Saturday, July 31, 2010

Oh-so Delicious! Breyers Smooth & Dreamy Review & Giveaway

Breyers LogoWith the record setting heat we are experiencing here in the south, it's nice to be able to enjoy a cool treat. However, that can be a catch 22. Because only the really, really good ice cream treats contain 4,259 calories and we are still in bathing suit season, right? Well, that was my belief before I tried the new Breyers Smooth & Dreamy Sandwiches.

As soon as I got the Breyers Smooth & Dreamy free product coupon, I headed directly to the store to grab a box of these delicious sounding treats. Since we live in a rural area, I was afraid that I would have very few options to choose from, if any at all. But when I finally reached to frozen foods section, I was pleasantly surprised to see a variety of products to choose from.
Chocolate Caramel Brownie SandwichesAfter standing with the freezer door open for a minute or two, I finally decided to go with the Breyers Smooth & Dreamy Chocolate Caramel Brownie Sandwiches. The description just sounded too wonderful to pass up.

"Chocolate light ice cream with a caramel swirl and fudge brownie pieces between brownie cookies."

When I got the sandwiches home, I gave into temptation and opened one up. Since the sandwiches only contain 160 calories and 4g of fat a piece, I was thinking that they were going to be microscopic, but they're not! Inside the individually wrapped package was an oval shaped brownie and ice cream sandwich just begging to be eaten.

Okay, so the Breyers Smooth & Dreamy Sandwiches are low fat and a decent size, but how do they taste? Um, mouthwateringly delicious! I was honestly impressed at just how great they tasted because they are low fat, but you seriously cannot tell. And just to let you know how good they really are, I was going to take a picture to show you the actual size, but when I opened the freezer to pull one out, all I got was the empty box. That's right they were devoured in a matter of two days!

Giveaway Giveaway
Chocolate Covered Strawberry bars
Two lucky readers will each receive 2 Breyers Smooth & Dreamy free product coupons!

*This giveaway is now closed.*
To Enter: Visit Breyers and tell me another treat you would love to try. Please leave your email address in the comment or make sure it is visible in your profile.

Extra Entries:
1. Grab my button. Leave an address where it can be found.
2. Subscribe to my feed. Must be verified to count.
3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect.
4. Enter any of my other current giveaways. Leave a separate comment on which one(s).
5. Follow me on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway using the text below. You can tweet once daily for an extra entry each day.
Want the perfect summer treat? Enter to win free @Breyers Smooth & Dreamy products @PieceOfMeBlog (2 winners) http://bit.ly/cpPIQU
7. Follow Breyers on Twitter.
8. 2 Extra Entries if you "like" Breyers on Facebook.
9. 5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway. Please leave an address where it can be found.

Giveaway will end on August 14th at 11:59pm ET. The winner will be chosen by random.org and announced here as well as emailed. The winner will have 48 hours to contact me or a new winner will be chosen. Giveaway open to US residents.

A big thank you to Breyers and Mom Central for this review and giveaway opportunity!

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Breyers and received products necessary to facilitate my review. In addition, I received a gift certificate to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Cool off this Summer with Jamba All Natural Smoothies (Review + Giveaway)

Jamba LogoI happen to be a big smoothie fan, but it is so hard to find a place that serves them around here. I believe that the closest place you can purchase a decent smoothie is 30 minutes away and in a different state. So, image my delight when I heard that Jamba Juice just launched a convenient, make-at-home version of their legendary smoothies - Jamba All Natural Smoothies.
Razmatazz SmoothieJamba All Natural Smoothies contain real fruit, non-fat yogurt and Jamba's proprietary antioxidant boost with 100% of your Daily Value of Vitamin C. Each package makes two, eight-ounce smoothies that contain only 120 calories or less per serving. Jamba All Natural Smoothies are available in three of Jamba Juice's most popular smoothie flavors: Razzmatazz, Mango-a-go-go and Strawberries Wild.
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Jamba Juice generously sent us all three flavors of the make-at-home smoothie kits to try. When the kits arrived, they looked so good that I just had to try one right then. I opened up the Mango-a-go-go package and was amazed at how great the fruit looked.
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I placed the contents of the Jamba All Natural Smoothies pouch into the blender and added 1 cup of apple juice (which we always have on hand). The directions say to blend for 60 seconds, but I had to blend for a bit longer to get all of the fruit blended and smooth.
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When the smoothie was finished, I poured it into a glass and devoured the contents! Princess P even tasted some of the Mango-a-go-go smoothie and she liked it, too. When C got home, he wanted to try one, so he blended up the Strawberries Wild Jamba All Natural Smoothie. And while I like all of the flavors, I have to say that the Strawberries Wild is my favorite.

