Mommy's Favorite Things

For The Home Giveaway Hop SIGN UPS!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Mon, 01 Jul 2013 13:00:00 +0000

Hosted By: Mommy's Favorite Things & Mama's Baby Cupcakes "For The Home" This Blog Hop giveaway is going to be items that are meant For The Home. Anything that has to do with the home. From decorating to cleaning products. From food to Bedding. Whatever goes in the home. There are lots of options for finding a prize for this wonderful event. Your only mission is to find the perfect prize pack for your blog! Because this is a blog hop, each blog will be responsible for securing their own prize on their own blog. Each prize must be a Minimum of $25. The Prize can be sponsored OR you can self sponsor. Each blog can have more than 1 winner, but each winner must win at least $25 in prizes. Joining this Blog Hop is FREE with Announcement. When: 7/8-7/22 Who: Anybody with a blog can sign up for this one! Sign ups close 7/1 Click HERE to find the HTML for the announcement post and Don't forget to add yourself to the Linky Below! You MUST post an announcement post in order to enter this hop! You can also join the Facebook Group for our events here

Summer Cloth Diaper Giveaway Hop Sign Ups!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 17:56:00 +0000

Hosted By: Mommy's Favorite Things & Mama's Baby Cupcakes "Summer Cloth Diaper" This Blog Hop giveaway is going to be items that are meant for Cloth Diapering. Whether that be cloth diapers themselves OR accessories this is the hop for it. There are lots of options for finding a prize for this wonderful event. Your only mission is to find the perfect prize pack for your blog! Because this is a blog hop, each blog will be responsible for securing their own prize on their own blog. Each prize must be a Minimum of $25. The Prize can be sponsored OR you can self sponsor. Each blog can have more than 1 winner, but each winner must win at least $25 in prizes. Joining this Blog Hop is FREE with Announcement. When: 6/21-7/1 Who: Anybody with a blog can sign up for this one! Sign ups close 6/14 Click HERE to find the HTML for the announcement post and Don't forget to add yourself to the Linky Below! You MUST post an announcement post in order to enter this hop! You can also join the Facebook Group for our events here

Totally Toddler Grand Prize Giveaway!! Ends 5/27

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Mon, 27 May 2013 04:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the Totally Toddler Giveaway Hop! This event is hosted by Mommy's Favorite Things and Mama's Baby Cupcakes.

This hop is focused on items you'd want/need for a child ages 1-6 yrs old. After visiting my giveaway, make sure you use the linky below to take a look at the other 25+ blogs and see what they have to offer for you and your little one! Each blog has a minimum prize package of $25 per winner.

This grand prize package is sponsored by Pediped with 3 pair of shoes in Gender and Size of Choice, and 2 Red Hens for a snack bag set and a Toy Nanny for a total value of just over $200 in prizes.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Totally Toddler Giveaway Hop ENDS 5/27

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Mon, 27 May 2013 04:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the Totally Toddler Giveaway Hop! This event is hosted by Mommy's Favorite Things and Mama's Baby Cupcakes.

Also be sure to check out the Grand Prize featured on Mommy's Favorite Things blog. This grand prize package is sponsored by Pediped with 3 pair of shoes in gender and size of choice, and 2 Red Hens for a snack bag set and a Toy Nanny for a total value of just over $200 in prizes.

These are just the companies that are sponsoring here on Mommy's Favorite Things!

Pictures below are an IDEA of what you can get!

Bummis is offering the chance to win a Swimmi, Sun Hat and Sun tank/shirt of choice! Value up to $54

See Kai Run is offering the chance to win a pair of shoes of choice! Value up to $56

Jelli Fish Kids is offering the chance to win 2 sets of pajamas from the Spring/Summer Line

NurturMe is offering a toddler feeding pack with 11 pouches of toddler food, a spoon, a muslin bag and a couple coupons. Value of $16

Total Value of this prize pack is up to $150

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Popcorn Popper high quality Popping Corn

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Fri, 24 May 2013 20:54:00 +0000

PopcornPopper.com offers high-quality popping corn that is exceptionally tasty, easy to use in your Whirley Pop Popcorn Popper, is reasonably priced and is quickly shipped to you. Much better tasting than microwave or theater popcorn, it is also superior nutritionally because it does not contain MSG or trans fats and is gluten-free. Wabash Valley Farms is in Indiana's #1 county for producing popcorn and chooses only the best of the kernels for use in the Popcorn Popper. There are varieties to choose from including Big & Fluffy, Tender & White and extra large Caramel. The Gourmet Popping Corns come in Yellow, White and Lady Finger. They have been bred to be hulless, or what some call huskless. Although popcorn needs a hull in order to pop, these hulls shatter when popped so appear to be hulless. It is unusual for any of the kernels not to pop. One customer stated that out of twelve quarts only two kernels did not pop! Popcorn Kits are the perfect answer because they are pre-measured with gourmet popcorn, premium oil and seasonings that are the secret to the delicious and awesome taste. Included in the varieties are Sweet & Salty Kettle Corn (Sugar Glaze), Real Theater Style, and Less Salt/Less Oil Real Theater Style.

