Keep Stains Away with Shout Free (Review + Giveaway)

If your family is anything like mine, you spend a lot of time in the laundry room. On average, I do about 4-5 loads of laundry every five days and that seems like a tremendous amount to me (and I know most of you do more)! With a messy toddler, a somewhat messy husband and a sometimes messy me, laundry is just a fact of life.
While sorting, washing, drying and folding takes up the majority of my time, stain removing is right up there on my list. I mean, with a busy three year old, I always have stains that need to be tackled. That is why I am so glad that I was chosen by Mom Central to be a Shout Ambassador!

A couple of weeks ago, I was sent a bottle of Shout Free to review and boy, did we put it to the test. Shout Free is made of 99% natural ingredients and is dye and fragrance free. Safe to use on all colorfast washables, Shout Free tackles stains and leaves nothing else.
During the holidays, we racked up some stains! From meatball sauce stains to chocolate stains, we wore it all! Luckily, when I went to do laundry, I pulled out the bottle of Shout Free to help me. The first piece of clothing I pre-treated was a white shirt of Princess P's that had some sort of ketchup stain on it. I sprayed the area and let it sit for only a couple of minutes before tossing it into the washing machine.
When I pulled the shirt out, I looked it over to see just how well the Shout Free worked. At first, I didn't see anything at all, but when I looked a bit harder, I saw a faint, faint stain left. However, considering ketchup is a hard stain to remove, I was overjoyed at the progress that had been made. You can't see the stain unless you study the shirt and I plan on pre-treating it again and I am sure that the stain will be completely gone after that.

From now own, I will have Shout Free in my arsenal of laundry products. Not only does it work well at removing stains, but I also love the fact that it contains no fragrances or dyes (perfect for all of the tiny baby clothes we will be washing soon!) and that it contains 99% natural
ingredients!

Be sure to visit Shout's Facebook page to score valuable coupons for Shout Free and Shout Color Catcher with Oxi!

Giveaway Giveaway

Two lucky readers will each win a bottle of Shout Free!

*This giveaway is now closed.*

To Enter: Tell me what type of stains you dislike the most. 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 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 bottle of Shout Free @PieceOfMeBlog! Giveaway ends 1/2 http://bit.ly/uIm2Ab
6. 2 Extra Entries if you become a fan of Shout on Facebook
7. 5 Extra Entries if you blog about this giveaway. Please leave an address where it can be found.

Giveaway will end on January 2nd at 11:59pm ET. The winners will be chosen by random.org and announced here as well as emailed. The winners will have 48 hours to contact me or new winners will be chosen. Giveaway open US residents.

I wrote this review while participating in a campaign by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of Shout and received a product sample to facilitate my review and a promotional item to thank me for taking the time to participate.

Great Gifts for the Entire Family at Bass Pro Shops (Review + Giveaway)

If you have never been to Bass Pro Shops before, I highly recommend that you go! Not only do they have a wonderful selection of products for the entire family, but the ambiance is truly wonderful! I mean, where else can you shop for clothing and look at a ginormous tank full of awesome fish at the same time?! Plus, many Bass Pro Shops offer full-service dining restaurants right inside the store!

Many people relate Bass Pro Shops to fishing and hunting gear and accessories, but you might be surprised to learn that they offer much, much more. Along with fishing and hunting gear, Bass Pro Shops is an outdoor retail leader in nature gifts, outdoor cooking, women's and children's clothing and home and cabin decor. In fact, I ordered the Welcome Tree Sign for my dad and it is going to look great in his cabin!
For the holidays, Bass Pro Shops sent us a variety of items to review. In fact, we each received something special! Princess P's something special just happened to be the Bass Pro Shops Ruffle Front Plaid Jacket for Girls in charcoal/red and it couldn't be more adorable! This super cute jacket features a peter pan collar, cuffed sleeves and ruffles along the front button placket. Made from 100% polyester plaid fabric, this jacket is warm and stylish.