What makes the Jamba All Natural Smoothies even better, is that they are really all natural and contain no high fructose corn syrup, 0g trans fats, no artificial flavors, no artificial colors and no preservatives. The Jamba All Natural Smoothies taste great and are good for you, too!

Buy It: Jamba All Natural Smoothies ($2.99 - $3.29) can be found in your grocer's frozen food aisle.

Giveaway Giveaway
All Natural Smoothie Trio
Two lucky readers will each win 2 coupons to try the Jamba All Natural Smoothies for free!

*This giveaway is now closed.*
To Enter: Visit Jamba Juice and tell me what flavor of the Jamba All Natural Smoothies that you are most excited to try. Please leave your email address in the comment or make sure it is visible in your profile.

Extra Entries:
1. Grab my button. Leave an address where it can be found.
2. Subscribe to my feed. Must be verified to count.
3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect.
4. Enter any of my other current giveaways. Leave a separate comment on which one(s).
5. Follow me on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway using the text below. You can tweet once daily for an extra entry each day.
Two winners will get to try the new Jamba All Natural Smoothies for free during the #summersizzle Event @PieceOfMeBlog http://bit.ly/cpUvhC
6. Follow Jamba Juice on Twitter.
7. Add the Summer Sizzle Event button to your sidebar. Leave an address where it can be found.
8. 1 Extra Entry if you enter Sarah's Tyson Giveaway.

9. 1 Extra Entry if you placed the Summer Sizzle Event button on your sidebar before the start of the event and left a comment on the event announcement post.
10
. 2 Extra Entries if you "like" Jamba Juice on Facebook.
11. 5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway. Please leave an address where it can be found.

Giveaway will end on August 14th at 11:59pm ET. The winner will be chosen by random.org and announced here as well as emailed. The winner will have 48 hours to contact me or a new winner will be chosen. Giveaway open to US residents.

A big thank you to Jamba Juice for this review and giveaway opportunity!

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. Jamba Juice provided Jamba All Natural Smoothies free of charge and I provided my honest opinion. No other type compensation was received for this review.

Friday, July 30, 2010

EcoMom Review & Giveaway

EcoMom LogoEcoMom is committed to making eco-conscious living easy, affordable and rewarding. They offer products for mom, baby and home that are both healthy and environmentally friendly. It is their belief that making healthy choices should be easy. That is why all of the products offered at EcoMom has to meet their rigorous standards and are tested and approved by parents and foster the growth and development of your children while also treading lightly on the planet.
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EcoMom generously sent us a variety of Plum Organics and Revolution Foods to review. When the products first arrived, I was curious as to how receptive Princess P would be. She loves the taste of fruit but I had no idea if she would be interested in eating fruit that came in a pouch.
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(Please excuse the bedhead)

The first product I gave her to try was the Revolution Foods Organic Mashups in the Tropical flavor. I love the fact that these Mashups are made from 100% fruit and contain no trans fats or high fructose corn syrup. At first, P was a bit standoffish and didn't really want to take the pouch. But after I showed her that there was just yummy fruit inside, she gladly took the Revolution Foods Organic Mashups from me and began eating it straight from the pouch.
Revolution Foods Jammy SammyThe next item I let Princess P try was the Strawberry Jam & Peanut Butter Organic Jammy Sammy from Revolution Foods. She instantly took the Jammy Sammy from my hands and started cramming it into her mouth, enjoying every bite along the way. These fun, on-the-go sandwich bars are made with 100% whole grains and organic fruit spread. The Jammy Sammy's are the perfect size for snack time or as a healthy addition to any lunch box.
Plum Organics Baby FoodEcoMom also sent us several different variates of the Plum Organics Baby Food to try. These baby foods contain no added sugar, salt or artificial ingredients. Only organic fruits and vegetables are used in these tasteful blends to ensure the best flavor, freshness and nutrients.

Both Plum and Revolution Foods offer a wide variety of products that can be used from the high chair to the lunch box. The pouch blends come in BPA free packaging and are equipped with a removable cap that allows you to store what your baby doesn't eat.

EcoMom is definitely the place to turn for eco-friendly baby products that are affordable and rewarding. And EcoMom just unveiled a new program that allows you to save money on every order - EcoPass. By purchasing a $99 dollar annual membership, you will receive a 15% discount on every order as well as free shipping with no minimum requirement!

Giveaway Giveaway
Plum Organics Baby Food Variety
One lucky reader will win $20 worth of Plum Organics and/or Revolution Foods from EcoMom!

