From One Mommy to Another

Recipe for Cowboy Caviar

2010-03-11T10:12:00.000-07:00

I had a few requests to post this recipe. My dear friend made it for a me a few months ago and I LOVED it! It goes great over salads, with chips, in a wrap with some protein, or on the side with enchiladas. And it is healthy for you - kind of hard to resist when you put it that way?

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Just Unsure of my Favorite Part of Today...

2010-03-11T09:39:00.000-07:00

It really is a tough choice...

Option 1: Our son having a meltdown before school as he pinched his finger in the drawer

Option 2: Our daughter having a meltdown because our son pinched her finger in the deacon bench

Option 3: The grocery bag that busted as I was carrying groceries in the house

Option 4: The bottle of La Crema Pinot Noir that broke on the garage floor because of option 3.

Option 5: The raw chicken juice that is in the drawer of my refrigerator because the air tight bag the chicken came in was not so air tight after all.

Option 6: The fact that it is only 9:30 and I have this many options

Tough call...which one gets your vote?

Who Wants to Win some Amazing Ritter Sport Chocolates?

2010-03-10T14:15:00.000-07:00

Ritter Sport makes delicious chocolate that is sure to bring some happiness to your life! After all, they are Bringing you Happiness Squared, right? Ritter Sport uses all natural ingredients in their chocolates and with so many flavors, everyone will be sure to find a favorite.

I recently reviewed Ritter Sport Chocolates and am thrilled to say that Ritter Sport will be doing another GIVEAWAY on From One Mommy to Another!

There will be TWO winners for this giveaway and EACH person will receive a sample pack of 84 mini chocolate bars. These chocolates are simply amazing! And in case you are already finding the reasons why winning this could be hard for your health efforts, keep this in mind...the bars are perfect sizes for little treats for your little ones lunches, you could assemble a variety in a small basket or tin for co-workers or your children's teachers to let them know they are appreciated, and you can still save a few for yourself. These would make great end of the year treats for my son's teachers; that I am for sure on! (Probably can't enter my own giveaway, huh? :) )
There are plenty of ways to enter:

1. Post a comment on this post sharing what you like about Ritter Sport Chocolates. (ONE ENTRY).

2. Follow MommyMentor on Twitter (ONE ENTRY). Post a comment on this post letting me know you did this.

3. Follow Ritter Sport on Twitter (ONE ENTRY). Post a comment on this post letting me know you did this.

4. Become a fan of Mommy Mentor on Facebook (ONE ENTRY). Post a comment on this post letting me know you did this.

5. Become a fan of Ritter Sport Chocolates on Facebook (ONE ENTRY). Post a comment on this post letting me know you did this.

6. Become a follower of this blog, From One Mommy to Another (ONE ENTRY). Post a comment on this post letting me know you did this.

7. Subscribe to From One Mommy To Another's Posts via RSS Feed (ONE ENTRY) (Top right column). Post a comment on this post letting me know you did this.

8. Subscribe to Your Child Sleep Coach's posts via RSS Feed (ONE ENTRY)(Top right column). Post a comment on this post letting me know you did this.

9. Tweet about this giveaway: include @MommyMentor and @Ritter_Sport and a link back to this giveaway. (TWO ENTRIES!) Post two comments on this post letting me know you did this.

10. Refer a friend to this giveaway: for every way that they enter, you get the corresponding amount of extra entries that they get. For example, if they tweet, you both get two entries. Post the appropriate number of comments on this post letting me know you did this. (TWO ENTRIES!)

11. Post or blog about this giveaway on any online forum, group, blog, chat room, facebook, etc. with a link back to this contest. (THREE ENTRIES!) Post three comments on this post letting me know you did this.

The Ritter Sport giveaway will end on Wednesday, March 31st at 1:00pm mountain time. You can enter an unlimited amount of times - GOOD LUCK!

(Disclosure: Ritter Sport sent me free samples of their chocolates for me to review. My thoughts are just that...mine, and are not influenced by Ritter Sport. They are also sponsoring giveaways for four winners on From One Mommy to Another.)

The Winner of the Easy Lunch Box is...

2010-03-09T21:00:00.000-07:00

The Easy Lunch Box contest has come to an end. The lucky winner is comment number 42!

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2010-03-10 03:53:08 UTC

Comment 42 belongs to...Seanskuuipo! Congrats Nicole! Please contact me with your shipping information within 36 hours or a new winner will be chosen. (Something tells me, this will not be an issue.... ;)

Thank you to everyone for entering! Stay tuned...a new contest will be starting tomorrow!

Tickler Tag Giveaway: Backpack Tags to Help your Child Stay Organized

2010-03-06T20:20:00.000-07:00

Tickler Tags are backpack tags that remind your child of their daily activities and transportation arrangements. They are easy to use - simply clip on your child's backpack with the included carabiner clip. The designs are fun and they are great for children who are too young for cell phones, but still have a busy schedule! And honestly, they provide me with a good overview of my day when I attach them to our son's backpack each morning. Tickler Tags help your child and their teacher or caregiver remember that they may have after school activities or sports, appointments, early release, or changing daycare arrangements.

You can read my full review of Tickler Tags here because the great news today is that Tickler Tags is giving one FOMTA reader a set of 5 pre-designed tags and a carabiner clip! How can you enter? Simple!

