A Daisy in a Rose Garden

Peaceable Kingdom - Review & Giveaway - 8/15

2011-07-25T12:06:00.000-07:00

Seriously!! This is the third time I have written this review! My computer must really hate me today. :(

Peaceable Kingdom is a fabulous company that sent me two cooperative games to use with my preschool class. Since it is summer vacation I haven't played the games with my class, but I did play them with my own children; ages three, four, seven and eight. I'm sure you are probably wondering how a cooperative game is different than a regular board game. Here is what Peaceable Kingdom has to say: "It’s a game where everyone plays together, no one is left out, and everyone has fun! Unlike a traditional game where there is one winner and one (or many) losers, in a cooperative game the players work as a team against a common obstacle, not against each other. Cooperative games emphasize play, not competition. Kids learn to work and play together in respectful and compassionate ways. They learn to share, make decisions together, and trust one another. Cooperative games encourage inclusion and build confidence. Most importantly, the kids play because it’s fun!"

The games we received are Lost Puppies and Count Your Chickens. They are both fun, but Count Your Chickens was the favorite. In this game you work as a group to get all of the baby chicks back to the hen house.

For every review of one of the cooperative games on Amazon.com, Peaceable Kingdom will donate that game to a school of the reviewer’s choosing. The details are on the Peaceable Kingdom Facebook page. Once the review has posted on Amazon.com, you just need to send an email to info@peaceablekingdom.com with the shipping details of the school. Then we’ll send that game off to the school/teacher.

Peaceable Kingdom is going to give one reader any ONE cooperative game of their choice.

How to Enter: US Only NO PO BOXES

Mandatory -Take yourself on over to Peaceable Kingdom and check it all out. Come back here and tell me which item you can't live without.

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:

(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following this blog.

1 entry for subscribing to this blog.

1 entry for liking Peaceable Kingdom on Facebook.

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky and leave me the link to see it.

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my button posted on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at aliciagiveaways (at)ymail (dot) com.

The deadline for this giveaway is August 15th, 2011 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond to claim the item, so make sure you have your email address visible on your profile or leave it in your comment. Good Luck!

Stay at Home parent vs. Working parent

2011-07-09T21:25:00.000-07:00

This is HILARIOUS! I laughed so hard I cried!

My husband always asks how my day went. And he really wants to know. He’s nice like that. As we slowly push the girls around in the stroller, he shares what went right during his day at the office, and I share funny things the kids said. On bad days we vent stresses and offer support and advice.

But lately I can’t help wondering if when I mention that my day was sort of stressful, he mentally thinks, “Yeah, my days are like that too.” Because I really don’t think that our days have the same sort of stresses.

When you decide to become a stay-at-home parent, you enter into a different realm — one ruled by illogical two-year-old dictators, school schedules, and choosing the correct color yogurt. As much as I can explain this to my husband, I don’t know that I’m getting through. Now I’ve done the next best thing: creating a list of questions that will help him and other office-bound parents gauge how (cough, cough) similar their days are to ours.

When you walked into work this morning and pleasantly greeted your co-worker Jim, was his first reaction to scream “NO! WANT JASON!" followed by an office supply being thrown at you?

Has a colleague ever climbed up on your lap while you were using your computer and slammed the keyboard with both fists until the up arrow no longer worked?

Do you have to lock yourself in the supply closet or bathroom on a regular basis in order to make phone calls?

Did you finish a complete thought at any time during the day?

When you went out to lunch with your fellow workers, did you have to pack a diaper/juice/extra outfit for them? Did you have to wipe their faces? Smile an apology and leave an extra tip for the waiter on their behalf?

When a co-worker needed you for something, did she sit at her desk with her head tilted back toward the ceiling and repeatedly scream “SEAN! SEEEEANNNN! SEAAAAAAN!” until you came to find him?

When you needed a specific colleague, did you search all over for him, only to finally find him giggling in the cabinet under the sink? Did you also find six pairs of your church shoes under there with him?

Have you had to come to an associate’s aid because she fell off her desk after trying to climb on top of it using a rolling chair?

When you reached for the report a co-worker was handing you, did he snatch them away at the last second and scream “MINE!” while shoving you backwards?

Does your colleague lift up her shirt and pick things out of her belly button every time she comes over to ask a question?

While you are using the restroom, do various co-workers come in the stall and ask you to settle a disagreement or open a packet of fruit snacks?

During a board meeting when everyone is present, do you notice a smell and then have to check all your colleagues’ pants to locate it? In fact, at ANY point in your day do you have to deal with another person's feces?

If the answer to most of these questions is no, it’s a safe bet to assume you’re in an office. That said, if your answer to most of these questions is yes, and you know you’re in an office, it’s safe to assume you might need a new job.

I'm Simply Taking A Bath

2011-07-09T21:16:00.001-07:00

Dear Kids,

Don't be alarmed, the world isn't coming to an end. I am simply taking a bath. It will take about thirty minutes and will involve soap and water. Yes, I know how to swim. Even if I didn't, forcing myself to drown in a half-inch of lukewarm water is more work than I've got energy for.

(Which reminds me, I'm all for science projects, but the next time you want to see if Play-Doh floats, use cold water.)

Don't panic if I'm not out right on time. I've heard that people don't dissolve in water and I'd like to test the theory. While I'm in the tub, I'd like you to remember a few things. The large slab of wood between us is called a door. Do not bang to hear my voice. I promise that even though you can't see me, I am on the other side. I'm not digging an escape tunnel and running for the border, no matter what I said a while ago. I didn't mean it. Honest. There will be plenty of time later to tell me about your day.

"Later" means at a time when I am no longer naked, wet, and contemplating bubble gum in the blow dryer. I know you have important things to tell me. Please let one of them be that you have invented a new way to blow bubbles, not a new way to add gum to your hair.

Believe it or not, shouting, "TELEPHONE!" through the closed bathroom door will not make the phone stop ringing. The answering machine will take the message. If you feel you need to answer it, take a message. Since Mind-Reading Mom has the day off, you'll need to write that message down. Use paper and a pencil. Do not use your brother and the laundry marker. We can't send him to school with telephone number tattoos.

Water makes me wet, not deaf. I can still tell the difference between the sound of "nothing" and the sound of a child playing the piano with a basketball. I can also hear you tattling at the top of your lungs. I'm choosing NOT to answer you.

Don't call your dad at work and tell him I am unconscious in the bathroom. He didn't appreciate it last time. He won't appreciate it more this time. Trust me. No matter how much I would like it, water does not make me forgetful. I remember who you are and why you are grounded.

No, you can't go to Shelby's house to play. No, you can't go to Jayden's house to use the bathroom. If someone is in our other bathroom, you will just have to think dry thoughts and wait. Unless you have four feet and a tail, do not think of going outside to "water" the lawn. I know the dog does it. The neighbors don't feel the need to call me when the dog does it.

Unless the house catches on fire, stay inside and keep the doors locked. Do not go outside and throw rocks at the bathroom window to get my attention. I know it works in the movies. This is reality, the place where people don't like to sit in a tub while rocks and broken glass rain in on them. Do not set the house on fire.

Call me if there is an emergency. Emergencies ARE:

Dad has fallen off the roof.
Your brother and/or sister is bleeding.
There's a red fire truck in front of our house.
Emergencies ARE NOT:

Dad has fallen asleep.
Someone on TV is bleeding.
There's a red pickup truck in front of our house.
One other thing: Being forced to use the last roll of toilet paper for a towel does not make me happy. It makes me sticky with little white polka dots. In the future, when the tub overflows, use a mop to clean up the water instead of every towel in the house. For my sanity's sake, let's pretend it was the tub, Okay? No, I don't want to hear the real story. Ever. Especially not while I'm standing in the pool of water you missed.

By the way, all Play-Doh experiments are hereby canceled.

Be good. Entertain yourselves. Yes, you can do both at the same time. Try coloring, playing a game, or paying that stack of bills on the coffee table. I'll be out soon.

Maybe.

Love,

Your Mom

Wave at the Bus

2011-06-07T14:07:00.000-07:00

Have you guys heard about this?

A stay at home dad in Utah decided to embarrass his 15 year old son by waving at the bus on his first day as a Sophomore in High School. He went on to dress up in costume every day for the entire year to go out front and wave at the bus. He because a local celebrity. This is hilarious! Check out the wife's blog: Wave at the Bus to see the costumes he wore. The thing that amazes me is that he managed to spend less then $50 for the entire year. He is seriously creative and resourceful. It's totally worth reading.

Recipe Blog

2011-05-31T13:14:00.001-07:00

I have started a new blog to record all of my recipes and keep them all in one place. If you guys are interested the blog is Alicia's Kitchen at thearnoldkitchen.blogspot.com.

IZ Byer California - Review/Giveaway - 6/20

2011-05-29T20:33:00.000-07:00

I had the fun opportunity to review a super cute skirt from Byer California this month. I love, love, love it! I chose the IZ Byer Gauze pick up skirt. It's tons of fun to wear and it goes wih almost anything. I love the fit and the style!

This is such a fun, lightweight skirt. It is perfect for the crazy hot AZ summer. (Forgive the picture. My 4 year old took it with my phone. haha!) This skirt fits beautifully and I SOOO enjoy wearing it. I love the gathered look. I love that it is very lightweight, but not at all see through. In one word: PERFECT!

One lucky reader is going to receive one item from Byer.

How to Enter: US Only

Mandatory -Take yourself on over to Byer @ Macy's, Byer @ JC Penneys, or Byer @ Kohl's and check it all out. Come back here and tell me which item you can't live without.

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:
(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following this blog.

1 entry for subscribing to this blog.

1 entry for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my button posted on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at)ymail (dot) com.

The deadline for this giveaway is June 20th, 2011 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond to claim the item, so make sure you have your email address visible on your profile or leave it in your comment. Good Luck!

Ebates

2011-05-10T13:15:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!
I just wanted to share my new way to save a little money with you guys. I've just learned the fun new way to shop through ebates.com and save money! All you have to do is go to Ebates, find the store you want to shop, click them & shop. Then Ebates will send you a check. I am so excited about this! I am getting almost $100 back from 2 shopping orders. Yay! Try it, I'm telling you. It's worth it. Registration is FREE (everything about ebates is FREE!)

CLOSED - Miche Bag - Review & Giveaway - 2/27

2011-02-14T06:41:00.000-08:00

Ladies, I have got the PERFECT Valentine's Day review & giveaway for you today. I am sooo excited to share some designer handbags from Miche Bag with you. I was the lucky recipient of the Big Bag and 3 shells: Delilah, Drew and Sophie. Currently I am lovin' up on Sophie. Everyone loves her (and she's perfect for February)! The first day I took her out I got 3 compliments on her (an I only went to the pet store for a preschool field trip!). Of course, I had to show off my amazing new bag and take the shell off to show the ladies that you could change it up. They were all impressed and a couple of them said they were going to look up Miche Bag when they got home. I'm excited to try Delilah because she doubles as a diaper bag! She came with a changing pad, which I totally love because I hate to lug my (although it is also beautiful!) diaper bag around as well as my purse. I love to throw in a few diapers, a pack of wipes and a bottle and run....But then if I have to change Baby Girl I don't have my changing pad. :( Not anymore! Delilah has it all.

I must say, I love all of my new Miche Bag shells, but quite possibly my favorite "everyday" bag is Drew.

I love her! You would love her too if she was sitting in your closet begging you to take her out. :) She's beautiful and shiny and new and lovely and...Oh, you get the picture??

......But I have a problem now. I want MORE! I think I must have Natasha or I could wither away and die!

And I also need a classic bag with Andi (seriously, I HAVE to have Andi), Chloe, Leila, Maggie, Ella (black), Scarlet and Samantha is a MUST have for spring!

And then... I have to get the Big Bag closet organizer, classic closet organizer, the cream handles, Red Knot handles, Croc handles (because who doesn't need croc handles?), the single handle conversion kit, the adjustable brown strap and the purse organizer.

And the Mini Miche, let's just say I have my eye on Maddy.

Eww! And did I mention the "Create Your Own Miche"? Don't even get me started on that.

You can see how this is becoming a problem, right?