*Disclaimer, I received compensation for writing this post

Blair Candy

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Fri, 24 May 2013 20:15:00 +0000

Visually wandering through BlairCandy.com online candy store may be one of the sweetest activities you have ever engaged in. Here you can take a walk down memory lane while browsing through their selection of nostalgic delights. Their nostalgic collection includes items such as Black Crows, Atomic Fireballs, Bubblegum Cigarettes, Candy Necklaces and many other candy and gum varieties that were once childhood favorites. If nostalgia doesn't interest you, that's okay. Blair Candy has a wide array of currently popular sweet treats to tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your sweet tooth. Gummie candy and an assortment of the newest varieties of popular candies such as dark chocolate M&M's or coconut 3 Muskateer bars are also available. You may be very appreciative of the sugar free and gluten free candy options if you or someone you know has some health issues that restrict your snack options. You can make bulk purchases at BlairCandy.com. and they have wholesale pricing available for large purchases. This option is especially helpful when you are shopping for candy to give as gifts, party favors or holiday treats. Candy is not the only thing you'll find at Blair Candy. They also have gum and breath mints available. If you are looking for an adult-like excuse to browse around their website, you can always claim to be interested in their cough drop selection. It's a budget-friendly way to prepare for the winter cold season.

*Disclosure, I have received compensation to write this post*

Electrolux Refrigerator

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Fri, 24 May 2013 20:15:00 +0000

Electrolux Refrigerator Air and Water Filters To escape the tyranny of constant purchase of bottled water and the subsequent recycling of plastic water bottles, to obtain pure and clear ice, you have chosen to obtain a refrigerator or freezer with a water and air filter from Electrolux. Air filters for refrigerators and freezers replaced the ubiquitous box of soda caking in the recesses of the refrigerator or freezer. Many people attest that the best experience they have had with water and air filters has been with Electrolux. Replacement water and air filters for your refrigerator or freezer can be ordered online. The Electrolux brand has been foremost in its field for over fifty years for many excellent reasons. Electrolux produces reliable, effective parts. Their water filters do a superb job of filtering small particles from the water going into your icemaker or refrigerator water dispenser. This prevents those small particles from becoming a portion of your family's diet on a regular basis. Air filters in your refrigerator or freezer prevent bad odors from being absorbed by the food stored. If you have experienced onion-flavored milk, you understand the value of these filters. Purchase an Electrolux refrigerator filter at electrolux-store.com.

*Disclosure, I have received compensation to write this post*

Sing For Hope Pianos

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Fri, 24 May 2013 20:13:00 +0000

Sing For Hope Pianos provides a huge twist on what it means to create change for underserved groups and communities. The program includes 88 distinctive pianos that are located within many high-traffic areas of New York City. The internationally acclaimed Juilliard friends, Camille Zamora and Monica Yunus, have created an innovative program that allows music enthusiasts to come together, enjoy songs and pianos music and be inspired to become change agents for those in need. The Sing For Hope Piano program is a part of an national effort that is known as a artists peace corp program. It has brought together churches, schools and many micro communities within the New York Area. Music lovers will find street pianos New York at SingforHope.org at places such as the Hudson River Park, the Poe Park Visitors Center and the Staten Island Ferry Terminal. Other strategic places to find the Sing For Hope Pianos, include the Owen Dolan Golden Age Center, Snug Harbor and the Fabor Park Field House Recreation Center. A few of the artists contributions include Melissa Eder, Tim Farley, Victoria Wrubel and Jennie Booth. Inspirational motifs that music enthusiasts can see, include blooming trees and wildlife, educational diagrams, recycling and cartoon characters that depict the emotions derived from listening to music. These pianos also greatly contribute to many New York Community events, including the Historical House Trust Day, Manhattan Meetup Uptown Events and Playground Day at many parks around the New York Area. Sing For Hope Pianos brings together a passionate celebration of music, community and volunteerism.