I had an idea of how cute the Ruffle Front Plaid Jacket was going to be, but when it arrived I was way off! This adorable jacket takes the cake and has become Princess P's "go-to" jacket for everything from a quick trip to the store to taking pictures with Santa! The jacket keeps her warm and cozy while still looking ridiculously cute! Also, I have washed it several times and it has held up great! I am really, really loving the Bass Pro Shops Ruffle Front Plaid Jacket!
C received a treat that he has wanted for a long time - the RedHead Pursuit Binoculars - Roof Prism 10x. These easy to use binoculars are 100% waterproof and fog-free and feature large center focus knob for easy, precise adjustments and twist-up eyecups for easier focusing. Attached lens covers (on 42mm models only), a neoprene case and a deluxe neoprene neck strap are included with these binoculars.

When C took the RedHead Pursuit Binoculars - Roof Prism 10x with him in the woods for the first time, the first thing he said was that they were a big help when sighting in his rifle. (Which means he didn't have to walk down to the target to see where the bullet went.) Other things he raved about? How they were super light and easy to carry while in the woods and how they didn't take up much room in his backpack. Also, he said that they stayed fog-free and that the focusing works really well. Overall, C gave the RedHead Pursuit Binoculars from Bass Pro Shops 5 out of 5 stars!
For me, Bass Pro Shops generously sent the Natural Reflections Molly Boots in chocolate. These cozy boots feature a sweater cable knit upper, plush fleece lining and a flexible indoor/outdoor sole. Perfect for a trip to the mailbox or running errands, the Natural Reflections Molly Boots will keep your feet nice and warm.

When the boots arrived, I was really impressed with just how plush the inside lining really is. Its soft and cozy and definitely keeps your feet warm while out and about. Another feature I like is that the tops of the boots are super stylish and can be worn over jeans. Or, when you are just lounging around the house, the Molly Boots turn into the perfect pair of house-shoes! The Natural Reflections Molly Boots from Bass Pro Shops fit great and keep my feet warm!

Buy It: The Ruffle Front Plaid Jacket for Girls ($39.99), RedHead Pursuit Binoculars - Roof Prism 10x ($99.99) and Natural Reflections Molly Boots ($24.99) can be purchased at basspro.com

Giveaway Giveaway

One lucky reader will win a $50 Gift Card to Bass Pro Shops!

*This giveaway is now closed.*

To Enter: Visit Bass Pro Shops and comment on something you would like to receive this holiday season. 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 $50 Gift Card to @Bass_Pro_Shops during the Holiday Gift Guide @PieceOfMeBlog http://bit.ly/sBmZa5
6. Follow Bass Pro Shops on Twitter
7. Add the 2011 Holiday Gift Guide button to your sidebar. Leave an address where it can be found.
8. 1 Extra Entry if you placed the 2011 Holiday Gift Guide 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" Bass Pro Shops 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 January 3rd 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 Bass Pro Shops 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. I was provided the sample free of charge and I provided my honest opinion. No other type compensation was received for this review.

The SPORTULA - The Ultimate Gift for any Sports Fan

Luckily for me, my husband isn't hard to shop for at all! Usually, if it has something to do with hunting, University of Florida football or his truck, you are on the right path. However, this year, I wanted to make sure that he would receive something totally unique and useful. That is why I am so excited about The SPORTULA!
The SPORTULA is a spatula for the ultimate tailgater. SPORTULAS come in a variety of sports, including collegiate, NASCAR, patriotic and enthusiast and feature a laser-cut mascot, car number or symbol on the metal spatula part. The handle of the SPORTULA is made from hard maple and comes with custom heat-stamped lettering down the front. Made from heavy duty stainless steel, the SPORTULA is made to last.

Of course, being a huge Florida Gator fan, I knew C would absolutely love the Florida Gator SPORTULA. I mean, its literally combining two of his favorite pastimes, grilling and football. The Florida SPORTULA features the Gators mascot laser-cut into the spatula and has "Florida" going down the maple handle. Also, the handle features a built-in bottle opener for ultimate convenience!
When the Florida Gator SPORTULA arrived, I was really impressed at how well made it is. The heavy duty stainless steel is terrific for grilling and the handle is a great length. I just love the way the Gator mascot looks and having "Florida" heat-stamped into the handle is a great touch. The SPORTULA is a great gift option for any sports fan!