1. Post a comment on this blog sharing what you like about Tickler Tags. (ONE ENTRY)

2. Follow MommyMentor on Twitter (ONE ENTRY)

3. Become a fan of Mommy Mentor on Facebook (ONE ENTRY)

4. Become a fan of Ticker Tags on Facebook (ONE ENTRY)

5. Become a follower of this blog, From One Mommy to Another (ONE ENTRY)

6. Subscribe to From One Mommy To Another's Posts via RSS Feed (ONE ENTRY) (Top right column).

7. Subscribe to Your Child Sleep Coach's posts via RSS Feed (ONE ENTRY) (Top right column).

8. Tweet about this giveaway: include @MommyMentor and @TicklerTags and a link back to this giveaway. (TWO ENTRIES!)

9. Refer a friend to this giveaway: for every way that they enter, you get the corresponding amount of extra entries that they get. For example, if they tweet, you both get two entries. (TWO ENTRIES!)

10. Post or blog about this giveaway on any online forum, group, blog, chat room, facebook, etc. with a link back to this contest. (THREE ENTRIES!)

The Tickler Tag giveaway will end on Tuesday, March 23rd at 1:30pm mountain time. You can enter an unlimited amount of times - GOOD LUCK!

Disclosure: Tickler Tags is providing one reader with 5 tags and a carabiner clip. Thank you!

A Closer Look at the Belen Echandia Make Me Smile Handbag

2010-03-03T21:57:00.000-07:00

The Belen Echandia Make Me Smile in Wine sheen leather is the latest addition to my collection. Why I waited so long to try this bag is beyond me! The Make Me Smile is currently a top favorite with my Rock Me. And the wine sheen leather is gorgeous. It has a rich tone to it...think raspberries instead of strawberries.

Here is a close up shot of the sheen leather. All of Belen Echandia's leathers have their own unique traits and the sheen is no exception. It is incredibly soft, literally smooshes into a puddle, and I love that the 'sheen' adds just a bit of class to it. It wears incredibly well and makes me feel like I can dress it up a bit more - if I want - because of the glossy finish.

Here is a side shot of the Make Me Smile when held by the handles. This reflects its true shape and dimensions. According to the Belen Echandia site, the Make Me Smile measures 16.5" wide, 11" high, and 4.7" deep. As you can see in the next picture, the shape can flex to meet many needs because of the wonderful yummy Italian leather.

This picture shows the Make Me Smile sitting on its own. It is packed with my goodies and the buttery soft leather just forms nicely around them.

The front zippered pocket of the Make Me Smile is wider than other BE styles I have tried thus far. I really like it because I can carry my iPhone while still having room for lists, keys, or an additional random item or two. The extra size also makes it so I can get my hand in without scratching on the zipper.

There are two things that stand out to me as favorites with the Make Me Smile. First, when I can carry it on my shoulde, I can have one strap on my shoulder and let the other fall off while digging in it. I LOVE not having to remove it from my shoulder to access items...very handy when I have one or two children in tow.

What's my second fave? The Make Me Smile has an amazing opening! When it just sits, it is open for me to access what I want. I love that when driving! The opening is perfection for the horizontal layout of this handbag. Everything is right there for you. The Make Me Smile can fit a ton but you can see it all because of the horizontal layout.

I carry a Belen Echandia Zipper Wallet and Protect Me, carryall with random essentials, a medium Ju-Ju-Be Be Set with snacks and wipes for the kids, my sunglasses, keys, and a pouch with tea bags daily. Most times I carry a water bottle as well...which fits with complete ease.

One side of the Make Me Smile has a long zippered pocket. I keep my hand lotion an small toys for the kids in there. Two slip pockets carry my Protect Me and mail keys...

The other interior side has a hidden pocket with magnetic closure. I usually keep receipts and paperwork in this pocket. It is a great size and keeps items secure in your handbag.

Here is a modeling picture of the Make Me Smile worn on the shoulder. The drop is around 8 inches when new, but once the leather breaks in, you get an extra 2-2.5 inches. I am pretty picky about strap drop and prefer a drop of 10 inches or more...the Make Me Smile is perfect!

Front shot of how the Make Me Smile looks when carried on the shoulder...what do you think?

Modeling shot of the MMS worn messenger. While this bag is not as flat as other BE bags, I find it comfy worn messenger. The MMS is not too deep and thus, you can easily access what you need with ease. Note that my messenger strap is not adjusted as long as it could go so the bag could actually sit lower on you if you prefer that. For reference, I am 5'7" and size 6.

Front shot of the MMS worn messenger...

I truly love all of my Belen Echandia handbags and love hearing from you about which brands you enjoy and which BE bags you love. I enjoy your emails asking for my thoughts on how one bag compares to another so keep them coming!

What is the latest addition to your handbag collection?

Winner of the Ju-Ju-Be Fuel Cell in Perky Perennials

2010-03-01T21:46:00.000-07:00

What a fun giveaway this was! And how great to see all of the love for Ju-Ju-Be products out there.

The lucky winner of the Ju-Ju-Be Fuel Cell in Perky Perennials is comment number...

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2010-03-02 04:39:52 UTC

...which belongs to Makaela! Congratulation Makaela! She will have 48 hours to claim your prize or I will pick a new winner.

Don't forget to check the Ju-Ju-Be Blog for news on their new spring line and FABULOUS new Legacy Collection!

Rainbow Bright Winner

2010-02-25T06:12:00.001-07:00

Rainbow Brite is celebrating her 25th anniversary! It was so fun to read all of your comments; I especially loved the stories from when readers were children and loved playing with Rainbow Brite.

And now, the lucky winner of the Rainbow Brite giveaway, as determined by random.org...

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2010-02-25 12:53:59 UTC

Comment 28 belongs to....Ashley! Sorry - had to pick again since I could not find Ashley... The new winner is James or @WhoAmI2Day on Twitter.