*Disclosure, I have received compensation to write this post*

Baby Shower Ideas

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Fri, 24 May 2013 20:12:00 +0000

If you are planning to throw a baby shower, christening, or birthday party and want to give out personalized favors, you can order hang tags for your items on abcfavors.com. You can browse through different styles of ABC Favors baby shower favor tags to find items that match your party’s decoration, theme, or color scheme. By adding hang tags to your party favors, you can transform something that is ordinary into a personalized gift to show your appreciation and thanks to your guests who attend and give gifts. Hang tags are an affordable and easy way to commemorate your event by adding details regarding the date, time and guest of honor. The store offers favor hang tags in different styles with various designs for baby showers and other events for younger children. You can choose from tags that contain images of sleeping babies in different colored pajamas, or instead choose items with baby monkeys, or other animated designs. You can personalize your hang tags by adding text, as well as information about your event. Tags can be ordered in large quantities to accommodate large parties with a high volume of guests. You can also choose stickers that you can add to the bottom of chocolate candies, or small bags carrying toys or candy coated almonds.

*Disclosure, I have received compensation to write this post*

2013 Nissan Pathfinder

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Fri, 24 May 2013 00:33:00 +0000

Looking for a very affordable SUV that seats 7 and gets an average of 21 mpg? Then the Nissan Pathfinder is perfect for your family.

The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder gets 19 and 25mpg so this SUV gets decent gas mileage for a large SUV.

I used this Pathfinder the entire week I had it. I had 3 appointments that week and we even made a trip to the zoo, the car was returned with 1/2 tank of gas! It's not a gas guzzler at all and that is a feature that I look for in a vehicle.

This SUV starts at a base price of $28,650 and it has plenty of features that any family would love.

One of my personal favorites is the push start. As long as the key is within a certain amount of feet from the car you can push the brake and push the button. This allows me to leave my keys in my purse while in the car and start it without issue.

Also on the outside of the front doors is a button, if the doors are locked you can push that button and it unlocks that door so you can get in. You can not lock your key in the car :)

It also has the wonderful rear backup camera. And if you turn your wheel the yellow bar turns with you to show you exactly where you're going.

When you are in park and put the car in reverse the side mirrors rotate down to allow you to see if you're going to run over/hit something

and they pop back up when you put it in drive

The Pathfinder easily and comfortably seats 7 passengers. Two in the front seats, three in the 2nd row and two in the very back. Most 3rd rows are pretty hard to get to, but Nissan's EZ Flex Seating System makes it very easy.

You pull the lever up

It brings up the leg

and then you push the seat forward to easily access the third row.

Both rows of seats completely fold down to expose 79.8 cu ft of space.

If that wasn't enough space there is also a hidden storage compartment in the trunk

Even my husband at 5'10" and 260 pounds was able to very comfortably fit in the 2nd row of this vehicle.

Overall this vehicle was a breeze to drive. It is a 4x4 and you can set it to automatic or lock it in 4x4 mode.

It has heated seats and has a gorgeous center console area. As well as steering wheel mounted controls.

The Nissan Pathfinder is a great family vehicle and has plenty of space for a growing family.

The 2013 Nissan Pathfinder has received an award for the Highest Government Side-Impact Safety Rating, definitely a wonderful award to have on your vehicle if you have children.

If you're looking for a gorgeous SUV this may be it for you. I highly recommend this SUV for anyone looking for one!

*Disclaimer, I received a Nissan Pathfinder for a 1 week test drive. All opinions here are 100% my own and I was not compensated to write this post, other than receiving the vehicle.

Softbums June Calendar Bums diaper and Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Wed, 22 May 2013 17:07:00 +0000

Each month Softbums releases a new Calendar Bums diaper in a new print exclusive for that month. They have had some wonderful prints in the past. I think my favorite has been April's Panda Bum

Well now they are having a Blog Hop for the new June Print (to be released on June 19th.

We love our Softbums Diapers (we have one of each plus 4 pods) and I love them to pieces, the adjustability has been amazing and they work very well.

I think the June Print will certainly be something summery, maybe to do with water or flowers or something like that!! I can't wait to see what this wonderful print will be.

You can enter to win $100 in Softbums Products here

And for my lovely readers, Softbums has offered the chance to win a June Calendar Bums Shell!!!

*Disclaimer, I was not compensated in any way for this post and all opinions expressed are 100% my own.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

NextStepBabyMonitors GIVEAWAY!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Tue, 21 May 2013 21:20:00 +0000

I received an item directly from NextStep for the purpose of this review

When my first was little we didn't feel a need for a baby monitor. We lived in an apartment and she was in our room for a while and then was in the room adjacent to ours, so it wasn't really an issue.