Buy It: You can purchase the Florida Gator SPORTULA ($24.99) at www.thesportula.com



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

Calling All John Deere Fans - John Deere Shake N Sounds Monster Treads Tractor Review

If you are still looking for the perfect present for a little boy or girl on your list, I have a great idea for you! The John Deere Shake N Sounds Monster Treads Tractor produced by Ertl and officially licensed by John Deere is sure to be a hit! With push button activated monster "truck" sounds and extreme "shaking engine" action, this is one great gift idea!
This "off-road" gift is perfect for a boy or a girl and features large bouncy tires that will run over anything that's in its path. The John Deere Shake N Sounds Monster Treads Tractor has all-terrain steering for times when the going gets tough and real "truck" sounds for ultimate imaginary play. Just push the red button behind the cab of the tractor and let the fun begin!
Learning Curve generously sent Princess P her very own Shake N Sounds Monster Treads Tractor and she has been playing with it every since. When it first arrived, I was expecting it to be pretty small based on its 8" size description, but was pleasantly surprised at how big it actually is. Princess P loves the push button sounds and shaking and can easily maneuver this tractor anywhere. I imagine this toy will be a big hit in the warmer months when she can get outside and really get down in the dirt with it.
The only thing that Princess P seems a little disappointed with, is that the tractor doesn't move. Now, its not supposed to. But I guess she thought that when it "started up" it would take off rolling across the floor. Other than that, P loves to play with the John Deere Shake N Sounds Monster Treads Tractor and I love to watch her use her imagination while playing with it. Now, when we go down the road and she sees a big green tractor, she yells out that she has one just like it!

Buy It: Head over to www.learningcurve.com and enter your zip code to find out where you can purchase the John Deere Shake N Sounds Monster Treads Tractor. Or, you can purchase it at www.toysrus.com for $21.99



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

aden + anais - Bamboo Swaddles Review

Having worked with aden + anais many times, I can honestly say that this is a company I will never get tired of. Not only do they create wonderfully stylish products that surpass my expectations, their products are multifunctional and beneficial to both mother and baby. What could be better!?
After moving to the US from Australia, Reagan Moya-Jones was surprised when she tried to find a swaddle like the ones she remembered from home, but couldn’t. So, she did what any mother would: she made sure her children could have the very best by rolling up her sleeves and getting to work. And that’s why she started aden + anais. Today, Raegan Moya-Jones is a mom on a mission...bringing the benefits of swaddling and the world's best baby products to mothers around the world through aden + anais.

When I reviewed the muslin swaddles from aden + anais last year, I didn't think that swaddle blankets could get much softer. But, once again, aden + anais surpassed my expectations when they sent me a set of their bamboo swaddles to review. Let me just say, they feel like heaven!
This set of muslin swaddle blankets is made using rayon from natural bamboo fibers to allow for ultimate breathability and softness. Each lightweight blanket permits air to circulate around baby's body, while still providing comfort and warmth. The generous size of the bamboo swaddles (47" x 47") ensures that new and seasoned parents alike can swaddle babies of all sizes with ease. And, thanks to the comfy bamboo fibers, baby will be surrounded by luxury.

aden + anais generously sent me the 3-pack of diwali bamboo swaddles to review. This fun set of swaddles feature rich red and blue colors in a trio of patterns and designs, including a fun elephant print. I have to say that these bamboo swaddles are the epitome of softness and luxury. Never have I felt a blanket, especially a swaddle blanket, so silky and smooth. I know that baby #2 is going to love the way these swaddles feel and will hopefully like to be swaddled, unlike Princess P. The only thing that I have noticed, is that they do tend to pick easily. But I still wouldn't trade these for any other type of swaddle blanket! I am in love with the bamboo swaddles from aden + anais!

