Moma Lovebug

Dei Fratelli Review!

2011-11-03T00:14:00.002-04:00

Dei Fratelli was kind enough to send me some of their delicious tomato products to try out and review. I use tomatoes several times a week in lots of different dishes and was excited to try something new!
From the salsa, to the diced tomatoes, to the pasta sauce, each product was tasty and flavorful.

The pasta sauce was the perfect addition to homemade meatballs, even Lovebug, my picky eater, didn't make a fuss! In chili, over chicken, and in sauces each product brought a new flavor that I hadn't experienced with other canned tomatoes. I've been on the lookout for more Dei Fratelli and always purchase a few when I find them!

Check out the site for more information on their products, recipes, and even e-recipe cards!

You can find Dei Fratelli on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube!

*I received the item mentioned above in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

Olivia: Princess for a Day Review!

2011-11-03T00:00:00.002-04:00

In our house, princesses are a big thing. So when Nickelodeon offered us the chance to review the new Olivia DVD, I jumped at the chance. Lovebug screamed with joy when she saw what had come in the mail for her, and I *had* to put it in right away.

I'm not kidding when I say that we've watched Princess for a day about 50 times, and the entire DVD about 20 times since it got here. Lovebug even knows all the words to the princess pledge!

The DVD released in September and you can purchase it for around $17!

Olivia: Princess for a Day (Double Length Episode)
Olivia trades places with a princess for a day when she meets a visiting Princess and they realize that they look almost exactly alike.

Olivia’s Tip Top Tapper
Olivia hurts her leg on the eve of her big tap dance recital.

Olivia’s Old West Treasure Hunt
While on a field trip to an Old West town, Olivia leads a treasure hunt to find the missing key to the school bus.

Olivia Becomes a Chef
Olivia has to keep mom out of the kitchen while she prepares her a surprise birthday meal - a dinner with all red food!

Olivia Plays Hotel
There seems to be a strange guest at Olivia’s make-believe hotel – could it really be a ghost, or is it her brother Ian just playing tricks on Olivia and her friends?

Olivia’s Fashion Show
Olivia is determined to put on her own fabulous fashion show, but her models (her brother Ian and her friends Francine and Julian) are difficult.

Olivia Goes International
Olivia has trouble deciding on a country to represent for her class’s International Day so she invents her own.

Olivia Paints a Mural
A trip to the museum inspires Olivia’s artistic talents, if only she can find a big enough space.

*I received the item mentioned above in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

Simply Neutral Review!

2011-11-02T00:20:00.004-04:00

One of my favorite green & non-toxic cleaning products is Simply Neutral. You might remember them from my review last Summer!
I'd been using these awesome products since then, and was amazed at how long lasting they are and how great they work. Some other "green" cleaners that I've tried just don't have that same oomph that Simply Neutral has!

Maggie, from Simply Neutral, was kind enough to send me a few more products over the Summer to try out. Dish it out (an SLS-free dish soap), Love your duds (a liquid soap nut laundry detergent), and Bowl me over (a powdered toilet bowl cleaner). Along with the products came some very neat business cards! The material that was used was cut up cereal boxes! How neat and green is that!?

I put them all right to work, starting with Bowl me over. Before this, I had only used liquid toilet bowl cleaners. Green or not, the old products all smelled terribly. The chemical smell bothered my asthma, so I didn't clean as much as I should have. BUT- Simply Neutral saved the day! I sprinkled a tablespoon of the product into the toilet, gave it a swish and let it sit for a few minutes. After it foamed up, I gave it a scrub and flushed. I was amazed at how clean it looked!

The other products left me in awe as well! We used to use Dawn in the sink, but it seemed like we needed a lot. A few drops of Dish it out was all we needed! And the laundry soap is great! I was already a soap nuts fan, having used them to wash diapers, and I love the liquid version even more! I used it on the cloth diapers, with no problems. And even added a little to water in a spray bottle to use upstairs!

I've had all three of these products since July, and I'll probably get a few more months out of them! How awesome is that? Not only is Simply Neutral an affordable green product, but they last a lot longer than other products! You can save on shipping by ordering the waterless products. When it arrives at your home, just add water and voila!

Want to save even more on Simply Neutral? Check out their product packages! You can get a pack of cleaners, dish soap, and microfiber towels (10 products) for under $28!!

You can find Simply Neutral on Facebook and Twitter!

*I received the item mentioned above in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

MIA

2011-09-23T21:38:00.004-04:00

School is well underway here... And unfortunately that means I've been neglecting the blog a bit. College is kicking my butt this semester. I have lots of awesome reviews to go up (and some giveaways)! So please stay tuned :)

Also, go over to my Doula Facebook page, and click like. We're getting close to 250 fans, and I'll be having a BIG giveaway when we do!

FuzziBunz Winner!

2011-09-20T14:37:00.003-04:00

And the winner of the FuzziBunz giveaway is...

Number 117!

Congrats to HolliLynn!

The winner has 48 hours to reply to my email, or a new winner will be picked.

Thanks to all of you who entered and a special thanks to FuzziBunz for sponsoring the giveaway!

Aloha Friday #75

2011-09-09T05:32:00.001-04:00

In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that we take it easy and look forward to the weekend. So I thought that on Fridays I would take it easy on posting, too. Therefore, I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response.

Are you getting the crazy rain/flooding?

Beach Bound!

2011-09-04T13:04:00.000-04:00

See you all at the end of the week! :)

Link it up- Giveaways! 9/4/11

2011-09-04T00:00:00.000-04:00

There are so many awesome giveaways going on at other blogs. Sometimes, it's hard to find them all! So, if you have a giveaway going on at your blog, link it up! Each Sunday, I'll be posting a new Mr. Linky.

So go ahead! Link away!

Aloha Friday #74

2011-09-02T12:58:00.001-04:00

Anyone else thinking about Halloween? What costumes do you have planned?

500 followers! Claim your extra entries!

2011-08-29T04:00:00.004-04:00

Yay! We hit the big 500 tonight! I offered up some extra entries awhile ago.... So go ahead, hop on over to the FuzziBunz giveaway and add FIVE extra entries!

I'll also be posting another amazing giveaway to celebrate! Keep an eye out for it, the extra entries will apply to this giveaway as well!

Link it up- Giveaways! 8/28/11

2011-08-28T13:43:00.001-04:00

Aloha Friday #73

2011-08-26T12:15:00.002-04:00

For those on the East Coast, are you prepared for Irene?

Link it up- Giveaways! 8/22/11

2011-08-22T01:05:00.000-04:00

Aloha Friday #72

2011-08-19T00:18:00.000-04:00

Lots of children are starting back to school next week (I am, too!). Is anyone homeschooling? Lovebug isn't even 3 yet, but I've been thinking about it a lot.

FuzziBunz Review & Giveaway!

2011-08-18T00:06:00.002-04:00

When someone is talking about cloth diapers, usually the name FuzziBunz works it's way into the conversation. These diapers are super popular and can easily be found on the internet.

I've had a love/hate relationship with the Fuzzi Bunz we've had. My daughter potty trained at 2.5 years old and most of our FuzziBunz were in regular rotation for a little less than 2 years. They seemed to be the ones that would repel before other diapers, if there was a little bit of build up. But, they've held up amazingly, were fairly easy to strip.

Most importantly, they are husband (and grandparent) friendly. This alone puts it in the category with my favorite products! FuzziBunz also have some absolutely fabulous colors.

We were sent the new Spearmint color right after they were released. Lovebug was starting to potty train, so we didn't get to use it as much as I would have liked. But we used it for bedtime until we were sure that she could stay dry over night. We didn't need to double stuff at bedtime. For lovebug, just one insert was more than enough.

