1stopmom Giveaways and Reviews

Kleenex Battle the Bug Giveaway

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 01:46:00 +0000

No matter how much you may want to fight it Flu and Cold Season is here. It has slowing been making it around our household as well as the kids' schools. So of course we have boxes of Kleenex around the house in almost every room in the house. Did you know that Kleenex now has Anti Viral tissue? Kleenex® Anti-Viral tissue kills 99.9% of cold and flu viruses in the tissue. A specially treated middle layer helps stop cold and flu viruses in the tissue.

This sounds like exactly what we need! Germs are everywhere and we need every little bit of help we can get. I have not had a chance to try these Anti-Viral Tissues out yet, but I can see them in our future! I am thinking about getting a few boxes for my kids' classes as well.

To help us all "Battle the Bug", Kleenex has made up these little webisodes, I added my two favorite ones:

Baby

The Figure Skater

The Giveaway
One reader will win Kleenex Anti-Viral Tissues and (1) $50 Visa Gift Card

To Enter
Visit Battle the Bug and leave a comment about something you have learned

Extra Entries
Watch the Fight the Bug webisodes and tell me which is your favorite (10 entries)
Subscribe to this blog
Follow me on Twitter
Become a fan on facebook
Blog about this giveaway (5 entries)
Enter any of my other giveways
Become my friend on Google Connect
Leave a comment on any non giveaway post
Subscribe to 1stopmom (10 entries)
Tweet about this giveaway "Fight The Bug with @1stopmom and Kleenex Win a $50 gift card http://tinyurl.com/y9o3mdc"(can be done daily)

The Rules
This giveaway is open to US residents only. It will end November 19, 2009. A winner will be chosen using Random.org and contacted via email. Please remember to leave a seperate comment for each entry. If you are already a subscriber, follower, etc be sure to leave a comment so you get your entry!

The gift card and products for this giveaway are provided by Kleenex.

Knot-A-Quilt Review

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 01:09:00 +0000

My little diva has really gotten into crafts lately.She likes to do something "crafty" every day. I still think it is kind of weird that all of my kids are into making crafts and creating with their hands. They have all of this imagination and creativity that I do not possess at all. But I do like to watch them with amazement. Kayla is not quite ready to work with needles or anything that involves stitching just yet. I was glad that she had the opportunity to review the Knot-A-Quilt from Growing Tree Toys. When we opened the box her eyes just lit up :) Knot-A-Quilt has 48 squares that come in 9 vibrant colors and her all time favorite, purple, was there too. She got to work right away. She laid out the colors so she pick the perfect design. It had to be just right, lol. Then Kayla started tying her knots. She was beyond excited to be making her own quilt! She has been working on it a little each day after school. This is not only the perfect gift that will stay around for a while but is a great educational toy as well. It encourages her artistic side and helped her to focus on the pattern she was making. She is just the sweetest thing. Her quilt is going to be a gift and she did not want me to take a picture because that person may see this post! Isn't that cute?

Here is a video that shows exactly how easy it is to use.

The Knot-A-Quilt for this review was provided to me, at no cost, for the sole purpose of reviewing it. The opinions expressed are purely my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Old El Paso El Tacodor Review and Giveway

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 20:03:00 +0000

We love "Taco Night" in our house. Everyone has their own topping favorites and preferences between soft shell or hard. Thanks to My Blog Spark we were able to add a little fun to our most recent taco night. We were sent 2 coupons for Old El Paso dinner kits, the El Tacodor Game and a $10 gift card to get some fixings. We picked up 2 of the Gordita dinner kits.

Not only is it delicious with its ranch sauce and soft tortilla shell, but it is filling too! If you have not tried it you are missing out!

Some of the El Tacodor games we played were:
Crunch Time: Name at least 10 animated movies within 1 minute
Since we are big fans of movie night, this was the most fun!!
Lettuce Play: Act out different animals - no noises! Your partner must guess 3
Lime Light: Cheer, "We love tacos, yes we do! We love tacos, how `bout you?"
Even after the game the kids were still chanting this!
Say Cheese: Pronounce the name of everyone at the table backwards!
This was a little more challenging but still fun!

The Giveaway
One reader will win an Old El Paso El Tacodor Prize Pack! It includes:
- Information and a link to the El Tacodor Game
- (2) Coupons to purchase Old El Paso Dinner Kits
- (1) $10 Gift Card to purchase additional items for your tacos (meat, cheese, sour, cream, lettuce, tomato, etc)

To Enter
Visit Old El Paso and leave a comment about which dinner kits you will get if you win

Extra Entries
Subscribe to this blog
Become a Google Connect Friend
Become a Fan on Facebook
Follow me on Twitter
Enter any of my other giveaways
Comment on any non giveaway posts
Subscribe to 1stopmom (10 extra entries)
Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily)

The Rules
This giveaway is open to US residents only. It will end November 18, 2009. A winner will be chosen using Random.org and contacted via email. Please remember to leave a seperate comment for each entry. If you are already a subscriber, follower, etc be sure to leave a comment so you get your entry!

