(Win it!) Watch Average Joe in Theaters on October 11th! #AverageJoeMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Many thanks to Average Joe for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

As a mom, I’m always on the lookout for meaningful stories that can inspire my family and reinforce the values I want to pass down to my children. Average Joe is one of those rare movies that resonates deeply, not just because it’s a powerful true story, but because it speaks to the heart of what we want our kids to learn: the importance of faith, courage, and standing up for what’s right. In today's post, I'll tell you more about this powerful movie, point you where to buy tickets, and host a fun giveaway!

Let's start with the trailer.

Coach Joe Kennedy’s story is about more than just football. It’s about a man who, like many of us, faced overwhelming challenges yet found the strength to remain true to his beliefs. His dedication to prayer after games—something so simple, yet so profound—reminds me of how important it is to live our faith openly, even when it’s hard. As a mom, I see this as an opportunity to show our children what it means to have conviction and stand up for their values, no matter the cost.


What I love most about Average Joe is that it’s not just a movie for adults; it’s a family film that sparks important conversations about religious freedom, personal integrity, and the courage to fight for what matters. Watching this with your children offers a chance to talk about faith and standing strong in their beliefs, even in the face of adversity.

So, moms, I encourage you to take your kids to see Average Joe—you’ll find yourself inspired, and your family will leave the theater with a renewed sense of what it means to fight for freedom and faith. It’s a reminder of the values we all hold dear and a story that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Don’t miss out— buy your tickets today! Average Joe hits theaters on October 11th. Let’s support this incredible story and share it with our families.

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Visit the Average Joe website!

But your tickets here!

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(Win it!) White Bird comes to theaters on October 4th! #WhiteBirdMIN #WhiteBirdMovie #BeBraveChooseKind

Many thanks to Kingdom Faith Marketing Services for providing a sample of the prod-uct for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. 

As a mom, I’m always on the lookout for movies that not only entertain but also inspire my kids and leave them with important life lessons. That’s why I’m so excited for White Bird, coming to theaters on October 4th! From the author of Wonder, the book that started a movement to “choose kind,” White Bird continues to spread messages of kindness, bravery, and compassion—lessons I want my kids to experience and carry with them. In today's post, I'll share more about why you should see this movie, point you to where to find tickets, and host a fun giveaway!

Check out the trailer:

Now, let's talk more about what's so great about this movie!

1. A Story That Continues the Wonder Legacy
If you and your kids loved Wonder, you know how powerful the story of Auggie Pullman was in teaching kindness and empathy. White Bird picks up from there, focusing on Julian, a character who once struggled to be kind. After being expelled from school for his treatment of Auggie, Julian is guided by his grandmother (played by the incredible Helen Mirren), who shares her moving story of survival during Nazi-occupied France. Watching White Bird together will spark meaningful conversations with my kids about kindness, forgiveness, and personal growth.

2. A Faith-Based Film That Makes a Difference
As a mom, I want to expose my kids to stories that not only entertain but also encourage faith and positive values. White Bird is more than a beautiful tale—it’s a film that speaks to the importance of compassion, bravery, and faith. This movie offers the kind of uplifting, heartwarming content I’m eager to share with my children, and by supporting it in theaters, we’re also showing Hollywood that faith-based films are important to families like ours.

3. An Experience That Will Change How We See the World
I love taking my kids to movies that leave a lasting impact, and I know White Bird will do just that. It’s a reminder that no matter the circumstances, kindness can free you, and faith can save you. Seeing this movie together will give us a chance to reflect on these values and how we can incorporate them into our own lives. I want my kids to be brave in their kindness and compassionate in their choices, and White Bird is the perfect movie to reinforce those ideas.

4. A Family Film That’s Inspiring for All Ages
Not every film has the ability to connect with both kids and adults, but White Bird is truly a story for everyone. Whether your children are familiar with Wonder or new to this world, the lessons in White Bird will resonate with audiences of all ages. I’m especially excited to share this with my kids because it’s a beautiful, emotional story that we can enjoy together and talk about long after the credits roll.
Get Your Tickets Now!

I’m definitely planning to take my kids to see White Bird on October 4th, and I encourage you to do the same! It’s the perfect opportunity for family bonding and for teaching important values like kindness, bravery, and faith. Head to this link to get your tickets now and make October 4th a family movie night to remember

Win it!