Like the other FuzziBunz, the one size diaper gives you the option to adjust the thighs and waist, providing a great fit for your little ones. And it snaps!! So old children that prefer to be diaper-less might have a harder time breaking free.

FuzziBunz will continue to be part of our cloth diapering stash and when we have another little one, I might have to add a few more!

*This giveaway is going to be open a bit longer than usual. With going back to school and a vacation coming up, I want you all to have a fair chance to enter!*

FuzziBunz has generously offered to give one Moma Lovebug reader a Spearmint diaper for their little one!

Want to win?

You must first visit FuzziBunz and take a look around. Then come back and tell me another of the FuzziBunz colors that you love. This is a mandatory entry. If you do not complete this entry, all other entries will be disqualified.

"Like" FuzziBunz on Facebook.

Become a follower of FuzziBunz on Twitter.

Sign up for FuzziBunz's Newsletter.

Subscribe to my blog (by email OR a reader).

Follow my blog with Google Friend Connect.

"Like" my Doula Facebook page. (2 entries)

Grab my button. Leave the link of where you placed it in your comment.

Follow me on Twitter. Please leave your Twitter name in your comment.

Tweet about the giveaway by using the following text- RT @MomaLovebug @FuzziBunz Giveaway! http://tinyurl.com/3hvafzv #clothdiapersYou may tweet once per day for extra entries. Please leave the permalink of your tweet in your comment.

Blog about the giveaway. Please link back to Moma Lovebug and FuzziBunz. Leave the link to your blog in your comment. (5 entries)

You must leave your email in your comment so that I can contact you. Also, please remember to leave a separate comment for each of your entries. Otherwise they will not count.

Contest is open to US and Canadian Residents only. Contest will end 9/10/11 at 11:59 pm EST. A winner will be chosen by random.org and will be notified by email. I will also announce the winner in a separate post. You must contact me within 48 hours. If you fail to claim your prize, a new winner will be chosen by random.org and emailed. Please see my Disclosure.

*I received the item mentioned above in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

Wholly Wholesome Review!

2011-08-17T13:22:00.004-04:00

"Delicious treats made with truly natural and organic ingredients... So good they taste like homemade."

At the beginning of July, I received two very large boxes from Wholly Wholesome. Inside were some amazing (and super delicious) products!

Even though the baked goods are all natural (and some vegan), I could only have small tastes, since sugar and I don't get along well. My family and friends really enjoyed the products though!

My daughter loved the moist crumblettes and raisin cookies. The blueberry pie was a big hit as well! They're so simple to make, too. Some of the products are fresh, others are frozen and just need popped in the oven!

In case you're wondering where you can find the fabulous Wholly Wholesome, they have a store locator! I don't have any retail locations near me... But I'll be looking for them when we go out of town! You can also find Wholly Wholesome on Twitter and Facebook!

Beanie Designs Review!

2011-08-17T01:35:00.002-04:00

A few months ago, I received an email from a lovely company, Beanie Designs, asking if I'd like to try their product. I browsed through the beanies and hats and found this gorgeous sun hat. I knew Lovebug would flip for it!

Unfortunately we received the wrong size at first, but the company generously let us pass it to a friend. It seemed like it took a little while for the right size to be sent out, but it was worth the wait!

As expected, Lovebug was thrilled with it! She wore it for hours and hours, not wanting to take it off. I finally had to put it out of site for awhile!

The flower piece clips off, if you're needing something simple, or you could always change the flower out! The beanies are around $30 each, but for handmade, they're a great price! They have hats for newborns, up to teens! Be sure to check out Beanie Designs "On Sale" section for a great deal!

Beanie Designs can also be found on Twitter and Facebook!

Aloha Friday #71

2011-08-12T01:46:00.001-04:00

Are you ready for Fall?

The Twooth Timer Winner!

2011-08-07T02:21:00.002-04:00

And the winner of The Twooth Timer giveaway is...

Number 10!

Congrats to Eco Baby Mama Drama!

The winner has 48 hours to reply to my email, or a new winner will be picked.

Thanks to all of you who entered and a special thanks to The Twooth Timer for sponsoring the giveaway!

Link it up- Giveaways! 8/7/11

2011-08-07T02:14:00.000-04:00

Link it up- Giveaways! 7/31/11

2011-07-31T11:56:00.000-04:00

Link it up- Giveaways! 7/24/11

2011-07-24T00:17:00.000-04:00

Aloha Friday #70

2011-07-22T16:10:00.001-04:00

What are you doing to stay cool in this heat wave?

Be Good to Yourself- Montagne Jeunesse Masque Review!

2011-07-21T16:30:00.003-04:00

It's not often that I review a product I don't like. Occasionally there will be something about a great product that isn't perfect, but never that I just don't like it.

Unfortunately, I don't like the Montagne Jeunesse Masques that I was sent for review. The company was nice enough to send three of their products for me to try out- Deep Cleansing Passion Peel Off, Self Heating Fudge Sauna, and Dead Sea Anti-Stress Mud Masque.

Even though I don't have super sensitive skin, all three products made my face itch terribly. It was uncomfortable to leave any of them on for the recommended amount of time.

I will say that after the skin irritation went away, that my face did look nice and my skin felt soft, but it just wasn't worth the itchiness that I went through.

They're affordable, at about $2 per pack. They not only have the masks, but tonics and pore strips as well!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

The Twooth Timer Review & Giveaway!

2011-07-19T11:40:00.002-04:00

Brush for two minutes "without pulling teeth"!

It might seem like a silly slogan, but for some parents, getting their child to *want* to brush their teeth is hard. I'm one of those parents. Even though we've tried to establish good habits with Lovebug, she would fight having her teeth brushed. Either she wouldn't do it, or wouldn't let us help to get them really clean. None of the tricks seemed to be working.

Then, The Twooth Timer arrived. I'll admit that I might have laughed at the idea of a tooth shaped timer getting my stubborn daughter to brush. But, I was also getting a little desperate.

When I took the timer out of the package, Lovebug was immediately interested. I explained that this was going to help her brush her teeth. We would set the timer, and we had to brush until the tooth "dinged".

It worked. On the first try. She was so happy with the timer that she brushed for a minute, and let me brush the other minute. Clean teeth, happy momma.

Check out The Twooth Timer's website for free activity downloads!

The Twooth Timer has generously offered to give one Moma Lovebug reader a Twooth Timer for their little one!

Want to win?

You must first visit The Twooth Timer and take a look around. Then come back and tell me something a problem you've come across (or are worried about) with brushing, and how you've handled it. This is a mandatory entry. If you do not complete this entry, all other entries will be disqualified.

"Like" The Twooth Timer on Facebook.

Become a follower of The Twooth Timer on Twitter.

Sign up for The Twooth Timer's Newsletter.

Subscribe to my blog (by email OR a reader).

Follow my blog with Google Friend Connect.

"Like" my Doula Facebook page. (2 entries)

Grab my button. Leave the link of where you placed it in your comment.

Follow me on Twitter. Please leave your Twitter name in your comment.

Tweet about the giveaway by using the following text- RT @MomaLovebug Twooth Timer Giveaway! http://tinyurl.com/3cdbfle You may tweet once per day for extra entries. Please leave the permalink of your tweet in your comment.

Blog about the giveaway. Please link back to Moma Lovebug and The Twooth Timer. Leave the link to your blog in your comment. (5 entries)

You must leave your email in your comment so that I can contact you. Also, please remember to leave a separate comment for each of your entries. Otherwise they will not count.