And guess what? You can also enter the Old El Paso El Tacodor Sweepstakes for a chance to win $5,000 just for having fun with your family. Other prizes include monthly giveaways of $300 cash cards, and weekly giveaways of gift certificates for Old El Paso products for the next five months. When you visit El Tacodor you will also find a link to coupons, a calendar to schedule your next taco night, topping choice chart and more!

Old El Paso provided me with the free product, information, and a prize pack through MyBlogSpark.The opinions expressed are purely my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Gypsy Soulefull Hammered Cross Necklace Review

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 18:25:00 +0000

Since I have been stepping out of my box more and more I am having fun finding products that fit my personal taste. This is important to me because I used to be the type of person that was scared to voice my opinion. Recently I had the opportunity to review necklace from Gypsy Soule. What caught my attention right away were the beautiful colors of the stones in the necklace. What is really interesting to the eye is the way the stones are seperated by 1/2 inch matching crosses. I love the way the necklace feels around my neck. I also like that the chain is adjustable. The Soulefull Hammered Cross Necklace has a little bit of heaviness to it but I don't mind. It is definitely a unique piece of jewelry. I enjoy wearing this necklace because I like the way it makes me feel. I love to wear accessories that are different and this fits the bill. From the smoothness of the cross to the beautiful accent colors. I was happy with it all.

The Soulefull Hammered Cross Necklace for this review was provided to me, at no cost, for the sole purpose of reviewing it. The opinions expressed are purely my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Bummas Review and Giveaway

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:29:00 +0000

When it comes to changing diapers I am one of those people after I wipe a baby's bottom I usually let it air out a little. Some wipes can be very wet. Sometimes I do get caught off guard with a little spraying, lol. Well recently I was sent a set of Bummas to review. I was happy for the opportunity because I am trying to become more green, so I am open to learning all I can.

Bummas are soft, eco friendly baby sized cloths made especially for drying baby bottoms. They come in packs of ten for $16.99. I love that they offer 4 colorful combinations which makes them perfect for gift giving. You can choose from The Boys, The Girls, The Wild Ones and The Calm Ones. Bummas are made from 100% cotton and woven velour terry cloth. You can use them and wash them over and over again so they are durable. They also fit comfortably in your hand, they are 5" x "7 in size.

I was sent the The Wild Ones to try out. Luckily there are always babies around :) Bummas feel so nice in my hands, very soft. I actually tried the Bummas in a number of different ways. I used one instead of a baby wipe. Then I used another one to dry off the baby's bottom really good. It was pretty easy. Another way I was able to use a Bumma to just cover up the baby while I was reaching for another pair of pants and guess what? He tried to spray me! The Bumma caught it all. For once I was not squirted. I was able to just throw them in the washer and the did not shrink at all. The colors did not fade either. I just love Bummas.

The Giveaway
One lucky reader will win their own set of Bummas, any color they choose

To Enter
Visit Bummas and leave a comment about which set you would choose if you win.

Extra Entries
Follow Bummas on Twitter
Leave a comment about something you learned from the Bummas site (4 extra entries)
Subscribe to this blog
Become a Google Connect Friend
Become a Fan on Facebook
Follow me on Twitter
Enter any of my other giveaways
Comment on any non giveaway posts
Subscribe to 1stopmom (10 extra entries)
Tweet about this giveaway "enter to win Bummas @1stopmom from @bummas http://bit.ly/3DlMQP" (can be done daily)

The Rules
This giveaway is open to everyone worldwide. It will end November 17, 2009. A winner will be chosen using Random.org and contacted via email. Please remember to leave a seperate comment for each entry. If you are already a subscriber, follower, etc be sure to leave a comment so you get your entry!

The Bummas for this review was provided to me, at no cost, for the sole purpose of reviewing it. Bummas also supplied the prize for the giveaway.The opinions expressed are purely my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Queasy Pop Kids Review

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 17:34:00 +0000

Have you heard of Queasy Pop Kids? They are all natual lollipops. Queasy Pops offer a natual way to ease a queasy or upset stomach. I was especially interested in this opportunity because I do not like all the different medicines that I have to choose from when they are not feeling well. I would like different options. I was sent a few boxes to review and all the kids have had a chance to try them out. There are seven lollipops in each box, each one a different flavor:

Natural Cola
Sour Raspberry
Cinnamon
Sour Lemon
Peppermint
Papaya
Green Apple

Some interesting flavors right? Kayla is the number one mini reviewer in our family, so of course she has her opinions.