Buy It: The 3-Pack of Bamboo Swaddles ($40) can be purchased at adenandanais.com



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

Luxurious Gifts for Baby from PAIGELAUREN baby (Review)

Purchasing Christmas gifts for the littlest person on your list can be quite a task, especially if they are just a newborn. Do you go with a toy that they won't be able to play with for a couple of months or is a gift of money appropriate? If you ask me, I would say that a gift from PAIGELAUREN baby would be a terrific option, because what baby doesn't love to be surrounded by luxurious fabrics?
Born from a frustration of not being able to find simple, classic baby clothes for her friends, Paige Lauren decided to create a children's line that is modern, classic and fabulously luxurious. PAIGELAUREN baby offers clothing and accessories for baby's and toddler's that feature luscious fabrics, fine tailoring and subtle yet thoughtful details.

“I’m not concerned with the latest trends or decorative baubles. I think that clothing should be timeless and beautifully constructed. If something isn’t well-made than it isn’t worth getting at all. I’m proud that PAIGELAUREN baby manifests those values to the fullest.” - Paige Lauren
When browsing through the PAIGELAUREN baby collection, you will find a variety of bodysuits, dresses, blankets and rompers that are available in a range of splendid colors. The perfect gift for the littlest one on your list this year? The PAIGELAUREN baby Classic Blanket in festive ruby or emerald is sure to delight both parents and baby!

Since we are expecting baby #2, I was absolutely delighted to receive the Classic Romper with Footsie in emerald from PAIGELAUREN baby! This super soft romper is made from 50% Micro Modal (which is more water-absorbent than cotton) and 50% Supima Jersey and is smooth and supple to the touch. Featuring snaps at the top and bottom, the Classic Romper with Footsie is ideal for diaper changing and easy dressing. Plus, the stripes and polka dot patterns make this romper too adorable for words.
For review, I received the Classic Romper Footsie in a size 0-3 months. When the romper first arrived, I was shocked at how small it was. But when I looked up the sizing on the website, I learned that it will fit a baby that weighs 10-12 lbs and 21-23.5 in. Which, if this baby is anything like Princess P, he or she will only be able to wear it for a couple of weeks! I guess I have forgotten how small newborns are! I can't wait to put baby #2 in this soft and luxurious romper from PAIGELAUREN baby!

Buy It: The Classic Romper Footsie ($46) can be purchased at www.paigelaurenbaby.com




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

Winners

The winner of the Hearthsong Giveaway is (401 entries)...

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

47 

Timestamp: 2011-12-20 17:55:30 UTC

Anonymous 47 said...

i love the buddy bumper balls

kelly hutchinson
thegreatcover@aol.com

December 10, 2011 11:58 PM

The winner of the Shoebuy.com Giveaway is (453 entries)...

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

48 

Timestamp: 2011-12-20 17:59:52 UTC

B. Wilson 48 said...

I like shoebuy on fb1
--Brandy
fosterbrandy(at)msn(dot)com

December 15, 2011 5:05 PM

Congratulations! I have sent each of you an email and you have 24 hours to contact me.

Great Gifts for the Outdoors! (Bass Pro Shops Review)

If you have an outdoorsman on your list, I highly suggest turning to Bass Pro Shops to find that perfect gift. With thousands of products to choose from, Bass Pro Shops has something to please everyone, no matter the budget.
This year, C got his Christmas presents early when Bass Pro Shops sent him several great products for hunting. He received the RedHead Enduraskin All-Season Shirt and Pants for men and a RedHead 3D Evolution Suit to review. Let's just say, he was in heaven!
The RedHead Enduraskin All-Season Shirt and Pants from Bass Pro Shops feature a 4-way stretch fabric that wicks away moisture to help manage sweat and AXE Anit-Odor Technology to block scent. The RedHead Enduraskin All-Season Shirt and Pants also feature quick drying, easy care fabric for the ultimate in convenience.
When C tried on the RedHead Enduraskin All-Season Shirt and Pants for the first time, he instantly commented on how lightweight and comfortable the shirt and pants were. Not only that, but how well they fit under his other hunting clothes. When he wore them in the woods for the first time, he said that they kept him warm and dry the entire time and that he really couldn't even tell he had them on. The RedHead Enduraskin All-Season Shirt and Pants from Bass Pro were a hit with C!

(You can tell he was thrilled to be taking a picture!)