*This giveaway is now closed.*
To Enter: Visit EcoMom and tell me something else that you would like to have. Please leave your email address in the comment or make sure it is visible in your profile.

Extra Entries:
1. Grab my button. Leave an address where it can be found.
2. Subscribe to my feed. Must be verified to count.
3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect.
4. Enter any of my other current giveaways. Leave a separate comment on which one(s).
5. Follow me on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway using the text below. You can tweet once daily for an extra entry each day.
Win $20 worth of Plum and/or Revolution Foods products from EcoMom during the #summersizzle Event @PieceOfMeBlog http://bit.ly/d1Huo5
6. Follow EcoMom on Twitter.
7. Add the Summer Sizzle Event button to your sidebar. Leave an address where it can be found.
8. 1 Extra Entry if you enter Sarah's
Adoramapix Photo Book Giveaway.
9. 1 Extra Entry if you placed the Summer Sizzle Event button on your sidebar before the start of the event and left a comment on the event announcement post.
10
. 2 Extra Entries if you "like" EcoMom on Facebook.
11. 5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway. Please leave an address where it can be found.

Giveaway will end on August 13th at 11:59pm ET. The winner will be chosen by random.org and announced here as well as emailed. The winner will have 48 hours to contact me or a new winner will be chosen. Giveaway open to US and Canada.

A big thank you to EcoMom for this review and giveaway opportunity!

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. EcoMom provided food free of charge and I provided my honest opinion. No other type compensation was received for this review.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

GlassesUSA.com ~ High Quality Eyeglasses at Affordable Prices

Glasses USA LogoMy mother has always had poor vision. I believe that she started wearing eyeglasses when she was in grade school because she was unable to see the chalkboard clearly. So, I've been pretty lucky to have great vision up until this point. But, like my father, the older I get, the worse my vision seems to be.

Recently, I considered going to the eye doctor for an exam, but I don't believe it's to the point where I need prescription glasses, yet. I remember going with my mom a few years back and I tried on several different styles just to see what they looked like on my face. (Hey, I was curious!) And while I did find some that I liked, most styles did not look good with my face shape or they were way too expensive to even touch.
Ray Ban GlassesWhen GlassesUSA.com was brought to my attention a few weeks ago, I just had to check out their site and browse through the different styles of glasses. When I arrived at GlassesUSA.com, I was very impressed at the organization on the site. I was able to search through the different styles of glasses (Full-Frame Glasses, Rimless Glasses, etc.) and then I could even narrow my search down by the brand, price, etc. I ended up falling in love with a pair of silver Ray Ban glasses that were very reasonably priced, they even come with the lenses!

I know what you are thinking, because I thought so, too. But buying glasses online is just as easy (if not more!) than buying glasses in person. GlassesUSA.com has an easy step-by-step ordering process that allows you to choose your type of lenses, prescription and any extras that you may want. GlassesUSA.com is so confident that you'll like your new glasses, that they offer a quality and satisfaction guarantee. If you are, not completely satisfied with your eyeglasses, you can return them to GlassesUSA.com for a refund or an exchange for a new pair of glasses!

My readers can take 10% off their next purchase at GlassesUSA.com by using the code mommy10 at the checkout!

This was a paid post that was based solely on my opinion. Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product or company listed above.

Tyson Grilled & Ready Chicken (Review & Giveaway)

Tyson LogoAs a mom to a busy toddler and a wife to an always on-the-go husband, I am constantly searching for quick dinner ideas that taste great and don't break the bank.
Grilled & Ready FilletsRecently, I was introduced to Tyson Grilled & Ready products and immediately fell in love with the hassle-free preparation. Tyson Grilled & Ready Frozen and Refrigerated Chicken Fillets and Strips are fully cooked so all you have to do is heat and eat! The Grilled & Ready products are perfectly portioned for all of your favorite recipes, hot or cold. And since they come in a resealable bag, you can use just what you need and the rest stays fresh.
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For review, I chose the Tyson Grilled & Ready Frozen Chicken Breast Fillets. After returning home from the store, I couldn't wait to try them, so I thought up a quick recipe and got to work. I placed several of the frozen chicken breast fillets on a plate and microwaved them for the recommended amount of time. (However, our microwave is a bit on the older side, so I had to stick them back in for a couple of extra minutes.) When they were finished, they smelled really good and looked really good, too!
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The recipe I decided to make was just a simple and quick chicken salad. But when I tasted it for the first time with the Tyson Grilled & Ready Frozen Chicken Breast Fillets, it was anything but simple. The grilled flavor of the chicken really stood out and made this ordinary recipe extraordinary! In fact, it was so good, we ate the entire bowl of chicken salad in a matter of minutes.