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2010-02-26 20:53:44 UTC

Congratulations, Jamie! ~~Ashley~~ Jaimie will have 24 hours to claim her prize or another winner will be chosen. Again, my many thanks to Mom Select, BSM Media, and Hallmark for the adorable Rainbow Brite doll and for the giveaway! And my deepest thank you to you for your readership...XO!

Easy Lunch Boxes Review & a Giveaway too!

2010-02-23T11:47:00.002-07:00

Parenting is an ever changing learning process; you grow and learn with your children. As they approach a new phase, you too have to learn to adjust.

This year our family started a new and exciting chapter in our lives when our first born started kindergarten. After being home with him all of these years, I suddenly found myself packing lunches...trying to think of new ideas and healthy, yet "fun" things for him to eat. That is why I was so excited when I found Easy Lunch Boxes!

Easy Lunch boxes are a two piece container that consists of a bottom with three compartments and a snap on lid. The largest compartment is big enough to hold an entree or sandwich and the two smaller compartments fit nice sized side dishes. Any lid will fit on any bottom, which is very nice. After all, those precious minutes in the morning before shuffling everyone out the door are prized. No need to waste them digging around to match pieces! The Easy Lunch Box container fits inside an Easy Lunch Box custom carrying bag, which are offered in a variety of colors. You still have plenty of room to toss in an ice pack, drink, napkin, utensils, and any other extras you may need. If needed, you can also fit two containers in a carrying bag with a few extras as well.

The EasyLunchbox system allows parents to pack healthy lunches quickly that have proper portions while still offering a healthy variety of foods. Let's face it...variety is essential for anyone, but especially children. Additionally, families will save money because you will reduce the number of plastic and paper bags you use. You will save even more because you will cut back on pre-packaged container meals. And at the end of the day, you only have one container to wash!

One of my favorite things about the Easy Lunch Box is that it is eco-friendly. It

is reusable, which always helps the environment. It is also FDA approved and BPA FREE! Yes, that is right. Easy Lunch Boxes are made with polypropylene (PP) so are free of BPA, phthalates, lead, vinyl, and PVC. They are safe for use in both the dishwasher and microwave.

The Easy Lunch Box system is also easy to care for. I have enough to do in my day, so anything that makes life even a tad easier gets a thumbs up in my book. If I am already washing some dishes, I wash it by hand. Otherwise, I toss it in the top rack of the dishwasher and am done. Easy Lunch Box containers come in a four pack so I have plenty to get me through the rest of the week right now.

Are you loving it? Great! The fantastic news is that you have a chance to win your very own Easy Lunch Box system(OPEN TO US residents only)! There are many fun ways to enter:

1. Post a comment on this blog sharing what you like about Easy Lunch Boxes. (ONE ENTRY)

2. Follow MommyMentor on Twitter (ONE ENTRY)

3. Follow Easy Lunch Boxes on Twitter (ONE ENTRY)

4. Become a fan of Mommy Mentor on Facebook (ONE ENTRY)

5. Become a fan of Easy Lunch Boxes on Facebook (ONE ENTRY)

6. Become a follower of this blog, From One Mommy to Another (ONE ENTRY)

7. Subscribe to From One Mommy To Another's Posts via RSS Feed (ONE ENTRY) (Top right column).

8. Subscribe to Your Child Sleep Coach's posts via RSS Feed (ONE ENTRY) (Top right column).

9. Tweet about this giveaway and include @MommyMentor, @EasyLunchboxes, and a link back to this giveaway. (TWO ENTRIES!)

10. Post or blog about this giveaway on any online forum, group, blog, chat room, etc. with a link back to this contest. (THREE ENTRIES!)

~~The Easy Lunch Box giveaway will end on Tuesday, March 9th at 6pm mountain time.~~ ~~You can enter an unlimited amount of times - GOOD LUCK!~~ This contest is now closed. Thank you to everyone who entered.

Disclosure: Easy Lunch Boxes sent me a set of containers and a bag to test out and review. My reviews are always my honest thoughts and feedback on products and are not influenced by companies. Easy Lunch Boxes is also sponsoring a giveaway for one reader.

One Mommy's Review of Scentsy Warmers: A Safer Alternative to Candles

2010-02-19T13:42:00.001-07:00

My Dad is always reminding me of the danger of candles. His career in the home insurance industry taught him well; honestly, it is hard to disagree with him. A fire of any size is dangerous - no way around it. Then when you factor in small children and a busy family life where you have more potential to forget about it - well, the risk is exponentially increased.

Enter Scentsy Warmers: They started in 2003 with the goal of creating a scented warmer that used the heat of a light bulb to melt wax instead of a wick. I have to admit that when I first learned about Scentsy warmers, I had a few questions:

1. Would a light bulb really melt all of the wax and quickly enough?

2. Would the scent be as strong?

and...

3. Would I still get the same peaceful feeling that having candles lit in a room creates?

Scentsy warmers are beautifully made. The designs are gorgeous and are a wonderful decoration as opposed to your every day candle. The light bulb, which is provided, simply screws into the base. The top portion of the warmer rests on the base, but has a nice ridge that keeps it securely attached to the base. The Scentsy bars break apart and you can place your preferred amount in the top bowl.

The bars melt very quickly and yes, every bit of the brick pieces melt! The smell began drifting through the house within fifteen minutes. I leave ours on for hours at a time; the entire lower level of our home smelled like a bakery the other afternoon. Delicious! And with all of the amazing Scents to choose from, everyone is sure to find something they like.