Contest is open to US and Canadian Residents only. Contest will end 8/2/11 at 11:59 pm EST. A winner will be chosen by random.org and will be notified by email. I will also announce the winner in a separate post. You must contact me within 48 hours. If you fail to claim your prize, a new winner will be chosen by random.org and emailed. Please see my Disclosure.

*I received the item mentioned above in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

Yo Gabba Gabba- Party in a Box!

2011-07-19T11:14:00.002-04:00

Last week, Yo Gabba Gabba released Party in a Box! This three disk, 12 episode, pack is full of favorites of Lovebug.

I'll admit to not being the biggest YGG fan. But, Lovebug likes it, so we'll take time to watch it every so often. As it turns out, we've been enjoying it since it arrived!

Her favorite episode is Brobee's birthday. With catchy songs from DJ Lance, and the Ting Tings, I start to sing along!

"It’s time to get those dancing shoes on and prepare for some fun in Yo Gabba Gabba: Party in a Box! This three-DVD box set includes Birthday Boogie, Clubhouse and Dancey Dance Bunch so get ready to explore everything from animals and new foods to birthdays and dress-up. Special guests in this collection include Erykah Badu, The Ting Tings, and Elijah Wood. Additionally, Biz Markie and Mark Mothersbaugh appear in their recurring segments."

Party in a Box released on 7/12 and has a suggested retail price of $24.99

*I received the item mentioned above in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

Ruby Tuesday Nurse In!

2011-07-18T23:57:00.004-04:00

"The woman involved was having lunch with her friends when her baby began to fuss. In order to comfort the child, she began to nurse him/her. An elderly couple seated in the vicinity began to complain loudly and asked to be moved. The waitress then asked the mother to leave. I was told that it was something along the lines of, 'you're leaving now, aren't you' when the woman was clearly in the middle of eating her meal. The mother declined and the waitstaff commented amongst themselves and generally did everything they could to make her and the rest of her party feel uncomfortable during the duration of her meal. The couple was not reseated. The waitress told them that the mother and her friends were leaving (which they were not!) and the couple said that they would just wait."

We will be holding a nurse in at Ruby Tuesday in Lavale, Maryland on Tuesday, July 19th. The event will start at 5:00. In order to not overwhelm the Ruby Tuesday waitstaff, we're asking participants to stagger their meals. Ideally, 5, 5:30, and 6pm would be great. There will be a photo op at approx 5:45 in front of the restaurant.

The restaurant has a pro-breastfeeding stance and is completely on board with us coming out. Anyone who makes a scene regarding the nurse in will be asked to leave.

Show your support of breastfeeding moms everywhere! Please invite friends & family! If you don't live in the greater Allegany County area, work with your local La Leche League to organize your own nurse in!

You can find the event page on Facebook here as well as more details about the nurse in. Hope to see you there!

Link it up- Giveaways! 7/17/11

2011-07-17T00:00:00.000-04:00

DivaCup Winner!

2011-07-16T16:06:00.002-04:00

And the winner of the DivaCup giveaway is...

Number 109!

Congrats to The Litrenta Family!

The winner has 48 hours to reply to my email, or a new winner will be picked.

Thanks to all of you who entered and a special thanks to DivaCup for sponsoring the giveaway!

Aloha Friday #69 on Saturday

2011-07-16T12:45:00.002-04:00

What are you plans for this weekend?

Facebook page

2011-07-14T16:00:00.002-04:00

Some of you mentioned you weren't able to like my Facebook page. Can you try this link and let me know if it directs you to Allegany Birth Roots?

Then be sure to grab those extra entries on the DivaCup giveaway, it ends tonight!!

Link it up- Giveaways! 7/10/11

2011-07-10T01:07:00.000-04:00

Aloha Friday #68

2011-07-08T01:01:00.002-04:00

If you had to choose one baby carrier, what would it be?

This is hard for me, I like different ones at different times. I'd probably have to pick the Ergo. Or, woven wrap, since I've recently found that love again :)

Happy Independence Day!

2011-07-04T00:01:00.000-04:00

Wishing all of my readers a wonderful and safe holiday!

Link it up- Giveaways! 7/3/11

2011-07-03T00:24:00.001-04:00

Nearly 500 followers! Wow!

2011-07-02T09:31:00.003-04:00

Moma Lovebug is creeping up on 500 followers! A BIG thank you to everyone who has come back over in the past few months :)

When we reach 500, there will be lots of extra entries for giveaways... and there just might be a giveaway! ;)

What are you waiting for? Tell your friends about Moma Lovebug!

Aloha Friday #67

2011-07-01T00:01:00.000-04:00

Do your children use fluoride toothpaste?

DivaCup Review & Giveaway!

2011-06-30T00:10:00.006-04:00

This post may go into detail about my menstrual cycle. If you're squeamish, you may not want to read it. Please, check out the other lovely posts on my sidebar!

You can read my original review of the DivaCup here.

Last Spring, after dealing with a vicious occurrence of dear Aunt Flo, I switched to the DivaCup.

Unfortunately, I've had more of those nightmare periods since then. But, I wouldn't trust any other product to keep everything contained.

The DivaCup has been absolutely wonderful! Periods are less painful, since there are no nasty chemicals! And, I'm saving a ton of money with this reusable product!

The cup is available in size 1 & 2, so you can get the right fit. If you've given birth or are over the age of 30, you'll want to choose size 2. It's also made of durable silicone, so no worries if you're allergic to latex like I am!

While the general guidelines recommend replacing the DivaCup every year, I've been using it slightly over that with no issues! I do have a back up though, just in case anything should happen to it!

DivaCup is also the maker of the DivaWash! In a year, I hadn't been able to get my hands on this particular product, and I knew I had to try it! DivaCup was generous enough to send me a bottle of the DivaWash to try it out! This product is multifunctional. Not only is it used to clean your DivaCup between uses, but it's gentle enough to use as a facial cleanser or shower gel! I've actually tried it, and my face felt soft and clean.

The DivaWash is:

Naturally pH balanced
Gentle: Ideal for sensitive skin
Concentrated formula: reduces the eco-footprint
100% plant-based ingredients
No animal testing or animal ingredients
No parabens, sulfates or petrochemicals

Of course, this product is one of my favorites! The DivaCup has saved me countless times, and my period is happier for it!

DivaCup has generously offered to give one Moma Lovebug reader a DivaCup and bottle of DivaWash!

Want to win?

You must first visit DivaCup and take a look around. Then come back and tell me something you learned. This is a mandatory entry. If you do not complete this entry, all other entries will be disqualified.

"Like" DivaCup on Facebook.

Become a follower of DivaCup on Twitter.

Subscribe to DivaCup's Newsletter (lower left hand side).

Subscribe to my blog (by email OR a reader).

Follow my blog with Google Friend Connect.

"Like" my Doula Facebook page. (2 entries)

Grab my button. Leave the link of where you placed it in your comment.

Follow me on Twitter. Please leave your Twitter name in your comment.

Tweet about the giveaway by using the following text- RT @MomaLovebug DivaCup Giveaway! http://tinyurl.com/3hgxc6b You may tweet once per day for extra entries. Please leave the permalink of your tweet in your comment.

Blog about the giveaway. Please link back to Moma Lovebug and DivaCup. Leave the link to your blog in your comment. (5 entries)

You must leave your email in your comment so that I can contact you. Also, please remember to leave a separate comment for each of your entries. Otherwise they will not count.

Contest is open to US and Canadian Residents only. Contest will end 7/14/11 at 11:59 pm EST. A winner will be chosen by random.org and will be notified by email. I will also announce the winner in a separate post. You must contact me within 48 hours. If you fail to claim your prize, a new winner will be chosen by random.org and emailed. Please see my Disclosure.