Even now with our second baby, we live in a one floor house and I can hear him if he wakes in the middle of the night.

However I really wanted to get a baby monitor for Avery's room. She's 6 but has some issues that are being addressed and we needed to monitor her at all times.

So we received the NextStepIP video camera from NextStepBabyMonitors. We got the white one.

The monitor is very easy to set up. You hook the camera up to your router and it gives the monitor an IP address. So then you can disconnect it and hook it up in the house.

So we put it in the corner of Avery's room where we can see the entire room from and we went from there.

Here you can see it takes still shots.

You can also see that you can move the camera in all directions and see what's going on.

This camera can also be viewed on your iPhone. But the app is $.99 so we went with another app that works as well.

The one that is $2.99 allows you to talk to the camera whatever room it's in and no matter how far away you are, which is a really nice feature, but we went with the free app for now. It allows you to move the camera and see what's going on, but that's about it.

Overall it's a great camera. It does what it needs to do and that's all that's necessary.

We have caught Avery doing so much she shouldn't be with this camera and that's the whole point of it.

They have other monitors on their website as well, including those from other brands, but I really like this one!

Price: On sale for $119.99 this is a great deal!

Overall: *****

Disclaimer* I received an item directly from NextStep in exchange for a review. I was not paid to try out these products*

A big thank you goes out to NextStep for allowing me to review this product and for offering a giveaway

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Robeez Shoes Review

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Mon, 20 May 2013 20:20:00 +0000

I received an item from Robeez for the purpose of this review

If you have little ones then most likely you've heard of Robeez before. They are wonderful shoes from sizes 0-24 months. They are the perfect shoes for baby's growing feet and I love that they tailor to those early stages when the feet grow the most.

They just released a bunch of new spring styles and we were fortunate enough to receive the Beetle Soft Soles in the 6-12m

Stretchy Elastic on both sides allows the shoe to fit snugly, but doesn't leave marks on baby's feet

Holographic beetle is ADORABLE!

Emerson is 16.5 months old, but he has little feet, so the 6-12m fits him pretty perfectly. If I was just getting these shoes I'd opt for the 12-18 though since they don't have much growing room left, But above here he was wearing them with socks and now he doesn't and they fit him both ways. They don't leave marks, but are tight enough to stay on.

These are soft soles, so they're not made for much walking. Emerson likes to wear shows in the house (all day long actually) and then if we go somewhere like the park where he'll be in the grass or somewhere he'll be in a stroller/carrier for a while. If I plan on him doing a lot of concrete walking then we put him in a harder sole.

These shoes are very well made. They are machine wash AND tumble dry low which is AWESOME for these shoes. They are made out of leather as well, which is very flexible and will help mold to baby's feet.

I just love the ease of use of soft sole shoes like these. It allows him to wear his shoes all day and not worry about them leaving marks or him tripping because they're too hard.

They have SO many adorable styles!

They also have the Mini Shoes line which has a bit of a sturdier sole (rubber instead of suede) and they also have velcro to adjust.

Girls Soft Sole

Boys Mini

Girls Mini

Price: The Shoes we received were $25 and are on sale for $19.99! This is an awesome price for such an awesome shoe!

Overall: ***** definitely!

*Disclaimer* I received an item directly from Robeez in exchange for a review. I was not paid to try out these products*

A big thank you goes out to Robeez for allowing me to review this product

Kivelli Baby Bracelets

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Mon, 20 May 2013 00:46:00 +0000

I was sent an item for review purposes from Kivelli Baby. I was not paid for this post.

It's not very often that I get to review something along the lines of Kivelli Baby. They offer wonderful keepsake items for your little girls.

We received one of their Bracelets in the Coco White color.

Bracelet fits Avery perfectly!

The bracelet has an adjustable chain so it will fit from ages 3- about 12. So it has a wide range of sizing on it and it will last a long long time.

We have had this bracelet for 2 months now. Avery has NEVER taken it off since that day and it's still in wonderful, perfect condition. The beads haven't peeled or scraped, and it's just been perfect. She's an almost 6 year old, she plays hard especially outside, plenty of things it could get caught in and break, but it's still holding up perfectly.

It's such a pretty bracelet too, it goes with EVERYTHING because it has nice subtle colors and it just so pretty.

Their bracelets are in a Vintage and a Layette collection. Ours is from the vintage collection.