Make sure to check out the store locator. I was very excited when I did. :)

Now for the giveaway you've all been waiting for....

One lucky reader is going to get their choice of the Big bag or the classic bag and 3 (already selected by Miche experts) shells!

How to Enter: US Only

Mandatory -Take yourself on over to Miche Bag and check it all out. Come back here and tell me which bag and shell(s) you can't live without.

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:
(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following this blog.

1 entry for subscribing to this blog.

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky and leave me the link to see it.

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:

RT Win a Miche bag with 3 shells at

http://tinyurl.com/6dl4m7f

1 entry for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my button posted on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

The deadline for this giveaway is February 27th, 2011 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond to claim the item, so make sure you have your email address visible on your profile or leave it in your comment. Good Luck!

Tiny Prints - Christmas Card Review

2010-11-29T15:13:00.000-08:00

I am one sick mama this week! No fun for me. Last week was MEGA Thanksgiving. We had 70+ people at our house for our 4 year-old's preschool feast and we hosted Thanksgiving the next day (which is probably why I got sick - too much craziness around here and A TON of small children). It is an event week at the kids school (which I am in charge of), my daughter turns eight next week which involves birthday planning, family flying in (and staying with us which means LOTS of cleaning to be done!), and for our family it means a baptism. Not to mention all of the Christmas shopping, decorating, toy box clean-outs, dresser flings and so much more. BUT THE POINT IS.... I sure hope this makes sense after it flows through my sick foggy brain down to my fingers and into cyberspace for you to find.

I was fortunate enough to be chosen to write a review for Tiny Prints this month. I was allowed to chose and design my own cards and I chose the 'Winter Reflection' from the Christmas card selection. This is NOT my family, but super cute nonetheless. For this specific card style you chose up to 3 photos and their designer blends them together to create your card. They then emailed me proofs (I got two options) and I got to look them over, pick the one I like best and have them printed. At that point I also had the option to have them make changes, but I liked what they had come up with so there was no need. I also received a phone message on my machine (from a REAL person!) to let me know that the proofs were done and that I could call if need be to discuss my card. I thought that was a fun, above-and-beyond type of customer service. All in all I definitely love my cards and would recommend Tiny Prints to anyone in the market for an awsome Christmas card, birth announcement, invitation, photo card, thank you card, birthday card, personal stationary or anything along these lines.

RunningShoes.org - Giveaway - 10/23

2010-10-13T21:47:00.000-07:00

I am happy to bring to you another fun site called RunningShoes.org!
This great blog has lots of good information for runners including great shoe reviews and favorite brands. I am happy to say that I purchased a double jogging stroller recently and I am learning to love running myself. I just had my fifth baby and would like to finally fit into my size 3's hanging in the closet. (They aren't just there for decoration!) I have been doing some searching on this blog myself to learn all that I can to help love running faster, because as it stands it is a HUGE chore for me to get it done. I hear running is addicting and once you learn to love it you are hooked. I honestly can't wait for that day! RunningShoes.org is bringing you a wonderful giveaway of 2 pair (His/Hers) running shoes from Nike or a $150 Nike gift card!

How to Enter: US Only

Mandatory -Share your running story and why you'd like to win. You must also leave a comment on their blog. (And be a blog follower of this blog)

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:

(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky and leave me the link to see it.e

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win 2 pairs of Nike running shoes at
http://tinyurl.com/28eo8hx

1 entry for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my button posted on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

The deadline for this giveaway is October 23rd, 2010 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond to claim the item, so make sure you have your email address visible on your profile or leave it in your comment. Good Luck!

Ergo Baby Carrier - Review

2010-09-10T12:09:00.000-07:00

Recently I received the ERGObaby Carrier to review. The one they sent me was the Galaxy Grey carrier with embroidery - galaxy lining.
I had the opportunity to wear my baby in the carrier for and event I put on at my kids' school. It was a life saver. I was able to keep my baby close and get the things done that needed to be done. (I am the PTO President)
I am not normally a baby wearing type of mom, but I am now thinking that I just didn't have the right carrier. She and I both love the carrier and my husband can also wear it because it's not girly looking. I would recommend this to any busy parent, or even grandparent.
It is much easier to put that baby in and take the baby out of than the cheap-o backpack type carrier that I had with my other children that always took 2 people to work. You should definitely check them out here.

Treasure Box Photos in Arizona

2010-09-01T09:30:00.001-07:00

I just had my baby's pictures done and I wanted to let you all know abaout my experience. It was AMAZING! Erin is a very talented photographer and she took so many amazing photos of my baby girl. I am so excited about them! If you are in the Phoenix area I would STRONGLY suggest that you look her up! Treasure Box Photo Studio is the place to get your pictures done. (Think Christmas!) - She has a Christmas special going on now. You don't want to miss out. This is just one of the amazing photos that she took of my baby. Click on the photo for the link to other great photos by Erin.

Carolina Pad - Review & Giveaway - 9/11

2010-08-27T07:43:00.000-07:00

This month I have had the opportunity to review some fun items from Carolina Pad just in time for 'Back to School' events. In my package I received:

I am the PTO President for my kids' school and I am using my products all of the time at our events and meetings. People complement me all of the time on my super cute notebooks and folders. I wish that I would have had these fun things as a high school student (or elementary even!) They are fun to have and make organizing a little bit more fun to do.

They items were from many different collections including the pictures shown below. I love that they carry so many different collections. They are sure to have something that appeals to you in at least one collection. The collections I received are:

Hot Chocolate
Royal Twist
Zensational
Sasquatch
Dreamsicle

Giveaway: One reader will be chosen to receive a collection of products similar to what I reviewed.

How to Enter: US Only

Mandatory -Visit Carolina Pad and tell me what your favorite product is.

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:

(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following this blog

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky and leave me the link to see it.e

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for liking Studio C and Carolina Pad on Facebook.

1 entry for following Carolina Pad and Me on twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win @CarolinaPad collection from @aliciagiveaways
at http://tinyurl.com/25r456l

1 entry for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my button posted on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 10 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

10 entries for purchasing something from Alicia's Scentsy Website . Make sure you leave 10 separate comments!

The deadline for this giveaway is September 11th, 2010 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond to claim the item, so make sure you have your email address visible on your profile or leave it in your comment. Good Luck!

Safeway Review

2010-08-03T15:42:00.000-07:00

I was recently contacted by Safeway and informed that they now do home deliveries! They sent me 2 $100 gift cards for check it out and letting you know about it. One as reimbursement for my shopping and one as a thank you. As most of you have read before, I am a busy mom to five young children. Grocery shopping is a pain in the neck! I was thrilled to learn that I could do it online and have it delivered right to my door.

It was so easy! I just went to the Safeway website, clicked on the link at the top that says Grocery Delivery and started shopping. Everything is arranged by aisle so you can find what you need easily. They have TONS of promo codes to save you money (you can also google Safeway promo codes) I saved over $18 in codes and I got free delivery - see code below!
Codes I found:
TEN4U ($10 off)
CJEXCLUSIVE (free case of water and free delivery)

Want to try it? Want free delivery and $7 off?
Use my code: ASRWGY

CLOSED - iPod Touch - Giveaway - 8/31

2010-07-26T08:46:00.000-07:00

A Daisy in a Rose Garden is teaming up with a new blog called Airline Tickets to give one of my readers an iPod Touch!

This new blog has great information for anyone who is going to be traveling. They cover things like the worst cities for airline delays, tips for traveling comfortable, traveling with children, popular destinations, best airlines for business travelers and much more.

How to Enter: US Only
A new way to enter will be added on July 26th!

Mandatory -Share your best or worst travel experience

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:

(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky and leave me the link to see it.e

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win an iPod Touch @aliciagiveaways
at http://tinyurl.com/33b7eko

1 entry for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my button posted on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

10 entries for purchasing something from Alicia's Scentsy Website and having them send me proof. Make sure you leave 10 separate comments!

The deadline for this giveaway is August 31th, 2010 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond to claim the item, so make sure you have your email address visible on your profile or leave it in your comment. Good Luck!

Random Rantings

2010-07-20T15:10:00.000-07:00

I know I have been a total slacker of the blog lately. Here is a brief story of why:
I have 5 kids!

And here is the longer version.
I have found myself to be a mother of five kids. The oldest is my 7 year old daughter - C who thinks she is the 'other Mama' to the children. Sometimes this is very helpful, sometimes this causes major drama. The rest of the time she is busy sneaking. Sneaking should be understood to mean anything from pudding cups to flowers and grasshoppers. She keeps these things under couch cushions, in pillows, in her dollhouse, under the bathroom counters, inside of her art desk and any other place she deems fit. One time I found 3 heart suckers and a ring pop in the seat of her desk. When I pulled them out she wasn't in the room, but her 3 year old brother, Little D, was. He informed me that the three, what appeared to me to be heart shaped suckers, were in fact his sisters medicine, "That's sissy's medicine, and that's sissy's medicine and that is sissy's medicine." He then pointed to the ring pop and said "And THAT is a lollipop." Smart thinking there Princess. Tell Little D that it's your medicine. Two birds with one stone: He won't eat it AND he won't tell Mom.
She hid flowers in her backpack at the bus stop to take to her teacher after the bus driver told them they weren't allowed to bring flowers onto the bus. She hid grasshoppers in her backpack on the way home from the bus stop, which Mom found while checking for homework. Mom unzipped the bag and grasshoppers 1 through 4 started jumping, which caused Mom to scream at the top of her lungs! "Get down here and get these out of the house NOW!" Only to later find that there were more grasshoppers in the other zipper pocket.

The next of the bunch is my 6 year old son - J. He is always on the go. By 'on the go' I mean doing something he is not supposed to be doing. Over the years this has included climbing a laundry rack to get the bleach to pour on my carpet, dumping full cans of formula out onto the floor, coloring with brown marker on my walls, emptying a bottle of chocolate syrup on the floor (with above mention daughter, C), and so on. The more average daily 'on the go' list includes things like holding objects above a smaller child's head to see how loud they can scream, punching someone because they were bothering him by being in the same room, talking back to Mama just to see if he can get away with it and all kinds of other fun adventures.
The middle man in our crew is Little D. He is a tiny little 3 year old. He wars glasses. That alone is a giant adventure. He hides his patch. Under the couch cushion, in the toy box, in the dresser, under the couch itself, basically anywhere he can think of. he has gone through 3 pairs of glasses in 18 months and needs a new pair now actually. He is a busy little guy and loves spending time with his Mommy. He also loves his big Sissy and he will play anything she wants him to.
Our littlest man is 2 year old T. He is the busiest of the bunch, running everywhere he goes. He loves to hide in the pantry and eat everything he can reach. Today he managed to 'reach' some frozen RAW bacon and suck on half a piece before I could get it away from him. AHHH! He loves to dance and play the 'bam buh buh bam bam' (guitar controller). He is a baby lover and if he can't be holding baby sissy then he finds himself a proxy i.e. Elmo, a doll, whatever is close. We have fights over the baby swing to see who's baby gets to use it, mine or his. I usually win ;-)
And the big reason for my blog neglect: Baby Londyn! She's new, she cries and she eats - A LOT! We love her dearly and Mom rarely ever puts her down which is why I don't post much these days.

The moral of the story is: I am BUSY! But I promise to try and be a better blogger.

CLOSED - Scentsy Review & Giveaway - Aug 30, 2010

2010-07-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

I am more exited about this product than possibly any other product I have ever had on the blog. This is a product I use every day in my own home and I love it! It is a smokeless, wickless candle that is much safer to have in your home or office and around your children. My two year old has stuck his hands into a warmer full of melted wax on a few occasions (once at my house and once at my moms house) and the only problem was a dirty hand. The warmers come in a bunch of shapes and three different sizes- full size, mid-size and plug-in. They come in bright colors, sports themes, schools themes, neutral colors, Do-It-Yourself themes and more. Here are a few of my favorites.

Full SizeMid-size
Plug-in

Sentsy carries 80+ different scents at any given time with different lines such as Bakery, Romance, Favorites, Spring & Summer, Scentsy Cafe, Scentsy Man, Tropical and Spa. They also carry travel tins, room sprays and car-fresheners.