Kayla was able to try one of the lollipops one morning when her stomach was feeling a little upset. She picked out the Peppermint flavor. The wrapping was easy to pull off. Kayla began sucking on it. Within a little while she began to feel better. She said the lollipops tasted really good. I even tried one myself, the Papaya flavor. I never tried Papaypa before and I like the flavor. Kayla has tried all the flavors and we found out Peppermint works best for her. This is why the variety box is such a great idea because what works for one person may not work for the next. I am hoping in the future that boxes for one flavor are offered. That way I could buy just a pack of the Peppermint lollipops for Kayla.

You can try Queasy Pops for yourself for only $3.95.

The Queasy Pops Kids were provided to me, at no cost, for the sole purpose of reviewing it. The opinions expressed are purely my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Sorel Review

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 23:02:00 +0000

It is no secret that Kayla has her own sense of style. Just like her big sisters. She knows what she likes and will not have anything to do with anything she does not like no matter how much I beg, lol. We have had many a discussion on what I like and she doesn't. Especially when it comes to shoes and accessories. Boots have always been the worst. What I like or found on "sale" does not always get her stamp of approval. I was dreading shopping for boots. Then came the opportunity to try some boots from Sorel. So we took the first step and looked around the site to see if there were any boots she actually liked the look of. She ended up picking the Snow Princess design. Kayla was definitely happy when the boots arrived in the mail.

She liked how the bottom felt and looked as well.

She found some boots she likes, Yay for me, I mean her,lol

These boots are really well made. I love the special touches that are part of the design. The colors, coal and mauve, work great together and just the right shade. Kayla says the are so warm and feel really soft. She tried them on with both socks and bare feet. She prefers bare feet. It feels so good on her feet she said. I touched it with my hand and I like the way it felt as well. I think I may grab myself a pair for myself. They must be good if my teenager wants a pair! I have my eye on the Cumberland design.

From the site:

Lined with 200g insulation for a temperature rating down to -40° below zero, it’s perfect for days spent digging forts out of snow banks and sliding on sleds. And to make life easier on parents and kids alike, a single-pull closure with barrel lock makes it a cinch to get in and out of the boots.

FEATURES:

•Waterproof leather and PU backed synthetic textile upper
•Single pull closure with barrel lock
•200g insulation
•Removable EVA comfort footbed with 3mm felt frost plug
•Traction enhancing multi-directional lug outsole
•Imported

There is a current promotion for free shipping going on for a limited time. All you have to do is sign up for their email.

The Snow Princess Boots for this review was provided to me, at no cost, for the sole purpose of reviewing it. The opinions expressed are purely my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Wupzey High Chair Food Catcher Review

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:15:00 +0000

I just love a product that makes life easier. I recently had the opportunity to review a Wupzey. It is for high chairs and definitely makes life easier. Wupzey attaches to the high chair pretty quickly and with no problems. Then just add your little one and all the mess is caught. It does a pretty good job. It makes it so easy to just wipe everything directly in the catcher after the baby is done eating. Then all you have to do is take it off and dump all the mess! It is not a big deal to store the Wupzey either. Just attach it to the high chair and you are covered at the next meal.

The Wupzey is:

Machine washable
Vinyl Free
Lead Free
PVC and BPA free
Phthalate free
Comes in 10 different colors

Buy your own Wupzey for only $14.95!

The Wupzey for this review was provided to me, at no cost, for the sole purpose of reviewing it. The opinions expressed are purely my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Pretty Please Press Review and Giveaway

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 12:35:00 +0000

My family was recently sent a set of books to read from Pretty Please Press. Their whole concept is about publishing books that can not only be read aloud, but to spark conversation between adults and children. The books that Pretty Please Press publish all contain a message.

The kids like the cover of Bella Basset Ballerina. There is just something about a picture of a dancing dog that makes them smile. This story is about Bella who is a Basset that fell in love with the ballet after seeing her first show. She decided she wanted to become a dancer. Bella was persistant even though she was constantly told that she was not meant to dance. The back cover had a pleasant surprise. It was what various "dogs" thought about Bella and the book. It was cute to read what the cousin, neighbor and friend of the author thought.

This story is about a purple creature called a Pynx. The creature moved to a "neighbor" where there were other creatures who were a little different. Nonetheless the Pynx was happy to be there. Unfortunately the rest of the neighbors did not like her and considered her and her family to be a nuisance and wanted them gone. It had a lot to do with not being able to communicate with one another.

Kick Block Punch is a story about Sam. Sam was in a karate class and all he thought about was getting a black belt. He began the class thinking he knew it all and that everything was pretty easy. He soon found out it was not so easy. Sam learned that anything you want to be good at requires practice. With practice anything is possible.

