11 Costume & Pumpkin Carving Family Photo Contests to Enter Post Halloween to Win Prizes Thru Nov 20

Halloween

Photo Contests

Congratulations, you've survived the fun and madness of Halloween. Give yourself bonus points for getting through the holiday if you are stressed out parents with kids. Now, it's time to get more mileage from all those great photos you took of that beautifully carved Jack 'o Lantern pumpkin. Not to mention those memorable snapshots of everyone in costumes: adults, children, and dogs, cats and other pets. If you haven't already, why not enter some of the many contests still running? To get you started, here's 11 current contests still accepting digital photo entries with links and prizes. Note varying submission deadlines to be sure you get your entry in on time.

Boxer Puppy Clown Costume
Vintage photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Tera Halloween Pumpkin Carving Contest, Prizes: Tera Laptop Bay and other branded merchandise, Ends November 4

NASA Blueshift Halloween Costume Contest,  3 prizes of NASA materials for best space, astronomy, physics, or science-based costume, Ends November 6

Southern Living Pet Costume Contest, Prizes for best dog costume (Harry Parker gift pack valued at $250) and best cat costume (Harry Parker gift pack worth $150), Ends November 4 

One of my daughters in Angel Costume I made
Vintage photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Costume Works 2001 Kids & Adults Costume Contest, Prizes: $100 grand prize for best homemade costume, Ends November 20

FujiFilm and Rite Aid Picture Perfect Halloween Contest, Grand Prize: Trip to HersheyPark; other prizes include the Fuji Finepix Digital Camera and more, Ends November 8

Honest Tea Kids & Adults Costume Green Halloween Contest, Multiple Prizes: Gift cards to Patagonia, Whole Foods, and Toys 'R' Us

Disney Family Fun Halloween Kids, Pets, Family Costume Contest, Prizes: 2 Xzoom Motorola Tablets and other prizes, Ends November 2

The Children's Place Halloween Child & Family Costume Contest, Grand Prize: $500 TCP Giftcard (1 winner); Category Winner: $250 TCP Giftcard (5 winners); and Finalist Winner: $25 TCP Giftcard (100 winners), Ends November 4

Coastal Mommies Kids Halloween Costume Contest, Prizes: 2 winners, each receives $25 giftcard, Ends November 2

Idolator Pop Halloween Costume Contest, Prize: $50 iTunes giftcard, Ends November 2

Chictopia I Die for DYI Costume Contest, Grand Prize: $300 cash & other prizes; 2nd Prize: $50 Visa giftcard + 200 Chic Points, 3rd Prize: $50 Visa giftcard + 100 Chic Points, Ends November 4

Remember to read the directions carefully of each contest you're interested in before submitting your entry. Also, check out these general tips on how to enter and win Halloween contests. Good luck.

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

How did you celebrate Halloween this year? Did you (or will you) enter any photo contests and if so which one(s)? Please leave a comment a share.

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FTC Disclosure: Mommy Blog Expert is in no way connected with any of the contests listed. Links are provided as a resource for readers and contest entries are the sole responsibility of the individual.  I did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

5 Last Minute Parent Tips for a Stress & Drama Free Halloween Trick or Treating Experience With Kids

Halloween Parenting

If you celebrate Halloween and you have kids, the two variables often equal stress for mom and dad. Right? But, you will find comfort in knowing that you are not the only one with a child who is over stimulated from all the excitement about parties, costumes, jack 'o lantern pumpkin carving, decorating, and other holiday stuff like candy. Combine that with Trick-or-Treating and all the effects of those sugary treats on the shiest, normally sweetest toddler, and what do you get? An out of control kid and unhappy, even grouchy parents.

My brother and I in costumes Mom made for us
Vintage 1962 photo by my Dad

The good news is that it shouldn't and doesn't have to be that way. Don't stress out this year. Instead try these super easy ideas for a calmer, more memorable experience for both you and your children.

Set Out Your Child's Costume First Thing

Whatever you (or your son or daughter) are dressing up as -- a store-bought or homemade costume -- as a mom you'll have more fun yourself and enjoy watching your kids take in all the excitement of the holiday if you get organized before today. Well ahead of trick or treating time, set out the bag or container your child will be using to gather treats. Also, gather all the pieces of the kids' costumes (along with your own if you're dressing up). This includes not only the dress up outfits themselves, but everything you'll need so everyone looks put together: accessories, wigs and hair styling supplies, shoes, makeup, props, etc. 

Special Note: Since it snowed over the weekend on the East Coast, if you live in any region where it's cold or the weather is inclement, be sure everyone dresses appropriately and warmly. Also be super careful walking and driving as sidewalks and roads in these areas are likely to be icy.