*I received the item mentioned above in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

Sleepy Wrap Review & Giveaway!

2011-06-29T21:24:00.004-04:00

You can read my original review of the Sleepy Wrap here.

I've been loving the Sleepy Wrap for nearly two years. Lovebug was 8 or 9 months old the first time I had the chance to try one. We continued using it until she reached about 20 pounds (well over a year old). At that point, I was readjusting her every so often, so she wouldn't sag a little low in the wrap.

The wrap has been tested up to 45 pounds with no issue, but the small amount of sag was enough to throw my back off track after awhile (and we moved to the Boba Carrier).

The Sleepy Wrap is the first carrier I mention if a new parent asks me about baby wearing. It's ideal for the newborn stage, and can pretty much last as long as you want it to! The Sleepy Wrap is even perfect for skin to skin, just throw the wrap on instead of a shirt, and wear your child. You're covered and your baby benefits from skin to skin therapy! Awesome right?

I was able to easily nurse Lovebug in the Sleepy Wrap, and with all of the layers of fabric, we could do so discreetly. This product is absolutely one of my favorite products, and although we are a little far from a new addition, I have two just waiting to be used!

It gets even better! Sleepy Wrap has very kindly offered to giveaway a Sleepy Wrap! This promotion is being run through my Doula Facebook page. But, all you need to do is "like" the page, and on July 1st, I'll be picking a random winner!

Remember, you only have today and tomorrow to like the page before a winner is chosen, so hurry up! And keep your eyes peeled, at 250 "likes", there will be another bigger giveaway!

Link it up- Giveaways! 6/26/11

2011-06-26T09:11:00.000-04:00

Aloha Friday #66

2011-06-23T23:34:00.001-04:00

What does your ideal weekend consist of?
I'm hoping to lounge around this weekend ;)

Oliver's Labels Review!

2011-06-23T23:08:00.003-04:00

I recently had the chance to try out Oliver's Labels. With Lovebug, more than one thing has gone missing. And it's usually my stuff. So rather than getting her name on the labels, I chose to put mine, picked a cute design, and voila!

I received a sample pack, including mini labels, original labels, clothing labels, and shoe labels. While I don't need to label my clothes or shoes, they're still pretty cute. The shoes even show left and right foot, if you have a toddler that is learning to put their shoes on the right feet!

So far I've stuck them to water bottles, books, movies, and just about anything else I could think of. And, they are all still stuck!

Oliver's Labels has some great packages available as well as some other pretty neat products! I love the idea of the Safety Wristband! With it being vacation season, the wristband is a great way to keep your information on your child!

In addition to the Oliver's Labels' website, you can also find them on their Blog!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com created by WebBizIdeas.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

We're off to the ZOO!

2011-06-20T05:53:00.000-04:00

I hope everyone has a fabulous Monday! We're on our way to the zoo today, possibly the aquarium, if it rains!

Lovebug is super excited to see the big kitty!

Happy Father's Day!

2011-06-19T10:56:00.001-04:00

Link it up- Giveaways! 6/19/11

2011-06-19T00:14:00.000-04:00

1 Bag at a Time Winner!

2011-06-17T11:38:00.002-04:00

And the winner of the 1 Bag at a Time giveaway is...

Number 15!

Congrats to Midnight Mommy!

The winner has 48 hours to reply to my email, or a new winner will be picked.

Thanks to all of you who entered and a special thanks to 1 Bag at a Time for sponsoring the giveaway!

Extra entries reminder & giveaway!

2011-06-17T11:15:00.002-04:00

Just another reminder about the extra entries you can earn for liking my facebook page, Allegany Birth Roots. Even though there are no current giveaways, I have a few coming up that you won't want to miss!
On the facebook page, at the end of June, I'll be giving away a sleepy wrap to a random follower. Then, at 250 fans, I'll be doing another BIG giveaway!

As an extra bonus, I'm giving each of my readers FIVE extra entries to any giveaways that go up in June! Just leave your extra entries on the giveaway, and make sure that at least one of the comments has your facebook name!

I will be checking to make sure that you've liked Allegany Birth Roots, if not, your entries will be deleted.

Aloha Friday #65

2011-06-17T11:10:00.002-04:00

How many of you use family cloth? (cloth wipes instead of toilet paper)

Link it up- Giveaways! 6/12/11

2011-06-12T21:22:00.000-04:00

Aloha Friday #64

2011-06-10T00:24:00.000-04:00

How are you beating the heat wave?

My plan was to take Lovebug to the pool as much as possible. But since we're still down one vehicle it's been nearly impossible. Plus, I'm still shrinking, and I can't find a swimsuit that will fit more than a month!

Wordless Wednesday- for Sale

2011-06-08T23:35:00.001-04:00

Go here for more Wordless Wednesday

Link it up- Giveaways! 6/5/11

2011-06-05T00:01:00.000-04:00

Extra Entries!!

2011-06-03T12:21:00.005-04:00

I try not to mix my blog and my business, but I wanted to let you all know about my business's Facebook page! At the end of June, I'll be giving away a sleepy wrap to a random follower. Then, at 250 fans, I'll be doing another BIG giveaway!

As an extra bonus, I'm giving each of my readers extra entries to any giveaways that go up in June! Just leave your extra entries on the giveaway, and make sure that at least one of the comments has your facebook name!

I will be checking to make sure that you've liked Allegany Birth Roots, if not, your entries will be deleted.

Aloha Friday #63

2011-06-03T00:45:00.000-04:00

What are your best potty training tips?

1 Bag at a Time Review & Giveaway!

2011-06-01T01:15:00.003-04:00

This isn't the first time that 1 Bag at a Time has been featured on Moma Lovebug. In fact, you can read my past reviews here, here, and here.

Due to their awesome selection on reusable bags at super affordable prices, they've become one of my top favorite companies. If I need reusable bags, I turn to 1 Bag at a Time!

I recently had the chance to try out one of their new Cotton Totes! I fell in love with the purple, and couldn't wait for it to arrive.

I was surprised when I took it out of the packaging. It was a lot larger than what I was picturing. The size was listed on their site (16"H x 16"W x 4"), but I guess I didn't think it would be so spacious. My original intent was to use the bag for shopping or groceries since it holds up to 30lbs but there are so many possibilities!

This could easily work as an overnight bag & and already been to the gym with me a few times. Stuffed with towels, clothes, shoes, etc. The nice thick straps made it easy to carry as well, even when full!

Check 1 Bag at a Time's online shop to see the rest of their amazing products! Like this cute Tyvek bag! Aren't those little birdies just adorable? The Tyvek bags are amazingly strong and fold up into a tiny pouch that fits easily in your purse or diaper bag!

Bags start at just 99 cents for a standard shopping bag (great deal!) and increase for prints and different types of bags (like the Tyvek, Jute, wine bags, etc). If you need multiple bags, there are some awesome options, like this Healthy Living pack! Just just $75 you'll get 39 neat bags, including the totes, jute bags, and more!

1 Bag at a Time has generously offered to give one Moma Lovebug reader a Cotton Tote, in their choice of color!

Want to win?

You must first visit 1 Bag at a Time and take a look around. Then come back and tell me what other bag you like. This is a mandatory entry. If you do not complete this entry, all other entries will be disqualified.

"Like" 1 bag at a Time on Facebook.

Become a follower of 1 bag at a Time on Twitter.

Subscribe to my blog (by email OR a reader).

Follow my blog with Google Friend Connect.

Grab my button. Leave the link of where you placed it in your comment.

Follow me on Twitter. Please leave your Twitter name in your comment.