For the ultimate in concealment, Bass Pro Shops sent C the RedHead 3D Evolution Suit in Mossy Oak Break-up. This two-piece suit features a 3D design that diffuses light and provides a realistic depth of vision so that you are able to literally vanish into your surroundings! Made from 100% polyester, this suit is lightweight, comfortable and quiet.

When C used the Bass Pro Shops RedHead 3D Evolution Suit over the Thanksgiving holiday, he said that it blended in great with the hunting environment and concealed him well. The suit was lightweight, quiet and easy to get on and off over his other clothing. In fact, he said that it worked so well, that his brother and best friend asked to use it when they went out the next day!

Buy It: The RedHead Enduraskin All-Season Shirt ($24.99-$34.99) and Pant ($29.99-$34.99) and the RedHead 3D Evolution Suit ($79.95-$84.95) can be purchased at www.basspro.com

A big thank you to Bass Pro Shops for this review opportunity!



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

Give One of the Best Films of the Year this Holiday Season ~ The Help

It's no wonder why people can't stop talking about the inspirational summer hit film, The Help! Having seen it for the first time last week, I am completely taken away by the film and find myself wanting to watch it over and over again! There is just something so extraordinary about this group of women in the 1960s South and I just can't get enough!
"The #1 New York Times bestseller by Kathryn Stockett comes to vivid life through the compelling performances of a phenomenal ensemble cast including Emma Stone, Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer and Bryce Dallas Howard. The Help is a courageous and empowering story about very different and extraordinary women in the 1960s South who build an unlikely friendship around a secret writing project."

When I wasn't able to get to the theaters this summer to watch The Help, I was definitely bummed that I didn't get to see this wonderful film that everyone kept raving about. So, when I was given the chance to review The Help on Blu-ray Combo Pack, I jumped at the chance!

When I watched The Help for the first time, I sat in one spot throughout the entire movie and I don't think I moved once, which is unusual for me! I was so captivated by the storyline that I could not miss one minute! When watching The Help, I found myself laughing, crying and being in complete disbelief right along with the cast. This is a timeless and triumphant story that will not soon be forgotten! The Help would make a terrific gift this holiday season!

About The Help on Blu-ray Combo Pack:

"The Help Blu-ray Combo Pack provides audiences with the chance to delve deeper into the movie through compelling, never-before-seen bonus features, including "The Making of 'The Help:' From Friendship to Film,"an intimate look at how the life-changing experience of close-knit childhood friends director Tate Taylor and novelist Kathryn Stockett led to the creation of the best-selling novel and its transition to the big screen."

"Additional bonus includes "In Their Own Words: A Tribute To the Maids of Mississippi," which is an honest observation of life in the South from real-life maids, including director Tate Taylor's childhood caretaker, Carol Lee; Deleted Scenes; and nine-time Grammy Award-winning and multi-platinum selling singer/songwriter, Mary J. Blige's "The Living Proof", music video from the film's end titles.

The Help is available on 3-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack ($44.99), 2-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack ($39.99), 1-Disc DVD ($29.99), High Definition Digital Download ($39.99) and Standard Definition Digital Download ($29.99). Visit thehelpmovie.com/us for additional details, galleries and more!



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

Find the Perfect Shoes for Every Occasion at Shoebuy.com (Review + 3-Day Giveaway)

Are you looking for the perfect pair of shoes to match your Christmas outfit next week? Do you need a warm and cozy pair of boots to wear this winter? Or, maybe you need an adorable pair of baby shoes to give as a gift during the holidays? Well, you are in luck because Shoebuy.com has all of those styles and many, many more!
Shoebuy.com is the largest retailer on the internet that is focused on all categories of footwear and related apparel and accessories. Having partnerships with over 1,200 manufacturers, Shoebuy carries products from some of the top-brands, including Bass, Crocs, Hush Puppies, K-Swiss, New Balance, Stride Rite and hundreds more. No matter what brand or style you need, Shoebuy.com will have the item you are looking for!