Another bracelet I loved is the Berry

And also the punk Princess

Layette collection is also for ages 3-12

They also carry Blankets, Loveys, Pacifier Holders and more at luxurious looks and styles.

Price: The Layette Bracelets are $29.99 and the Vintage are $39.99

Overall: ***** and worth the price. They hold up to everything!

*Disclaimer* I received an item directly from Kivelli in exchange for a review. I was not paid to try out these products*

A big thank you goes out to Kivelli for allowing me to review this product

Post Sesame Street Cereal

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Fri, 17 May 2013 15:52:00 +0000

Post Cereal has launched a new cereal for the special munchkins in your life! As I’m sure you know, that first photo or video of your child eating on their own is one that will be cherished forever. Now parents can make this moment fun and exciting with new Post Sesame Street Cereal.

Post Sesame Street Cereal comes in two flavors, A is for Apple and B is for Banana. This new cereal is specially formulated to meet a growing toddler’s needs, providing them with 2/3 of their daily whole grains serving with only 1 gram of sugar. Children will be familiar with their furry friends, Elmo and Cookie Monster, who are featured on the front of the box, and parents will feel good letting them eat it. Additionally, the fun X and O shapes are specifically designed for little fingers and the yummy cereal has a soft texture that melts away for safe and easy consumption.

Each box features 2 different educational activities per flavor for you and your little one to enjoy. You can have fun collecting them all!

New Baby on the Way?

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Fri, 17 May 2013 13:05:00 +0000

New Baby on the Way? 5 Steps to Get your Finances in Check when Preparing to Start a Family

Having a baby is one of the most rewarding experiences of your life. However, it does come with some hefty financial strain. That's why you should take steps to get your finances in check when you're preparing to start a family. Take a look at these five ways to start planning financially for a baby.

oh man I looked like crud there!!

Find Out About Your Maternity/Paternity Pay

Most employers offer some sort of maternity or paternity leave, which may be paid or unpaid. When you are preparing to have a baby, you should find out everything you can about it so you can plan accordingly. Also, if you're not planning to go back to work after the baby arrives, start budgeting to live on just one salary. That way it won't be such a culture shock when you have to shell out $40 for diapers every week and outrageous amounts on baby formula.

Start Saving Money Now

Even if you have health insurance, there are a lot of expenses associated with having a baby. For instance, your insurance deductible can be as much as $7,500. Plus, the costs can be a lot higher if you need to pay for fertility treatments to get your family started. And, that's just the expenses before the baby arrives.

Open up a special bank account for your family planning expenses. Of course, you can save money other ways, too. Like, don't buy lots of baby clothes and accessories before the baby arrives because you won't use most of them. Plus, you'll get lots of baby supplies and clothes at your baby shower.

Ask for Free Samples and Coupons at the Doctor's Office

Baby supplies cost a lot of money, especially formula. That's why you should get free samples where you can. Your doctor typically has several formula samples that you can try; just ask if you can have some. Even if you want to breastfeed exclusively, you never know when you'll need to use formula. Also, make sure to take home all of the baby supplies you use at the hospital (nasal aspirator, formula, ointments, etc.). It will save you a few bucks.

Learn How to Make Baby Food to Save on Grocery Costs

Your grocery bill can nearly double when you add a baby to the family because you have to buy diapers, formula, and other baby supplies on a weekly basis. So, you can save money by looking for ways to save on baby supply costs. One way is to make your own baby food. It costs a lot less money to mash up a banana than it does to buy a baby jar of bananas. You can do the same thing with carrots, potatoes, and almost any type of food.
These are just a few of the things you should do to prepare financially for your baby. There are many others that we didn't list, such as getting a bigger place or making space for your baby. You can learn more from reading Fisher Investments articles. Do you have any financial tips for people looking to start a family? Leave a comment.

2013 Buick Enclave

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Thu, 16 May 2013 20:49:00 +0000

If you're looking for an SUV that is gorgeous, distinctive looking and has decent gas mileage, than the Buick Enclave may be for you!

The enclave averages about 19 MPG. I used this Enclave and only this Enclave for all of my errands during the week I had it and I went through 3/4 of a tank. I did take a decent trip to a large mall, it's about an hour round trip, so that was quite a bit of miles.

For the base price tag of $38,445 this car is fully equipped and comes with a lot of features. The vehicle I received had a tag of $52,160. Some features I have come to love are the large center console, the heated and cooled seats, the back up camera, steering wheel mounted controls and so much more!