This book was definitely interesting to read. Lavinia and Emmeline were two sisters who just could not get along. They argued and fought constantly. To the point where their parents ended up living in seperate parts of the house. While reading I found myself wondering how it would end. We all enjoyed the story and the pictures.

The Giveaway

One lucky reader will win all four books from Pretty Please Press.

To Enter

Visit Pretty Please Press and leave a comment about something you have learned

Extra Entries

Follow me on Twitter
Subscribe to this blog
Blog about this giveaway ( 2 extra entries)
Become a fan of 1stopmom on Facebook
Enter any of my other giveaways
Leave a comment on any other post (2 extra entries)
Add my button to your blog or me to your blogroll ( 4 extra entries)

Subscribe to 1stopmom (10 entries)

The Rules

This giveaway is open to US residents only. It will end November 14, 2009. A winner will be chosen using Random.org and contacted via email. Please remember to leave a seperate comment for each entry. If you are already a subscriber, follower, etc be sure to leave a comment so you get your entry!

Want to buy your own? Pretty Please Press is offering a discount of 20% off the list price for books buy 3 books, get 1 free offer.

The books for this review and giveaway were provided to me, at no cost, by Pretty Please Press for the sole purpose of reviewing them. The opinions expressed are purely my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Giveaway Winners

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 06:12:00 +0000

Thank you so much to everyone who took the time to enter my giveaways. Here are the winners .

Warner Brothers Eating Right Basket: #229 nynekats
Joowle 2 Toned Pendant: #63 Terra H
Testing The Ice Gift Prize Pack: #93 VickeC,
Testing The Ice Books: #95 brandon and jakell, #39 ale_d_o_l , #84 Michele P. , #69 Neas Nuttiness
Pink Warm Computer Mouse: #162 TylerPants

Congratulations everyone!! Keep an eye out for a email from me :)

The Suburban Outlaw Blog Tour

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 05:42:00 +0000

I love reading so when The Parent Reviewers contacted me about an upcoming book blog tour I signed up right away. I was sent The Suburban Outlaw by Pam Sherman to review. The book is not very thick and I was not sure what to expect. It turns out Pam Sherman is a columnist who had a bi-monthly column about her life. Pam is not only a writer but an actress and attorney too. This book is made up of her different columns. I had never had of Pam Sherman before but after reading this book, I am glad that I had the opportunity to read about her life and the ways she sees things.

The book starts off giving the definition of what an Suburban Outlaw is exactly. That was helpful to me because I had no clue what it was. As soon as I started reading, the section titled "The Rebel Wears Sweater Sets" I found myself laughing. Actually I found myself laughing quite a few times while reading this book. The way Pam wrote made it so easy and enjoyable to read. It was fun to read about her nanny and how she took to living where it snowed, a lot. After reading The Suburban Outlaws I feel like I made a new friend. Someone who does not claim to be perfect and speaks her mind.

The Suburban Outlaw was provided to me, at no cost, by The Parent Reviewers for the sole purpose of reviewing it. The opinions expressed are purely my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Cold Plasma Giveaway

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 09:21:00 +0000

What kind of skin do you have? My skin is all over the place sometimes but I do think about aging. I recently heard about Cold Plasma from Perricone MD. Cold Plasma is a universal skin care product; suited for anyone, no matter how old your skin is, what your skin type is, or whether you’re male or female.

Cold Plasma works through a patented ionic (i.e. charged particles) suspension carrier system which allows for your skin to extract from Cold Plasma’s formula according to your individual, unique needs. This personalized system, called biochemical individuality, is a self-selection process charged by phospholipids, major cell membrane components. Phospholipids are fat derivatives which help lock in moisture, because phosopholipid bilayers have hydrophilic (attracted to water) heads facing outward and hydrophobic (mix poorly with water) tails facing inward toward each other. The phospholipids in this formula help direct needed nutrients where they can be effectively used through the cell membrane. This means, if any of the ingredients aren’t needed, they just won’t be utilized.

Cold Plasma works through this system to deliver optimal nutrition to skin cells to help skin achieve a healthy, glowing, youthful appearance. It does so by helping combat the 10 signs of aging, which include:

1.Firmness
2.Elasticity
3.Clarity
4.Radiance
5.Smoothness
6.Texture
7.Redness
8.Blotchiness
9.Fine lines and wrinkles
10.Dryness

Cold Plasma contains no:

•Parabens
•Fragrance
•Sulfates
•Mineral oil
•Artificial colors or fillers

The Giveaway
One lucky reader will win Cold Plasma (valued at $150)

To Enter
Leave a comment about how you would benefit from the usage of Cold Plasma

Extra Entries
Subscribe to 1stopmom (10 entries)
Follow me on Twitter
Become my friend on Google Connect
Subscribe to 1stopmom Giveaways and Reviews
Tweet about this giveaway
Leave a comment on any non giveaway post
Add my button to your sidebar or me to your blogroll
Become a fan on Facebook
Blog about this giveaway (5 entries)

The Rules
This giveaway is open to US residents only. This giveaway ends November 14, 2009. A winner will be chosen using Random.org and contacted via email.