One lucky winner will receive a $10 Amazon gift card. Enter using the Rafflecopter below. The prize will be emailed directly from our sponsor to the winner's email address. Good luck! 

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Visit the official White Bird website.

Again, buy your tickets here!

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Get Your Kids to Move with Nintendo Switch x GoNoodle!

Looking for a way to get your kids off the couch and moving while still having fun? Well, we have a fun solution to get your kids moving! Nintendo Switch and GoNoodle have teamed up for an exciting collaboration designed to get kids moving, laughing, and staying active while they play.

GoNoodle is known for its engaging content that encourages physical activity through fun and interactive games, songs, and dances. Now, with Nintendo Switch, your kids can access GoNoodle activities directly from their favorite gaming console. This collaboration brings the joy of movement into the gaming world, making it easier than ever to blend fitness with fun.

From high-energy dance challenges to interactive adventures, GoNoodle on Nintendo Switch turns screen time into active time. Whether they’re jumping, dancing, or stretching, your kids will be entertained while staying healthy. It’s the perfect way to sneak in some exercise while they think they’re just playing a game!

As parents, we know how important it is for our kids to stay active, but it can be tricky to find something they truly enjoy. That’s why this collaboration is a game-changer! It’s fun for them and a win for us!  Visit GoNoodle!

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Visit Chuck E. Cheese for the BOO-Tacular Event!

One of our favorite family traditions is visiting Chuck E. Cheese during Halloween for their incredible BOO-Tacular event, and it’s back this year bigger and better than ever! This national celebration is packed with family-friendly fun and takes place across all locations, including our nearby Grapevine, TX spot, where they always go above and beyond to create a spooky, festive atmosphere. (Look close below and notice that Chuck E. Cheese has vampire fangs! Yes, they give meticulous attention to detail for Halloween!)

This year’s BOO-Tacular includes so many exciting activities for kids! From nightly trick-or-treating to the special DJ Munch’s Haunted House Dance Party, there are endless opportunities for Halloween fun in a safe environment. The party ramps up with costume contests and themed photo spots—so definitely bring your kids in their best costumes! And what’s more exciting is that every child in costume gets 500 free E-Tickets, which means more prizes to take home! Plus, All month long, guests receive an extra 30 minutes of All You Can Play for free, with their purchase of 60 minutes or more.

As if that weren’t enough, Chuck E. Cheese is also treating us to limited-edition Halloween-themed menu items like their famous pumpkin-shaped pizza! They also have festive slime cookies. My kids go crazy for their spooky Dippin’ Dots, which make the experience even more memorable. And there’s something comforting about knowing the food is kid-friendly (and parent-approved)!

For families who prefer a calmer experience, Sensory-Friendly Sundays continue through the BOO-Tacular season, offering a quieter, less stimulating environment for kids to enjoy all the Halloween excitement at their own pace. Even better, every fun center will open two hours early on October 27th! We’ve tried these sessions, and they’re a fantastic option for little ones who need a more relaxed atmosphere. Plus, I love that Chuck E. Cheese is offering the opportunity for families to round up their purchases to raise money for Autism Speaks!

One more thing I love most about the Chuck E. Cheese’s BOO-Tacular is how they combine festive fun with everything we already adore about the venue—arcade games, yummy food, and a space where kids can be kids. Their Fun Pass is another fantastic option, letting you visit multiple times throughout the month without breaking the bank!

Let me share a funny story because my children have a large age gap. When I ask my oldest son about his happiest childhood memories that I should make sure happen for his younger brother, Chuck E. Cheese is always at the top of the list! He said the Summer of Fun and Halloween events were the best. If you remember, Chuck E. Cheese used to play a song with the lyrics, "Give yourself a high five!" It’s so catchy, and my kids still sing it often. This Halloween BOO-Tacular may be just one visit every October, but the memories are so much bigger!

If you’re looking for a fun, safe, and festive way to celebrate Halloween, I highly recommend heading to Chuck E. Cheese for their BOO-Tacular. Whether you’re near Grapevine or any other location, they go all out to make sure your kids have a spooktacular time. It’s truly the stuff happy childhood memories are made of!