Giveaway: A Full-Size Warmer of your choice (start looking now!)

How to enter: US Only

A new way to enter will be added on July 26th!

Mandatory -Head on over to Alicia's Scentsy Website and check out their products. Then come back here and let me know what you like the best. If your email is not visible in your profile make sure you leave it in your comment!

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:

(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky and leave me the link to see it.e

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a Scentsy warmer from @aliciagiveaways
at http://tinyurl.com/33b7eko

1 entry for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my button posted on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

10 entries for purchasing something from Alicia's Scentsy Website and having them send me proof. Make sure you leave 5 separate comments!

The deadline for this giveaway is August 30th, 2010 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond to claim the item, so make sure you have your email address visible on your profile or leave it in your comment. Good Luck!

Please vote for my baby!

2010-06-28T09:07:00.001-07:00

My baby is in a Baby-Idol contest with the radio station here! If she wins I'll finally get to buy her a great nursery. (And maybe a new washer and dryer that doesn't stop mid cycle). Please help her win! (Feel free to post this on your own blog or pass along to family and friends.)
Please go vote for Londyn! http://www.mix969.com/pages/baby-idol/vote-entrants.php?gid=3#24

Pediped News

2010-06-22T12:44:00.000-07:00

pediped® takes comfort to a new level

with Memory Foam Technology (MFT)™
sandals and ballet flats

Henderson, NV (June 2010) – pediped® introduces the next generation in ultimate comfort for children with Memory Foam Technology™ (MFT™ ) intheir signature ballet flats and sandals for boys and girls. The responsive and high-density Memory Foam Technology™ (MFT™) insoles mold to a child’s foot and spring back when pressed to absorb shock, and minimize impact. The MFT™ insoles also react to body temperature, distribute weight and provide support where needed. This creates a custom fit that is comparable to none.

Best of all, this ultra comfortable technology is available in many adorable styles including the Penny ballet flat, the Megan sandal with flowers, the Phoebe with gorgeous rhinestones, the Gillian, and Brody, a rugged sandal for boys. The shoes are made of an all leather upper, lining and all natural rubber sole. Upholding its reputation as a leader in the children’s footwear industry, pediped® is the only US children’s footwear company to offer a complete line of shoes with memory foam technology.

Style no longer has to be sacrificed for comfort. Now, with this new line, savvy parents will be happy to know that kids can be both stylish and comfortable. pediped® footwear’s MFT™ line is available now at select retailers and on www.pediped.com. This line comes in EU sizes 20-29 (US sizes 5-12.5) and retails for $48-52 USD per pair. Styles include Penny, Gillian, Megan, Phoebe and Brody (photos below). Look for new Fall/Winter 2010 MFT™ styles from pediped® to make their debut this July!

About pediped®
pediped® footwear was launched in 2004 by Angela and Brian Edgeworth in their quest for the perfect soft-soled shoe for their first daughter. Exceptional quality, unsurpassed comfort and distinctive styling have made the award winning company one of the fastest-growing children's footwear brands in the United States. pediped® footwear is sold in over 3000 stores in the United States and 40 countries worldwide with an offering of more than 120 designs for boys and girls between their two lines, Originals and Flex. Originals (soft-soled shoes for newborns to age 2+) and Flex (rubber-soled shoes for children 1-5 years) are available in EU sizes ranging from 17 to 29. In addition the company’s award winning footwear collections pediped® offers a range of accessories including tights and socks, and jewelry. For more information, email customerservice@pediped.com, visit www.pediped.com or call 1-702-567-0311.

Ecostore USA - Review

2010-05-31T09:04:00.000-07:00

Wish me luck! I'm trying to type up a review with one good eye. Whoever said being a mother wasn't dangerous wasn't a mother. :) This month I dropped a toddler bed on my right foot - still not sure if I broke it or not, but yesterday my three year old stepped on it. An hour after that I was dancing with him and he somehow stuck his finger into my eye. I've never had my eye poked so badly! I'm just glad family pictures were last week. :) My eyeball was scratched in the process and now everything is a little fuzzy - which makes typing this a little tricky. Anyways, back to the point of this post...

This month I was sent a couple of products from Ecostore USA to try out and review for you. I chose the auto dish powder and the laundry liquid because I use those products every day in my house. My husband is a backwoods, redneck type of guy and was less than impressed that I was using 'green' cleaning products. Not that he's against it, he just doesn't want to try new things. Silly guy. Anyways, I've gotta say that I actually like them both! I was leery on the dish power as I am a liquid dish soap kinda mom. I am always afraid that it won't dissolve and clean anything, but it did. It has every time. Ecostore USA has all kinds of great products for your house, your baby, your hair, your pets and more. Get on over there and check them out today.

Buggy Guard - Review

2010-05-04T12:41:00.000-07:00

Recently I received the BuggyGuard to review for you. The one they sent me was the Panda, but they also carry a bunch of other cute ones. This fun little guy locks up your stroller so no one walks away with it while you aren't looking. You know when you go to the zoo or to the mall and there are some places that your stroller can't go and they have stroller parking? I never leave my stroller. I always stay behind with it or just don't go places that I can't take it in with me. Now that problem is solved. This little guy is so easy to use, too!

Wanna win American Idol tickets?

2010-04-21T12:54:00.000-07:00

Tickets to the finale! 2 tickets, 2 night, airfare and lodging!
Stay tuned to find out how. Tell your friends to watch for the coming information.

Sleepy Wrap - Review

2010-04-21T12:01:00.000-07:00

As most of you know, I have recently had a new baby girl. I was lucky enough to have the kind people at Sleepy Wrap send me the hot pink wrap to review for you. I was pretty sure it was going to be difficult to figure out, especially when I opened the package and realized how long it was. I was pleasantly surprised to see that even I could figure it out. I even got it right the first time when I thought it would take me several tries. I only needed the instructions the first time and after that it was easy. Baby girl loves being wrapped up and it has allowed me to get things done that require two hands while still holding her. I honestly didn't think that I would love having a wrap because I have never been a 'baby wearing' mom, but I love it! The wrap is a one size fits all. I have posted some pictures from their website below, including one with twins that I just love! I think the timing of this review is great with all of the sling recalls due to infant deaths. This wrap is safe for newborns because it has a special newborn hold that won't suffocate your baby.

Check out the website for important information on baby wearing and benefits it has as well as damage that it can do if your carrier holds your baby wrong.

Wanna save 10%? Use coupon code: Daisy at checkout. Expires in one month.

Also, check out their facebook page to see how they are celebrating Earth week.

Hygeia Breast Pump - Review

2010-04-07T17:10:00.000-07:00

I am loving my new EnJoye breast pump from Hygeia!
I have never been much of a breast feeding mom, mostly because I can't ever get enough milk to feed my babies. This pump is amazing. It works really fast (at least I think it does) and it doesn't leave me cracked an bleeding like the last time I tried pumping. I really just can't say enough good about this pump. I love that it is a dual pump so that I don't have to pump twice. I am not posting any other pictures for obvious reasons, but I am using this pump 6 times a day and loving it as much as one can love pumping.

CLOSED - CafePress - Review & Giveaway - 4/6

2010-03-23T13:25:00.000-07:00

I was recently contacted by CafePress to do a review for them and got to choose a shirt for me and a shirt for my child. I chose the Mom 5 and the little sister shirts shown below. You can find millions of personalized gifts at CafePress – for any topic, interest, or brand! They carry all kinds of other items besides shirts. Head on over and check them out for a chance to win a shirt for you and one for your child.

How to enter: US Only

Mandatory -Head on over to CafePress and check out their products. Then come back here and let me know what you like the best. If your email is not visible in your profile make sure you leave it in your comment!

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:

(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following this blog publicly.

1 entry for following me on facebook networked blogs. (on the right side below the twitter link)

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky and leave me the link to see it.

1 entry for each of my other giveaways that you enter.

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via email (current subscribers count too!) and commenting here (twice) telling me

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for fanning CafePress on facebook.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for following CafePress on Twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win 2 shirts from @cafepress and @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/yafrff8

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my new button posted on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from CafePress and having them send me proof. Make sure you leave 5 separate comments!

The deadline for this giveaway is April 6th, 2010 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond to claim the item, so make sure you have your email address visible on your profile or leave it in your comment. Good Luck!

CLOSED - Nosefrida - Review & Giveaway - 4/6

2010-03-23T13:08:00.000-07:00

I was sent a NoseFrida nasal aspirator about a month ago and I have been waiting for my baby to come so that I can try it out, but she has other things in mind. After having my labor stopped twice, now that I am full term she doesn't want to come anymore. So I have decided that I need to get this posted so that one of you lucky readers can win your own NoseFrida nasal aspirator. I have read all about it and checked it out pretty close. I am excited to have something besides the nose sucker bulb things for her. The NoseFrida nasal aspirator looks much less invasive for the baby. It is now being sold online at Target and Babies R Us if you'd like to order one, or you can also order online at NoseFrida.

How to enter: US Only

Mandatory -Head on over to NoseFrida and check out their products. Then come back here and let me know what you like the best. If your email is not visible in your profile make sure you leave it in your comment!

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:

(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following this blog publicly.

1 entry for following me on facebook networked blogs. (on the right side below the twitter link)

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky and leave me the link to see it.

1 entry for each of my other giveaways that you enter.

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via email (current subscribers count too!) and commenting here (twice) telling me

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for fanning NoseFrida on facebook.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for following Nosefrida on Twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a Nosefrida nasal aspirator from @NoseFrida and @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/y8axhqt

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my new button posted on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from Nosefrida and having them send me proof. Make sure you leave 5 separate comments!

Just a quick update

2010-03-11T10:55:00.000-08:00

I am having lots of preterm labor and have been in the hospital twice this week, once for an over night stay - yuck! Hoping to stay pregnant one more week. I probably won't get anything new posted until the baby is born. Hang in there! I'll be back with some great stuff!

Serif Digital Scrapbook Artist 2 - Review

2010-03-03T10:20:00.000-08:00

Recently, I have had the opportunity to review Serif's Digital Scrapbook Artist 2. I have had a lot of fun learning to use it and making some cute pages. My favorite feature (though I am just beginning to learn to use it) is where you can create your own kits. There are forums at Daisy Trail to teach you how to use the many features of this program and also free digikit downloads. I tried to figure out how to post the pages I created on here for you to see, but I am having technical difficulties so it's not gonna happen. There are a bunch at Daisy Trail that you can view in the member gallery if you'd like to though. I am loving this program and I love all of the help that is avaliable to me as the user to figure it out. It is not a program that you buy and they just say 'good luck!' and throw in a user guide. There is so much more help out there to get you going, which is super important to me as I have never done digital scrapbooking before this. If you are looking into starting up a new hobby of digital scrapbooking, this is the program for you! But the greatest part is, if you are already a pro, this is still the program for you! It is very versitale so you don't need a new program just because you know more about it. Perfect for families with more than one scrapbooker, too. I haven't found anything about this program that I don't like. It really is a lot of fun and it makes it so much easier to do than I'd imagined.

Meg Original - Review

2010-02-24T10:33:00.001-08:00

MEG Original has the cutest baby things and they are SO reasonably priced. In my opinion, I think she is about half of the price of other companies for burp cloth s. She sells them 4 for $25 in sets like the black and white one pictured here. I just LOVE this tuxedo set!

They have over 51 different sets featured on their website so you are sure to find something that you'll love! They also come in sets of three, two and as singles, but the best price comes when you buy 4. And really, who doesn't need at least 4 burp cloths? I could buy up lots and lots of these sets because I have SO many favorites. I also love the pink and brown dots and the whimzy set. Burp cloths aren't their only specialty. They also sell matching bibs, very cute blankets, changing pads, diaper clutches, gift sets, and security blankets. Check out the two gift baskets that they have posted right now. I would LOVE to get one of those!

Polls have been reset - GO VOTE!

2010-02-24T10:28:00.001-08:00

Go vote for an extra entry into one of the giveaways!