This Enclave is very stylish and has many features that everyone in the family can love!!

It has a Power sunroof with 2nd row skylight!

Entertainment System

It also has best-in-class third-row legroom of 33.2", The third row of this SUV is very large!

It has the 2nd row bucket seats and 3 seats in the third row, which means it's a 7 seater!

The 2nd row has Smart Slide which makes it easier for third row access.

It has more Maximum Cargo Room than Mercedes R-Class, Acura MDX, Lincoln MKT, Volvo XC90 and Audi Q7.

The max cargo room for this vehicle is a whopping 115.2 cu. ft.

In case that wasn't enough, the very back also has storage underneath!

This Enclave is equipped with Bose speakers, so you can be sure to have the best sound system on your block.

The mirrors have Side Blind Zone Alert. So if there's a car next to you in your blind spot your mirror lights up! It will tell you!

When you are in reverse and a car is coming behind you it will beep at you and let you know not to continue backing up.

This SUV does a lot in the line of safety. They want to make sure you are as safe as possible while on the road!

Also with the Back Up Camera when you turn your wheel it shows you exactly where you're going and it turns right along with you.

The Enclave is truly a beautiful SUV and I highly recommend it. It has a lot of nice safety features, has plenty of room, gets decent mileage and is just beautiful!

*Disclaimer, I received a Buick Enclave for a 1 week test drive. All opinions here are 100% my own and I was not compensated to write this post, other than receiving the vehicle.

eShakti Review

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Wed, 15 May 2013 19:12:00 +0000

I have worked with eShakti before in the past. They had made me a custom peacoat to wear and I LOVE that coat. I still wear it now and that was almost 3 years ago!

This time around I received a GORGEOUS dress for review. I decided to go with their standard sizes this time and see how it fit.

They had the exact same dress without the sequined belt and I chose the sequins because they really make the dress I think.

I received this dress in a size 6. Normally I wear a 4, but based on their size chart the 6 looked best for me. It is a little big, but for the most part it fits me really well.

Even though it's a standard size eShakti STILL customizes each item. When you choose which size you want it then asks you how tall you are and what length you want it at (knee, above knee or below knee) so they still customize the item to you!

Now I'm pregnant so unfortunately this gorgeous dress won't get much use, but I'm so glad I have it in my closet, you never know when you'll be invited to an event where you need to dress up just enough, but not overdo it. This is the perfect dress for that and still looks and feels great for everyday as well!

They are constantly moving products on their site, pulling things out and adding in. So if you see something you really like, I suggest getting it right then and there.

Check out this cute spring jacket!

Price: This dress isn't still on their site, so I don't exactly remember, but I think for custom items they are well priced. But that little jacket shown above is $63.95!

Overall: ***** LOVE my dress!

*Disclaimer* I received an item directly from eShakti in exchange for a review. I was not paid to try out these products*

A big thank you goes out to eShakti for allowing me to review this product

The First Years Review

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Tue, 14 May 2013 21:26:00 +0000

I received an item from The First Years for the purpose of this review.

The First Years has been known for many, many years for their innovative products. They always come out with the newest, coolest innovations and the item we received was no exception.

We got the Sipper sippy cup!

They have come up with this wonderfully innovation 1 piece lid.

How many times do you get disgusted by your kids sippy cups? I know that I do, I hate when I pull out the valves and get splashed in the face with juice, or even worse, milk. I love that this is one piece so it cleans easily.

It's also a no spill cup, so this is great!! Even when Emerson throws it, it does not leak at all.

I love that it has the one piece lid. It really can't get easier than that. I just pop both pieces on the top rack of my dishwasher and I'm good to go. No need to pop out icky valves. And it comes 100% clean that way too!!!

Emerson still prefers his straw cups, but when he can tilt a cup I'm ready with this wonderful cup.

They are 9oz each and the 2 pack retails for $6.96 at Walmart

Overall: ***** Love the design, love the concept, just wish my stubborn son would use them.