Finally, let's not overlook that Chuck E. Cheese has partnered with Warner Bros. Home Entertainment! Loyalty Members score $10 off the purchase of a great selection of Halloween digital movies with the purchase of any online or in-app order through Halloween. Don't miss the fun - get the full details here!

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Get the Chuck E. Cheese BOO-tacular details to create happy childhood memories for your little ones!

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(Too much fun!) The Monopoly 2024 Game was Released Today!

Today, I’m excited to share a game that has quickly become a huge hit in our home: the brand-new 2024 MONOPOLY game on Switch, PS5, XBOX, and PC! We just got our hands on it, and my kids and I are obsessed. If you’re looking for a game that brings the whole family together for tons of laughs, lighthearted competition, and endless fun, this is it!

Why We Love It

Let me start by saying we’ve always loved MONOPOLY. It’s been our go-to game for family nights, but the 2024 version takes it to a whole new level. The updated graphics and fully animated 3D city make the experience so much more immersive. My kids love watching the city change as we play, from sunny skies to stormy nights—it’s like the board comes alive with every move.

One of the best parts for us is the new Fast Mode with the Speed Die. We usually play in the evenings after dinner, and this mode allows us to speed things up without sacrificing the fun. It’s perfect for when we don’t have hours to spare but still want to squeeze in some quality time.

Check out the trailer:

Our Family Game Nights

The dynamic neighborhoods are another favorite of ours. Each time we play, my kids notice something new in the game’s vibrant setting. They get excited about exploring the board, discovering hidden tokens, and even searching for Mr. Monopoly himself, who is cleverly hidden somewhere in the game! It’s become an ongoing challenge to see who can spot him first.

And don’t even get me started on the cross-play feature. With the game available on Xbox, PS5, Nintendo Switch, and PC, it’s easy for us to play no matter which device we’re using. The fact that we can save our progress and switch between platforms is a big win, especially when we’re balancing homework, activities, and family time.

Why Your Family Will Love It Too

I can’t recommend the 2024 MONOPOLY game enough. It’s the perfect way to wind down together after a busy day or liven up a weekend afternoon. My kids and I have made so many fun memories already, and we’ve only just started playing! The competitive spirit kicks in, but it’s all in good fun, and it’s become something we all look forward to.

If you’re looking for a way to bring your family together for some laughs, excitement, and bonding, this game is it. Whether you’re a MONOPOLY veteran or new to the game, the updated 2024 version has something for everyone. Trust me, your family will love it just as much as we do!

Grab your copy of the 2024 MONOPOLY game today, and get ready to pass GO and make some unforgettable family memories!

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Why You Need the Newair® Countertop Ice Maker for Bullet Ice (SKU: AI-100BK) for Fall and Holiday Parties + A Recipe for Jack-o-lantern Mocktails !

Fall is here, and that means it's time for cozy gatherings, holiday parties, and fun family get-togethers! As a mom and hostess, I know the importance of keeping everyone refreshed, and I’ve found my secret weapon—the Newair Countertop Ice Maker for Bullet Ice (SKU: AI-100BK). It's been an absolute game-changer for our parties, and our guests (and kids!) can’t get enough of it! In today's post, I'll tell you more about this seemingly magical box that creates sparkly bullet ice and share a fun orange mocktail idea that my kids love!

Let’s start with the best part—this ice maker pumps out up to 28 pounds of ice per day! Whether you want to make ice ahead of time or keep it running throughout the party, it guarantees a constant supply of ice, perfect for all your drinks and treats. And here’s the fun part: with just the touch of a button, you can choose from three different sizes of bullet ice—small, medium, and large. My kids absolutely love getting to pick their favorite ice size, and their friends think it’s the coolest party trick ever!

Beyond just ice production, I’m seriously impressed with the Newair team’s attention to detail. They’ve created a device that doesn’t just work like a charm, but also looks great on your countertop. Its sleek black finish fits in beautifully with any decor, and it’s compact enough to not take over your kitchen space. But don’t let the size fool you—this machine is a powerhouse! You’ll have your first batch of fresh ice in as little as 15 minutes, which is a total lifesaver when you’ve got guests over and drinks to chill.



What really makes this ice maker stand out is how easy and intuitive it is to use. No complicated buttons or settings—just plug it in, fill it with water, pick your ice size, and you’re ready to go! Plus, our guests love being able to get fresh ice throughout the night. It’s become a fun part of our gatherings—everyone enjoys using it, and it’s one less thing I have to worry about during the party!