The Tyson Grilled & Ready products allow you to enjoy fresh, grilled chicken in half the time. And the fact that they are 98% fat free and contain no preservatives, is a huge plus. The Grilled & Ready products have become a staple item in our household and are perfect for quick meals.

Buy It: Tyson Grilled & Ready Frozen and Refrigerated Chicken Fillets and Strips are available in the freezer or refrigerated section at your grocer.

Giveaway Giveaway
Grilled & Ready Strips
Two lucky readers will win a coupon to try any Tyson Grilled & Ready product for Free!

*This giveaway is now closed.*
To Enter: Visit Tyson and tell me another product that you would love to try. Please leave your email address in the comment or make sure it is visible in your profile.

Extra Entries:
1. Grab my button. Leave an address where it can be found.
2. Subscribe to my feed. Must be verified to count.
3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect.
4. Enter any of my other current giveaways. Leave a separate comment on which one(s).
5. Follow me on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway using the text below. You can tweet once daily for an extra entry each day.
Two lucky readers will win a free @TysonFoods Grilled & Ready product during the #summersizzle Event at @PieceOfMeBlog http://bit.ly/9kKCq4
6. Follow Tyson on Twitter.
7. Add the Summer Sizzle Event button to your sidebar. Leave an address where it can be found.
8. 1 Extra Entry if you enter Sarah's Teleflora Giveaway.
9. 1 Extra Entry if you placed the Summer Sizzle Event button on your sidebar before the start of the event and left a comment on the event announcement post.
10
. 2 Extra Entries if you "like" Tyson on Facebook.
11. 5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway. Please leave an address where it can be found.

Giveaway will end on August 12th at 11:59pm ET. The winner will be chosen by random.org and announced here as well as emailed. The winner will have 48 hours to contact me or a new winner will be chosen. Giveaway open to US residents.

A big thank you to Tyson for this review and giveaway opportunity!

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. Tyson provided free product coupons free of charge and I provided my honest opinion. No other type compensation was received for this review.

Give-It-Away Thursday

It's that time of the week! Link your giveaways here and spread the word.

Giveaways at Piece Of Me:

Sunglasses from Kushies

Reversible Double Bib from Bebe au Lait


Teleflora '48 Ford Pickup Bouquet

$25 Gift Certificate to The Picture Board

Little Tikes Spray & Rescue Fire Truck


$60 Gift Certificate to CSNStores.com

$96 Gift Certificate to Hapari Swimwear

Sightseer Baby Carrier from Petunia Pickle Bottom

Boon Potty Bench

Love Inspirational Series art piece from Alphabet Photography


Now it is your turn. You can link up as many giveaways as you would like. Just remember to leave your site name, giveaway prize and ending date. Be sure to spread the word! (Please no SPAM!)

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Alphabet Photography ~ Letter Art (Review + Giveaway)

Alphabet Photography LogoI feel that there is nothing more warm and inviting than a beautifully decorated home. Unfortunately, our apartment isn't the most ideal space to decorate. Painting the walls is out of the question, so we have to turn to wall decor to make this place really feel like home. So, when I came across the beautiful letter art at Alphabet Photography, I knew that was just what our apartment was missing.
Alphabet Photography Inspired by a children's book called "Alphabet City" (by Stephen T. Johnson), Alphabet Photography is the work of Jennifer Blakeley. Together, Jennifer and her husband Sam run the business in Niagara Falls, Ontario, along with other members of their close-knit team. Jennifer spent a large part of 2006/2007 traveling Canada with only one goal in mind; to collect a complete gallery of photos that look like letters of the English Alphabet. All of her photos are of objects found in their natural surroundings that are un-staged and not found in any pre-existing signage.

Alphabet Photography generously sent us a piece from the Inspirational Series that says "Love". When the piece arrived, I was surprised at how stunning it was in person. The black canvas and frame offsets the sepia toned letter photos and really makes them pop. Below the letters there is a quote that reads, "There is only one happiness in life - to love and to be loved." ~ George Sand
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I chose to hang the 15 x 13 piece from Alphabet Photography above our sofa table in the hallway. The table features various pictures of our family and friends, so I thought it would be the perfect place to display the "Love" photograph. Because after all, that is who we love.
Piece Of MeAlphabet Photography offers a variety of different pieces, including custom framed art. That's right! You can create any name or word using Alphabet Photography's letter art. Simply type the word into the box at the top of the website to create your word. Additionally, you can choose from over 500 alphabet pictures to create your art.