Cold Plasma is being provided by Perricone MD. The facts listed above come directly from the website.

Laughing Elephant Review

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 07:29:00 +0000

I think my kids have a larger collection of books than I have. They have quite a few book shelves full of books. I still have books from when Jazz was little. My kids not only like to read to themselves but to their little cousins. That brings a huge smile to my face!

Recently we were given the opportunity to review The Three Little Pigs from Laughing Elephant. Now this book is not the traditional small books. I like this. It is perfect for if you are reading to a few kids at once. You are able to hold it up and they can see the pictures easily. My kids are actually fans of the oversized books. Just something a little different :) This one has a unique shape to it.

This book has beautiful illustrations in it. You can see what to expect by the cover. This particular book was illustrated by Milo Winter. We really enjoyed reading this book. It has been a while since we read this story. I had no idea this story was first published in 1938. It has been around for a long time. Kayla and I browsed the Laughing Elephant and we found quite a few books she would like to add to her collection. She likes the way the books look. She is just like me, we know what we like, lol.

Laughing Elephant offers vintage reproductions of books, notecards, journals, pocket mirrors, stickers and more. I am really taking a liking to the whole vintage thing. It is all pretty interesting to me.

You can get your own copy of The Three Little Pigs for $9.95 at Laughing Elephant.

The Three Little Pigs was provided to me, at no cost, by Laughing Elephant for the sole purpose of reviewing it. The opinions expressed are purely my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

FujiFillm Giveaway Winner

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 21:39:00 +0000

Thank you so much to everyone that entered. The winner of this giveaway is ...........

#518 gmmerrell

Congratulations!!!!!! I am sending you an email right now.

1stopmom Videos

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 02:59:00 +0000

Loading Viddler Videos

Warner's Brother Eating Right Gift Basket

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 06:07:00 +0000

I recently did a review of the Eating Right kids line. My kids really liked it and a learned a lot. Well I was also given the opportunity to offer my readers a wonderful giveaway. It is for an Eating Right Gift Basket. The basket valued at $75 includes:

Eating Right Kids products (non perishable) in a thermal bag to take with you everywhere
Eating Right Kids “green” reusable shopping bag
Eating Right Kids brochure
Couture Tweety T-shirt from Junk Food
Bugs Bunny playful plush item

To Enter

Leave a comment about who you would love to win this for

Extra Entries

Follow this blog

Subscribe by email

Subcribe by reader

Follow me on Twitter

Become a fan on Facebook

Subscribe to 1stopmom (10 extra entries)

Add a my button to your sidebar or me to your blogroll

Add a comment to any non giveaway blog

Blog about this giveaway (5 extra entries)

Tweet about this giveaway: Win a Eating Right Gift Basket from @1stopmom http://tinyurl.com/yegna5v (can be done daily)

The Rules

This giveaway is open to US residents only. The giveaway ends November 4, 2009. A winner will be chosen using Random.org and contacted via email.

The gift basket for the giveaway is provided by Team Mom.

Mrs. O: The Face of Fashion Democracy Review

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 03:55:00 +0000

Celebrated for her style and substance, Michelle Obama has transformed the role of first lady and become a 21st century icon, attracting attention from all over the world. The qualities so admired in her - intelligence, strength and charisma - radiate through her personal style, which has united accessibility with high-wattage glamour. The clothes, like the woman, feel both familiar and inspirational. Readily mixing high-end labels with more affordable brands, with a focus on craftsmanship and artistry, Mrs. O has elevated the notion of real value and ushered in a new era of "fashion democracy".

Building on the success of Mrs-O.org - the Web site that chronicles Michelle Obama's style - MRS. O: THE FACE OF FASHION DEMOCRACY takes a closer look at America's modern style icon, featuring more than 120 photographs of the first lady and delving into the back story of her clothes and accessories. It also goes behind the scenes with interviews from her favorite designers, including Isabel Toledo, Jason Wu, Michael Kors, Maria Pinto and Isaac Mizrahi.

I had the chance to read Mrs. O recently. This book was a really enjoyable read. I am the first to admit that I don't know a lot about fashion but i do know what I like. This book starts off with a little information about our First Lady. There are these pictures of when she was younger and she looks exactly the same :) This book is more than just pretty pictures of what she wore but the story behind the clothes. My favorite part of this book is the chapter "The People's Perspective". Some artwork is featured that was inspired by Mrs. Obama that is just beautiful. This book is one that even my daughters enjoyed reading. There is a these Q & A sections where you able to learn a little about the various designers. Since Jazz is into fashion, this is one of favorite parts.