Tweet about the giveaway by using the following text- RT @MomaLovebug 1 Bag at a Time Giveaway! http://tinyurl.com/3nnge2t You may tweet once per day for extra entries. Please leave the permalink of your tweet in your comment.

Blog about the giveaway. Please link back to Moma Lovebug and 1 Bag at a Time. Leave the link to your blog in your comment. (5 entries)

You must leave your email in your comment so that I can contact you. Also, please remember to leave a separate comment for each of your entries. Otherwise they will not count.

Contest is open to US Residents only. Contest will end 6/15/11 at 11:59 pm EST. A winner will be chosen by random.org and will be notified by email. I will also announce the winner in a separate post. You must contact me within 48 hours. If you fail to claim your prize, a new winner will be chosen by random.org and emailed. Please see my Disclosure.

*I received the item mentioned above in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

Wordless Wednesday- Best hotdog ever!

2011-06-01T00:39:00.002-04:00

Go here for more Wordless Wednesday

Peeled Snack Getaway Giveaway!

2011-06-01T00:20:00.001-04:00

I LOVE healthy snacks. I'd pick up a nice green apple over a bag of greasy chips any day of the week! So when Peeled Snacks sent us a box of some of their products, I was tickled pink.

Until I looked at the nutritional information on the back, anyway. Fruit is fruit... and fruit contains sugar. Even though there is nothing else added to the product, the sugars are too high for me to enjoy them. So, my wonderful daughter and husband got to enjoy the delicious gently dehydrated fruits instead!

They were lucky enough to try the Paradise Found (banana, mango, & pineapple), Farmer's Market Trio (apple, cherry, raisin), Much-ado-about-Mango (obviously mango), and Apple-2-the-core (another obvious fruit!).

There wasn't one they didn't like! Although my daughter went after the banana and mango more than the others. Yumm! I'll admit to being a little jealous watching them eat these yummy snacks!

Also, be sure to check out their website, where they are currently running a 15% off promotion!

So now for the exciting stuff!

Become a fan of Peeled Snacks on Facebook. Then, June 6th-10th they will be giving out 4 grand prizes that will include an Organic Fruit Pouch Sampler from Peeled Snacks, a carrier of your choice from Ergobaby, a gift basket from Late July Organic Snacks, & a $40 Gift Card from PediPed Footwear.

You can enter the contest by “Liking” each company’s Facebook page and then posting your Summer travel plans on Peeled Snack's Facebook wall. Super simple and awesome prizes!

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com created by WebBizIdeas a Minneapolis SEO and Web Design firm. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

SafetyTat Winner!

2011-05-29T10:41:00.002-04:00

And the winner of the SafetyTat giveaway is...

Number 5!

Congrats to ~ April ~ EnchantedDandelions!

The winner has 48 hours to reply to my email, or a new winner will be picked.

Thanks to all of you who entered and a special thanks to SafetyTat for sponsoring the giveaway!

Link it up- Giveaways! 5/29/11

2011-05-29T06:53:00.000-04:00

Aloha Friday #62

2011-05-27T12:53:00.001-04:00

After the storms we've been getting & seeing the devastation in other parts of the country, I'm wondering if any of my readers have an emergency plan for their home and what it is?

Lots of pictures?

2011-05-25T12:23:00.000-04:00

How often do you take pictures of your children and family? I've noticed that I'll take a lot at holidays. I'll also take a lot maybe once a month. But then I'll go for a few weeks without taking any!

I hate that I'm missing weeks of capturing Lovebug's life on camera, but I can't figure out how to get better at it! Even if I put the camera right in the middle of my desk, I'll ignore it!

Link it up- Giveaways! 5/22/11

2011-05-22T00:00:00.000-04:00

Aloha Friday #61

2011-05-20T00:01:00.000-04:00

Where are you going for vacation this year? I'd like to get to the beach or camping, if we can.

Nearly Wordless Wednesday- Latest sewing project!

2011-05-18T14:43:00.004-04:00

This is the most recent apron that I've made for Lovebug! She loves it, even though it's a little too big for her.

Go here for more Wordless Wednesday

My Baby Clothes Boutique Winner!

2011-05-18T12:46:00.003-04:00

And the winner of the My Baby Clothes Boutique giveaway is...

Number 42!

Congrats to mframe!

The winner has 48 hours to reply to my email, or a new winner will be picked.

Thanks to all of you who entered and a special thanks to My Baby Clothes Boutique for sponsoring the giveaway!

Link it up- Giveaways! 5/15/11

2011-05-15T00:00:00.000-04:00

SafetyTat Review & Giveaway!

2011-05-13T15:02:00.001-04:00

"The idea for SafetyTat temporary child ID tattoos was born of necessity one weekend at an amusement park. On Labor Day Weekend, Baltimore Mom, Michele Welsh and her husband, there with their three small children, felt out-numbered. To stave her panic, she quickly wrote her mobile phone number on each of their arms with a ballpoint pen. As she did this, she thoughtfully explained to each of them the importance of staying close to Mommy and Daddy. She also told them that if they were separated that the number on their arm was a way to reconnect with them.
Throughout the day of fun, Michele had to rewrite the number several times as it smeared or washed off. Several parents in the park stopped her to ask if that was her number on the kids' arms. Each time, they loved the idea.
The day was a success and the idea for SafetyTat temporary child id tattoos was born."

SafetyTat is another one of my favorite companies that I've worked with over the past few years! You can read my original review here. My opinions on the SafetyTat haven't changed much since last Summer. If anything, my love for the product has gotten stronger!

Lovebug loves to run and wander off, even with Daddy & I keeping a close watch, she sometimes skips just under the radar. If we're out in a busy area, I make sure that she has a SafetyTat on her forearm.

The Quick Stick Write-On! is most definitely my favorite of the products. This one requires no water, so you can keep it in your purse or car and apply it quickly, whenever you need it. Just stick the SafetyTat to the skin, and use the waterproof tattoo marking pen (included), to write your number!

I loved having this product with us last Summer at the beach, and with the heat wave creeping up on us, I know I'll be using it again. Vacations, the zoo, field trips, and more!

You can also find the Original SafetyTats, along with special needs, allergy and medical alerts, to Spanish and Teen options!

SafetyTat has generously offered to give one Moma Lovebug reader a 3-pack of the Quick Stick Write-On! Multi designs !

Want to win?

You must first visit SafetyTat and take a look around. Then come back and tell me how you would use them. This is a mandatory entry. If you do not complete this entry, all other entries will be disqualified.

"Like" SafetyTat on Facebook.

Become a follower of SafetyTat on Twitter.

Subscribe to my blog (by email OR a reader).

Follow my blog with Google Friend Connect.

Grab my button. Leave the link of where you placed it in your comment.

Follow me on Twitter. Please leave your Twitter name in your comment.

Tweet about the giveaway by using the following text- RT @MomaLovebug SafetyTat Giveaway! http://tinyurl.com/4yor4rf You may tweet once per day for extra entries. Please leave the permalink of your tweet in your comment.

Blog about the giveaway. Please link back to Moma Lovebug and SafetyTat. Leave the link to your blog in your comment. (5 entries)

You must leave your email in your comment so that I can contact you. Also, please remember to leave a separate comment for each of your entries. Otherwise they will not count.

Contest is open to US and Canadian Residents only. Contest will end 5/27/11 at 11:59 pm EST. A winner will be chosen by random.org and will be notified by email. I will also announce the winner in a separate post. You must contact me within 48 hours. If you fail to claim your prize, a new winner will be chosen by random.org and emailed. Please see my Disclosure.