If you’re looking for a way to take your fall and holiday hosting to the next level, I highly recommend the Newair Countertop Ice Maker. With its efficient ice production, sleek design, and customizable ice sizes, it’s the perfect companion for any event. Your guests will love having an endless supply of ice, and you’ll love how effortlessly it keeps the party going.

If you plan to order this cool ice maker, let me share a fun Jack-o-lantern mocktail recipe that my kids and their friends love!

Recipe: Jack-o-lantern Mocktail

Ingredients

• 1 32 ounce container of orange juice
• 1 L of Zero Sugar 7up
• 1 cup of large bullet ice

Supplies

• Clear stemless wine glasses (these are naturally similar to the shape of a pumpkin) or clear disposable cups
• Clear disposable plastic cups (Varies based on the size of your cups, but we yielded 12)
• 1 sheet of Cricut Vinyl in Black (Alternatively, use a black Sharpie to draw Jack-o-lantern faces on cups)

Directions

1. Cut Jack-o-lantern decals using the adhesive Cricut Vinyl in black.  We used the free Jack-o-lantern pattern, but you can choose your favorite or even create your own Jack-o-lantern pattern.

2. Adhere the Jack-o-lantern decals to your glasses.

3. Fill each glass to the top with large bullet ice.

4. Fill approximately 1/3 with Zero Sugar 7up.

5. Fill the remaining 2/3 of space with orange juice.

6. Stir and serve promptly to enjoy!

We hope that you enjoyed this Jack-o-lantern Mocktail recipe! We also hope that you'll enjoy the Newair Countertop Ice Maker for Bullet Ice (SKU: AI-100BK) for cocktails and mocktails throughout the year, especially during the upcoming holiday season!

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The holidays just got a little cooler with the Newair Countertop Ice Maker for Bullet Ice (SKU: AI-100BK)—get yours and let the festivities begin! Our readers save 10% on this Newair ice maker using the code TMR10!

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(Win it!) Lighten the Load: Help Foster Children by Supporting My Bag My Story #MyBagMyStoryMIN #EndTheTrashBag

Many thanks to My Bag, My Story for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own. 

As moms, we know the power of having something we can call our own. Whether it’s a favorite bag, an heirloom, or a meaningful gift, the items we carry often represent security, memories, and dignity. Imagine, then, the heartbreaking reality that many children in the foster care system have no bag of their own. Often, they are forced to move from home to home with their belongings stuffed into a trash bag. This is a sad symbol of the dehumanizing aspects of the foster care experience, but it doesn’t have to be this way. In today's post, I'll tell you about My Bag My Story and how you may help!

In my personal experience, I’ve seen the emotional toll that such circumstances can take on a child. That’s why I’m proud to share an incredible initiative from My Bag My Story, a nonprofit that’s making a real difference. For every bag purchased through their organization, a matching bag is donated to a child navigating the foster care system. This small gesture means so much more than a practical item—it’s a symbol of dignity, support, and recognition for children who deserve to feel valued.

Giving Children Dignity

Founded by foster parent Cara Finger, My Bag My Story was born from a simple yet powerful idea: children in foster care deserve better than a trash bag. Cara recalls, "Everyone kept saying this was normal. I said it doesn’t have to be normal, so I set out to have bags made for kids. Having a bag to call your own instead of a trash bag gives a child dignity and makes them feel valued."

This nonprofit partners with over 30 Tennessee-based organizations to provide high-quality duffel bags and backpacks to foster children. For every bag purchased, another bag is given to a foster child. This not only lightens the physical load but also gives children a sense of worth and belonging that is often missing during such turbulent times.

Why Your Purchase Matters

Children in foster care face unique challenges, especially when they age out of the system without being reunited with their families or adopted. According to the U.S. Department of Education, there are currently over 400,000 children in foster care across the country. Of those, around 20,000 young people age out of the system each year, often without the resources or support they need to transition to independent living.

When you purchase a bag from My Bag My Story, you’re doing more than buying a product—you’re contributing to a larger movement of support and care for these children. Each bag provides more than just a means to carry belongings; it helps foster children feel seen, supported, and deserving of more than a trash bag.