Mrs. O: The Face of Fashion Democracy can be found at Amazon for only $17.15

Mrs. O was provided to me, at no cost, by the Hachette Reading Group for the sole purpose of reviewing it. The opinions expressed are purely my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Restore Clean Water System Review

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 03:07:00 +0000

I do not like the taste of tap water. I have tried to be more frugal and drink it but I just can't. If I have to choose between tap water and nothing, I would rather be thirsty. It might have to do with the fact that back around 1993 or so Milwaukee had such an horrible outbreak of cryptosporidium that almost everyone I knew was sick including myself. It was pretty bad, some people died from it. We were on an alert where you had to boil water or use bottled.

When I was contacted to check out the Restore Clean Water System, I definitely was curious. I am interested in an alternative to bottled water, because let's face it, it can get expensive.

Restore is a entire purification system but in a pitcher. Usually when I think "purification system" I picture something really expensive. A pitcher as an option definitely sounds more affordable.

Restore uses Ultraviolet (UV) Clean Technology to go beyond filtering by removing bacteria, viruses and more. UV Technology has been used for over 60 years for its germicidal properties in hospitals and laboratories. For the first time, an application of this unique germ-killing technology is available for home use in an affordable, easy to use water pitcher.

Restore is California certified for microbiological water purification, a first for a water pitcher utilizing UV technology and is Gold Seal Certified to National Sanitation Foundation standards by the Water Quality Association. UV Technology has been used for over 60 years for its germicidal properties in hospitals and laboratories.

I like how pretty the Restore is. It looks good :) The whole setup process did not take long at all. About four to five minutes. I had to clean the pitcher before using and then make up at least two pitchers of water before actually tasting the water. This is because of carbon dust which is perfectly normal. After I did that, when the UV light went off, we all grabbed cups to taste the water. It tasted clean and refreshing. We all liked it and could tell the difference. It tasted better. Way better than tap. The Restore pitcher can go right into the refrigerator too. It has a retractable cord and does not take up a lot of space on the counter. I really like how easy to use it is. The Restore makes it easier to be eco friendly. I don't have to buy bottled water. I just fill up my reusable water bottle directly from the pitcher and it tastes great!

The system costs $99 and the refills are only $7.99. The filter lasts for a month. That is a lot of water. You can not get that good of a deal on bottled water. My kids just drink so much water I am not sure if one pitcher is enough!

See the Restore System in action!!!

The Restore Clean Water System was provided to me, at no cost, by the manufacturer or representing PR agency for the sole purpose of product testing. The opinions expressed are purely my own and are not influenced by monetary compensation.

Prima Princessa: The Nutcracker Review

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 14:21:00 +0000

I think all my daughters have been through that stage where they wanted to be ballarinas. It was so adorable. Kayla is really into now. Anything that involves movement, she loves to be a part of this. I remember going to see The Nutcracker when I was about 11-12 and it was long to sit through. There is no way I think that Kayla would be able to make it that long. That is Prima Princessa makes it possible to see some ballet without becoming overwhelmed by it. The dvd is only 40 minutes long and that is perfect for her. She was able to see the Beautiful San Franciso Ballet perform different parts from the Nutcracker and learn a few step of her own.

This post was written as part of a program for Family Review Network and Prima Princessa, who provided the DVD for review."

Relish Giveaway Winner

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 22:59:00 +0000

Thank you to everyone who took the time to enter this giveaway. The winner is ......
#13 Dove420

Congratulations!!! I hope you enjoy this subscription :)

Have you entered my giveaways?

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 07:05:00 +0000

TESTING THE ICE prize pack! This includes a Kidorable Hat, Glove & Scarf set and a copy of Testing the Ice. Four (4) additional readers will receive a copy of Testing the Ice. Ends 10/30

One year subscription to Relish! Make meal time easier with a one year subscription to a menu planning service. Ends 10/27

Sterling Silver High Polish Two-Tone Double Heart Pendant perfect gift for yourself or a loved one from Joowle Ends 11/3

FujiFilm FinePix Z33WP Digital Camera the worlds smallest waterproof digital camera ends 10/31

ValueRays® Pink Warm Computer Mouse III pink, oversized mouse that warms your hand ends 11/1

Pink Warm Computer Mouse III Review and Giveaway

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 19:17:00 +0000

I think I am on my laptop more than I am not. I am always doing something on it. Either some type of research, playing a video game, doing stuff related to my blogs or playing a game, lol. Yeah, I play a lot of games. It only makes sense that I am using my mouse alot. I honestly thought my current mouse was ok. I mean it serves it purpose. Unfortunately sometimes my hand and fingers get a little sore but I thought that was normal. But it's not and I did not realize that there is such a better choice out there. Recently I was sent the ValueRays® Pink Warm Computer Mouse III to review. Right away you can tell this mouse is different. It is not super tiny and cute. Actually it is a bit oversized and pink. The pink mouse is ValueRays way of supporting the fight against cancer.