Take a Pre-Halloween Nap

You're going to need all the energy you can muster tonight, so indulge yourself in some rest this afternoon, if possible. You don't want to rain (or snow) on your kid's celebration because you are tired, irritable and cranky. Also -- especially if your child normally takes a nap -- make sure he or she is well rested before the big night too. Even if your youngster won't or can't sleep, encourage them to take time out for some quiet time just to relax.

Lay Down Some Guidelines

Clearly go over the basic rules you have about trick or treating and other Halloween celebrations with your child. Before they head out the door, plan out where you will go, how long he can stay out, and also what your children's bedtimes will be. If your child understands what you expect well in advance, there's likely to be less of a struggle as the various stressors of the holiday reveal themselves.

Sit Down for a Relaxed Family Dinner Early Tonight

It's also a good idea to prepare and serve a nutritious but light meal a little earlier than usual that's not rushed. You'll be surprised at how much kids will enjoy a favorite hot soup and some warm bread. The end result: You will all feel energized, ready to don your costumes and revel in some Halloween fun.

Take Lots of Pictures

Don't forget to snap lots of digital photos with your camera or cell phone of the kids in their costumes BEFORE they go outside or get dirty. Definitely don't miss any Kodak moments. Take more pictures than you think you need because thanks to the beauty of today's digital photography you can always delete them later. Years from now, you'll be glad you were a little shutter happy tonight.

These ideas really require just a little effort on your part. Once the holiday is over, thanks to your attention to a few simple strategies, you and your child will have nothing but fun recollections of your Halloween celebration. It's a small price to pay for the memories created that will last your child a lifetime.

Would love for you to add your own thoughts to this discussion, so please leave a comment!

A Halloween prize MBE is giving away

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

LOTS of Halloween

Family-Friendly Giveaways!

Currently Being Hosted by Mommy Blog Expert

ENTER Them All HERE

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FTC Disclosure: This blog did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

Halloween Giveaway Family Friendly Fun Sweepstakes Multiple PRIZES for Mom Dad & Kids - ENDS 11/7

GIVEAWAY

Entry Details Below, ENDS 11/7/11

NEW POST Today! Mommy Blog Expert is giving away lots of fun family-friendly gifts for Halloween for kids parents and home decor. Made by the brands you love most, these prizes will make adults smile and may even keep the little ones busy through Thanksgiving that are up for grabs include: Mr. Potato Head Trick or Tater with Ghost Costume from Playskool, Disney Family Fun Create Your Own Creepy Creatures Halloween Clay Craft Kit, Fall & Halloween Theme 100% Cotton Guest or Kitchen Dish Towels, Pumpkin Baby Bib, Collectible McDonalds Halloween Costume Stuffed Ty Beany Bag Toy, and Designer Pumpkin Party Drink Coasters. SUPER EASY ENTRY: Just leave a comment below about what you or your child are dressing up as for Halloween this year.

Halloween

Family Sweepstakes

Ends November 7, 2011

Mommy Blog Expert Halloween Sweeps Prizes

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

HOW TO ENTER

Leave a comment(s) below this post.  Contest ends November 7, 2011 at 12 midnite PST and is open to legal residents of the U.S. only. 6 winners will be selected at random from all entries to each receive one of the six prizes and will be notified via email.

Required (Mandatory) Entry

Simply leave a comment below this blogpost saying what you or your child is dressing up as for Halloween.  Don't forget to include your email address, Facebook or Twitter contact info in the comment section so the winner can be contacted.

Additional Extra Entries

Get extra entries to win for doing any combination of the easy options listed below.  Just be sure to return to MommyBlogExpert (MBE) to leave an additional comment after each individual extra action you do to confirm so we can record all your extra chances to win.

1. Follow MBE on Twitter

2. Like MBE on Facebook

3. Subscribe to MommyBlogExpert

Super ***Bonus Entries***
You can earn even MORE chances to win each time you TWEET the message below, up to 3 times each day until the contest ends.  Don't forget to return to leave a comment on this post with the direct link right after every Tweet you do so you'll receive an entry for each of your RTs.

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Halloween Sweepstakes Toys Crafts Home PRIZES Disney FamilyFun Playskool McDonalds + more http://tinyurl.com/3hgghbf #Giveaway RT 2 #WIN

McDonalds Vintage Halloween Ty Beany Bag Toy Prize

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

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LOTS More 

Family-Friendly Giveaways!

Currently Being Hosted by Mommy Blog Expert

ENTER Them All HERE

FTC Disclosure: Brands provided some prizes while others were purchased by Mommy Blog Expert. However, this blog did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post.  See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

Jason Natural Hair Care Shampoo & Conditioner Line - Eco Beauty That's Free of Harmful Chemicals

Haircare

Does she or doesn't she? Only her colorist knows for sure, the old ad campaign goes. Well, I'm going to let you in on a secret because it relates to this post.  Yes, like most Baby Boomer women I do have my hair colored every few months. I also want to always maintain the health, color and shine between treatments, too. No doubt those are issues that virtually all gals in every age category who dye their tresses are concerned about.

