to the beach is to enjoy the sun but not to let the sun damage your hair. This also helps your hair to not get so messy after a long day at the beach.

3. Beach towel can come very handy for a day at the beach or a picnic. I always have the entire families bathing suits just in case we all want to go to the beach or the pool one day.

4. Bathing Suit so that you can go to the beach at any time.

5. Make sure you also keep hair ties and headbands in your bag. After spending some time in the beach, your hair is not going to look its best. There are so many options and fun colors to choose from that you can look fashionable while you are at the beach.

6. Chap stick or lip balm. I have had too many incidents were my lips hurt for days because I forgot to put some chopstick on; don’ leave home without it.

7. A re-usable thermal bottle. You always need water during the summer because you don’t want to get dehydrated.

8. Plastic bags always come in handy for your wet clothes or even garbage that you want to dispose of. If you have kids like me, then for all the dirty diapers.

9. A book or a magazine.

10. Music can always keep the party going especially for kids. Nowadays, you can use your phone or an iPod. I remember having to bring an old big radio to the beach to listen to music. Lol

What do you have in your summer bag? I would love to hear from you.

→ Leave a comment

Posted in Fashionable mom

Memorial Day weekend Ideas for Family and Preschoolers

Posted on May 23, 2013 by | Leave a comment

Are you a last minute planner like me or do you have your Memorial Day weekend already planned? If you are like me that has no plans then you are in a hurry to make the best of this Memorial Day weekend. This is our first weekend back in New Jersey since we lived in Florida. Now the plans here are entirely different than Florida plans. Before it was either Busch gardens weekend or the Beach. Now the weather is not too bad in New Jersey so we might be able to do a few activities that can be done outdoors. But I always like to plan outdoor and indoor activities just in case Memorial Day weekend turns out to be a wash out.

I love to embark on new adventures and trying out new things.

Here are some of my favorite places:

Point Pleasant Beach is the place that I always go to for Memorial Day weekend. It’s just a sign for me that summer is around the corner. The kids always enjoy the beach anyways so why not just head over to the beach and have some fun.
Liberty State Park: The view from this park is absolutely breathtaking. You can see the whole city in a glimpse and even get to see the Statue of Liberty as well. And if you plan it correctly, you can even stop at the Liberty Science Center first and then take a stroll in the Liberty State Park.
New Jersey Botanical Garden has been one of my favorite places to visit and the kids love it. If you are looking for different beautiful scenery, then this is the place to go. The kids will love the flowers and they will love all the activities that are always there when you visit. I have to say that every time I visit there is some kind of activity going on and it’s been wonderful.

I hope this helps you better decide where you might be going for this weekend. But, if you are still unsure don’t worry I am sure something will come to mind. Otherwise, just crash at someone else’s BBQ and eat up this weekend.

What memorial day ideas family and preschoolers do you have? Have fun and Happy Memorial Day Weekend everyone

→ Leave a comment

Posted in Fashionable mom

Check out this Mohawk Carpet Giveaway!

Posted on May 17, 2013 by | 17 Comments

The quickest way to redecorate your living room is to add a carpet. This brings a new feature to your room and it really does add new element. If you are looking for great carpet that can last, then you have to enter this giveaway. I love the color and design of this carpet because it’s neutral and you can add more color to your room and not feel confined to use the colors of the carpet.

Don’t miss out on this giveaway. Enter today!

Welcome to the Mohawk Carpet Giveaway Event

Hosted by Budget Earth & A Spectacled Owl

What did you get your mom for Mother’s Day? Win a Shabby Apple Gift Card!

Posted on May 12, 2013 by | 2 Comments

It’s the big day tomorrow, did you already get that perfect gift for your mom or did you wait until the very last minute and will shop tomorrow to get her that something special? Don’t worry if you are on that boat because I am sure that you are not alone. Mother’s Day is such a special day because you can appreciate that special person in your life that has meant something special to you.

With that said if you don’t know what to get your mom, I have always said that every women has the right to relax and feel pampered with a manicure and pedicure. But if you are still unsure about what to get that your mom, just remember what she had liked in the past and go with what your heart says to get her.

There is still time to win a Shabby Apple Gift Card.

Welcome to the Shabby Apple Gift Card Giveaway!