Buy It: The Inspirational Series - Love piece is available on the Alphabet Photography website for $45

Giveaway Giveaway
Inspirational Series Love
One lucky reader will win a Inspirational Series "Love" piece from Alphabet Photography!

*This giveaway is now closed.*
To Enter: Visit Alphabet Photography and tell me another piece of letter art that you would love to have. Please leave your email address in the comment or make sure it is visible in your profile.

Extra Entries:
1. Grab my button. Leave an address where it can be found.
2. Subscribe to my feed. Must be verified to count.
3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect.
4. Enter any of my other current giveaways. Leave a separate comment on which one(s).
5. Follow me on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway using the text below. You can tweet once daily for an extra entry each day.
Win a "Love" Inspirational Series art piece from @AlphabetPhoto during the #summersizzle Event @PieceOfMeBlog http://bit.ly/aBAgnR
6. Follow Alphabet Photography on Twitter.
7. Add the Summer Sizzle Event button to your sidebar. Leave an address where it can be found.
8. 1 Extra Entry if you enter Sarah's MD Moms Giveaway.
9. 1 Extra Entry if you placed the Summer Sizzle Event button on your sidebar before the start of the event and left a comment on the event announcement post.
10
. 2 Extra Entries if you "like" Alphabet Photography on Facebook.
11. 5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway. Please leave an address where it can be found.

Giveaway will end on August 11th at 11:59pm ET. The winner will be chosen by random.org and announced here as well as emailed. The winner will have 48 hours to contact me or a new winner will be chosen. Giveaway open to US and Canada.

A big thank you to Alphabet Photography for this review and giveaway opportunity!

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. Alphabet Photography provided the letter art piece free of charge and I provided my honest opinion. No other type compensation was received for this review.

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Celebrate "The Moment You Knew" with e.p.t

I'll never forget the moment I find out. It was the day after my birthday and I took 4 tests just to be sure. Two years later, I still have the tests tucked inside a ziploc bag for safe keeping. I just never could bring myself to throw out the test's that told me my life was forever changed.

However, I'm not alone. According to a recent survey conducted by e.p.t, 67 percent of expectant mothers saved their at-home pregnancy test, and more than three in four moms and expectant mothers (77 percent respectively) would likely save it if they had a keepsake case to put it in.
commemorative keepsake caseNow, thanks to e.p.t, women can preserve the moment they knew with a commemorative keepsake case and scrapbook card. To get one of the commemorative keepsake cases, all you have to do is mail-in your proof of purchase. And for a limited time, you can go to the e.p.t. website (or Smartsource.com) to get a $3.00 off coupon and the form to fill out for your keepsake case.

And just for your curiosity, here are the top three pregnancy keepsake results from the survey:

1. Ultrasound photos (88 percent of moms and 78 percent of expectant mothers)

2. Items from the delivery day, including wristbands, a blanket or baby’s first footprint (74 percent of moms and 57 percent of expectant mothers)

3. At-home pregnancy tests (25 percent of moms and 30 percent of expectant mothers

e.p.t surveySo, let me know, did you save your at-home pregnancy test?

This post is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. The representing PR Firm provided me with a fact sheet to facilitate my review. I received no type of compensation for this post.

Boon Potty Bench Review & Giveaway

Boon LogoSince moving into this cramped apartment, I have found myself gravitating toward items that have more than one function. Especially when it comes to items for Princess P. While the reasoning behind that is mostly space saving, I also feel that since P grows so fast, she doesn't use certain things for very long. I just hope that's the case with potty training.

We introduced the potty to Princess P several months ago and while she has shown some interest in it, she still wears 2-3 diapers per day. I know that a big part of potty training is contingent upon us constantly asking her if she needs to go, but I also feel that they potty itself can play a big role in a child's success.
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Recently, we received a green Potty Bench from Boon to review. Having reviewed (and loved!) several items from Boon before, I had high hopes for this potty. At first glance, the Potty Bench looks like a sleek and modern step stool. But when you lift the lid, it is transformed into a potty fit for the littlest potty training Prince or Princess.
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When I took the Boon Potty Bench out of the box, of course, Princess P immediately took it over and began inspecting its every little detail. After she finished, I asked her if she needed to go potty and surprisingly, she agreed! We took the Potty Bench into the bathroom and P wasted no time getting down to business. It was at that time, though, we discovered that the splash guard isn't just made for boys. (I don't know if Princess P just doesn't sit far enough back or what, but the splash guard has remained in place after several weeks because every time we took it off, we had to clean a mess up out of the floor.)