For the cold winter months that are closing in on us, Shoebuy generously sent me the Trotters Blizzard Boot in Mocha Smooth to review. These cute and comfy boots are from Trotters' Cold Weather Collection and are made from smooth leather and feature a cozy fur lining throughout. A zipper located on the inner-side of the shoe makes for easy access and a bit of stretch on the top of the boot ensures a great fit over pants and jeans. Great for snow and rain, these waterproof boots will keep you dry and warm in style.
When requesting the boots, I took the advice on the website and ordered a half-size up to ensure that the boots fit right and so that I could wear extra thick socks when it gets super cold out. When the Trotters Blizzard Boots arrived, I was really impressed with the way they looked on the outside and the way the felt on the inside. The boots are very trendy and stylish on the outside thanks to the two different types of leather, the adjustable buckle (which is useful for keeping out snow and ice) and the fur trim around the top. Also, I like the fact that the boots have a 1" stacked heel.
On the inside, the Trotters Blizzard Boots have a fur lining throughout that will keep your feet cozy and warm. Having wore them out in the rain and in cold temperatures, I can say that they have kept my feet dry and toasty. However, I haven't had the chance to wear them in the snow yet. Although, I am sure they will keep my feet dry and warm. The only thing that I have noticed about the boots, is that they tend to scuff easily. And, to me, that isn't a deal breaker! I am excited to wear the Trotters Blizzard Boots all winter long!

Buy It: The Trotters Blizzard Boots ($89) can be purchased at Shoebuy.com

Giveaway Giveaway

One lucky reader will win a $50 Gift Certificate to Shoebuy.com!

*This giveaway is now closed.*

To Enter: Visit Shoebuy.com and leave a comment stating what you would spend the gift certificate on if you were the lucky winner. 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 as many times as you'd like during this giveaway!)
Win a $50 Gift Certificate to @shoebuy during the Holiday Gift Guide @PieceOfMeBlog (Hurry! Giveaway ends 12/18) http://bit.ly/si8xAW
6. Follow Shoebuy on Twiter
7. Add the 2011 Holiday Gift Guide button to your sidebar. Leave an address where it can be found.
8. 1 Extra Entry if you placed the 2011 Holiday Gift Guide 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" Shoebuy 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 December 18th at 11:59pm ET. The winner will be chosen by random.org and announced here as well as emailed. The winner will have 24 hours to contact me or a new winner will be chosen. Giveaway open to US residents.

A big thank you to Shoebuy.com 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. I was provided the sample 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:

$50 Gift Certificate to Hearthsong (Ends 12/17)

Now it's 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!)

Elf Magic ~ A Christmas Tradition

With Christmas only a short time away, there are all kinds of magical things happening around here. Gifts are magically appearing under our tree, goodies are mysteriously getting baked during the night and something has certainly been making a mess around here. Maybe all of these happenings have something to do with Princess P asking Santa for an elf to come visit this holiday season?
Yes, you heard correctly. Shortly after we returned home from Thanksgiving vacation, Princess P asked Santa if an elf could come visit our home for Christmas. To lure the Elf in, Princess P and I left out the Elf's favorite snack of crackers and ice water (crackers sound like crunching snow and the ice water is melting North Pole Snowflakes) on the counter and went to bed. When we awoke a couple of mornings later, we found that Santa had heard about Princess P's request and sent Caroline the Elf Magic Elf all the way from the North Pole to visit P! Caroline the Elf brought her very own SnowCase that will ensure a comfortable stay while at our home, a North Pole Passport (which is a must for travel!), a Travel Ticket/Boarding Pass on the Santa's Elf Express and a change of clothes that can be stored in the closet of her SnowCase!
However, when Caroline the Elf arrived, she made sure that she wasn't going to go unnoticed! She somehow go into the bag of apples, grapefruits and tangerines and made a large smiley face out of them in the kitchen floor! When Princess P found her, she was sitting atop one of the grapefruits just waiting for someone to find her mess! Needless to say, P was in a state of shock! Not only did Santa send one of his Elves to our home, but the elf came to life during the night!