*I received the item mentioned above in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

Aloha Friday #60

2011-05-13T14:17:00.000-04:00

What are your favorite outside activities to do with your kids?

Miracle Blanket Winner!

2011-05-13T14:02:00.003-04:00

And the winner of the Miracle Blanket giveaway is...

Number 12!

Congrats to Wise Owl Designs!

The winner has 48 hours to reply to my email, or a new winner will be picked.

Thanks to all of you who entered and a special thanks to Miracle Blanket for sponsoring the giveaway!

Link it up- Giveaways! 5/8/11

2011-05-08T11:42:00.001-04:00

Link it up- Giveaways! 5/1/11

2011-05-01T00:01:00.000-04:00

My Baby Clothes Boutique Review & Giveaway!

2011-04-29T22:48:00.008-04:00

Last month, My Baby Clothes Boutique contacted me about working on a review for them. After browsing the very large selection of baby & toddler clothing, I finally decided on this gorgeous yellow tunic and legging set for Lovebug. I'll admit to almost picking one of the gorgeous tutus for my girly girl, but I fell in love with the tunic as soon as I saw it!

Once I let them know that I liked, it shipped and arrived super quickly. I was absolutely thrilled at how fast it got here. I had to try it on Lovebug right away. I asked for the 2T, which is a little big on my toddler, but I knew it would be. She's tickled with it though, and keeps asking to wear it!

The quality is amazing, and we've washed it on delicate and air dried with no issues. I'm looking forward to Lovebug wearing this all Summer long! It's even a cute short dress for those super hot days!

My Baby Clothes Boutique offers so much! From Headbands to Diaper bags, and everything in between like Hats and Baby Gifts! Be sure to check them out, I'm sure you'll find something amazing for your little one!

My Baby Clothes Boutique has generously offered to give one Moma Lovebug reader a $25 gift certificate!

Want to win?

You must first visit My Baby Clothes Boutique and take a look around. Then come back and tell me what you would choose if you won. This is a mandatory entry. If you do not complete this entry, all other entries will be disqualified.

"Like" My Baby Clothes Boutique on Facebook.

Become a follower of My Baby Clothes Boutique on Twitter.

Subscribe to My Baby Clothes Boutique's Newsletter (lower left hand side).

Subscribe to my blog (by email OR a reader).

Follow my blog with Google Friend Connect.

Grab my button. Leave the link of where you placed it in your comment.

Follow me on Twitter. Please leave your Twitter name in your comment.

Tweet about the giveaway by using the following text- RT @MomaLovebug My Baby Clothes Boutique $25 GC Giveaway! http://tinyurl.com/66froue You may tweet once per day for extra entries. Please leave the permalink of your tweet in your comment.

Blog about the giveaway. Please link back to Moma Lovebug and My Baby Clothes Boutique. Leave the link to your blog in your comment. (5 entries)

You must leave your email in your comment so that I can contact you. Also, please remember to leave a separate comment for each of your entries. Otherwise they will not count.

Contest is open to US Residents only. Contest will end 5/14/11 at 11:59 pm EST. A winner will be chosen by random.org and will be notified by email. I will also announce the winner in a separate post. You must contact me within 48 hours. If you fail to claim your prize, a new winner will be chosen by random.org and emailed. Please see my Disclosure.

*I received the item mentioned above in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

Aloha Friday #59

2011-04-29T11:27:00.000-04:00

What do you do to celebrate Mother's Day?

Miracle Blanket Giveaway!

2011-04-27T23:05:00.002-04:00

In the two years that I've been blogging, I've had some amazing opportunities to be apart of some amazing things. I certainly have my favorite items that I'd been able to review. The Miracle Blanket is one of those things.

You can read both reviews that I've done here and here. But, the short story is that I love our Miracle Blanket. Even though we started using it later on in Lovebug's infancy, it still helped and soothed her, even through the pain of teething.

In my last review, I remarked that the cost was a little high, at nearly $30 per blanket. Looking back though, I realize that this is just one of those must have items for my family, and the cost is nothing compared to helping my daughter (and us) sleep.

I'd truly recommend having two of the blankets on hand. If your infant loves the Miracle Blanket, you don't want to be caught with the only one in the wash at bedtime! Even though Lovebug has long outgrown the Miracle Blanket, I still hang onto it. In hopes that someday, we'll have another to soothe and swaddle!

Miracle Blanket has generously offered to give one Moma Lovebug reader a Miracle Blanket of their very own!

Want to win?

You must first visit Miracle Blanket and take a look around. Then come back and tell me which one you would choose if you won. This is a mandatory entry. If you do not complete this entry, all other entries will be disqualified.

"Like" Miracle Blanket on Facebook.

Become a follower of Miracle Blanket on Twitter.

Subscribe to my blog (by email OR a reader).

Follow my blog with Google Friend Connect.

Grab my button. Leave the link of where you placed it in your comment.

Follow me on Twitter. Please leave your Twitter name in your comment.

Tweet about the giveaway by using the following text- RT @MomaLovebug Miracle Blanket Giveaway! http://tinyurl.com/5rl89qq You may tweet once per day for extra entries. Please leave the permalink of your tweet in your comment.

Blog about the giveaway. Please link back to Moma Lovebug and Miracle Blanket. Leave the link to your blog in your comment. (5 entries)

You must leave your email in your comment so that I can contact you. Also, please remember to leave a separate comment for each of your entries. Otherwise they will not count.

Contest is open to US and Canadian Residents only. Contest will end 5/11/11 at 11:59 pm EST. A winner will be chosen by random.org and will be notified by email. I will also announce the winner in a separate post. You must contact me within 48 hours. If you fail to claim your prize, a new winner will be chosen by random.org and emailed. Please see my Disclosure.

*I did not receive anything in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

Wordless Wednesday- Lovebug's art

2011-04-27T00:12:00.002-04:00

Go here for more Wordless Wednesday

Easy Canvas Prints Review!

2011-04-25T22:32:00.005-04:00

Displaying pictures of my daughter has always been a problem for me. It's hard to find the perfect frame, or even the right size to print it at. So, when Easy Canvas Prints contacted me about doing a review, I knew I had to say yes!

I browsed through all of Lovebug's pictures. From birth to now, looking for the perfect one. This one at the beach last year jumped out at me, and I knew this was the right one!

Making the print was just what the name says, easy. Easy Canvas Prints guides you through the steps to find exactly what you want, from the print size to the wrap thickness and even the type of border you want (plain color, mirrored image, or image wrap).

I ended up choosing an 8x10 with gallery thickness and a mirrored border, so the ocean and sand would continue on the sides. I honestly couldn't be more happy with it! I was tickled pink when I opened up the package! Even Lovebug is so proud of it and squeals, "Me!!" when we walk past it.

This would be an AMAZING gift for Mother's day! Right now Easy Canvas Prints is offering an amazing deal! If you choose priority shipping, you have until April 30th to order and receive your amazing canvas by Mother's Day! Perfect, right?

If you're not sure what canvas you'd like, Easy Canvas Prints offers an Idea Gallery to inspire you! Check out their Facebook as well to see what other customers have done! So, go play around on their Canvas Builder, and see what you come up with! Mom will love it!

*I was provided a canvas in exchange for this review. However, the opinions expressed are my own.*

Easy & cheap Mother's Day gifts!

2011-04-25T22:21:00.003-04:00

There are now less than TWO weeks until Mother's day. I freaked out a little bit today, because I honestly had NO idea what to get for my Mother and Grandmother.

Since we were taking a little trip out of town, I decided to take a trip into Micheal's. Before we even walked into the building, the idea hit me! Part of their gifts would be painted treasures from Lovebug!