One of the things that I find truly unique about the Potty Bench from Boon, is that it has a pull out drawer for easy clean-up. That feature not only allows you to easily dispose of the contents, but also ensures that your little one is sitting on a clean surface every time. The pull-out drawer is even easy to open with the splash guard in place. I simply pull out the drawer a bit and push down on the back of the splash guard with my thumb.
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It has to be said that one of the coolest features on the Boon Potty Bench, is the enclosed side storage spaces. The spaces are perfect for keeping helpful potty training supplies handy as well as baby wipes and other necessities. One side even has a toilet paper holder in it! Talk about making your little one really feel like a big kid.
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Like I stated before, I am all about products that can be used several different ways and the Boon Potty Bench does just that. When P is not using the Potty Bench as a potty, you will find her standing on it to reach the sink or just standing on it to make herself feel taller. I even sit on the Potty Bench (it supports up to 300 lbs) when I am giving P a bath or fixing her hair.

Pros: The Potty Bench from Boon is easy to use (for both parent and child) and contains additional storage space (including a toilet paper holder!). It also has a sleek and stylish design and is reasonably priced. And the fact that it can be used after potty training is a huge plus for me.

Cons: It is a bit bigger than a normal potty so take that into consideration when shopping for a smaller bathroom.

Buy It: The Boon Potty Bench is available for purchase on the Boon Inc. website for $34.99

Giveaway Giveaway
Boon Potty Bench
One lucky reader will win a Potty Bench from Boon!

*This giveaway is now closed.*
To Enter: Visit Boon and comment on another item that caught your eye. Please leave your email address in the comment or make sure it is visible in your profile.

Extra Entries:
1. Grab my button. Leave an address where it can be found.
2. Subscribe to my feed. Must be verified to count.
3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect.
4. Enter any of my other current giveaways. Leave a separate comment on which one(s).
5. Follow me on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway using the text below. You can tweet once daily for an extra entry each day.
Potty training? Win a @BoonInc Potty Bench during the #summersizzle Event @PieceOfMeBlog! http://bit.ly/cmUiJQ
6. Follow Boon on Twitter.
7. Add the Summer Sizzle Event button to your sidebar. Leave an address where it can be found.
8. 1 Extra Entry if you enter Sarah's Safety 1st Giveaway.
9. 1 Extra Entry if you placed the Summer Sizzle Event button on your sidebar before the start of the event and left a comment on the event announcement post.
10
. 2 Extra Entries if you "like" Boon on Facebook.
11. 5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway. Please leave an address where it can be found.

Giveaway will end on August 10th at 11:59pm ET. The winner will be chosen by random.org and announced here as well as emailed. The winner will have 48 hours to contact me or a new winner will be chosen. Giveaway open to US residents.

A big thank you to Boon for this review and giveaway opportunity!

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. Boon provided the potty bench free of charge and I provided my honest opinion. No other type compensation was received for this review.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Summer Style with Wishes & Kisses by Sandra Magsamen *Review*

Wishes & Kisses LogoIt never fails. I walk past the baby department trying to divert my attention elsewhere and I end up doubling back just so I can take a peek at what they have. Many times, I just scour the clearance racks in hopes of snagging an item or two for baby #2 (yes, my mind is always thinking ahead) at a great price. Well, thanks to the adorable Wishes & Kisses line by Sandra Magsamen, I won't have to shop clearance for baby clothes anymore!
Wishes & Kisses Picture 1Sandra Magsamen is an artist, art therapist, mom, awarding-winning author of Living Artfully, and the creator behind the lifestyle brands, Messages from the Heart, Wishes & Kisses and From the Studio of Sandra Magsamen. Her products have been warmly embraced for over 20 years worldwide. In 2008, Sandra's Wishes & Kisses line debuted nationwide at Wal-Mart to a warm welcome. Each item in the collection is made with bright colors, soft fabrics and bold prints that encourages snuggling, smiles and comfort. The mission of the collection is to surround little one's with hope, joy, dreams and love.
Wishes & Kisses Picture 2For review, I was sent two adorable outfits from the Wishes & Kisses line. The first outfit I pulled out was the Newborn Girls Bodysuit and Kiss Jumper in a 6-9 months. The pretty flamingo color and cute fish print on the jumper immediately caught my attention and I began oohing and ahhing over it. The pink and white jumper has "Kiss Kiss" colorfully printed across the front with two button straps across the shoulders. The pink lap-shoulder bodysuit underneath features cap sleeves and bottom snaps. I think that the Newborn Girls Bodysuit and Kiss Jumper from Wishes & Kisses is absolutely adorable and would make the perfect summer outfit. And hey, you can't beat the price. It is currently on clearance at Wal-Mart.com for $4.00!
Wishes & Kisses Picture 3The other outfit I received was the Newborn Boys Tee and Shortalls in a size 6-9 months. Receiving this was certainly a treat for me because I do not get to venture into the boys section much. I instantly fell in love with the "little fisherman" saying across the front of the blue and white stripped shortalls. The colorful crab and fish design add an element of fun while the buttoned straps allow for easy dressing. This outfit also includes a white, shot-sleeve lap-tee for the perfect look. I was also impressed at the softness of the fabric. Perfect for baby's sensitive skin. Right now, you can find the Wishes & Kisses Newborn Boys Tee and Shortalls on clearance at Wal-Mart.com for $6.00!