Do I still get the same peaceful feeling I get when I have candles lit? Why yes, I do. The only candles that can compare for me are WoodWick candles because they make the sound of a crackling fire. However, while their scent is strong, it is not as strong as the Scentsy warmer. In the end, my desire for the house to smell good wins out, which brings Scentsy out on top.

All of these wonderful traits aside, the clear winner for me is how safe Scentsy warmers are to have in your home. We have one in the corner of our living room - an area that has never had a candle because it gets too much traffic, especially by our small children. The Scentsy warmer has a wide solid base so it would not tip, even if the table was knocked. The warmer is also heavier adding to my confidence in it not tipping. The ridge around the top warmer secures it on top so it will not be knocked as well. And most importantly, in the rare even that it would get knocked...what is the worst that will happen? I will have some melted wax to clean up. Much better than putting out a small fire in our living room or heaven forbid, our children being burned.

Jennifer Hodgkiss is a Lead Consultant with Scentsy that is great to work with! For the month of February, all Scentsy products are marked down 10%. Jennifer also has a few open Scentsy parties going on right now. Any customer who orders $40.00 or more from an open party until the end of February will receive one scent bar of their choice from her stock for free. As an extra fun bonus - anyone who places an order in February will be entered into a grand prize drawing to win a large Scentsy warmer of their choice. The winner will be drawn on the last day of February...

We have the full size Apollo warmer, but will be getting another one for the summer months - and I would also like one for our guest room. There are so many neat styles...which Scentsy warmer is your favorite?

Rainbow Brite Makes a Comeback & You Could Win One! - CLOSED

2010-02-16T15:18:00.002-07:00

I remember Rainbow Brite dolls from when I was a child. I loved how blond she was and the fun colors she wore. Thus, when I received the 25th anniversary edition of Rainbow Brite, I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical. Could it really be as good for our little girl?

Apparently, the answer is yes for our little Princess A. She totes her around, loves her clothes and boots, and puts her to bed at night. An added bonus is that Rainbow Brite fits perfectly in her Barbie townhouse so thankfully she can use the elevator to get to the hot tub with the other girls.

We do have difficulty keeping track of her little arm bands, but one thing I love is that her boots stay on. Unlike the tiny shoes from other dolls in our house, that shall remain unnamed for this post, you can actually keep track of Rainbow Brite's boots. The likelihood of vacuuming them up is also very minimal. ;)

All fun aside, there is something that truly stands out for me with Rainbow Brite twenty-five years later...she is still pure. She is not too glammed up. She is not too - um, shall we say, mature for her targeted audience. She still has a childlike face. That is just comforting in today's world.

Now onto some FUN! I am also thrilled to announce that I am able to offer one Rainbow Brite Doll to a lucky FOMTA reader. I cannot guarantee which doll the winner will receive, BUT you will receive either Rainbow Brite, Moonglow, or Tickled. (Sorry, but this contest is open to US residents only.)

How do you enter? Simple!

1. Post a comment with your favorite Rainbow Brite doll memory or the Rainbow Brite doll you hope to win.

2. Follow MommyMentor on Twitter. Come back here and post a separate comment letting me know you did this.

3. Follow Mom Talk Radio on Twitter. Come back here and post a separate comment letting me know you did this.

4. Become a follower of this blog, From One Mommy to Another. Post a comment here letting me know you did this.

5. Subscribe to From One Mommy To Another's Posts via RSS Feed (Top left column). Post a comment back here letting me know you did this.

6. Subscribe to Your Child Sleep Coach's posts via RSS Feed (right hand column). Post a comment back here letting me know you did this.

7. TWO ENTRIES: Tweet about this giveaway with the text " Win a FREE Rainbow Brite Doll #rainbowbritemom @MommyMentor " and a link back to this giveaway. Post two comments back here with a link to your Tweet letting me know you did this.

8. THREE ENTRIES: Post or blog about this giveaway on any online forum, group, blog, chat room, etc. with a link back to this contest. Post three comments back here with the links of where you did this.

Thank you to Mom Select, BSM Media, and Hallmark for the adorable Rainbow Brite doll and for the giveaway! The Rainbow Brite giveaway will end on Wednesday, February 24th at 7pm moutain time. Y~~ou can enter an unlimited amount of times - GOOD LUCK!~~ This contest is now closed!

One Mommy's Review of the Sing Along with Barbie DVD

2010-02-14T15:20:00.000-07:00

What girl doesn't love Barbie? I loved playing with mine and enjoy seeing our little girl bring her imagination to life as she plays with her Barbie's. Her adoration of Barbie started four or five months ago; it is amazing how Barbie's presence has grown in our house in just that short time.

Sing Along with Barbie features twelve songs from classic Barbie movies that little girls are sure to love. Each song plays with clips from the movie itself. The lyrics are in large and easy to read print that highlights so children can sing and dance along. Whether it is "Connected" from Barbie & the Diamond Castle, "I am a Girl Like You" from Barbie as Princess & the Pauper, or "All for One" from Barbie and The Three Musketeers, every girl is sure to find a song they will love.

What is my favorite thing about Sing Along with Barbie? Watching Princess A dance and sing of course. She is growing into such a dramatic little girl... I also enjoy the fact that this DVD gets kids off the couch and moving. Whether singing or dancing, it is just nice to see them having fun and being active. One more thing I love? It is only 37 minutes long! It is nice to have something my girly girl loves that is not as long as a full length movie.

Although I do have to say that our daughter, who is only three, did have trouble understanding why an entire movie was not playing...and why they would switch to another movie when "that's not over, Mommy!" However, after a couple of songs, she gradually figured it out.