Safety 1st Complete Family Thermometer - Review

2010-02-23T15:35:00.000-08:00

This week I've been reviewing the Safety 1st Complete Family Thermometer. Here are a few points that the website highlights:

Fever Light™ Bar lights up red to indicate a fever
Recalls the last 10 readings for temperature and time
Tips can be easily stored in the thermometer
Fever chart is included
Just remove the probe to turn on
Clean Me Alert
Automatic shut-off
Clock
Low battery indicator
Includes 2 "AAA" replaceable alkaline batteries.

Personally, I like the fact that it comes with 3 tips, one for underarm, one for mouth and one for rectal. My only problem with it was it seemed to take a longer than my almost two year old would have liked to read his temperature. He is teething and had a fever yesterday when he woke up from his nap. Perfect time to try this baby out, but my screaming child didn't want to co-operate. The easy underarm attachment helped out in keeping it where it belonged, but my son just wanted to shut off the machine! Ahhh! I really do like this thermometer, but still prefer the one that goes in the ear (at least for my two year old) which they also sell here. The ear one also checks bath water and food temperatures which I think is great! I must say that my older children liked this one and they liked having their temperature taken under their arm. My three year old actually begged me to take his!

CLOSED - Photofiddle - Review & Giveaway - 2/28

2010-02-14T12:44:00.000-08:00

I received a beautiful 12 x 18 canvas print from Photofiddle just in time for Valentine's Day. What a perfect gift for my husband! I chose a picture of the two of us from our wedding day. They sent me back all of the different options I could have and I chose the oil painting. It turned out beautiful. My husband is taking it to the office to hang up. :o) I would most definitely do this again.
Photofiddle is offering one of my readers a $50 gift certificate to their site. What great timing with Mother's Day not too far off. :)

How to enter: US Only

Mandatory -Head on over to Photofiddle and check out their products. Then come back here and let me know what you like the best. If your email is not visible in your profile make sure you leave it in your comment!

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:

(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following this blog publicly.

1 entry for following me on facebook networked blogs. (on the right side below the twitter link)

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky and leave me the link to see it.

1 entry for each of my other giveaways that you enter.

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via email (current subscribers count too!) and commenting here (twice) telling me

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for fanning Photofiddle on facebook.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for following Photofiddle on Twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a $50 gift certificate from @Photofiddle and @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/yzt4u9a

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my new button posted on your site.

3 entries for posting the Baby Bash button on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from Photofiddle and having them send me proof. Make sure you leave 5 separate comments!

The deadline for this giveaway is February 28th, 2010 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond to claim the item, so make sure you have your email address visible on your profile or leave it in your comment. Good Luck!

M.A.H Creations - Review & Giveaway

2010-02-09T11:01:00.000-08:00

What is M.A.H. Creations?

It's more than a business, it's a mission! All of our products are made by Moms At Home (M.A.H.). What does that mean as a customer? That means each and every time you shop you are guaranteed that your product has been hand crafted with love and special attention to detail. These talented moms have a passion for what they do and love to express their creativity in the products they offer. That also means that you will receive excellent customer service and personal attention. We appreciate you, our customers, and want you to be thrilled with every purchase.

I received this super cute leopard Binky Buddy to review for this event. This puts a new twist on ways to not lose your baby's binky. What a great idea to attach it to something that your child can cuddle. I love M.A.H Creations! They carry some of the cutest products from picnic baskets to pet items. I also love that by purchasing from them you are supposrting other moms. One of these binky buddies is included in the Big Baby Basket so make sure you get entered to win it.

Piggy Paint - Review & Giveaway

2010-02-08T13:22:00.000-08:00

I just love Piggy Paint! It is such a great idea and my daughter loves being able to paint her own nails. I love knowing that it is safe for her to do so. I can't wait for my new baby girl to get here so that I can use this on her as well. What a comforting feeling to know that I can safely paint my baby's nails even though she will put her hands in her mouth. My favorite Piggy Paint product would have to be the polish remover because I can't stand the smell of remover and this one is odorless, they call it 'low odor', but I, myself, would call it odorless. How wonderful! That takes away one of the biggest reasons to NOT paint your nails (or your child's). Piggy Paint is taking part in out Big Basket Giveaway so make sure you get over there and enter to win it!

London Bridge Children - Review & Giveaway

2010-02-05T19:55:00.000-08:00

This fun company is called London Bridge Children and they offer a variety of items from baby bedding to childrens' art. I chose this cute little picture called Prissy Sisters - Brunette to review for you. I think all of the art they offer is absolutely cute! You can choose to have it personalized with your childrens' names as well. I chose not to have mine personalized because we haven't picked a baby name yet. (I know - we need to get on that!) If you look closely you can see that the personalization is on the purses in this particular picture. Lori is such a talented artist and her work is just so perfect for kids rooms. I love that it isn't too babyish, but also not too grown up so it can last in your childrens' rooms longer than a lot of childrens art I have seen, which is more specific to one period of time such as infancy or toddler stage. She has art specific to boys, girls and also neutral. She offers her art as a print in several sizes or a stretched canvas in several sizes and also creates custom art for her customers.

Lori is offering one of my readers their own 8x10 peice of choice with personalization which is in the Big Baby Bash Gift Basket so make sure you get entered to win!

CLOSED - Misikko - Review & Giveaway - 2/20

2010-02-04T11:41:00.000-08:00

Here is something fun for all of us Moms out there. Misikko is a company that carries hair products including professional flat irons along with some make-up and skin care products. They sent me this wonderful Hana Professional 1" Pink flat iron to review for you.

I used mine to curl my hair. Sorry about the picture, my 7 year old took it. :) I was quite impressed with this flat iron. I have very thick hair. Every time I go to the salon the stylist tells me that I have more hair than she's ever seen - never fails, so it takes me A LONG time to do my hair. I love that this flat iron has a heat setting made just for me. Due to the nature of this pregnancy I don't do my hair very often these days (mostly just ponytails and pulled up) so my husband was quite impressed when he came home yesterday. He asked me where I went :)

Misikko has something for everyone including FHI flat irons and Chi flat irons. They currently have a Valentine's Day Sale going on as well including their deep cherry red set at 49% off! The Deep Cherry Red Set includes:

1) FHI 1900 Nano Pro Hair Dryer
2) FHI Technique 1" Flat Iron
3) Murad Power of Pomegranate 3 Piece Gift Set
4) Misikko Heat Pad / Flat Iron Pouch
5) Three Emory Board Nail Filing Keychains in Satin Pouch
6) Cute Valentine's Day Stuffed Animal

Misikko is offering to give one of my readers their very own flat iron!

How to enter: US Only

Mandatory -Head on over to Misikko and check out their products. Then come back here and let me know what you like the best. If your email is not visible in your profile make sure you leave it in your comment!

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:

(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following this blog publicly.

1 entry for following me on facebook networked blogs. (on the right side below the twitter link)

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky and leave me the link to see it.

1 entry for each of my other giveaways that you enter.

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via email (current subscribers count too!) and commenting here (twice) telling me

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for following Misikko on Twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a Hana flat iron from @Misikko and @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/yej9fye

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my new button posted on your site.

3 entries for posting the Baby Bash button on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from Misikko and having them send me proof. Make sure you leave 5 separate comments!

The deadline for this giveaway is February 20th, 2010 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond to claim the item, so make sure you have your email address visible on your profile or leave it in your comment. Good Luck!

CLOSED - LaDy LaDuke - Review & Giveaway - 2/19

2010-02-04T10:47:00.000-08:00

A Daisy in a Rose Garden welcomes LaDy LaDuke back to the blog. What a wonderful company! They make the most adorable nursing covers I have ever seen. What is so special about LaDy LaDuke's Feeder Frock? Well, other than it being gorgeous, it covers not only your front, but your back, too! I have never seen another one like it. I was lucky enough to receive a Designers Choice Feeder Frock to review. I chose this beautiful pink one. I was so surprised when it came in the mail just how much prettier it was in person. It has criss cross straps on both sides that I didn't notice in the picture, which I think adds to it's already beautiful design. LaDy LaDuke has several shops with their Feeder Frocks. There are different one's in each so make sure you check them all out. LaDy LaDuke on Etsy, LaDy LaDuke Zibbet, LaDy LaDuke on Artfire, and LaDy LaDuke on Swish Lily. They also have a LaDy LaDuke Blog. Or you can follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

LaDy LaDuke is offering one of my readers a Designers Choice Feeder Frock.

How to enter: EVERYONE!

Mandatory -Head on over to LaDy LaDuke on Etsy, LaDy LaDuke Zibbet, LaDy LaDuke on Artfire, and LaDy LaDuke on Swish Lily and check out their products. Then come back here and let me know what you like the best. If your email is not visible in your profile make sure you leave it in your comment!

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:

(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following this blog publicly.

1 entry for following LaDy LaDuke Blog.

1 entry for following me on facebook networked blogs. (on the right side below the twitter link)

1 entry for following LaDy LaDuke on Facebook.

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky and leave me the link to see it.

1 entry for each of my other giveaways that you enter.

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via email (current subscribers count too!) and commenting here (twice) telling me

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for following LaDy LaDuke on Twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a Feeder Frock Nursing Cover from @LaDyLaDuke and @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/yaezegx

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my new button posted on your site.

3 entries for posting the Baby Bash button on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from LaDy LaDuke and having them send me proof. Make sure you leave 5 separate comments!

The deadline for this giveaway is February 19th, 2010 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond to claim the item, so make sure you have your email address visible on your profile or leave it in your comment. Good Luck!

CLOSED - We Love Colors - Review & Giveaway - 2/18

2010-02-03T18:16:00.000-08:00

I am pleased to welcome We Love Colors back to the blog. This time I got to review a pair of children's microfiber solid color tights in white and a pair of women's nylon/lycra solid color tights in black.

We Love Colors should take over making women's tights/nylons entirely. I love their products! If you are tired of buying nylons just to have them get giant runs in them you need to switch to We Love Colors brand instead. These are a much higher qaulity and the don't snag and run like regular nylons do (at least mine haven't). And how many times have you tried to put tights onto a squirming baby just to snag them once you finally get them onto the child? It can be so frusterating! Not anymore. And the best part is they carry so many colors that you are bound to find some to match the perfect dress you have just bought for your child without going to a million different stores just to find out that they don't have the right color (or size!). You will love their opaque tights.

WE LOVE COLORS TO DONATE 5% OF FEBRUARY SALES TO HAITI

MIAMI, FL (Feb. 1, 2010) -- We Love Colors announced today that they will be donating 5% of all February sales to Haiti relief efforts distributed both nationally and locally.

We Love Colors will be donating to Doctors Without Borders, USA and Operation USA, two widely recognized and well respected relief groups that have been working tirelessly to assist in the rebuilding of Haiti and the aid of its people since the earthquake that took place just a few weeks ago. The effects the two organizations' efforts have had are already beginning to show with Haiti patient conditions improving day by day. We Love Colors hopes to help in Haiti's further recovery through its sales contribution.

In addition to its national donations, however, We Love Colors is seeking local, Miami-based organizations to partner with and assist in the company's efforts to help Haiti. We Love Colors is specifically interested in partnering with relief groups that are accepting children orphaned by the catastrophic event in need of food, shelter, and care.

We Love Colors is known for giving back to its local community through the Kiwanis Club of Miami Gardens and its participation in various volunteer events working with children and supporting past hurricane relief efforts, however, the company is looking to give back on an international level by reaching out to Haiti and those victimized by the earthquake. The company is encouraging its customers to make purchases that might have been made later in the year during the month of February to assist in its Haiti relief cause.

We Love Colors is offering one of my readers a pair of MicroFibers - you pick the size, color and style.

How to enter: US Only

Mandatory -Head on over to We Love Colors and check out their products. Then come back here and let me know what you like the best. If your email is not visible in your profile make sure you leave it in your comment!

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:

(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following this blog publicly.

1 entry for following me on facebook networked blogs. (on the right side below the twitter link)

1 entry for following We Love Colors on Facebook.

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky and leave me the link to see it.

1 entry for each of my other giveaways that you enter.

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via email (current subscribers count too!) and commenting here (twice) telling me

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for following We Love Colors on Twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a pair of microfibers from @WeLoveColors and @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/yfdczwe

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my new button posted on your site.

3 entries for posting the Baby Bash button on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from We Love Colors and having them send me proof. Make sure you leave 5 separate comments!