*Disclaimer* I received an item directly from The First Years in exchange for a review. I was not paid to try out these products*

A big thank you goes out to The First Years for allowing me to review this product

Handmade Rugs

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Mon, 13 May 2013 22:28:00 +0000

When you decide to purchase a beautiful handmade rug to accentuate the decor of your home, you have likely taken considerable time to make your choice. These unique and authentic rugs are often considered a family treasure to be handed down from one generation to the next. This is an important reason why your rug should be expertly cleaned by professionals who are familiar with techniques required to thoroughly and gently clean Oriental rugs. Do not despair if your priceless rug has been stained or damaged. You will find the expert technicians at ABC Rug & Carpet Care are able to completely clean and repair it to perfection. ABC cleaning service will come to your home, pick up your rug and return it looking brand new within days. If an unfortunate accident or years of wear have caused threadbare or torn areas in your rug, ABC offers complete restoration services. Their expert rug repair team is able to fill in worn carpets by reweaving the affected areas, replacing fringes and re-surging edges that are frayed. If your rug has lost some of its beautiful coloring, a color overhaul with specialized solutions will have it looking bright and new when it is returned to you. If you feel your treasured rug could benefit from the expert cleaning and repair services of ABC Rug & Carpet Care, you can get more info here: http://abc-rugandcarpetcare.com/

*disclaimer, this post was sponsored and I have been compensated accordingly.

Totally Toddler Sponsor Spotlight- Jelli Fish Kids

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Sun, 12 May 2013 20:08:00 +0000

I received an item from Jelli Fish Kids for the purpose of this review

My last sponsor spotlight for this wonderful giveaway hop is Jelli Fish Kids. They have wonderful Pajamas for children in sizes 2-16. So they have a wide range of sizes. I like this about a company because children can have matching pajamas without the older ones feeling they're too babyish!

We received the Aqua Smile pajamas in a size 6/6X!

They are very big on Avery. She is a comfortable size 6 in items so I didn't expect them to be this big, but they fit more like an 8 I think!! They fall right off her and are about 4" too long, on top of the shirt being huge as well.

So we haven't had a chance to give them a full review, but I'm hoping they'll shrink up a bit in the wash, and if they don't, they'll fit her next year so it's not a huge deal.

But you should definitely order down in these pajamas, unless I just got a pair that runs huge for some reason!!

They have a bunch of cute pajamas for both boys and girls.

Price: The pajamas run about $28 a pair. The Pants for boys (they do make 2 pieces too) are about $18.

Overall: **** because they run SO big, but the material seems great and they seem well made.

TOTALLY TODDLER HOP

For the Totally Toddler Giveaway Hop, Jelli Fish Kids is offering one reader the chance to win 2 pair from the 2013 Spring Summer line! (They choose, you just give them size)

Hop goes live tonight at MIDNIGHT!!

*Disclaimer* I received an item directly from Jelli Fish in exchange for a review. I was not paid to try out these products*

A big thank you goes out to Jelli Fish for allowing me to review this product

Totally Toddler Grand Prize Sponsor Spotlight- 2 Red Hens

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Sun, 12 May 2013 19:47:00 +0000

Our last Grand Prize sponsor is 2 Red Hens. They make some wonderful vintage items for mother's and their kids!! They specialize in their Diaper Bags, but have other wonderful items there as well.

Let's take a look!

Messenger Bag

Diaper Bag

Shopping Cart Nests

Snack Packs

Makeup bag

They also offer a few other wonderful items.

I'm particularly in love with their Toy Nanny!!

With that Toy Nanny, you let baby play on the mat with their toys, when they're done you just fold it up and all the toys are concealed inside, this is perfect for outside, going to grandma's house or even inside your house to make cleanup easier!! I love that toy nanny, how perfect for little babes!!

All of their items look like very high quality and they use just the cutest fabrics for them as well. Maybe I can get a review item for this babe!! Like a new diaper bag! They are pretty awesome looking!

Price: The Toy Nanny is $50. The set of 2 Snack Bags is $15.

TOTALLY TODDLER HOP

For the Totally Toddler Hop, 2 Red Hens is donating a Toy Nanny and Snack Pack to one winner in the Grand Prize!

*Disclaimer* I was not compensated for writing this post, all opinions are 100% my own. Thank you to 2 Red Hens for donating a giveaway prize!

Totally Toddler Sponsor Spotlight- NurturMe

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Sat, 11 May 2013 20:22:00 +0000

Let's face it. Toddlers need to eat!! Toddlers also enjoy food that tastes good, and us parents enjoy when it's healthy for them. That's where NurturMe comes in. They offer food that is dried up in pouches and you just mix it with water, milk, juice or breastmilk to get the right consistency.

We received a sampler pack which included 9 pouches of food, 2 of their new Yum-A-Roo's snacks and a bib!

Just the food and snacks!

Nutrition info on the back and I LOVE that it just has the info for a dry pack and for a pack with breastmilk!

Dry in the bowl

Mixed with water in the bowl

What I like is you can add more or less water based on your children's needs. For a younger baby, more liquid is best to make it more runny, but Emerson likes it thick.