Join Us in Making a Difference

With the support of corporations like Dell, The Predators Foundation, and Target, My Bag My Story continues to expand its reach, but they depend on caring individuals like us to keep the momentum going. By ordering a bag today, you’re directly helping a foster child receive their own high-quality bag, something they can call theirs during such uncertain times.

Together, we can help give these children a small but powerful reminder that they are not forgotten, and their worth is immeasurable. Let’s lighten the load of foster care and make a lasting difference. Let’s make a difference, one bag at a time!  Order a bag today, and let’s put an end to the trash bag era once and for all. Visit here to purchase a bag and/or share the link with others!

Win it!

One lucky winner will receive a $10 Amazon gift card. Enter using the Rafflecopter below. The prize will be emailed to the winner at the email address specified in the Rafflecopter.

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(Win it!) Don’t Miss the Uplifting Power of “God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust” – In Theaters September 12! #InGodWeTrustMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Many thanks to Pinnacle Peak Pictures for providing a sample of the product for this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

In today's post, I am excited to tell you about a Faith Franchise Phenomenon: The God’s Not Dead series is the most successful faith-based franchise of all time. Each installment has delivered messages of hope, courage, and faith that resonate with audiences across the globe. This latest chapter, In God We Trust, continues that tradition with an even more powerful and timely message. I'll share more details about this movie and then share a giveaway for one lucky reader to win an Amazon gift card.

Let's start with a quick overview:

"Amid political and spiritual turmoil, Reverend David Hill steps up to run for Congress after an incumbent's sudden death. Battling against Peter Kane, who aims to erase religion from policy, David's fight becomes a beacon of hope and optimism for people seeking moral leadership in a divided world."

Here is the trailer:

Here is a great interview to accompany the movie:

In this pivotal election year, God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust is more relevant than ever. It’s not just a film—it’s a movement! With political and spiritual tensions at a high, this film stands as a beacon of hope and moral courage. It invites us all to be part of the conversation and to stand up for our values in the public square.

This movie provides inspiration and entertainment for the whole family! The film stars an impressive cast, including David A. R. White, Isaiah Washington, Dean Cain, Samaire Armstrong, Ray Wise, Scott Baio, and Charlene Tilton. Plus, enjoy special appearances by Governor Mike Huckabee and Newsboys. With such a dynamic lineup, “In God We Trust” offers a captivating story that will engage and entertain every member of your family. It’s a great opportunity to come together and discuss how to navigate today’s political climate with optimism and courage.

Just like the classic film “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington” inspired generations with its message of moral courage and patriotism, “God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust” does the same today. Pastor Dave’s journey to run for Congress in the face of overwhelming odds is a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for what we believe in, loving our country, and advocating for the principles that make America great.

Ready to experience a film that’s both uplifting and thought-provoking? Buy your tickets today for “God’s Not Dead: In God We Trust” and witness the powerful story that will move your heart and spark meaningful conversations. Don’t miss out—get your tickets now and be part of this transformative experience!

Let’s come together to celebrate faith, hope, and the power of standing up for our values. See you at the movies!

Win it!
One lucky winner will receive a $10 Amazon gift card. Enter using the Rafflecopter below. Our sponsor will email the prize directly to the winner. Good luck! a Rafflecopter giveaway

Learn More!
Buy Tickets | Visit the website | 
Follow the Conversation: Join us on social media and use the official hashtags to share your excitement and connect with other fans: #InGodWeTrustMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

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Quick and Tasty Back-to-School Meals + Score $35 Off Your JustMeats.com Order!

 

The school year is in full swing, and as busy moms, we know how challenging it can be to juggle everything on our plates. That's why I'm thrilled to share an incredible solution that has made our mealtimes not only easier but also incredibly delicious! JustMeats.com is a fantastic company offering high-quality meats that are meticulously hand-trimmed, perfectly seasoned, and cooked to absolute perfection. Whether you're whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or planning a special family meal, Just Meats has you covered! (Spoiler alert - If you continue reading, we have a coupon for our readers to score $35 off a JustMeats.com order! Use the coupon code TRENDYMOM)

We recently had the pleasure of trying out their mouthwatering meats, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint! Every bite was bursting with flavor, and my entire family loved them so much that everyone went back for seconds. As a Texan, I’m pretty particular when it comes to meats, especially brisket. But let me tell you—JustMeats truly knows their stuff. My Texas heart absolutely adored the Smoked Texas Brisket! The smoky flavor was out of this world, and the tenderness was spot-on.