The deadline for this giveaway is February 18th, 2010 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond to claim the item, so make sure you have your email address visible on your profile or leave it in your comment. Good Luck!

CLOSED - Moody Mamas - Giveaway - 2/17

2010-02-03T11:26:00.000-08:00

I love this company! I wish I could buy up a whole bunch of their clothing and finish out this pregnancy in style instead of in lounge pants and my husbands T-shirts. Haha. They have got the greatest things! My absolute favorite being this long dress pictured below. They have a great selection of day dresses and evening dresses.

They have a great nursing line as well, including this sexy little lounge dress which comes in black, pink and white. Who wants to feel frumpy? No one, right? But most of us feel that way while we are pregnant or at least after we have the baby. What better way to lift your spirits (and probably your husbands, too) than to buy this little number! What a great Valentine's Day outfit.

Need something to wear out on Valentine's Day (or any other day for that matter)? How about this gorgeous Chic Chiffon Dress that comes in fuchsia and black.

Okay, now that you are all dying to own these outfits, here is the giveaway.
Moody Mamas is offering one of my readers up to $50 worth of Moody Mamas merchandise to be chosen by Moody Mamas.

Can't wait? Buy online or in person at Target & Nordstom's.

How to enter: US Only

Mandatory -Head on over to Moody Mamas and check out their products. Then come back here and let me know what you like the best. If your email is not visible in your profile make sure you leave it in your comment!

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:

(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following this blog publicly.

1 entry for following me on facebook networked blogs. (on the right side below the twitter link)

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky and leave me the link to see it.

1 entry for each of my other giveaways that you enter.

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via email (current subscribers count too!) and commenting here (twice) telling me

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for following Moody Mamas on Twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win $50 in merchandise from @MoodyMamas and @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/ykf9a8z

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my new button posted on your site.

3 entries for posting the Baby Bash button on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from Moody Mamas and having them send me proof. Make sure you leave 5 separate comments!

The deadline for this giveaway is February 17th, 2010 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond to claim the item, so make sure you have your email address visible on your profile or leave it in your comment. Good Luck!

Zutano -Review & Giveaway

2010-02-03T05:58:00.000-08:00

There are so many fun companies participating in this Big Baby Bash! Zutano sent me this super cute one piece outfit from their Itzy Bitzy line to review. I love the snails with the hot pink on the feet and the colar! It is just so cute. I think it is cuter in person than it is on the website even. It comes in five girl patterns, three boy patterns and three unisex patterns. They also carry the matching hats and quite a few matching blankets. I can't wait to dress my baby in this!
Zutano has a great online shop, but if you feel like you'd like to see their items in person before buying anything try out their store finder link on the website to find a store near you.

Follow Zutano on Facebook and Twitter.

Enter the giveaway for a Zutano outfit in the Big Baby Bash.

Fandangling - Review & Giveaway

2010-02-02T06:29:00.000-08:00

What a great idea! First I'd like to let Anne tell you how the idea for Fandagling came about.

"I invented Fandangling quite by accident. It all started with our daughter Lia. When she was born we were seeking ways to keep her happy and interested in her room. When I put the first Fandangling on the fan in her room, her eyes lit up and the rest, as they say, is history.

I quickly realized that Fandangling was great for babies – my Mom friends all love it. As Lia grew older and more people came in contact with Fandangling, it became clear that Fandangling wasn't just for babies.

Fandangling is surely the next generation mobile, but older kids love it as well. Our friend's 7 year old daughter loves puppies. The Puparazzi kit was a favorite gift and the perfect accent to her room. Whether her fan is on or off, Fandangling livens up her room and is an eye catching part of the decor. Little boys love it too. Whether they like bugs or sports, adding a Fandangling to their room is fun and cool.

Fandangling has become a wonderful toy – it is for kids of all ages and even adults. Whether you are looking to soothe or just make an unmistakable statement in a room, Fandangling is the answer."

— Anne

I was lucky enough to receive two Fandangling kits. I got the purple butterflies and the pink & purple turtles - both super cute, but I think my favorite is the turtles. I am excited about having two kits because now I will be able to hang one set in the new baby's room and one set down stairs in the family room where her swing will be.

You can follow Fandangling on Facebook and Twitter as well.

Anne with Fandangling is going to give one of my readers a set of their choice which I have placed into the giveaway basket for the Big Baby Bash so make sure you head on over and get entered to win it!

Pixy World - Review

2010-02-02T06:06:00.001-08:00

What a fun addition to our Big Baby Bash! Pixy World has sent me this outfit shown below to review for you. It is called the Accessorize Me! Set and comes in sizes 12 months - 5T. What a cute set and really good quality too! I just love the little jeans! They are made from a thick denim material with a stretchy waist band that I think is genius because all of my little ones always had trouble keeping their pants from falling off. It has cute little patches of things on the legs such as finge nail polish and sun glasses. The dress is 100% cotton and has super cute ruffle around the bottom and the sleeves. It is made up of all different patches including pink leopard print, finger nail polish, pink, white, a hat, and one with different pieces of clothing. I must say I think it is so much cuter in person than in the picture that I would love to buy more clothing from Pixy World.

Pixy World has a sale running right now with all of their jeans priced at just $18.00 each! That is half price! The jean sets are on sale as well so make sure you get over their quickly before the sale ends.

Boogie Bear Designs - Review

2010-02-01T18:45:00.000-08:00

I am so glad to have Boogie Bear Designs back on the blog this month! Kristen with Boogie Bear Designs sent me this super cute wipes case to review for you. I chose this black and white case with pink ribbon and it is absolutely adorable! She has padded the wipes container lightly and then covered it with fabric and put cute black and white ribbon around the edges. I can't wait to be sporting this around in my diaper bag. (Speaking of which - I need to get a girly diaper bag! I've had 3 boys so my diaper bag selection is pretty boyish.)
She makes all kinds of cute designs over at her etsy shop including some really cute new animal prints. Make sure you get on over and check out all of her new designs.

me4kids - Review

2010-02-01T06:48:00.000-08:00

me4kids sent me a diaper bag buddy to review for the Big Baby Bash. It is a wonderful diaper bag sized first aid kit. What a great idea! In the past I have purchased the small first aid kits you can sometimes find in the checkout line at the store, but it is not specialized for children like the diaper bag buddy is.

What’s Inside: 15 quality baby on the go travel kit items –
ALL ORGANIC & NATURAL products Kit Includes:
(1) Organic Diaper Rash Cream
(2) Natural Aloe Vera Gel Pack
(1) Organic Face & Body Moisturizer
(5) Latex Free Jr. Bandages
(1) One time use Thermometer
(1) Organic Shampoo & Body Wash
(3) Natural Tush Wipes
(1) Reusable & 100% Recycled, Lead Free Carry Anywhere Case.

It is the perfect addition to any diaper bag. What parent doesn't want to be prepared in a situation where you may need a first aid kit?

Motivated Moms - Review & Giveaway

2010-02-01T06:30:00.000-08:00

I have recently come across a great site for Moms. It is all about organization and keeping an orderly house. Easier said than done, right? Not anymore! Motivated Moms is a site dedicated to helping you tackle that never ending chore list by breaking it down into a day to day to-do list. They have made up 8 different versions of the list that you can purchase for just $8 a list! $8 to finally get your house in order? So worth it! They sent me the 2010 Motivated Moms Chore Planner which is 55 pages (cover page, 53 calendar/planner pages, two-week menu planning page). You can view samples of these planners on their site - Motivated Moms. It breaks down your household chores into 1 page per week with everything laid out for you. No more "Where do I even start?"

This is going to get me back on track, I hate having a messy house, but this pregnancy is just killing my housekeeping skills! I feel like no matter what I do it is still going to be a mess. I am so excited to have a plan that I can follow to get back on track and tell me what I should be doing through those new baby "Zombie" days.

You want one too - admit it! Well, they are offering a planner of your choice to one of my readers. It is included in the "Big Baby Bash Basket". Make sure you check out their website and get yourself entered to win!

CLOSED - Big baby Bash - Giveaway Basket - 2/28

2010-02-01T06:05:00.000-08:00

I am so excited about this event! This is the biggest giveaway we have ever had here on the blog. My goal is to reach 350 followers so I may extend the giveaway date if we don't get close to that by the end of the month. Make sure you spread the word! This giveaway is for TONS of fun items for both Mom & Baby. I have also written, or will be writing this month, reviews on many of these items. Please read them! I am so grateful to all of the wonderful companies who provided giveaway/review items for this event. I have decided to do some 'single item' giveaways all month long to go along with the 'Big Basket' giveaway so that we can have lots of winners. I really hope that you are enjoying this as much as I am and I hope that you will help me spread the word about this event. It is a wonderful chance for Mothers to find great companies and fun new items for your families. The more people you refer, the more entries you get into the giveaways. I will be updating this post occasionally with links to the reviews if there is going to be one and possibly more prizes and sponsors if they come in so make sure you check back.

Now for the giveaway - This Big Baby Bash basket will include:

Survival Seeds pack from Hometown Seeds - $50 value
Smart Mom Jewelry - Approx $35 value
Follow Smart Mom Jewelry on Twitter and Facebook.

1 8x10 print of your choice from London Bridge Children - $18 value

$50 gift certificate to Baby's First Phone Call - $50 value
Follow Baby's First Phone Call on Twitter and Facebook.

A Motivated Moms Planner (version of your choice) - $8 value
See my review of Motivated Moms

4 bottles of juice from first juice - $20 value
Follow First Juice on Twitter and Facebook.
1 set of baby stationary/announcements from Fabulous Stationery -$45-$55 value
Foaming Body Wash & Body Butter from SproutBaby - $19 value
Read the reivew of SproutBaby.

1 diaper bag buddy from me4kids - $7 value
Read the review of me4kids.

1 tube of diaper rash remedy & prevention from Grandma El's - $10 value
Follow Grandma El's on Facebook.
A cupcake clip & tutu clip of your choice from NattyBratty - $14 value
a $15 gift certificate to Piggy Paint - $15 value
Follow Piggy Paint on Twitter and Facebook.
1 outfit from Zutano's Itzy Bitzy line - approx $25 value
Follow Zutano on Twitter and Facebook.
Read my review of Zutano.
1 fandangling kit - $20 value
Follow Fandangling on Twitter and Facebook.
Read my review of Fandangling.

1 binky buddy from M.A.H Creations - $20 value
Follow M.A.H. Creations on Facebook.

How to enter: US Only

Mandatory -You MUST be a follower of this blog - publicly. Please visit all of the sponsor sites and then come back here and tell me you favorite 5 items (must each be from a different company)

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:

(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for each sponsor site you visit and come back here to tell me one thing you learned about their products.

1 entry for each person you refer that becomes a NEW follower of this blog. (They must confirm that you referred them if you win.)

1 entry for following me on facebook networked blogs. (on the right side below the twitter link)

1 entry for each of the sponsors you follow on facebook (links to each sponsor are above).

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky and leave me the link to see it.

1 entry for each of my other giveaways that you enter.

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via email (current subscribers count too!) and commenting here (twice) telling me

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for each sponsor that you follow on twitter (links to each sponsor are above).

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a huge Baby Bash basket valued over $350 from @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/yaxk3lq

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my new button posted on your site.

3 entries for posting the Baby Bash button on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from any one of the sponsors (this can be counted 5 times for each purchase made from a sponsor) and having them send me proof. Make sure you leave 5 separate comments!

Baby Bash Discount Codes & Coupons

2010-01-28T08:10:00.001-08:00

Check back here often during the event to find new discount codes

Company - 'Code' - What it is good for - Expires

The Baby's Bundle - Daisyrose - 15% of - February 28, 2010
(Coupon can be used on anything in store except mommy burnout tee's and tutu accessory holders.)

Grandma Els - 'Alicia' - $5 off - Doesn't Expire

SproutBaby - 'SBBL005' - 15% off your 1st order - March

First Juice - Coupon sign up

Piggy Paint - FLORAL10L - 10% off - March 31, 2010

Photofiddle - Alicia15 - 15% off

Big baby Bash Event coming soon!