A big thank you to Sandra Magsamen for this review opportunity!

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. The PR Firm representing Sandra Magsamen provided the outfits free of charge and I provided my honest opinion. No other type compensation was received for this review.

Sightseer Baby Carrier by Petunia Pickle Bottom (Review & Giveaway)

Petunia Pickle Bottom LogoAfter the initial shock of being Pregnant (with Princess P) wore off, I went into hyper-drive researching the top baby products and the new mama "must-haves". I visited message boards, product review sites and I even made my way to several blogs. And in the end, I learned that a versatile baby carrier is an essential for both mom and baby.
PPB Picture 1Recently, I was introduced to a brand new baby carrier from a company that I know and love, Petunia Pickle Bottom. Crafted for both the fashion-savvy mom and Mother Nature alike, the Sightseer Carrier is organic, comfortable and uber stylish. A first of its kind, the Sightseer slips on like a t-shirt and buckles simply and securely into place. The Sightseer's shell features an exclusive Petunia fashion print on organic cotton along with Petunia's signature stitch detailing. And with names like Journey through Oslo, Tour in Yoshino and Expressway to Edinburgh, the Sightseer is ready for the rigors of life with baby, whatever they might be.
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Petunia Pickle Bottom was nice enough to send us the Voyage to the Amalfi Coast Sightseer Carrier to review. When it arrived, I could not wait to discover the specifics of this stylish and sophisticated carrier. And, of course, test drive it with one of Princess P's baby dolls.
PPB Picture 2The first thing I fell in love with, was the Sightseer's user-friendly design. Simply slip the carrier over your head, connect the torso clip, tighten the torso straps and slide the back adjuster plate so that it is positioned comfortably between your should blades. Then, all you have to do is fold the carrier towards you (for inward facing position), connect the clips, gently place your baby inside the carrier, connect the remaining clips and adjust the straps accordingly.

While it might seem like a lengthy and confusing process, it's not! Especially compared to some of the other baby carriers on the market today. Plus, there's no added parts or straps to get tangled in. That means you won't be seen in the parking lot all flustered and confused because you cannot get a baby carrier on correctly.
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Another wonderful thing about the Sightseer by Petunia, is its versatility. Your little one can face snugly inward when they're an infant and outward when they are old enough to hold their head and shoulders upright. And to ensure that baby is secure and comfortable, the Sightseer features an easy-to-use buckle system for worry-free outings.
Petunia Pickle Bottom Picture 3Of course, I feel that the exclusive Petunia fashion prints are what makes these carriers so playful and fun. The carrier we received, Voyage to the Amalfi Coast, has an ocean and sky blue shell that is accented with a brown lining and coordinating hardware. But the best part, aside from being made of certified organic cotton, is that the Sightseer Carriers are machine washable!

The Sightseer by Petunia Pickle Bottom fits babies from 21" and 8 lb up to 22lb. For babies 8-11lb the infant leg button must be used. As with all baby carriers, read all the instructions before assembling and using the Sightseer carrier.

Buy it: The Voyage to the Amalfi Coast Sightseer Carrier is available online at the Petunia Pickle Bottom Boutique for $110

Giveaway Giveaway
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One lucky reader will win a Sightseer Baby Carrier (in their choice of print) from Petunia Pickle Bottom!

*This giveaway is now closed.*
To Enter: Simply visit Petunia Pickle Bottom and leave a comment on which print is your favorite or another item you would love to have. Please leave your email address in the comment or make sure it is visible in your profile.