Sing Along with Barbie is priced at only $9.99. It makes for a wonderful reward for your child's good behavior, a great Valentine's Day or Birthday present, and a definite hit for a Birthday or sleepover party.

My deepest thanks to Mom Central for the review opportunity...

Disclosure: Mom Central sent me a copy of the Sing Along with Barbie DVD and gave me a $20 gift card in appreciation of the time spent for a review.

Coupon Code for EasyLunchboxes.com

2010-02-13T05:39:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a simple and easy to use lunch box system for your family, be sure to check out EasyLunchBoxes.com. From One Mommy to Another readers can save 10% on their order with coupon code or promotional code Mama10 at checkout.

I just received my sample in the mail for review! Be sure to check back to hear my thoughts and stay tuned for an EasyLunchBoxes.com giveaway as well!

Giveaway: Come Get a FREE Ju-Ju-Be Fuel Cell - CLOSED

2010-02-13T05:22:00.001-07:00

Ju-Ju-Be has an amazing collection of diaper bags and accessories that are guaranteed to make life as a parent that much easier. Their Fuel Cell is a lunch bag/bottle bag with 3M Thinsulate lining to keep cold or warm for hours...and it is machine washable (just like the rest of the Ju-Ju-Be collection...)!

Why does everyone need a Ju-Ju-Be Fuel Cell? Simple- it is a versatile accessory that will be used well beyond the baby years. What can it hold? It is big enough to hold three tall bottles, six cans of soda (or other beverage choice), or your lunch, water, and a soda. A versatile size that can be used well beyond baby years. You can see my full review of the Fuel Cell and more pictures here.

From One Mommy to Another is giving away a FREE Ju-Ju-Be Fuel cell in the ever popular Perky Perennials (actual print placement may vary)!

There are tons of ways to enter this giveaway:

1. Follow Mommy Mentor on Twitter. Come back here and post a separate comment letting me know you did this.

2. Follow Ju-Ju-Be on Twitter. Come back here and post a separate comment letting me know you did this.

3. Follow Little Dudes and Divas on Twitter. Come back here and post a separate comment letting me know you did this.

4. Become a follower of this blog, From One Mommy to Another. Post a comment here letting me know you did this.

5. Subscribe to From One Mommy To Another's Posts via RSS Feed (Top left column). Post a comment back here letting me know you did this.

6. Start a thread or reply to a thread on Little Dudes & Divas Forum. (If you are not a member, please go here to join!). Come back here and post a comment with the link to your comment.

7. TWO ENTRIES: Tweet about this giveaway and mention @MommyMentor @JuJuBe_inc " and a link back to this giveaway. Post two comments back here with a link to your Tweet letting me know you did this.

8. THREE ENTRIES: Post or blog about this giveaway on any online forum, group, blog, chat room, etc. with a link back to this contest. Post three comments back here with the links of where you did this.

Each entry should be its own comment since it is the comments that get counted for entering. This contest will close on Monday, March 1st at 6:00 pm Mountain Time.

~~You can enter an UNLIMITED amount of times! Good luck!~~ This contest is closed!

Winner Chosen: Fleurville MS3 Mothership Giveaway!

2010-02-09T20:51:00.000-07:00

With 347 entries, the Fleurville MS3 Mothership was a fun and festive giveaway! After two weeks, I am happy to entend my congrats to the person that posted comment number...

Here are your random numbers:

Timestamp: 2010-02-10 03:46:56 UTC

Comment 153 belongs to (insert drumroll please)... Jessica (QTsmum)!

Jessica, please email me with your shipping information. If I do not hear back from Jessica within 3 days, a new winner will be chosen.

Thank you to everyone for entering!

One Mommy's Review of Tickler Tags: An Effective Way to Organize your Child's Day

2010-02-09T15:07:00.001-07:00

Any products that can help parents make their days easier or that of their children is a welcome addition to Our Household. Let's face it - there are so many activities and sports for our children to be involves in! Keeping them engaged in extracurricular activities is important to their development (balancing how much is the appropriate amount is a whole 'nother post), but keeping track of it all is not always the easiest task.

Enter Tickler Tags...

Tickler Tags are backpack tags that remind your child of their daily activities and transportation arrangements. They are easy to use - simply clip on your child's backpack with the included carabiner clip. The designs are fun and they are great for children who are too young for cell phones, but still have a busy schedule! And honestly, they provide me with a good overview of my day when I attach them to our son's backpack each morning. Tickler Tags help your child and their teacher or caregiver remember that they may have after school activities or sports, appointments, early release, or changing daycare arrangements. One of my favorites is the one we made for our son that simply says, "Love you!" and has a picture of our family on it. Tickler Tags can offer children simple words of encouragement, which go a long way in a child's day.

To help organize your day, you can use the Two-Tag System that includes one tag with their activity and a second tag for their transportation. Attach them to their backpack

and they are all set for their day!

There are a variety of pre-made tags to choose from for Activities, Transportation, or "Tickle Tags" to give them an extra boost in their day. They retail for $1.50 a piece. You can also customize your own tag for $5.00, which allows you to add your own text and picture.

Nicole, the developer of Tickler Tags, is actually a high school friend so it is extra special to share this product with you. While I love supporting moms who are starting their own business, it is extra special to support a mom who is also an old friend.

Please check out Tickler Tags! It is a small price to pay for the comfort your child feels in being able to predict their day and the added security caregivers feel in knowing where your child is supposed to be.

Disclaimer: Tickler Tags sent me a pack of tags for my use prior to reviewing them. No other compensation was received.