I also love that you can add the dry pouches to other foods. Add a pack of peas to some macaroni and cheese to make it healthier. Add the new Quinoa to applesauce to give some more protein and grains.

The possibilities are endless really. I love these packets though, They're easy to store, easy to travel with you and are perfect for restaurants too!

They have single flavors like Peas, Apples and Sweet potatoes. They also have blends like Banana, Oatmeal and sweet potato and many others. Then the new Quinoa and the new Yum-A-Roo's which come in 4 flavors. Bountiful Bites; Banana, Apple and Broccoli, Caribbean Crop; Pea, Banana and Pineapple, Tropical Twist; Banana, Mango and Pineapple, and lastly Happy Harvest; Pea, Sweet Corn and Apple.

Price: 8 pouches that are 2.5oz servings are $9.49. 8, 4oz servings are $11.99. The Yum-A-Roo's are $2.54 each.

Overall: *****

TOTALLY TODDLER HOP

For the Totally Toddler Hop, NurturMe is offering one reader the chance to win a Toddler Feeding Gift Pack, which includes 11 pouches, a spoon, a couple coupons and a booklet, all in a muslin bag! Value of $16!

*Disclaimer* I received an item directly from NurturMe in exchange for a review. I was not paid to try out these products*

A big thank you goes out to NurturMe for allowing me to review this product

Totally Toddler Grand Prize Sponsor Spotlight- Pediped

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Sat, 11 May 2013 00:41:00 +0000

I received a pair of Pediped shoes for the purpose of this review

One thing you all know that I love is children's shoes. I love matching them to the kids outfits and having multiples pairs they can wear at any one given time!

So when it came time to review the Pediped new Spring line, I was super excited!! Emerson need a good pair of sandals for this summer so I decided on the Amazon Nittany Blue for our review!

Love their diamond sole pattern

We got the 12-18m and they fit him pretty well with a little room to grow. They look a little big here, but they are tight enough on his foot that they don't sleep off.

I just love the bright blue color on these shoes. It sticks out, but still matches a lot of clothes and different colors of clothes! I just love these shoes.

I'm in love with Pediped shoes, they are wonderful for baby's (and children's) growing feet, they have a bendable sole and are flexible to support the growing feet. Baby's are born with more bones in their feet than adult have, so as their feet grow these bones fuse together and it takes a lot of work to grow up and be an adult. These shoes support that growth and fusing together.

The sole on these are soft. We got the Originals line which is for infants and early walkers. Emerson is a full on runner, but these are mainly for inside, the grass and when we head to the mall or zoo and he'll be in the stroller/carrier.

When he goes walking outside on concrete or at the park we put him in sturdier shoes and the Pediped Grip N Go would be perfect for this. They have a bit of a sturdier sole, but are still flexible and soft for those feet!

Pediped's sizing is pretty dead on. Emerson has been fit to be a 4.5 in other shoes and these are about a size 5, so they are slightly big, but not excessively so!

They have so many adorable shoes for summer!

I'd love these for Avery

These are also the Amazon, so they would coordinate style wise!

I love these girls Grip N Go's too!

The founder of Pediped has also started a women's shoe company! Brian James Footwear has some adorable shoes for us busy mom's and women!

Price: The Amazon Nittany I received are $37. So worth it!!

Overall: ***** I have never been disappointed with my Pediped's!

TOTALLY TODDLER HOP

For the Totally Toddler Giveaway Hop, Pediped is offering one reader the chance to win 3 pairs of shoes in gender and sizes of choice (they pick style). This will be a part of the Grand Prize giveaway!!

Giveaway goes live Monday the 13th!

Disclaimer* I received an item directly from Pediped in exchange for a review. I was not paid to try out these products*

A big thank you goes out to Pediped for allowing me to review this product

Announcement!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather M) — Fri, 10 May 2013 14:13:00 +0000

It's true!! Baby #3 is due January 14th. So 1/14 in 1/14 how cool!

There's no telling when baby will come, Avery was born at exactly 39 weeks, and Emerson was 40w1d, so this baby could come at any time really.

But, both my kids were born on Wednesdays so if this one follows suit, s/he might come on the 8th or 15th!

First appt with the nurse is on Tuesday (14th) and they'll do a blood draw and go over due date and such. Then I see the Dr. on Friday (17th) and he'll make sure my blood levels are right on and do a brief appt.

At the next appt around 9ish weeks I should get an ultrasound and should be able to see the heartbeat!