This mouse is really nice. I plugged it up and did not have to install any special drivers or anything. It is truly plug and play. I love the way it feels in my hand too. I am able to rest my hand on the mouse without holding it too tight. I don't know why I do that. I guess I can get really intense when online. Another thing I noticed is my hand is tilted to the right instead of straight on and flat. That position feels really comfortable. Now I have to tell you about one of the best features of this mouse. It warms up! No kidding. I suffer from "cold hands" and this is perfect for me. It does not get so hot that it burns you but it uses an infared heat that feels so good.

The Giveaway

One lucky reader will win their own ValueRays® Warm Mouse III

To Enter

Visit Warm Mouse Heated Keyboard and leave a comment about something you learned.

Extra Entries

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Enter any of my other giveaways
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Add my button to your blog or me to your blogroll ( 4 extra entries)

The Rules

Please leave a seperate comment for each entry. This giveaway is for US residents only. This giveaway ends November 1, 2009. A winner will be chosen using Random.org and contacted via email.

Want to buy your own warm mouse? A portion of each purchase of the Pink ValueRays® Warm Mouse III will be donated to the American Cancer Society's Fight Against Cancer.

The products for this review and giveaway were provided at no cost to me. This did not effect my opinion in any way.

Scientific Explorer Magnificent Manicure Kit

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 01:40:00 +0000

In a house of four girls you have to expect a little love for pampering. It's weird because my girls just picked up on it themselves. I don't have as much time for all the "spa" stuff but I encourage them to do it. They love to do each other's hair and nails. The works. Thanks to Team Mom we were sent the Magnificent Manciure Kit to review, another activity kit from Elmer's.

I have to say even I like this kit. The girls were able to create their own custom-scent lotion and some crystal mud. The crystal mud made their little hands even softer! They were surprised to learn how big of a part science plays in something they love to do. The girls had a great time. The kit includes some lavender mist fragrance which is soooo relaxing. We all love the scent of lavender. In the kit you get:

bath salt
cucumber mist fragrance
crystal mud
lavender mist fragrance
a soaking tray
pipette
mixing spoon
measuring spoon
base for the lotion
glitter
dye
nail buffer
seperators for toes
pumice stone

I think this activity will be good for sleepovers or just a fun "spa" day at home. The girls love it and want more kits like it.

You can get the Magnificent Manicure Kit at Walmart for only $17.88

This product was provided free to review on behalf of Team Mom. The opinions expressed are purely our own.

Elmer's Mythbusters Weird World of Science Review

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 23:29:00 +0000

Am I the only person that thinks of glue when I hear the word Elmer's? This is probaly because it has been around since the 1940's. They have come such a long way and are so much more than glue. I was recently sent their MythBusters Weird World of Water to review. Right away my kids were excited about this kit. TJ and Kayla both watch the Discovery Channel on a daily basis. They have thirst for wanting to know how things work and why something is the way it is. I just love it! It started with TJ back when he was barely 1 and he discovered dinosaurs. Kayla fell into it because it was a great way to spend time with her older brother.

Mythbusters is a show that put science to the test in a fun way. The cast uses science to show what myths are real and which are fiction. I think this is why the show has fans that include both adults and kids. Who doesn't wonder about stuff like that?

The Mythbusters activity kits use the same trial and error format as the show but kids get to do it at home. Each kit has several myths the kids can "bust". The kits are: Power of Air Pressure, Forces of Flight and Weird World of Water. We were able to try the Weird World of Water. The first thing TJ wanted to try was launching his own water powered rocket. I am glad that I did not need to run out to get any additonal supplies. Basically we needed water, vinegar and baking soda. I keep big batches of baking soda and vinegar around the house so we were good. TJ was able to put the rocket together with no problem and a little help from Kayla. Luckily the water was nice enough for us to go outside to do this little experiment. Once I was able to get the mixture just right ( you know it took me a couple of tries, lol) it was the coolest thing to see it go up in the air! The best thing about the kit is it is not just a one time use deal. You can use it over and over again. So you know we did it a few times that night. Even Jazz got into it! I know that huge bag of baking soda from Sam's Club would come in handy!

This kit is great for uncovering the mysteries of water and all it can do. The water powered rocket is not the only myth you bust. You can also test the power of whirlpools, create a rainbow and more. My kids love it! I think we all felt like Mythbusters that night.