Giveaway: FREE Download of Baby Activity Logger iPhone App

2010-02-07T08:20:00.002-07:00

I recently reviewed an app for the iPhone that will make every parents life easier if they have a newborn or small child. It is easy to use and allows parents to monitor and track almost everything your baby does and look at a daily summary all with a single tap. You can read my complete review on my Parent Coaching site.

Nerdtown, the developers of the Baby Activity Logger app, are giving three FOMTA readers a FREE download! The app is $4.99; what a great chance to try something new that will certainly make your life easier!

There are tons of ways to enter this giveaway:

1. Follow MommyMentor on Twitter. Come back here and post a separate comment letting me know you did this.

2. Follow Nerdtown on Twitter. Come back here and post a separate comment letting me know you did this.

3. Become a follower of this blog, From One Mommy to Another. Post a comment here letting me know you did this.

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7. TWO ENTRIES: Tweet about this giveaway with the text " Use the Baby Activity Logger iPhone app to help keep track of your babies schedule #parenting @MommyMentor @NerdTown" and a link back to this giveaway. Post two comments back here with a link to your Tweet letting me know you did this.

8. THREE ENTRIES: Post or blog about this giveaway on any online forum, group, blog, chat room, etc. with a link back to this contest. Post three comments back here with the links of where you did this.

Each entry should be its own comment since it is the comments that get counted for entering. This contest will close on Thursday, February 18th at 6:00 pm Mountain Time.

~~You can enter an unlimited amount of times! Good luck!~~ This contest is now closed...

The Ju-Ju-Be Be Rich compared to the Be Major compared to the Be Thrifty

2010-02-03T14:01:00.000-07:00

Ju-Ju-Be has a wonderful product line that seems to be continually expanding. While many are anxiously awaiting the arrival of their new bag, the MightyBe, let's not forget their wonderful collection of wallets. They are so incredibly well organized and practical for a busy lifestyle.

I have reviewed their wallets individually, but I thought some comparison pictures might be nice. You can click on each picture to make it larger.

The Be Major, on top, measures W-8" H-4.25" D-1.5".

The Be Rich, in the middle, measures W-7.5" H-3.5" D-2".

The Be Thrifty, on bottom, measures W-4.5" H-3.5" D-2".

This is picture comparing the back of each. Each has a zippered coin pocket on the back.

You can see here that the depth of the Be Thrifty and Be Rich are very similar. The Be Major, according to JJB's measurements, is an inch thinner. However, you can easily see that the Be Major is thicker than both the other two wallets.

Here is a picture of the interior of each. the Be Thrifty and Be Rich are both tri-fold wallets that open with a snap closure, while the Be Major is bi-fold and opens with a zipper. The Be Major also has the center piece.

A size comparison to the medium size Ju-Ju-Be Be Set (in purple).

An extra picture to show that all three can fit in the front pockets of the Be Spicy.

Which one is your favorite?

A Closer Look at the Belen Echandia Hold Me

2010-01-27T15:31:00.000-07:00

I wrote a handbag diary last fall for Belen Echandia and thought I would share some of the highlights with you. You may be asking yourself, "Hmmm....just what is a handbag diary?" Well, I wondered the same thing and simply did my best. I figured that considering how much I love handbags, it could not be that hard.

In some places, you might wonder where a picture is that I reference...well, you will have to go and read the full handbag diary in the BE Magazine!

Dear Diary,

I am not sure why I waited so long to try the beloved Hold Me. I love tote style handbags and now know…I have been missing out. As a stay at home mother of two young children, I wrongly thought it would lack structure and thus, not properly hold the plethora of things we tote to and fro in our busy days.

Instead I have found that my Hold Me is in fact perfect for our busy life; I can fit as little or as much as I need. For me, the pebbled leather is perfect for my Hold Me. It is so rich looking yet can hold up to any demand I place on it. Today, she accompanied us to swim lessons and enjoyed relaxing by the water watching the kids swim. She held ample snacks and water bottles for afterwards. One feature that stood out today…regardless of what I am doing, I can reach in and get whatever I need with complete ease.

Fondly,
MM

Dear Diary,

There could not be a more perfect name for this bag. As I sat waiting for one of my children to finish an extracurricular activity, I found myself doing just that.

“Hold Me” – I guarantee others will find themselves doing it without even realizing that. The perfect size – not too small and not too large. The stand out feature of the day? The purple color matches everything. So having such a versatile bag in such a versatile color is just wonderful.

Fondly,
MM

Dear Diary,

Today was a busy day. We were gone from the house for most of the day. My wonderful mother & our niece were visiting so I had a separate bag packed with odds & ends for the day and decided to just toss what I needed for “parts” of our day in my Hold Me. I am amazed at how much this lovely handbag can hold without looking overpacked. AND somehow I can still find everything I need at a moments notice.

Here is a picture of how HM was packed for a three hour tour. I had my outgoing mail, 3 bags of crackers for the kids, a wallet, a carryall with random goodies, another carryall with hand sanitizer wipes and smaller snacks, a small pouch with my Bluetooth headset, a notepad (you never know when you will need to occupy two-year-old fingers with drawing, my little princess’s sunglasses, and an Envirosax shopping tote ALL in the main compartment - seriously!

In the zippered compartment, I put a pack of Kleenexes, mail keys, and a pack of gum. On the other side I carried my iPhone and keys. As if that is not amazing on is own, but with all of this packed, I could carry it on my shoulder and had room to spare.

Today my Hold Me enjoyed a shopping trip and seeing how beautiful she is from all angles. She also enjoyed dinner out with the family and our company. The Hold Me can adapt to any environment and any outfit – a true asset to my collection!

Now do you see why I adore her?