We all know how much Moms like homemade items, so we picked up a few wooden birdhouses and wooden flowers (they were only $1 each!!), and brought them home!

A little bit of finger paint later..... And they're beautiful gifts, waiting to be given!

So while I still need to figure out the bigger gifts, the "favorites" are already done!

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T00:01:00.000-04:00

Here's to a happy and safe holiday to all of my Moma Lovebug readers!

We'll be having an Easter Basket in the morning for Lovebug, followed by a quick egg hunt (hopefully the weather cooperates). Then off for a family dinner!

Link it up- Giveaways! 4/24/11

2011-04-24T00:00:00.001-04:00

Aloha Friday #58

2011-04-22T00:01:00.000-04:00

I have another post today about Earth Day, I'm wondering if you do anything special today!

Happy Earth Day!

2011-04-22T00:00:00.001-04:00

It's Earth Day! While many people focus their efforts on making the Earth better just today, I thought I'd list some of the stuff we do EVERYDAY!
I first wrote this list in the Summer of '09, comparing how having less money had also made us a little more green. We've changed some things since then, so I'm posting it again. These are all things we're doing (or have done) to help not only ourselves, but the Earth as well!

Cloth diapering
Cloth wipes
Cloth pads
Diva Cup
Used cloth breast pads
Cloth napkins
Breastfeeding (although we’ve mostly weaned at 26 months)
Reusable grocery bags
Rechargeable batteries
Vinegar & baking soda (cleaning, laundry, No ‘Poo, etc)
Dryer balls
Soap nuts for laundry
Mostly use cold water for laundry
Small garden
Compost
Conserve electricity
Don't eat out often
Conserve water
Buy bulk products
Put aside one day for errands and appointments
Buy products that have less packaging
Pay bills online
Use less paper products
Give gifts in reusable bags

My Husband also keeps the heat turned down a bit in the Winter, even though I’d rather keep it a bit warmer. And, as our (very) old appliances wear out, we’ll be replacing them with energy star appliances.

Do you do anything special for Earth Day or the rest of the year?

GlassesUSA.com Review!

2011-04-21T22:14:00.004-04:00

I was recently contacted by GlassesUSA.com to do a review for them. Since I wear glasses, I scoured their website, looking at the frames & costs. I was really impressed with the wide selection! They even offer prescription sunglasses!

Even though my vision insurance is mostly decent and covers a selection of frames, I don't feel like I have much to choose from. Normally, choosing a pair of glasses that I like and feel good in, can feel like a trip to the dentist.

With the virtual mirror from GlassesUSA, buying glasses online has never been easier! Easily upload a photo of yourself to pick which frames looks best on you. And if you don't like the glasses that you choose, GlassesUSA makes it easy to exchange them for another pair!

I found several pairs of glasses & sunglasses that I love! And since I'll need a new prescription and frames soon, I'm going to be keeping an eye on them. They offer a free second pair of frames as well, if you spend over $50, just check out the "Private Collection". Isn't that a sweet deal?

"Our renowned optical experts put each pair of eyeglasses through a 5-Stripe Process of Excellence in order to examine the accuracy of the prescription lenses and frame alignment. We are so confident that you'll love our product that we offer you a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee."

There are lots of great deals to be had with GlassesUSA! Just for my readers, they are offering a 10% discount on your next order of eyeglasses by using the code "Mommy10"

GlassesUSA is also offering two Easter sales! Now, both of these end Easter night, so hurry and take advantage of them while you still can!

-Take 15% off any order of $100 or more and get free shipping within the US with the code "Easter15"

-Buy 2 or more pairs of discount eyeglasses from our spring collection and take 25% off your entire order by using code "Easter11"

*I was compensated for this review. However, opinions expressed are my own.*

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-20T11:19:00.002-04:00

A delicious (and very spicy) vegan chili that I made last week!

Go here for more Wordless Wednesday

Link it up- Giveaways! 4/17/11

2011-04-17T05:46:00.000-04:00

It's been a very long time since I've posted a new linky, and I figured it was about time to start again!

There are so many awesome giveaways going on at other blogs. Sometimes, it's hard to find them all! So, if you have a giveaway going on at your blog, link it up! Each Sunday, I'll be posting a new Mr. Linky.

So go ahead! Link away!

Aloha Friday # 57

2011-04-15T15:40:00.001-04:00

I'm in a babywearing mood this week, what's your favorite carrier?

A quick warning

2011-04-14T02:31:00.002-04:00

I'm going to be playing with the template on my blog... so things may look a little funky for awhile!

Evolving babywearing stash!

2011-04-13T23:58:00.008-04:00

When I first started this blog two years ago, I was constantly learning and researching baby carriers. I had a dream of owning a few certain ones, and thankfully, this blog helped me get to that!

One of my first posts here was actually about my babywearing stash at the time! Stephanie from Adventures in Babywearing had posted a linky for everyone to show off their stash!! It was a little thin then.

Of course I've had lots of time to grow the stash in the last two years and even thin out the ones that we could no longer use or that I didn't like. We've ended up with enough that I had to take multiple pictures! Yay for babywearing!

Going from the bottom to top: gauze woven wrap with trim that I made myself, white jersey wrap that I made myself, the next two are Mexican Robozos, and the top two are Sleepy Wraps (left one is organic).

This one might be a little confusing, so sorry in advance!

From bottom to top: Dittany Baby mei tai, WAHM mei tai, Pink WAHM pouch sling, Purple Dittany Baby water pouch sling, Ergo, and Boba (Gen 1).

On the left & right sides of the picture are ring slings. The blue one is my go to sling for a quick carry. And while I love the brown one, too, I love the blue one more!

And of course they all have to live somewhere! I keep most of my stash in a piece of luggage, with the exception of my blue ring sling, ergo, and one of the rebozos (which also functions well for my doula stuff). It might be time for a bigger piece of luggage!

While I've nearly reached stash nirvana, There are a few more pieces that I would like to add. They can wait though, at least until we're ready to add baby #2 to the mix!

I want to see your stash! So link up and tell us what you have!

A little sparse

2011-04-10T13:10:00.002-04:00

You may have noticed that things have been a little quiet around here lately. Life has been CRAZY! And it doesn't seem to be slowing down too much, either!

Lately, I've been focusing on my family, as well as striving to be more healthy. Most days I need a big kick in the butt to get to the gym, so I'm crossing my fingers that I'll learn to love it.

Lovebug turned two in January, and along with that, came some tremendous attitude! I wouldn't know where she gets that from ;)

She's so smart and is learning so many new things each day. Sometimes I just can't keep up with her!

I'll have a few more posts coming up soon, so check back soon!

Clean Bottle Review!

2011-03-20T12:43:00.003-04:00

I'm pretty sure I must have a dozen water bottles in my cabinets. Some plastic, other aluminum. Most of them are too hard to clean really well, so they just sit there, waiting for a magic cleaning device to come along.

Instead, the Clean Bottle came along! I was a little skeptical of the design at first. I was sure that I'd put water in, and it would just leak back out of the bottom. So, I put it to the test.

Getting ready for a doctor's appointment out of town, I decided I'd take it with me. I filled it up and (eeeek!) through it into my diaper bag. It wasn't until I was on the road that I remembered I'd been afraid of it leaking.

Imagine my surprise, when I pulled over at a rest stop, that my diaper bag was perfectly fine! There had been no leaks at all! The bottle held up all day, being dropped and toted around. It makes perfect sense that cyclists use it, seeing what a two year old can do to it!

The other test was getting it clean. I unscrewed the top and bottom parts, and it was easy to get a dish cloth into the bottle. It was even easier to clean with an actual bottle cleaner, that is normally too short to clean a bottle that only opens on one end.