I can see why this kit just received the FamilyFun Magazine 2009 T.O.Y. award. I think it is a good deal for $19.99 at Amazon. The age range suggested for this kit is ages 9 and up but Kayla (7) had fun too.

This product was provided free to review on behalf of Team Mom. The opinions expressed are purely our own.

Fujifilm FinePix Z33WP Review and Giveaway

admin@1stopmom.com (1stopmom) — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 04:35:00 +0000

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing a digital camera for My Birthday Bash. This review was important to me because my current camera is crap! I just had to put it out there. It sucks through batteries like it is dying of thirst, flashes when it wants to, actually takes pictures when it wants to too. It really had become a complete embarrassment to me. I could not rely on it at all. With four kids I like to take pictures and lots of them! The camera I was able to review was a FujiFilm Fine Pix Z33WP. This tiny little camera packs a big punch! You would not believe all that it can do. Well first let me tell you that this camera just so happens to be the smallest waterproof digital camera in the world. Yep, I said water proof. The FinePix Z33WP is a camera made for fun for the entire family. You can do everything with it from taking it in the bath to your kid's muddy soccer game. It comes in four great colors.

It is even easier to use. There are so many menu options:

Automatic scene recognition. When on this setting scenes are automatically detected and selected into 6 appropriate camera settings: Portrait, Landscape, Night, Macro, Night Portrait, and Backlit Portrait.
Face Detection. Optimizes people pictures by identifying faces and adjusting focus and exposure to ensure bright, clear results. It can detect up to 10 faces! Plus it automatically removes red eye.
Face Detection with timer. Automatically sets off after the number and position of faces in a scene are detected, snapping the photo at the right moment, with all the faces in focus and properly exposed. Can be used for couples or group shots.

FinePix Z33WP offers a lot of shooting modes as well to make getting that right shot so easy.

Auto. Nothing too fancy just regular shooting
Scene Recognition Auto. Just point and the camera picks all the settings
Natural Light & with Flash. You get two pictures taken back to back. One with a flash and one without.

Natural Light Retains natural ambience of shots
Underwater Best for capturing clear images of the ocean blue.
Auction. Combines multiple photos into a single image

Museum Flash is suppressed, all operation sound, and AF-assist Illuminator/self-timer lamp is off.
Picture Stabilization Used for selecting a fast shutter speed that reduces camera shake and moving-subject blurring.
Sunset Capture sunset scenes vivid in color.
Portrait. Skin tones are softened as it enhance the overall natural look

Landscape Best for shooting scenery in daylight capturing clear and sharp shots of buildings and mountains effectively.
Sport A quick recognition of persons in motion or objects for a faster shutter speed to help you catch the perfect moment.
Text. Clear shots of letters on a document or white board.

This camera is not just about the pictures though. You can take videos too. Even one touch videos underwater :) You can easily edit video with the FinePix Z33WP. Just pick any movie you previously recorded and hit resume to finish recording your movie.

I can not forget to mention one of my favorite things this camera can do. It is called "blog mode".

There are a few modes built right into the camera to make blogging that much easier. You are able to transform any subject into an illustration or a painting, create zoom in effect on the scene, or a miniature model.

I have to admit I like this camera. It is slim and light and fits in my hand really nicely. FujiFilm was nice enough to send me an box of accessories which included a silicone case. I feel like I have a really good grip on it when it is in my hands. Plus there was this cool float strip so if I ever let go of my camera when I am in the water, I won't lose it because it will float! Oh and the rechargeable battery makes such a big difference. I am able to use my camera much longer without the battery going dead. That is a big plus for me! There is nothing worse than being somewhere and you need to take pictures but yours are dead! I love the fact that the screen is nice and big. The buttons are all on the left side and easy to read and operate. I think it would be great if you could get silicone case to match the camera. It would be a nice option. I am thinking about putting one of those screen protectors over the screen like I have on my PSP. You can never be too careful!

This camera is easy enough for the entire family to use, so you don't have to be the one always behind the camera. You can actually be in a few shots.

The Giveaway

One very lucky reader will win a FinePix Z33WP from FujiFilm and a SeeHere Photobook

To Enter

Visit FujiFilm and leave a comment about something you have learned.

Extra Entries

Leave a comment about something you learn about at SeeHere.com (5 Extra Entries)

Follow me on Twitter

Follow FujiFilm on Twitter

Tweet this giveaway "@1stopmom is giving away a Fujifilm camera and SeeHere.com photo book, courtesy of @FujifilmUS http://tinyurl.com/yh86nwy" (can be done daily)

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Enter any other giveaway

The Rules

This giveaway is open to US residents only. The giveaway will end October 31, 2009. Please leave a seperate comment for each entry. A winner will be chosen using random.org and contacted via email.

This cameras for this review and giveaway were provided for free by FujiFilm. The opinion expressed is purely my own.