I customized our box with some of JustMeats’ best offerings:

• Smoked Texas Brisket × 1
• Roasted Chicken Breast × 1
• Raspberry BBQ Chicken Breast × 1
• Braised Shredded Beef × 1
• Pollo Asado × 1
• Hawaiian Teriyaki Beef × 1

The package was delivered to my doorstep by UPS with plenty of dry ice. Preparing the items is quick and easy! You'd think that I spent hours preparing dinner, but it was really simple! First, you thaw your meat and place it in the fridge overnight. Then there are a few convenient options:

Skillet or sauté pan on medium-high heat for two minutes.

I love that each package comes with everything that you need to prepare the meats with sauces and/or seasonings. For instance, I have to give a shoutout to the Smoked Texas Brisket below!

Each item was absolutely amazing—tender, juicy, and full of flavor. The Raspberry BBQ Chicken Breast had just the right balance of sweet and tangy, while the Pollo Asado and Hawaiian Teriyaki Beef were big hits with the kids. The Braised Shredded Beef made for a perfect, quick taco night.

Check out my youngest son's favorite - Raspberry BBQ Chicken!

He loves it served over rice.

My oldest son's favorite is the Hawaiian Teriyaki Beef!

Doesn't it look amazing? He likes his over rice. I add shredded carrots to mine.

I also need to highlight the Texas BBQ Brisket! It's second to none!

The best part? You can order these incredible meats frozen, so they’re ready whenever you need them. JustMeats delivers right to your doorstep, making meal prep a breeze, especially during the hectic school year. JustMeats.com truly stands for not just the incredible taste and convenience but also the wide range of options and unbeatable value they offer. With their commitment to providing premium quality meats, you can enjoy grass-fed and grass-finished beef, along with other delicious cuts, all free from artificial colors and flavors. Whether you’re sticking to a specific diet plan or just looking for versatile meal options, Just Meats has something for everyone. Plus, with prices as low as $2.33 per serving, you’re getting more value than you would from raw grocery store meat, especially since their weight is based on cooked meat.

JustMeats supports Rocky Mountain ranches, ensuring that the meat you serve your family is healthy, natural, and delicious. With new flavors launched regularly, you can always find something exciting to try. They make it easy to switch things up with flavorful options. Their meats are perfect for anyone, offering ease of use and a flavor that’s simply unmatched. And if you’re looking for convenience, their subscription options allow you to receive your favorite meats every 15 or 30 days. With a money-back guarantee and the ability to refrigerate for 10-14 days or freeze for 4-6 months, Just Meats makes it easier than ever to keep your kitchen stocked with delicious, ready-to-eat options.  This is so helpful for busy moms!

And here's a little treat just for our readers: use our exclusive coupon code TRENDYMOM to score $35 off your order at JustMeats.com! Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on having these delicious, high-quality meats ready for your next meal. Head over to JustMeats.com, place your order, and enjoy the convenience and flavor that JustMeats brings to your table! I think that you'll find that JustMeats.com is a game changer for crave-worthy meal planning!

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(Review) The Husqvarna Automower is a Game Changer in the Texas Heat!

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Husqvarna. All opinions are 100% mine.

This post is sponsored by Husqvarna. They recently sent us an Automower product to review.

My husband and I used to mow our own lawn. It's one of our least favorite chores, especially with the Texas heat and humidity.  Our first house together was almost an acre. We quickly learned that we did not like maintaining a large yard. When we had the opportunity to relocate for new jobs, we purchased a home on a smaller lot with .25 acres. We later realized that we would prefer an even smaller yard and we moved yet again to a villa where front yard maintenance is included in our HOA fee and we only have to maintain our small backyard that is hidden by fences. The space is approximately 1,000 square feet. We've mowed it for several years, but we finally decided that we have had enough and began researching alternatives such as artificial grass, hiring someone to help, or a robotic lawnmower. 