The next night, Princess P excitedly sprinkled some of the Magic North Pole Snowflakes on Caroline the Elf to bring her to life. When Princess P raced out of bed that morning, she found Caroline in the Christmas tree holding a Santa ornament. Even though she is having fun at our house, I guess she misses the big guy up north! Which is completely understandable!
During the day, Princess P and Caroline the Elf Magic Elf play together and go on all types of adventures. Princess P loves to change her clothes (over and over again!), play with her in her SnowCase and show her off to all of her other stuffed to animals.

Even though Caroline's visit is short (she will return to the North Pole with Santa on Christmas Eve to help deliver toys around the world), Princess P is having so much fun with her! I know she will be greatly missed during the year, but this gives Princess P something to look forward to next year when another Elf Magic Elf will come visit. Elf Magic is a tradition I wish I had when I was a child. Although, I have really enjoyed watching the magic through Princess P eyes!

The Elf Magic tradition usually starts around the Thanksgiving holiday, but if your child still really wants an elf to come visit, it isn't too late! There are several "travel ticket options" to get an Elf to your home on time! And, while you are there, be sure to check out adventures that other families have had with their elves!

For more information on Sleigh Delivery Costs and travel ticket options, visit www.elf-magic.com

Find the Perfect Gift for every Little One on your list at Hearthsong (Review + Giveaway)

With only 15 days left until Christmas, its time to start finishing up those shopping lists! Luckily, I got the majority of my shopping done on Black Friday, but I still have several people left to shop for. Good thing that most of the people left are kids because Hearthsong has a terrific selection of toys to choose from!
Since its inception in 1983, Hearthsong has been committed to helping parents provide their children with age-appropriate, quality playthings. That's because Hearthsong believes that childhood is a vital chapter in life and a time that they need to experience as much creative, imaginary-play as possible. When shopping at Hearthsong, you can rest assured that each item has been carefully selected for its quality, safety and relevance to your child's development.

Here lately, Princess P has really spent a lot of time coloring, drawing and painting. So, when we were once again given the chance to review an item from Hearthsong, I went with the Alex Toys My Wall Easel. This hanging easel will turn any wall into a creative space and can be used as a chalkboard or as an easel for ultimate fun! The Alex Toys My Wall Easel requires no assembly and comes with a 12" x 100" paper roll, safety cutter and four multicolored cups to neatly store paints, crayons, chalk and other supplies.
The Alex Toys My Wall Easel can be hung on any wall surface and comes with a set of screws and wall anchors so your little one can get busy painting as soon as it is in place. To hang the wall easel, simply screw the support bar to the wall and then slide the easel down onto it. Super simple!

When your little one is ready to get creative, they have the option to draw and color on the chalkboard or pull down the included paper and get busy painting their masterpiece! And, thanks to the included storage cups, their art supplies are kept in a handy place.
I love that the Alex Toys My Wall Easel has both the chalkboard and easel options because little ones are constantly changing their minds. Plus, the fact that it hangs on the wall is terrific for us because we have limited space around here! I can't wait until we finish moving Princess P over to her new room and install the Alex Toys My Wall Easel on her wall because I know she will have loads of fun!

Currently, Hearthsong is offering up to 50% off on select gifts through tomorrow! Including the Alex Toys My Wall Easel which is currently on-sale for $39.99 (down from $59.98)! So hurry over to www.hearthsong.com to finish up your holiday shopping!

Giveaway Giveaway

One lucky reader will win a $50 Gift Certificate to Hearthsong!

*This giveaway is now closed.*

To Enter: Visit Hearthsong and leave a comment stating what you would spend the gift certificate on if you were the lucky winner. 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 $50 Gift Certificate to @hearthsongtoys during the Holiday Gift Guide @PieceOfMeBlog http://bit.ly/uXjxAb
6. Follow Hearthsong on Twitter
7. Add the 2011 Holiday Gift Guide button to your sidebar. Leave an address where it can be found.
8. 1 Extra Entry if you placed the 2011 Holiday Gift Guide 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" Hearthsong 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 December 17th at 11:59pm ET. The winner will be chosen by random.org and announced here as well as emailed. The winner will have 24 hours to contact me or a new winner will be chosen. Giveaway open to US residents.

A big thank you to Hearthsong 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. I was provided the sample free of charge and I provided my honest opinion. No other type compensation was received for this review.