2010-01-28T07:30:00.000-08:00

Guys, I can hardly wait to launch this event! I am so excited about it. We are going to be seeing so many fun items from so many great companies - some we have seen here before, some are new to the blog. There will be 'single' giveaways as well as a LARGE BASKET giveaway for one lucky reader. Please get the button posted on your blog (you'll get THREE extra entries into the current giveaway if you do)! Here is a sneak peak at some of the companies we will be seeing next month:

Grandma El's
First Juice
me4kids
SproutBaby
NattyBratty
Fabulous Stationary
M.A.H Creations
Misikko
We Love Colors
Hometown Seeds
Boogie Wipes
Mabels Labels
Serif
Fandangling
Pixy World
Zutano
Piggy Paint
LikeWear

So start scouting out their sites now! I can't wait to show you what they have to offer!

CLOSED - Wholesale Keychain - Review & Giveaway - 3 winners - 2/9

2010-01-26T12:32:00.000-08:00

What a fun review & giveaway with Valentine's Day just around the corner. I was chosen to be able to do a review and offer a giveaway from Wholesale Keychains. I chose to review the broken two pieces love charm keychain. It was engraved with my name on one piece and my husbands name on the other piece. I was pleasantly surprised when this came in the mail this week. It is much heavier duty than I ever would have thought. The engraving is beautiful. Personally, I think they are offering these keychains at a great price as well! The only problem was that it didn't come with instructions and my husband wasn't sure if he was supposed to take the one with my name or his own. Haha - I had a good laugh over this, which only confused him more, and then had to give him the right one. :o)

Wholesale Keychains is offering three of my readers a heart keychain of their choice for the following options & engraving of your choice:

Broken Heart Keychain
Photo Frame Keychain
Metal Heart Keychain
Crystal Heart Keychain
Heart Keychain Charm

How to enter: US Only

Mandatory -Head on over to Wholesale Keychains and check out their products. Then come back here and let me know what you like the best. If your email is not visible in your profile make sure you leave it in your comment!

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:

(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

SPECIAL EXTRA - 1 ENTRY - comment on my last post about what you want to see on this blog. Comment here telling me you did it.

1 entry for following this blog publicly.

1 entry for following the Wholesale Keychain blog .

1 entry for following me on facebook networked blogs. (on the right side below the twitter link)

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky and leave me the link to see it.

1 entry for each of my other giveaways that you enter.

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via email (current subscribers count too!) and commenting here (twice) telling me

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a heart keychain from Wholesale Keychains and @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/yb7ork7

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my new button posted on your site.

3 entries for posting the Baby Bash button on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from Wholesale Keychains and having them send me proof. Make sure you leave 5 separate comments!

The deadline for this giveaway is February 9th, 2010 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond to claim the item, so make sure you have your email address visible on your profile or leave it in your comment. Good Luck!

Big Baby Bash Event

2010-01-25T13:06:00.000-08:00

I will be running a Big Baby Bash Event on the blog for the month of February to celebrate the new baby that I plan to bring home in March. There is going to be a "Big Basket" giveaway to go along with this event that will contain lots of items from different sponsors for Mom as well as Baby. Please post the Baby bash Button on your page and help spread the word!

Nourish - Review

2010-01-19T10:44:00.000-08:00

Nourish is a bottled water especially for babies and toddlers. It comes pre-bottled in baby bottles or sippy cups, ready to use. I received the toddler sippy cup for my child to try out. It comes sealed and is spill proof. Your child must bite down on the mouth piece to start the water flowing. The sippy is made from BPA free plastic and is recycle-able.

Nourish was created by mothers for mothers. To read what they have to say about this product please visit the Nourish site.

CLOSED - Bebe au Lait - Giveaway - 1/25

2010-01-11T14:34:00.000-08:00

I am so happy to have Bebe au Lait back on the blog again. This time they are offering a nursing cover in the pattern of choice to one of my lucky readers!

How to enter: US Only

Mandatory -Head on over to Bebe au Lait and check out their products. Then come back here and let me know what you like the best. If your email is not visible in your profile make sure you leave it in your comment!

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:

(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

SPECIAL EXTRA - 1 ENTRY - comment on my last post about what you want to see on this blog. Comment here telling me you did it.

1 entry for following this blog publicly.

1 entry for signing up for the Bebe au Lait newsletter on the bottom right of their homepage.

1 entry for following me on facebook networked blogs. (on the right side below the twitter link)

1 entry for becoming a fan of Bebe au Lait on facebook.

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky and leave me the link to see it.

1 entry for each of my other giveaways that you enter.

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via email (current subscribers count too!) and commenting here (twice) telling me

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for following Me and Bebe au Lait on Twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a nursing cover from @bebeaulait and @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/yeg5dz3

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway with a link back here and commenting with link back to your post

2 entries for having my new button posted on your site.

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from Bebe au Lait and having them send me proof. Make sure you leave 5 separate comments!

The deadline for this giveaway is January 25th, 2010 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email and will have 48 hours to respond to claim the item, so make sure you have your email address visible on your profile or leave it in your comment. Good Luck!

FEEDBACK PLEASE!

2010-01-11T13:48:00.001-08:00

I am looking to expand my blog to have other things besides the reviews & giveaways such as freebies, grocery deals, coupons, etc. Please leave your comments here telling me what you would like to see posted on this blog.
Thanks so much for your help!

CLOSED - The Spunky Stork - Giveaway - Ends 1/22

2010-01-08T14:08:00.000-08:00

I am pleased to announce our latest giveaway sponsor, The Spunky Stork! The Spunky Stork carries lots of fun clothing items for your little one. They are offering to give a $27 gift certificate to one of my lucky readers. With $27 you can buy 1 of about 80% of the items in this store and the offer FREE SHIPPING to everyone, everyday!

How to Enter: US ONLY
Mandatory -head on over to The Spunky Stork and tell me what item or items you love.

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:
(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following my blog publicly.

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via e-mail

1 entry for following this blog on facebook networked blogs.

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for becoming a fan of The Spunky Stork on facebook.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for following The Spunky Stork on Twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a $27 gift certificate from @SpunkyStork and @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/yl6t7pd

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway and leaving a comment with link back to your post

2 entries for grabbing my new button and posting it on your page

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at aliciareviews (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from The Spunky Stork and having them send me proof.

The deadline for this giveaway is January 22, 2010 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email so make sure you have it visible on your profile or leave it in you comment. Good Luck!

Soda Stream - Review

2010-01-08T06:27:00.000-08:00

Over Christmas I was sent a Soda Stream Pure for review.
We have had so much fun using this machine and my husband shows everyone who comes over! He loves the energy flavor which he says tastes just like red bull. I like the grapefruit flavor, and my kids like everything that we've given them. They carry a wide variety of flavors, including many diet flavors, and are sure to have something you'll like. The thing I really like is that they have No high-fructose corn syrup in regular flavors. No aspartame in diet flavors.

We compared the calories in an energy drink prepared by the Soda Stream and one we had in the refrigerator and the Soda Stream drink had less calories by a long ways. In my opinion, drinks you make with the Soda Stream are better for you than the ones you pick up at the store. So if your New Years Resolution was to lose weight or to eat healthier, but you just don't want to give up your soda I suggest trying out the Soda Stream.

7 am Enfant - Review

2010-01-06T12:37:00.000-08:00

It is just the perfect time of year to introduce you to a company called 7 A.M. Enfant. This company carries winter/cold weather items that are perfect for your children. I received the le sac igloo in pink (shown below). The thing I love the most about 7 A.M. Enfant is that the products come in sizes to fit a 4 year old! They make these bags for car seats and for strollers and double strollers as well. They have recently started to make diaper bags as well. They also carry gloves, boots, blankets, and hats. I absolutely love the le sac igloo! It even has a fur lined hood - super cute! You must go to 7 A.M. ENFANT and check out the whole collection! The carry only high quality products to keep your little one snug and warm through the winter months without having to miss out on the winter fun.

Skin MD Natural - Review

2009-12-28T18:59:00.000-08:00

I was sent a bottle of Skin MD Natural with SPF to review for you and I must say that I like it. My favorite part is even though it is natural it smells normal - no funky 'no scent' smell. All of these lotions that are organic or natural just smell so bad to me! But not this one. :) I am pregnant and the weird smells literally make me sick, so it was a relief to open it up and not start gagging. :o) I chose the kind with SPF because I live in Arizona where the sun almost always shines and it is nice to have on lotion that protects you a little bit. It is also a nice feeling to know that my kids' skin is being protected.

Skin MD Natural is a nice light lotion so your skin doesn't feel weighed down and greasy. It is light enough to wear on your face before you put your make-up on as well. It is similar in texture and consistency to a moisturizer rather than a typical lotion. My husband is the kind of guy who won't let lotion of any kind onto his skin because he hates the way it feels and always says it is too greasy, but Skin MD Natural isn't like that at all. When I asked him to try this out he said 'Because you know how much I love lotion?' Haha. He said his arms felt the same as normal after I put the lotion on them - which in his world means that it didn't make him feel greasy and gross. I tried to post a picture, but my computer or blogger (maybe they are mad at each other tonight) wouldn't co-operate. Make sure to head over to Skin MD Natural and check out their products.

Oompa Review

2009-12-27T10:58:00.001-08:00

Recently I have been reviewing the Oompa Lokmock from Haba. This is a super cute wooden train that consists of 1 engine, 3 train cars, 1 little wooden person and 4 wooden pegs. I love that the train cars are magnetice to each other. My 3 year old is having so much fun learning that the blue peice is magnectic to the yellow peice. All of my children love playing with this train and they range in age from 19 months to 7 years old. Oompa is a great company that carries many different toys and children's furniture. Most of their products are wooden with a natural paint. Check them out, you are sure to find something that your child(ren) will love.

Sprout baby - Review

2009-12-21T15:18:00.000-08:00

Recently SproutBaby sent me a package that included four of their eco-friendly lines. In this package I received:
Nature Baby Care Diapers,
CleanWell hand sanitzer,
episecial better body butter,
and BabyGanics the Grime Fighter.

My favorite product is the episecial better body butter and my three year old son just loves to put it on. It has a nice neutral smell so my husband doesn't freak out that our son smells all girly :) so that makes it convenient. It has a great texture too.

If being eco-friendly is important to you then you should check out SproutBaby as they carry many different lines and products to help your family reach that goal.

Vino Cotto - Review

2009-12-17T11:26:00.001-08:00

I am pleased to be the one to introduce you to Vino Cotto, a naturally sweet, cooked grape must syrup. Mine came in the mail just as I was about to start making my chicken parmigiana and I was very excited to be able to use this 'secret ingredient' in my sauce. It turned out wonderful! Vino Cotto can be used in many different recipes so if you love to experiment in the kitchen and try new and wonderful things then Vino Cotto is for you! They have also come out with a new line of truffles that I would just love to try.

Here is what their site has to say:

Easily Prepare Gourmet Meals,

Desserts & Balsamic Vinegar in Just Minutes!

Discover for yourself what generations have enjoyed for centuries...
Vino Cotto is a naturally sweet, cooked grape must syrup, also known as vincotto throughout Italy. Although vincotto vinegars exist today, authentic Vino Cotto contains no vinegar or alcohol. Its delicious, smooth, centuries-old flavor hints of plums and raisins.

It takes almost 3 pounds of premium wine grapes to make just one bottle of Vino Cotto by Montillo Italian Foods. Finally, you can enjoy a syrup that's both healthy and scrumptious! And, by simply adding Vino Cotto, you will create gourmet meals and desserts in just minutes--time after time.

Use Vino Cotto as your “secret” ingredient to:

• Easily prepare gourmet meat, poultry, seafood and vegetable dishes.

• Create delectable sauces, marinades, balsamic vinegar* and salad dressings, too!

• Drizzle over aged cheeses.

• Top your favorite ice cream and cakes.

• Enhance baked desserts. Check out our new recipes!

* Vino cotto is a star among ingredients. It is a main ingredient found in quality balsamic vinegar condiments and in certain Marsala wines. Balsamic vinegar labels may list vino cotto as "cooked must" or "musto cotto." So, if you've ever wished the balsamic vinegar you brought home from the store was sweeter or had a more vinegary taste to it, now it's possible to create your own balsamic vinegar by simply adding vinegar to Vino Cotto by Montillo Italian Foods.