Many of our neighbors feel the same way about yard work. As I mentioned, we live in a villa where the HOA maintains our front yards and then we are responsible for our small backyards. The majority of our neighbors hire landscapers.  This is nice, but it's expensive and we don't like the idea of giving landscapers a key to our yard.  The typical cost of weekly mowing for our small backyard is $75 to $100/week.  We mow our lawn for approximately 7.5 months per year, so it's not trivial to spend over $3,000/year to hire landscapers to mow our backyard. As a Mom and an Engineer, I can't help but calculate the cost for multiple years and notice how quickly the expense accumulates. After five years, the cost adds up to around $15,000.

Several of our neighbors have artificial lawns. Some of them got together in small groups to negotiate a bulk discount, but it was still very expensive. An example of a neighbor's yard is shown below. It looks nice, but it was outside of the budget that we wanted to put toward our yard. Plus, with young children, we didn't want to worry about the cost of replacement down the road.

Only recently did we come across the Husqvarna Automower as an option to help mow our lawn. I wish that we would have known about it sooner. We looked into it and ran the numbers to figure out whether it could make sense for us.  Specifically, we looked into the Husqvarna 115H Automower that is priced at $1,599.99 with installation.  At this price, we felt like it was a cost effective solution to mowing our lawn that is cheaper than hiring landscapers to mow.  I searched for reviews and people seemed happy, so I reached out to the company to ask if it would be possible to collaborate and to send us review a unit.  They agreed! This was a highlight of my blogging year, especially if you consider the temperatures in Texas right now and how much we dread yard work. Of course, we were excited because the perks of this robotic lawn mower are amazing, but I also felt like it was a special opportunity to gain and share an experience that people are curious to know more about.

The process for ordering the Husqvarna Automower was nice because they ship the Automower in a package that arrives on your doorstep. They then connect you with an installation expert who sets everything up for you.  For instance, check out the photo below that shows my package on our front porch.  I took the photo from a distance so that you could notice that it's a large package, but still a reasonable size for me to carry on my own.

Here is a closer view of the package.

We were so excited about our new best friend that we couldn't help but to peek into the package to see it before the installation company arrived.  The package was comprehensive and included everything that I needed to get started.

The day before the installation company arrived, we mowed our lawn to the desired height.  This is something that you will want to do before your installation as part of the customization process.

Lambert's Landscape Company installed the boundary wire and charging station. In the Dallas area, we are very lucky because the pros at Lambert's know the ins and outs of the Husqvarna Automower. The Director of Fleet Services and Facilities installed our Automower. He manages a fleet of them and even runs two Automowers in his own yard. He is knowledgable about landscaping and Automowers. He was really nice about answering our questions and giving advice. The installation for our yard went by quickly. He installed the boundary wire with a machine that buries it rather seamlessly. I was relieved to know that the boundary wires would be buried so nicely, especially since I have energetic children who aren't even able to see the buried wires.  Here is a photo of him installing the boundary wire.

I also made a video and encourage you to watch it because you'll get a better idea of how quick and seamless it was for him to install the boundary wire.

After he installed the boundary wires, he finished setting up the charging station and updated the software. This is the home for our new best friend, the Automower! He also helped us to get the app which helps us to monitor the status of our Husqvarna Automower. For instance, here is a photo from when we set it up.

Here is another photo of the app which shows statistics about the number of hours that it has spent on our lawn.

The Husqvarna Automower is smart and able to adapt to many variables such as different yard sizes, slopes, grass types, and more. Personally, our yard is around 1,000 sq. ft. and relatively flat with only slight sloping around our French drains.  We have Bermuda grass which is a southern grass that grows in warm climates. It has a narrow leaf blade which I think is aesthetically pleasing. It grows quickly and is also quite resilient. You'll find it at many golf courses and athletic fields since it's relatively good for high traffic areas.  Our yard is a breeze for the Husqvarna Automower that quietly works its magic on our lawn.  

The Husqvarna Automower spent the first couple of days exploring our yard.  My family enjoyed watching our curious little friend move around to learn the lay of the land! 

After the initial exploration, the Automower used its advanced technology to mow our lawn on a more scheduled basis.  The technology is actually more interesting than we initially expected. Not only does this little robot mow our lawn, but it also improves the health of our lawn. That was an unexpected bonus for us!   We just wanted a break from yard work, so it was even cooler to realize that the Automower could further improve the health of our lawn too. The way that it works is different than our old process. We used to go through with a loud electric lawn mower.  The Husqvarna Automower is more advanced. It uses several blades to finely mulch the grass.  Instead of rushing through like we used to do with a lawn mower, the Automower takes slower and more frequent passes which provides a noticeable difference to the health of our lawn.