Extra Entries:
1. Grab my button. Leave an address where it can be found.
2. Subscribe to my feed. Must be verified to count.
3. Follow me on Google Friend Connect.
4. Enter any of my other current giveaways. Leave a separate comment on which one(s).
5. Follow me on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway using the text below. You can tweet once daily for an extra entry each day.
Enter to win a Sightseer Baby Carrier from Petunia Pickle Bottom during the #summersizzle Event @PieceOfMeBlog! http://bit.ly/acF0w4
6. Add the Summer Sizzle Event button to your sidebar. Leave an address where it can be found.
7. 1 Extra Entry if you enter Sarah's Bebe au Lait Giveaway.
8. 1 Extra Entry if you placed the Summer Sizzle Event button on your sidebar before the start of the event and left a comment on the event announcement post.
9
. 2 Extra Entries if you "like" Petunia Pickle Bottom on Facebook.
10. 5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway. Please leave an address where it can be found.

Giveaway will end on August 9th at 11:59pm ET. The winner will be chosen by random.org and announced here as well as emailed. The winner will have 48 hours to contact me or a new winner will be chosen. Giveaway open to US residents.

A big thank you to Petunia Pickle Bottom for this giveaway opportunity!

This review is based strictly my opinion. Others may have a different opinion or experience with the product listed above. Petunia Pickle Bottom provided the carrier free of charge and I provided my honest opinion. No other type compensation was received for this review.

Saturday, July 24, 2010

4th of July (Part 1)

I know, I know. This post is extremely late. But between trips out-of-town, filling in at my uncles office part time, Vacation Bible School and keeping up with Princess P, I have had little time to actually sit at my desk and write posts. However, things have started to settle down and we are getting back into our regular routine. Even though it is a bit late, I wanted post about our 4th of July weekend to record the memories that were made.

Friday, July 2nd ~

We kicked off our July 4th weekend by heading to our town's annual carnival. The carnival has been around for years and is a tradition in our small town. In fact, I can remember going as a little girl and being amazed by all of the rides and lights. Anyway, this was actually P's second time going to the carnival. The last time she went, we were up on vacation (C was still in the Air Force) and she was only a month old. It seems like only yesterday. :(
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(I know its not the best picture, but it was the only one I could find.
Princess P's first 4th of July Carnival.)


When we got to the front gate to pay our admission, we were advised to make sure P was tall enough to ride on the rides before we bought any tickets. The lady at the gate said that they weren't allowing any adults or older children on the kiddie rides and that Princess P would have to ride by herself. So, we went and bought 12 tickets (enough to ride 4 rides) and went on our merry way.
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The first "ride" we decided to go on was the slide. Princess P loves to slide and since I could go down it with her, we thought it would be better to do that first. After paying our 6 tickets (translation - $6) we went down the slide which lasted .006 seconds. Yeah, we paid 6 bucks to go down a slide. But hey, at least P had fun.
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After that, we wanted to see if P would ride something by herself. We let her pick what she wanted to do and she choose the boats. When we were standing in line I was a nervous wreck! I couldn't believe that I wasn't going to get to ride with my baby. What if she got scared? I wouldn't be there to clam her down. When it was our turn she walked right up to the boat and I buckled her in and gave her a kiss. I then proceed to walk outside the gate, almost in tears because my baby was a big girl now. (Silly, I know) The ride started and P had a blast! From then on out she wanted to ride everything!
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Needless to say, we ended up buying more tickets (which cost us a fortune) for Princes P. In fact, she was the only one that got to ride anything. Well, unless you count when I went down the slide with her or stood beside her on the carousel.
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One of the most fun things we did was the Fun House. It was a maze of mirrors that led upstairs to a big slide. Princess P and I started out in it and I got a little scared that we would never find our way out. At first, I started out in front with my hands held out because I kept running into the mirrors and then Princess P decided that she wanted to lead. She shot right past me and ran right into a mirror and stumbled back. It took all I could do to not bust out laughing. Luckily, she started to laugh and took off once again and ended up running right into another mirror. From then on out, I led.

When we got upstairs (and it was pretty far up) I thought it would be best if we went down the slide together. The slide was kind of on an angle and I had to turn my body sideways to get on it. By the time we got down the slide, I had a charlie-horse in my entire right side and I could not stand up. When I did finally get to my feet, I about passed out and C had to take me to a bench to let me rest and catch my breath. I was so embarrassed!

All in all, it was a fun night. Princess P got to experience the 4th of July carnival (which I hope will become a tradition for years to come) and she also got her first taste of cotton candy. And, of course, we couldn't leave until C spent $10 trying to win her a stuffed animal.

Tell me, does you town have any annual festivities for the 4th or does your family have any special traditions?