Buon appetito!

Safeway Review

2009-12-17T11:09:00.000-08:00

If you’re a busy mom like me, you’re probably trying to balance having a fabulous holiday season with sticking to your budget. Safeway understands this and has created a holiday website that promises to save you both time and money this December.

Safeway sent me a $25 and $50 giftcard to do some holiday shopping. I am so excited because this gave me the opportunity to buy the items I needed to make Christmas plates for our friends, family and teachers and I got to spend last night making gingerbread cookies with my children.

Safeway has a fun money saving opportunity going on now through Christmas here in the Phoenix Valley where they have a FREE coupon everyday for something different. Yesterday it was for Lil' smokies so I received a free package during my shopping trip. They also have great appetizers, email savings and weekly specials. Please click any of the links to view their website and see for yourself.

Below are some other fun areas on their website that you should check out!
Festive Projects
Edible Gifts
Kid-friendly Recipes
Leftover Lounge
Decorating Tips
Gingerbread Man Game

CLOSED - Happy Green Bee - Review & Giveaway - 12/29

2009-12-14T13:56:00.001-08:00

I am pleased to introduce you to an organic baby clothing company called Happy Green Bee.

I was sent the radish and bean leggings in a 6-12 month size. These are super cute little leggings and as I said before 100% organic.

Why Buy Organic?

ORGANIC COTTON: FOR OUR CHILDREN AND OUR PLANET
by: Roxanne Quimby

With the frenzy of toy recalls last year, parents have started asking questions. Are any of their children's toys safe? What about their kid's bedding? Their clothes? Sure, lead-laden toys should obviously be out of a child's reach, but it's time to look more closely at all the things our children eat, touch, feel and wear in their everyday lives. Even 'conventional' cotton, once considered the natural fiber of choice, is no longer safe for our children. Organic cotton, on the other hand, is healthy for all our planet's creatures, from children and wildlife to farm and factory workers.

Cotton clothing retains harmful toxic residues, often causing rashes and eczema on sensitive skin

Clothing made with organically grown cotton does not retain toxic residues; it is a pure, natural, and breathable fiber.

Before the 1950s, cotton-growing mainly involved sustainable techniques, but now cotton is one of the most environmentally damaging crops grown in the world, resulting in wide-scale water pollution, chronic illness in farm workers, and calamitous effects on wildlife. Conventionally grown cotton occupies only three percent of the world's farmland, but uses 25 percent of the world's chemical insecticides, including Parathion, which is at least 30 times more toxic than DDT! As insects develop pesticide resistance over time, farmers desperate to keep up yields often resort to genetically modified cottonseed and heavier and heavier cocktails of pesticide poisons. Ironically, less than ten percent of those chemicals actually accomplish their task—the rest are absorbed into the plants, the soil, the air, the water and eventually, our bodies.

Cotton occupies only 3% of the world's farmland, but uses 25% of the world's chemical pesticides. Worldwide, 25 to 75 million agricultural workers suffer from acute pesticide poisoning.

Organically grown cotton is not treated with pesticides.

Petroleum based hydrocarbons (chemical fertilizers) are intensively applied to cotton crops to artificially speed up and otherwise "enhance" the plant's growth cycle and productivity. The runoff of these compounds pollutes our watersheds and food chains.

Organically grown cotton does not use petroleum-based fertilizers.

The solution to this problem is to go organic. Organic farmers rely on crop rotation, not chemicals, to maintain and replenish soil fertility. In order to meet international organic standards and obtain organic certification, a field must be pesticide-free for at least three years, and organic cotton farmers cannot use genetically modified cottonseed. Organic cotton has softer, longer fibers than conventional cotton, so the resulting fabric is softer, thicker, and more durable.

Genetically modified seed accounts for 75% of conventionally grown cotton. We can only speculate about the unintended and unforeseen consequences of genetic engineering.

Organically grown cotton does not use genetically engineered seed.

Organic cotton is especially great for infants and children. Whereas pesticide and chemically-treated clothing traps heat and prevents skin from absorbing adequate moisture—often causing rashes and eczema on sensitive skin—organic cotton is natural and breathable. Children with allergies particularly benefit, as organic cotton does not have the residual toxic residues that linger on conventional cotton. Even those without sensitive skin find organic cotton more comfortable and kid-friendly. The longer fibers stretch as children grow.

The best way to support organic cotton farmers is to use your consumer power wisely and support those businesses that make their products sustainable from the farm to the store. For example, Happy Green Bee—a company producing organic cotton playwear for infants and children—creates children's clothing and accessories made with nontoxic dyes and no chemical bleaches or finishers. In addition, Happy Green Bee products are made in fair-trade-certified factories that are monitored for worker health and safety.

Whether shopping for kids clothing, sheets, blankets or personal care products, look for organic fiber products. Your children—our planet's future—will thank you.

Happy Green Bee also carries tons of other cute children's clothing such as this adorable sun dress shown above in watermelon and sky. I love the names that they have chosen for their colors. So creative and original!

Happy Green Bee is offering one of my lucky readers a pair of leggings in your choice of size.

How to Enter: US ONLY
Mandatory -head on over to Happy Green Bee and tell me what item or items you love besides the one I blogged about here.

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:
(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following my blog publicly.

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via e-mail

1 entry for following this blog on facebook networked blogs.

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for becoming a fan of Happy Green Bee on facebook.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a pair of leggings from Happy Green Bee and @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/yah9sb6

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway and leaving a comment with link back to your post

2 entries for grabbing my new button and posting it on your page

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from Happy Green Bee and having them send me proof.

The deadline for this giveaway is December 29th, 2009 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email so make sure you have it visible on your profile or leave it in you comment. Good Luck!

CLOSED - Wee Squeak Beibi - Review & Giveaway - 12/28

2009-12-14T13:27:00.000-08:00

I am super excited about this fun company called Wee Squeak. They carry really cute shoes for babies and children. I got to do a review on their baby line called Beibi. They sent me the Beibi Hope shoe in a 0-6 month size and I have to say, they are WAY cuter in person than in pictures! They carry this shoe in 4 sizes ranging from 0-24 months.

I love these shoes! The inside is made from a super soft fabric that wont hurt Baby's feet or dig at the back of the ankle. The bow and flower are stitched on for a strong hold so that if Baby ulls on her shoes the blow and flower won't fall off. This is important for Children's shoes.

Wee Squeak is offering one of my lucky readers their choice of Beibi shoe!

How to Enter: US ONLY
Mandatory -head on over to Wee Squeak and tell me what item or items you love besides the one I blogged about here.

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:
(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following my blog publicly.

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via e-mail

1 entry for following this blog on facebook networked blogs.

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for becoming a fan of Wee Squeak on facebook.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a pair of Beibi shoes from Wee Squeak and @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/y8zlah7

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway and leaving a comment with link back to your post

2 entries for grabbing my new button and posting it on your page

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from Wee Squeak and having them send me proof.

The deadline for this giveaway is December 28th, 2009 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email so make sure you have it visible on your profile or leave it in you comment. Good Luck!

The Shower Hug - Review

2009-12-10T07:00:00.000-08:00

I am pleased to introduce you to The Shower Hug. This is a must have product for expecting or nursing moms. I was just telling my husband the other day how I hated showering because when the water hit my breasts it hurts! I am glad to know I am not the only one who dreads showering. :o)

"Dear Mama,

Welcoming baby into your heart, your home and your life is an amazing experience. Treasure each day with your precious cherub. Treat baby as the miracle he or she is. And remember, be kind to yourself too!

Moms don’t come first. It’s not that we shouldn’t – it’s just not our nature to put ourselves there. So as a Mom, allow me to put you first for a few stolen moments each morning and evening.

Showers are a welcome retreat. But pregnancy and breastfeeding can change that. Showers become a practice of strict hygiene as you race to shampoo, condition, soap and shave with one hand and shield your tender breasts from stinging shower sprays with the other. I created the Shower Hug™ after I had my first baby. I made it of the softest, most luxurious knit terry velour to provide expectant and new moms with gentle bust line support and to soothe sensitive nipples and breasts associated with pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consider it a hug from this mom to you!

Motherhood is an awe-inspiring, heart-wrenching journey. Travel it well. Hug yourself daily and remember how very beautiful you are.

Most sincerely,

Founder, belmama & cherub"

The Shower Hug is the solution to this problem. It is also great for wearing in the tub so that your top half doesn't get cold. It is made of very soft fabric so there is no scratching or itching. But the best part is that it is very versatile. You can wear this in the shower or tub, to bed, to hold your nursing pads, as a sports bra, or to hold a compress to your engorged breasts. It can also be worn to cover up your c-section area in and out of the shower as well. The Shower Hug is truly a much needed product for any new Mama. How I wish I had discovered this with my other babies.

The Shower Hug also carries burp cloths and wash cloths for baby made from the same super soft material. You can get all three products organic as well.

The Shower Hug is the perfect gift for any new Mama and with Christmas just right around the corner what are you waiting for? Head on over and get yours ordered today!

Rebel Ink Baby - Review

2009-12-10T06:00:00.000-08:00

This week I have been review products sent to me by a fun company called Rebel Ink Baby. I received the 'Daddy's little tax deduction' long sleeve T and the hat in blac k and in white.

My son insisted on wearing the hat without the knot tied in it so that he could pull it down over his face and be a ghost. If you want to see the hat with the knot please click on the Rebel Ink baby website.

He loves this hat and wants to wear it all of the time. His little brother wears the black hat (down over his face of course) and plays peek-a-boo.

Rebel Ink Baby carries a fun line of baby and toddler clothing and accessories that you don't see everywhere. It is a cute line that is unique

Bebe au Lait Promotions

2009-12-10T00:01:00.000-08:00

Bebe au Lait is having some really great promotions from now until Christmas. Today is their gift set promotion. Each gift set includes one nursing cover and three matching burp cloths. They have 18 super cute patterns that you can get these in. As you have read recently, I have used Bebe au Lait products and believe that they are a great company! Make sure to get over there today and get in on their great promotions before it is too late! 25% off plus free shipping on all gift sets!

CLOSED - Kidorable - Review & Giveaway - 12/20

2009-12-07T15:29:00.000-08:00

I am pleased to introduce you to a fun company I have come across called Kidorable. They make all kinds of fun items including rain boots, backpacks, towels, hats and more. I received the lotus towel and lotus knit hat for review. They are both super cute and great quality. My 7 year old loves her new hat and said she couldn't wait to wear it to school.

Kidorable is so cute that even little Suri Crusie, who is known as the most fashionable kid in Hollywood, has some! She has been seen in NYC with mom, Katie, wearing the fairy boots and backpack. There are more pictures of her in her Kidorable items on her fashion blog.

Kidorable is offering one of my lucky readers and umbrella of their choice!

How to Enter: US ONLY
Mandatory -head on over to Kidorable and tell me what item or items you love besides the one I blogged about here.

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:
(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following my blog publicly.

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via email

1 entry for following this blog on facebook networked blogs.

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for following Kidorable on facebook.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for following Kidorable on twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a Kidorable Umbrealla from @Kidorable and @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/yb6o3wl

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway and leaving a comment with link back to your post

2 entries for grabbing my new button and posting it on your page

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from Kidorable and having them send me proof.

The deadline for this giveaway is December 20th, 2009 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email so make sure you have it visible on your profile or leave it in you comment. Good Luck!

CLOSED - Eebee's - Review & Giveaway - 12/21

2009-12-07T15:16:00.001-08:00

This fun book is called Mix & Mash by Eebee's Adventures and it is all about cooking with your baby. I did the watermelon slushy with my 19 month old and my 3 year old. They had so much fun smashing up their bags of watermelon!

For this adventure (which I must say is appropriately named) you cut up the watermelon and place it into a ziplock bag. You then let your baby mash it with his hands, a rolling pin, a small pan, basically anything you can mash with. I gave my boys a small rolling pin and a measuring cup.