Another big difference between our old mower and the Automower is the noise level. Our old mower was loud.  Our Automower is pretty quiet. I tease my husband that it has such good manners with how quiet it is. It even runs past my bedroom at night while I am sleeping without me noticing.  I also appreciate that it has safety features to stop if it bumps into something unexpected. For instance, my youngest son dropped his teddy bear outside. The Automower skillfully avoided it which is an important feature that we appreciate since our children play in the yard and don't always clean up after themselves.

The Automower may be scheduled to run at any time. We prefer an evening schedule so that our children aren't outside. I would actually be okay with my boys around it since it has safety features, but my children sometimes play soccer or have water balloon battles, so I figured that evening runs were better. Plus, as I mentioned earlier the Automower is quiet enough that I don't even notice it when it goes by my bedroom windows in the evening.

Security is an important feature to me. There is one loud thing about the Automower. That's the alarm. If someone doesn't know the pin number and then picks it up and tries to run off with it, the Automower has a very loud alarm.  You need to enter your pin number to turn it off. Depending on the model, you may also have GPS tracking. 

We've used our Automower for a few months now. Let me share a quick list of questions that people have asked us with our personal answers.

1. Is it as loud as a traditional lawn mower?  Answer: It is MUCH quieter than our old traditional lawn mower. In fact, we run it in the evening and it mows outside of my bedroom window without waking me. 
2. Does it break if it rains?  Answer: We have left our Automower out during several rainstorms without any issues. I just wipe it down with a cloth after the rain. (For reference, I also wipe down our patio furniture and grill after rain.) We moved the Automower to our patio for one storm because there were severe weather warnings. During that particular storm, you wouldn't have even wanted to leave your car outside.
3. What if children leave toys in the yard? Answer: My children have stress tested this feature. They have a bad habit of leaving toys in the yard.  Fortunately, the Automower is quite advanced and has avoided every toy left in our yard over the past few months.  One of them was my youngest son's teddy bear, so I was grateful for the Automower's technology to avoid their toys.
4. Could someone pick it up and walk off with it? Answer: Yes, but there is an alarm system.  It makes an obnoxiously loud noise that would make it hard for someone to casually pick it up in our yard and walk off with it. We are able to hear the alarm noise in our house. We have a pin number to turn the alarm off. Some models also have a GPS security feature.
5. Do you like it? Answer: We absolutely love it!  If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to stop wasting time on mowing the lawn and to let an Automower take over the chore.  Seriously, the combination of Texas heat and humidity is the worst. The Automower is a total game changer that allows us to spend less time on chores and more time enjoying life.

Now that we have used the Husqvarna Automower for a while, we are very happy and wish that we would have adopted it sooner.  The time savings has been amazing. We no longer have to mow. We only have to do the edging. My husband has approximately 5 extra hours to spend with us every month. If you multiple this by 7.5 months, he has saved approximately 37.5 hours/year. That's almost an entire workweek out of the year for him! We have a small backyard that is under 1,000 square feet. I imagine that the time savings increases for Texans with bigger yards.

During the Coronavirus shutdown, the Automower was also a life saver because it mulches the grass into fine pieces and we do not have to bag and dispose debris. Our garbage collection company temporarily stopped the collection of lawn clippings.  Prior to the arrival of our Automower, we had garbage bags full of lawn clippings for weeks until they finally announced a special day when collection of lawn debris resumed.  I'm glad that we don't have to dispose of lawn debris after the Automower.  The mulching process is eco-friendly and convenient!

In summary, the Husqvarna Automower is an amazing application of technology that has improved the quality of our lives.  The experience has given us a healthier lawn, but more importantly, the gift of time. As busy parents, the ability to cross mowing the lawn off of our chore list was amazing! I know that we could have hired landscapers to mow weekly or invested in artificial grass, but those solutions were very expensive. The Husqvarna Automower is more cost effective for our situation. The Husqvarna design team deserves credit for the meticulous attention to detail that they put into the Automower!

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