Fondly,
MM

Dear Diary,

With another fun-filled day ahead of us, I knew my Hold Me would hold what I needed. Today I saw a new trend…whenever I pick it up, I reflect on how lightweight it is.

The leather-backed handles finish off the bag with a classy touch, but also make it stay in place whether carried on the shoulder or arm.

Here is one of my favorite pictures of my Hold Me taking a break while the children rode the carousel.

A few things come to mind when looking at this picture…

Relaxed…
Comfortable…
Stylish…
Practical…
Quality…
Everything a Belen Echandia Hold Me is…

Fondly,
MM

Dear Diary,

Today was another wonderful day. We spent it enjoying the Botanical Gardens with glass plant sculptures. But today, I will let the picture speak for itself.

Isn’t…
this…
beautiful?

Fondly,
MM

Dear Diary,

As I wrap up this diary, I thought I would pull my thoughts together. The Hold Me is a versatile handbag whose uses are yet to be discovered. The quality of the craftsmanship and leather assure this handbag will last for a long time to come. She can fit anything I can come up with and the comfort…Ahhhhh. As with any Belen Echandia handbag, you just feel fabulous carrying one: quality, feminine, unique, classy, and no matter what…they always get a second look.

Fondly,
MM

You can read the full Diary and others in the BE Magazine.

Blog Giveaway! Win a FREE Fleurville MS3 Mothership Diaper Bag in Cocoa Stripes

2010-01-25T14:40:00.002-07:00

Everyone can use another bag, right? :) Here is your chance to win a FREE Fleurville MS3 Mothership Diaper Bag in the versatile Cocoa Stripes print (International winner will only have to pay shipping). You can see detailed pictures and a review of the MS3 here!

1. Follow MommyMentor on Twitter. Come back here and post a separate comment letting me know you did this.

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5. Start a thread or reply to a thread on Little Dudes & Divas Forum. (If you are not a member, please go here to join!). Come back here and post a comment with the link to your comment.

6. Become a Fan of Little Dudes and Divas on Facebook. Search for them on Facebook and there is a button on their page that says, "Become a Fan". Come and post a separate comment back here letting me know you did this.

7. TWO ENTRIES: Post or blog about this giveaway on any online forum, group, blog, chat room, or social networking media, your name it, with a link back to this contest. Post two comments back here with the link of where you did this.

Each entry should be its own comment since it is the comments that get counted for entering. This contest will close on Tuesday, February 9th at 7:00 pm Mountain Time.

~~You can enter an unlimited amount of times! Good luck!~~ This contest is now closed.

Week 2 of Phase 1 of The South Beach Diet

2010-01-24T14:41:00.000-07:00

Well, today officially ends phase one of the South Beach Diet. This last week has been very hard because my weight has not shifted at all. Tomorrow is my official weigh in after the two weeks so hopefully I can stay strong for the rest of the day...and maybe be blessed with a change.

Phase 1 is HARD. Plain and simple. But to do an entire week and see no change has been extremely frustrating. I am still at the point I was after week one, which is down five pounds. I am 1.8 pounds lower than where I ended up after phase one last time (a year ago) so I guess I will take it. Overall, for week two, I maintained a caloric intake between 1150 and 1300 calories. Most days were around 1200.

I have a few suspicions about why the scale is not moving. 1) I am right in the middle of my healthy weight range. This is what I weighed before kids when I was in my best shape....things just settled a bit differently. 2) My vertigo came back this week, which makes my system a bit insane. I also had to deal with some female issues. Thus, if God is nice, the scale will move a bit this week to show me a bit of thanks for my hard work.

Where do I go from here? I am moving onto phase 2 and really only reintroducing fruits this week. My husband and I are both going to try the Body for Life philosophy where you eat strict for 6 days (basically phase 2) and then day 7 you can eat whatever you want...within reason of course! I will continue to do my Jillian Michael's workouts 5-6 days a week and see how it goes.

Hopefully tomorrow morning will give me a result that makes me want to keep forging ahead....

Save 10% on Tugo at Good Tugo!

2010-01-24T07:04:00.000-07:00

If you are in the market for a great gadget to carry your coffee or other beverage while you travel, you must check out the Tugo! I reviewed the Tugo here, but Good Tugo has offered FOMTA readers a coupon code for 10% off the Tugo. Just enter 'fromonemommytoanother' in the box at checkout at www.goodtugo.com.

One Mommy's Pictures and Review of the Belen Echandia I'm Beautiful Midi in Root Pebbled Glossy Leather

2010-01-23T15:14:00.000-07:00

My new handbags from Belen Echandia arrived yesterday; I am beyond thrilled with them! Here is a picture of them together!

The I'm Beautiful Midi in Root pebbled glossy on the left, Enchant Me in Midnight Blue glossy in the middle, and Rock Me Midi in Pewter Crash on the right. In the middle is my Root Zipper Wallet.

Here is a picture of the I'm Beautiful from the front. The root is beyond gorgeous; it is a true rich deep chocolate brown.

Side picture of the I'm Beautiful Midi from the side. The IB Midi measures 16.3" wide, 9.8" high, and 6" deep. It also comes with an optional laptop sleeve.

Here is a picture of the front zippered pocket. It can hold my iPhone and keys no problem.

Here is a picture of the front compartment when packed to use as a handbag. I can fit my Zipper Wallet, a pouch with my random essentials, my Protect Me, mail keys, and TONS of random things in the zippered pocket.

The rear compartment can hold a great amount for my kids. I just tossed in a few things to show that it has tons of potential.

In this picture, I put all of my handbag contents in the front pocket so I could put my laptop in the rear compartment.