As you can see, they thought that this was awesome! Then after they finish mushing it up you put it in the freezer for 20 minutes and then let them eat it. I think this book is a fun way to have a little mom time with your baby in the kitchen (where I spend tons of my time anyways). My baby loves to 'help' in the kitchen and this book gives some fun ideas on how to let him feel like he is a part of the cooking. I think theses are fun ideas to give to your baby to do while you cook dinner or do all of that holiday baking. This way baby can be close and feel a part of what is going on, AND be entertained at the same time.

Eebee's Adventures is offering one of my readers their own Mix & Mash book.

How to Enter: US ONLY
Mandatory -head on over to Eebee's Adventures and tell me what item or items you love besides the one I blogged about here.

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:
(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following my blog publicly.

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via email

1 entry for following this blog on facebook networked blogs.

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for following Eebee's Adventures on facebook.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for following Eebee's Adventures on twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a Mix & Mas book by Eebee's Adventures from @eebeebaby and @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/ykve3dg

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway and leaving a comment with link back to your post

2 entries for grabbing my new button and posting it on your page

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from Eebee's Adventures and having them send me proof.

The deadline for this giveaway is December 21st, 2009 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email so make sure you have it visible on your profile or leave it in you comment. Good Luck!

aMAMAnte Nursing Wear - Review

2009-12-07T14:00:00.000-08:00

Recently I received this aMAMAnte Nursing Gown in Sexy Red to review for you. I am excited about this gown because not only can you wear it for nursing, but you can wear it for maternity as well. Since I am still pregnant that is a big bonus for me! aMAMAnte Nursing Wear has some really great items for nursing mothers. I really loved this gown and am excited to have something kind of sexy to wear to bed even with my big belly. My husband loved it and asked me why I wan't wearing it the second night. (It was chilly and I wanted to wear something warmer). I love the soft fabric and I love the way it fits. I was a little worried that I would feel all twisted up wearing it to bed, but I didn't at all. I would definately suggest this to any pregant or nursing mama.

CLOSED - Swaddle Designs - Review & Giveaway - 12/19

2009-12-04T13:44:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to receive my zzZip Me Sack from Swaddle Designs in the mail. I was able to review the Flannel zzZip Me Sack in pastle pink and gold little dots with mocha trim in the 3-6 month size. This is a great product! It is made of durable cotton flannel that is machine washable. You all know how I feel about baby items being machine washable - it is a MUST for me! The zzZip Me Sack has a 2 way zipper so that it can be unzipped from the top or from the bottom. This makes diaper changing so much easier! I chose the flannel because it is lightwieght and my baby won't get too warm. I live in AZ and I don't want to over do it with the blankets. When I lived in ID or UT I would have chosen the fuzzy because it would have been more appropriate for the weather there. I love that they have several fabric options for the zzZip Me Sack so that you can buy one that is right for the season or for the place that you live. They also make organic products!

Swaddle Designs is offering one of my readers a zzZip Me Sack of their choice from the dots & mocha collection. It comes in 2 sizes as well as several fabrics; 3-6 months and 6-12 months.

How to Enter: US ONLY
Mandatory -head on over to Swaddle Designs and tell me what item or items you love besides the one I blogged about here.

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:
(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following my blog publicly.

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via email

1 entry for following this blog on facebook networked blogs.

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for following Swaddle Designs on facebook.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for following Swaddle Designs on twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a zzZip Me Sack from @SwaddleDesigns and @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/y8pvmpz

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway and leaving a comment with link back to your post

2 entries for grabbing my new button and posting it on your page

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from Swaddle Designs and having them send me proof.

The deadline for this giveaway is December 19th, 2009 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email so make sure you have it visible on your profile or leave it in you comment. Good Luck!

Facelift for the blog

2009-12-04T08:46:00.001-08:00

I have decided that the blog needed a facelift. The new title comes from something I read somewhere. I can't remember where now, but it went something like this. Women are like flowers. You are wither a rose or a daisy, but both are beautiful in their own way.

I am thinking of adding another dimension to the blog as well - rantings of mothers. Possibly having guest bloggers. This would be where you would send me your rants and I will post them with your name attached (or anonymous if you prefer).

Please comment and tell me what you think.

PS - Make sure you update your buttons!

CLOSED - My Precious Kid - Review & Giveaway - 12/18

2009-12-04T06:52:00.000-08:00

My Precious Kid is a great site that carries many brands of helpful baby and children items as well as child safety items and child ID kits. I was sent the Bebe au Lait nursing cover in Valencia Pink to review and I am happy to tell you that it is wonderful. As you all know, I love Bebe au Lait and think that they are a great company. I love that My Precious Kid carries Bebe au Lait nursing covers and would love to see them carry more Bebe au Lait items. This nursing cover is made from a nice, durable 100% cotton fabric that is machine washable and every mother knows just how important that is! I love that it has a terry cloth pocket in the bottom corner that can be used for storage for items for mom or baby such as nursing pads or a pacifier, but it can also be used for clean-up. The strap that goes around your neck is a ring connector and can be adjusted which I really like.

My Precious Kid is offering one of my lucky readers a $20 gift certificate to their store!

How to Enter: US ONLY
Mandatory -head on over to My Precious Kid and tell me what you might want to spend it on.

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:
(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following my blog publicly.

1 entry for following My Precious Kid Blog.

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via email

1 entry for following this blog on facebook networked blogs.

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for following My Precious Kid on facebook.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for following My Precious Kid on twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a $20 gift certificate to My Precious Kid from @MyPreciousKid @aliciagiveaways at
http://tinyurl.com/ye44ezb

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway and leaving a comment with link back to your post

2 entries for grabbing my new button and posting it on your page

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from My Precious Kid and having them send me proof.

The deadline for this giveaway is December 18th, 2009 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email so make sure you have it visible on your profile or leave it in you comment. Good Luck!

Baby's First Phone Call - Giveaway 4 Winners- 12/14

2009-12-03T19:25:00.000-08:00

This is a fun new service to help ease the burden of letting everyone know that Baby has arrived. It also ensures that you don't forget anyone in all of the excitement and no one is 'last to know'. It is called Baby's First Phone Call. I am due in a few months and I will be using this myself to notify our family and friends.

How It Works:
Baby's First Phone Call is an automated call tree that allows you to notify all of your friends and family of the arrival of your bundle of joy without the hassle of making dozens of individual phone calls, or leaving some friends and family to find out second- or third-hand.

With Baby's First Phone Call, you set up an account before your baby is born—when you still have a moment of time to yourself—and enter the names and phone numbers of all the people you want to notify when the baby arrives. Then, after the baby is born, you make a single phone call and leave a personal voice-mail message of any length with all the details you want to share.

Not only can you tell your friends and family when your little bundle arrived, you can share information such as the hospital and room number you're in and whether and when you'd like to receive visitors.

Our system places calls to each of the phone numbers in your account. If the person answers the phone they hear your happy message. If they don't answer, the message is left on their voicemail or answering machine. In either case, there is an option for them to leave you a return message that you can pick up at your convenience.

It's really that easy! You're doing all the hard work; let us make spreading the good news easy for you.

Use Baby's First Phone Call to notify your book group, your friends from Lamaze class, your co-workers and your extended family. Now you have the perfect way to send a personal message with your joyous news to everyone in your network!

Baby's First Phone Call has generously offered to give a $50 gift certificate to FOUR of my readers!

How to Enter: US ONLY
Mandatory -Follow this blog and tell me who you want this for or when you are due.

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:
(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via email

1 entry for following this blog on facebook networked blogs.

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for following Baby's First Phone Call on facebook.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for following Baby's First Phone Call on twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win a $50 gift certificate to Baby's First Phone Call from @FirstPhoneCall @aliciagiveaways 4 winners at
http://tinyurl.com/ylqklfq

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway and leaving a comment with link back to your post

2 entries for grabbing my new button and posting it on your page

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from Baby's First Phone Call and having them send me proof.

The deadline for this giveaway is December 14th, 2009 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email so make sure you have it visible on your profile or leave it in you comment. Good Luck!

Ouchies - Review

2009-12-03T18:43:00.000-08:00

I am proud to have Ouchies back on the blog to introduce their new line, Mr. Men & Little Miss. They have also changed up the original line a bit. So make sure you go over to their site, www.ouchiesonline.com, and check out what they have done. I am including pictures of the Mr. Men & Little Miss line that I was sent to review. I love Ouchies and think they are a fun new company. My family love wearing the bandages and our friends that see them always comment on them. Ouchies also gives you the opportunity to become a distributer of their products on their website under the where to buy section.

Ouchies is now on facebook and twitter where you can follow their company and all news coming from them. You can also join P.A.B.B (people against boring bandages) which is their newsletter. Please read their statement below about the newsletter.

"As a member, you will receive email updates on Ouchies happenings and news, first opportunities on new bandages, special discounts, and free samples.

For every new charter member who signs up, we will donate one bandage to local hospitals to distribute to kids."

A little about where this idea came from...

"Our Story"

"When my daughter turned five, her supply of bandages began to dwindle from all the boo-boo's that kids get, so I decided to search the aisles of drugstores for some kind of alternative – something cool, something different, something stylish. To my complete surprise, I came home empty handed; only able to offer her one of my horribly, boring beige bandages.

As I stood there in front of her medicine cabinet, I thought to myself, “Why are there no cool bandages?” I felt that change was in order, but it wasn’t until my wife (who is the true inspiration and “umph” behind these products) gave me a nudge and said, “You can do it.” From that point on, I started Ouchies – offering kids an array of adhesive bandages that allow them to show their style and personality. Since that time I have had two more kids, furthering my dedication to giving kids the chance to express themselves through bandages.

So, join me, my wife, my two daughters and son and let the world know that just because you are 5 or 8 or even 11, you can still have style after you have fallen and scraped your knee. Down with beige bandages, baby!"

CLOSED - Wet Ones - Giveaway 12/10/09

2009-12-02T13:15:00.000-08:00

Wet Ones has generously offered to giveaway 3 canisters of their product to one of my readers. What a great thing to have on hand during flu season! I'd also like to thanks them for the donation they made to my children's' school.

How to Enter:
Open to US Residents only

Mandatory -Head on over to Wet Ones and check out their products. Then come back here and let me know what you like best about this product.

Other entries - you must do the above entry first:
(Leave a separate comment for each entry)

1 entry for following this blog publicly.

1 entry for each of my giveaways that you post on another sites Mr. Linky

1 entry for subscribing to my blog via email

1 entry for following this blog on facebook networked blogs.

1 entry for telling your friends about this on facebook, leave a comment with your facebook name.

1 entry for following Me on Twitter.

1 entry for tweeting this giveaway leaving a link back to your tweet. You can do this once a day. Simply paste this:
RT Win 3 canisters of WetOnes to help your family stay healthy during flu season from @aliciagiveaways at http://tinyurl.com/yleegk6

2 entries for blogging about this giveaway and leaving a comment with link back to your post

2 entries for grabbing my new button and posting it on your page

1 entry for emailing this giveaways to at least 5 of your friends and copying me in the email at alicia.arnold (at) ymail (dot) com.

5 entries for purchasing something from Wet Ones and having them send me proof.

The deadline for this giveaway is December 10th, 2009 at 11:59 PM Arizona time. The winner will be notified by email so make sure you have it visible on your profile or leave it in you comment. Good Luck!

M.A.H. Creations Review

2009-12-01T12:59:00.000-08:00

I received the cutest little baby hat in the mail from M.A.H. Creations and I can't wait to put it on my new baby!

I love the Marabou feather! It makes the cutest accessory and it is super soft. Who wouldn't want to have one of these? It is great quality and inside where the feather is attached it has a peice of felt covering any spot that may have been rough so that it is perfectly soft for your little one.

M.A.H. Creations carries many other items fro boys, girls, Mom, teens, the nursery and even the kitchen. Tons and tons of super fun things to explore so head on over there and check them out just in time for Christmas!

Cyber Monday Deals

2009-11-30T10:05:00.000-08:00

My Precious Kid - 20% off - code 20CYBERmonday

Sprout Baby - 33% off EVERYTHING! - enter code 333 expires Wednesday night @ 12:00 midnight PST

Simply faBOWlous - 20% off EVERYTHING + FREE shipping - BFDFB2009

Piggy Paint - 25% off everything - JINGLE25L and free shipping on orders of $25 or more.

Check back for more...