So, why would any of us want to further complicate the health of our hair by washing and conditioning it with products containing harmful chemicals? That's why I'm glad I had the opportunity to try Jason brand new and improved eco friendly Pure Natural Shampoo and Conditioner in the Color Protect Henna variety.

Love that the conditioner label is inverted, as I don't wear my contacts in the shower

iPhone Photo by Janis Brett Elspas, MommyBlogExpert.com

Not only did it smell heavenly while showering, after experiencing the luxurious after effects of using Jason's shampoo and condition, it's good to know that I'm using a product that is free of harmful sulfates (surfactants) and phthalates (fragrance stabilizers) which can hurt your hair. In fact, the manufacture of products containing some of the ingredients that go into many other conventional shampoos on the market can potentially produce dangerous carcinogens according to the World Health Organization. 

Since I don't have to worry about my hair, I can enjoy this good book
iPhone Photo, MommyBlogExpert.com

In addition to the Color Protect Henna type I tried for this review, Jason Pure Natural Hair Care shampoo and conditioners come in Moisturizing Aloe Vera, Super Shine Apricot, Restorative Biotin, Long & Strong Jojoba, Smoothing Sea Kelp, Volumizing Lavender, and Revitalizing Vitamin E. The 16 ounce shampoo and conditioner are listed at $10.49 SRP and are available at natural food stores, Whole Foods Market, ULTA Beauty and on the company's website.

What's your favorite brand of shampoo and conditioner? And what concerns you most about the products you use to wash and condition your hair? Leave a comment and share.

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FTC Disclosure: MommyBlogExpert receive products to facilitate this review. However, I did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post. See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.

7 Kids Halloween Safety Parenting Tips

Halloween Safety

Guest Post

By Paul van Gorkom, Allied Barton Security

MBE Editor's Note

For many U.S. kids, Halloween is one of the most anticipated and exciting holidays in American culture to celebrate. Unfortunately, according to a nine-year study by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Halloween is also one of the top three annual celebrations leading to holiday related pediatric emergency room visits.  Considering that many of the accidents, injuries and other mishaps might have been avoided if moms and dads had simply erred on the side of caution, there's no better time than now to share these Halloween safety tips.

7 Halloween Safety Tips

Without question, there are lots of entertaining and frightening activities for you and your children to take part in this fall, particularly Halloween. To maximize your chances for a safe and fun holiday, here are some basic safety tips to keep in mind as your family heads out for all the festivities.

• Whether you are going trick-or-treating or visiting a haunted house with your son or daughter, each chaperon should carry a bright flashlight and a cell phone. If going with a small child, be sure to securely attach a glow stick to their clothing so you can find them easily in the dark.

• Don't set your family or friends up for a real fright. Wherever you are this holiday, watch your step. Be sure everyone uses the handrails and that they walk -- not run -- up or down steps. This is particularly important when going through a haunted house or stepping onto an unlit or dimly lighted doorstep when going door to door for treats.

• Also, while we're on the subject of haunted houses, it's a wise idea for you and the kids to know where all the exits are before entering in case of an emergency. Ask the admissions person if you don't see a handout or anything posted on the wall about this.

• No matter what your Halloween plan is, always have adults in front and behind your group when going from place to place on foot to make sure young children don't wander off.  Always walk on sidewalks, if they are available. In the case of toddlers, it goes without saying that you should be particularly cautious and hold their hands when in or near a street, parking lot or any other area where they might get hurt if they dart away suddenly.

• Similarly, it is also a smart move to have a planned place where everyone knows they will meet in case you are separated. For the youngest children, you may even want to consider pinning your cell phone number to their costume similar to what many schools do when taking groups of preschoolers out in public for field trips.

• Whether you'll be just going out in your neighborhood in search of treats, taking a stroll through a corn maze or enjoying a horse drawn hayride, always remind everyone to dress appropriately and wear proper shoes suited to local weather.

• Last but most important of all: Be sure to enjoy all the fall festivities by planning in advance and always being safety-conscious.

Paul van Gorkom is vice president of operations at AlliedBarton Security Services, the largest American-owned security officer services company providing highly trained personnel to a range of industries.

Don't forget to enter the Spookley Square Pumpkin Giveaway MommyBlogExpert is hosting! FIVE Winners will receive ALL the prizes pictured. ENDS 11/2/11 ENTER HERE

FTC Disclosure: This guest post originated from AlliedBarton and was edited by Mommy Blog Expert. However, I did not receive any payment or other compensation associated with this post.  See complete FTC Disclosure information that appears at the bottom of MommyBlogExpert's main page and at the bottom of every individual post on this blog, including this one.