Top shot of the I'm Beautiful Midi with all of my purse contents and my HP laptop in the back compartment. My laptop measures 15" diagonally, 13.5" wide, 9" high, and just under 2" deep. It JUST fits and the zipper can close around it.

Side picture of the IB Midi being worn on the shoulder.

Front picture of the IB Midi worn with the laptop packed.

Front picture taken with only regular purse contents. Really the only difference is that it is not as soft and mooshy at the top when the laptop is packed.

Front picture of the IB Midi worn messenger style. I am 5'7" and size 6.

Side picture worn messenger...

The Rock Me Midi, Rock Me, and I'm Beautiful Midi side by side.

The Rock Me Midi and I'm Beautiful Midi side by side.

Bottom footprint comparison of the Rock Me Midi and I'm Beautiful Midi.

The Whisper to Me Midi and I'm Beautiful side by side.

The Rock Me and Rock Me Midi side by side.

The I'm Beautiful Midi, Enchant Me, and Rock Me Midi side by side.

Bottom footprint of the Rock Me Midi, I'm Beautiful, and Enchant Me.

Bottom footprint pictures of the Rock Me (top), I'm Beautiful Midi, and Enchant Me (bottom).

The I'm Beautiful Midi is amazing worn messenger style. I love wearing it like this, but honestly, would not do it with my current laptop. It makes the bag heavier so it is more comfy on my shoulders.

My personal preference is this...the IB Midi is perfect because I want to use this as a handbag that can also carry my laptop here or there. If I were going to carry my purse contents, laptop, and any papers, I would purchase the full size I'm Beautiful.

I adore the root pebbled leather on this bag. It looks incredibly rich with the gold hardware (of which this is the only bag I have that on) and pink lining; the root with the gold on the IB Midi puts it in its own class. While the IB Midi can be a laptop bag, please don't think you cannot wear this as just a handbag. It is divine!

(Disclosure: I was not asked to review this bag (or any of my other BE's) nor given this bag to review. My thoughts are just that...from one bagophile to another. If you need more, follow @MommyMentor on Twitter! )

One Mommy's Pictures and Review of the Belen Echandia Enchant Me

2010-01-23T07:10:00.001-07:00

My big box of my Belen Echandia order arrived yesterday...next up to debut is the Enchant Me in Midnight Blue glossy leather.

Front picture of the Enchant Me in midnight blue. I chose to forgo the front stitching because I am in love with Midnight Blue and also wanted an Enchant me where the handle has the leather behind the hardware that joins the handle to the bag.

Side picture of the Enchant Me when packed. This is a perfect blue for me - deep, rich, with crackles of character and a glossy sheen so she can dress up if she needs.

Picture of the top of the Enchant Me so you can see the gorgeous detailing on the strap. The drop on the Enchant Me is 13 inches when accounting for the slouch in the bag itself - perfect!

An interior picture of the Enchant Me packed up. I love how the EM packs; everything stays upright, but there is SO much room in this handbag if you need it. I can carry snacks for the kids, all of my goodies, my BE Zipper Wallet and still have plenty of room.

Side shot of the Enchant Me worn on the shoulder. Seriously - I think this may be one of my favorite BE's. The size is PERFECT!

A front picture of the Enchant Me worn on the shoulder. I am size 6 and 5'7" for reference.

The Enchant Me (left) and Whisper to Me Midi side by side.

A bottom footprint comparison of the Whisper to Me Midi (Top) and Enchant Me.

The Rock Me, Enchant Me, and Rock Me Midi side by side.

And finally, the Enchant Me and Rock Me Midi side by side...

My overall thoughts? I have no idea why I did not order an EM sooner. It is larger than a typical "midi" bag, it feels just bit smaller than my Rock Me, but larger than the Rock Me Midi. The dimensions are perfect for a hobo in my opinion, because the drop is long enough so your contents carry below your arm. The EM drapes beautifully, the single strap is perfection, and the outer pockets are great for those little extras we carry around. I prefer the attached handle on the Enchant Me as well.

As for the color...oh I heart midnight blue. It will match whatever I want, looks great with jeans, but yet the glossy leather and rich color can dress it up if I need to.

I am fairly certain I have just found one of my top 3 BE's.

(Disclosure: I was not asked to review this bag (or any of my other BE's) nor given this bag to review. My thoughts are just that...from one bagophile to another. )

Pictures & Thoughts on Belen Echandia's new Zipper Wallet

2010-01-22T21:42:00.000-07:00

Belen Echandia makes wonderful handbags and has now added two wallets to their collection. If you like smaller wallets, the Python Wallets may be perfect for you. If you prefer full length wallets, then the Zipper Wallet is for you.

The Belen Echandia Zipper Wallet in Root pebbled leather. The size is really wonderful; it measures 7" by 4" and is 1" deep. The wrist strap is comfortable and the BE book spine is chic and eye catching.

The interior features 12 credit card slots and two full length pockets on each side for bills or extra cards, receipts, or what have you. You can also fit bills and business cards on each side of the zippered coin purse. I was able to fit everything I carry in my Hayden Harnett Pompidou, aside from my lip stick. It has a good number of credit card slots and pockets. Right now, I have a few slim cards doubled up in the credit card slots. With some breaking in, I think I can double up thicker cards.

Close up of the zipper...I love how Jackie at Belen Echandia never misses a chance to add class and a unique touch to her collections.

A close up of the BE book spine.

The Belen Echandia Zipper Wallet is functional, chic and simply gorgeous. I look forward to it breaking in a bit and loosening up.

Thanks for stopping in!