Now that I'm having to water my water intake, the Clean Bottle has been by my side nearly constantly, and I love it!

Even better is that the Clean Bottle lids and bottle are both recyclable and BPA free!

"Clean Bottle launched in May and they’ve sold 90,000 and are in 2,000 stores in 15 countries. They’ve been profiled in Wired, Self, Gizmodo, Lifehacker and numerous cycling and sports magazines and websites."

You can find Clean Bottle on their website, as well as Twitter and Facebook!

*I received the clean bottle free of charge in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

BuildASign Review!

2011-02-01T00:23:00.004-05:00

I recently had the pleasure of trying out an awesome product from BuildASign! I was able to go onto their website, create the car magnetic I was envisioning, and they made it and shipped it right to me!

As much as I'd love to show you all the magnetic, it has some personal information on it for my business. I have gotten many compliments on it though, and I love it! But, take a look at the neat premade ones on their website!

I love the design editor. You can see exactly what your product will look like right away and can quickly edit and change information.

If you're in a hurry, just fill in your information and order, easy as that! Melissa from BuildASign was awesome to work with as well! She was very patient is answering all of my questions and even provided some input on what material I should use!

As for durability, I've had the car magnetics on for more than a month. They are firmly attached and aren't going anywhere!

Car magnetics is just the start of all of the cool products offered by BuildASign, check them out today!

*I received the magnetics free of charge in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

It has been awhile!

2011-01-17T23:27:00.002-05:00

I know, It's been quite a few months since I've posted. Things have been super crazy here with our family, doula work, and everything else that life throws at you.

I have a few reviews coming up, so keep an eye on my blog for new posts!

Dragonfly & Co. Review!

2010-10-05T22:14:00.004-04:00

I was recently given the opportunity to review products from a local business, Dragonfly & Co.. I had seen these products for awhile, but hadn't had the chance to try it, nor did I know the face behind the product. After meeting the mama in charge, I have to say that she is pretty awesome!

She offered a few of her products for us to try out, like baby balm, baby soap, and body powder. I also got to try a sample of her exfoliating soap!

We started using the soap and baby balm right away and I love the smell. My husband thinks it is a bit strong, but I think it is perfect! The soap left both my daughter and I with soft skin and a sweet smell. Perfect for snuggling!

The Dragonfly & Co. balm is pretty good too! I've used it for diaper rash once and it cleared up pretty quickly! I've also used it on any rough spots or scars on both Lovebug and I. We really don't have one bad thing to say about it!

The other item we received, the body powder, wasn't used right away since I'm normally a bit leery of powders (breathing them in). However, once I opened it and started using it, I realized I like it! Even though it's a powder, it leaves the skin feeling smooth. I'm not super fond of the scent, but it is really light so I don't mind it at all.

Dragonfly & Co. is sold locally and also on Etsy! There are a lot of great products, like the black lava salt scrub that I can't wait to try. If you happen to live in my area, let me know and I'll direct you to where you can find Dragonfly & Co. products!

*I received the Dragonfly & Co products free of charge in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

Karmin Flat Iron Review!

2010-10-04T22:13:00.001-04:00

I've had unruly, unmanageable hair for as long as I can remember. As soon as I was old enough, I began to straighten my hair. Unfortunately, along with straightening my hair came damage. Damage from using a cheap straightener, and from constantly using the heat to manage the frizzies.

For quite some time, I stopped using a flat iron. I couldn't afford one of the expensive ones and the cheap ones were ruining my hair. Not to mention I was going through them pretty quickly.

A few months ago, I got an email about reviewing a new Karmin Hair Straightener. I was pretty excited and tried it out the same day it arrived. I went from about an hour to get my hair really straight, to less than 10 minutes and got even better results!

If anyone asks about a hair straightener, I immediately tell them Karmin! The one I reviewed is on sale for around $80, so it is definitely affordable when you think about how long it will last and that it won't damage or dry your hair!

I've been using it for awhile, and I haven't noticed my hair being damaged. If anything, it looks healthier than before!

You can also check out their site for other products- I love the awesome prints on the Hotness
Flat Irons!

*I received the hair straightener free of charge in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

CSN Review, part 2!

2010-10-04T22:13:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago, I posted about an upcoming review opportunity from CSN Stores. I had picked this gorgeous growth chart since we were in the middle of planning to redo our daughter's room.

Unfortunately I didn't get any further than the planning stage. We attached the lovely growth chart to the wall, as inspiration!

We've also been measuring our daughter each month! I can't even begin to say how neat it has been to watch our daughter's growth on the chart. We almost don't notice how quickly she grows until we see the progression written before us.

I'm absolutely in love with this chart. It's pink and cheery and will suit our daughter's room well (once it is done) for years to come!

CSN also has these adorable storage bins that match the growth chart! Since we are big cloth diaperers, I'd love to get these to put on top of her dresser to hold everything!

There is so much to find at CSN. You can see a list of their 200+ stores here.

*I received the growth chart free of charge in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

Ojamiya Review!

2010-10-04T10:49:00.001-04:00

"I started selling bento boxes and bento lunch sets from my own personal experiences.

As a mom, I was frustrated at what our school was providing as a “healthy” lunch. I love our elementary school, but I don’t have an ounce of affection for the lunch program. I’ll spare you the details of the lunch program.

I want better for my children who need to learn and pay attention in school. Two years ago my son’s teacher mentioned to me that my son was having troubles paying attention in class. After I started packing nutritious bento style lunches, my son’s attention problems virtually disappeared. Quality food may not be the answer for all attention problems, but it’s helped us tremendously! Squeezing time in to make a lunch is essential for my family."

As you know, I've recently fallen in love with bento boxes! One of the sets I've really come to love is from Ojamiya!

They were kind enough to send me chopsticks, a box set, and cute bag to keep it all in! We put them to the test right away and have continued to do so with day trips, outings, and errands.

Both boxes fit well into the bag, along with a drink. You can also fit a small snack in with it as well. The boxes themselves are two compartments, so you easily separate different foods.

I'm more than thrilled with the awesome Ojamiya set that we reviewed. It's so cute, holds up well, and even my toddler likes it! Plus- I like knowing that we're saving the Earth by reusing containers, and even saving our wallet, with bringing food and snacks!

Be sure to check out Ojamiya for all of their awesome products!

You can find Ojamiya on Amazon as well as Facebook, Twitter, and their Blog.

*I received the bag, bento, and chop sticks free of charge in exchange for this review. The opinions expressed are my own*

Aloha Friday #56

2010-10-01T13:36:00.002-04:00

How do you keep track of appointments? Calendar...website...phone etc?

Head over to An Island Life for more Aloha Friday!!

Link it up- Giveaways! 9/26/10

2010-09-26T11:36:00.000-04:00

I Love Obento Winner!

2010-09-23T23:54:00.001-04:00

And the winner of the I Love Obento Giveaway is...

Number19 !

Congrats to Kirsten !

The winner has 48 hours to reply to my email, or a new winner will be picked.

Thanks to all of you who entered and a special thanks to I Love Obento for sponsoring the giveaway!

Aloha Friday #55

2010-09-23T23:35:00.000-04:00

Do you have a costume planned for Halloween?

Head over to An Island Life for more Aloha Friday!!

Crazy

2010-09-22T23:23:00.001-04:00

There has been so much going on in the home front, and unfortunately my blog is really suffering. If you're following on Facebook, you know about the update with my old ob... Not sharing here quite yet. But after it is resolved, I'll be sure to clue everyone in!

And... Hopefully I can get a few more reviews up this week! Keep checking back!