30 Days of Toys: 3D Play House Pink Rug

by Monica on November 20th, 2011  |  5 Comments  |  30 Days of Toys, Shopping

play house pink rug

Toy: Play House Pink Rug

Get It For: A future interior designer or architect who loves playing house with her tiny dolls and figurines, and has enjoyed playing with her brother’s car and road rug.

Why We Like It: There are many play mats and rugs out there with road or construction designs, but there aren’t too many out there for little ladies to play house in an open floor space. This one is particularly fun , as the details are raised in 3D so it gives it a homey and open feel. An added plus is this rug is hypo-allergenic, stain resistant, and made from all non-flammable materials.

Shop! The Play House Pink Rug is available at giggle for $150.  It’s dimensions are 59″ x 39″ x 1″ so there is plenty of space for more than one child to play at a time .

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To see the best toys for the holidays, check out our Toy Shopping Guide. You can also read about all our 30 Days of Toys picks.

Chuggington Public Service Campaign for Traffic Safety

by Monica on October 31st, 2011  |  5 Comments  |  Life

I am sure many of you are like me and spend a lot of your time with your kids in the car, rushing from here to there.  With Halloween today and lots of Trick-or-Treating on the agenda, it’s important to take a moment to make sure everyone is safe and that we all do a little less rushing!

A Traintacular National Campaign

In partnership with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Ludorum, the creators of the hit preschool series Chuggington, recently launched a traintacular national Chuggington public service campaign that will promote traffic safety to young families. Entitled Think Safe. Ride Safe. Be Safe!, the campaign pairs NHTSA’s trusted safety guidance with Chuggington’s colorful and engaging characters. The result is a compelling traffic safety campaign that delivers important safety lessons to children from preschool to 3rd grade and their parents. With lessons focused on four main areas of traffic safety – pedestrian, school bus, bike and car seat safety – the campaign is designed to engage, educate, and ultimately, save lives.

The program includes:

  • A Traffic Safety Pledge, which has already been signed by more than 11,000 children. By taking the online pledge, kids can earn their Chuggington Traffic Safety Badges!
  • A dedicated microsite, www.chuggington.com/safety, where kids can go to play safety games, color safety sheets, and parents can download safety tips.
  • An activity book for kids to color and learn traffic safety lessons.
  • Original Public Service Announcements, the first of which will air soon on Disney Junior (sneak peek: you can ride the rails over to Chuggington’s site now to view the PSA online here).
  • Educational materials, new seasonal programs, and a free Chuggington traffic safety app are all part of this comprehensive campaign that will continue through 2012 and beyond.

Basic Safety Tips

As you think about Halloween costumes and candy, we ask that you also take a moment to consider your little ghost or goblins safety as they walk around the neighborhood trick or treating tonight. Does your child know to look left-right-left before crossing the street? Do you always encourage your trainee to hold your hand while walking? Here are a few other tips to consider:

  • Walk on the sidewalk.
  • If there’s no sidewalk, walk facing traffic.
  • No pushing or shoving when you walk.
  • Don’t cross the street if a car is coming.
  • Use a crosswalk if you can.

My son and I watched the Public Service Campaign video together, and I already feel better about his understanding of the need to be safe when dealing with traffic and pedestrian safety.  Take a moment to watch it with your kids before heading out in costume, and take the pledge with your children!

Buggyguard Stroller Lock {Review & Giveaway}

by Monica on October 11th, 2011  |  5 Comments  |  Giveaways, On the Go, Reviews

Since I have become a mother,I have had so many moments in a baby store, looking at a catalog, or shopping online when I see an item and I think to myself, “What a great idea! Why didn’t I think of that?”  This product from Buggyguard is just the solution I need to errands and family outings when I don’t want to worry about my double stroller that is the same price as my car-payment. The buggy guard stroller lock is a great option for moms on the go.

About Buggyguard

Devilishly cute, these buggy guardians attach in easily accessible locations on your stroller and are ready at moments notice to lock your belongings and the stroller to itself, an object nearby, or both. With BuggyGuard, my stroller is safe and I have the peace of mind to focus on what’s most important, my baby Nicole. Enjoy quality time with your children. It’s what life is all about!.

My Experience

When I opened the package that was delivered to me, and saw this cute little panda staring at me, I momentarily couldn’t figure out what it was! I forgot I was expecting a product for review, and was trying to remember why I ordered this cute little guy! This is just a testament to how cleverly designed the lock is.  By just looking at it, it appears to be a cute toy, but upon closer inspection is actually a retractable combination lock that you can link your stroller up to almost anything in a second to keep it safe while you enjoy your activities with your little ones.  The combination dial is easy to set, and very quickly gives you peace of mind that the stroller isn’t going anywhere.  There is an attachment for you to be able to attach it to a crossbar securely, or it easily removes for use without.

I especially like that the cable retracts with the push of a button. My  3 year old loved holding on to the panda as we walked in the zoo, and liked helping me attach it to a bench when it was time to take the train ride.  This is something that I rarely do at our zoo because it requires you to leave your stroller completely unattended while riding the train around the zoo.  So when I told him that we were taking a zoo ride on that day, he was so happy, since normally Mommy says we don’t have time! But when you spend a small fortune on a stroller, you don’t take chances.

Buggyguard details

The Buggyguard comes in a variety of cute little options. It is also extremely easy to use.  Simply keep it in your stroller and you always have it close at hand to lock your buggy up whenever you may need to.  Not to mention little hands, (not too little, as it isn’t intended as a toy) will enjoy holding on to their little pal as you walk or jog to your destination.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… Buggyguard offers you peace of mind if you will be leaving your stroller behind that is will still be there when you get back from having fun with the kiddos.  I can imagine this would come in very handy in a easily walkable neigborhood, or if you live in the city where your stroller is your main means of transportation to most of your destinations.  Or, think the of the big picture, anyone heading to Disney anytime soon? This would be perfect.

Or Not to Buy… If you never need to leave your stroller unattended, this may be a product that you can skip, but it is something that is nice to have on hand if such a situation arises.

Shop! Take a look at the different characters available to help you keep your investment safe.  There are a few other fun products to see at the Buggyguard site as well! Buggyguard retails for $24.99 at these various retailers and is currently on sale for less than $20 at our affiliate Amazon.

WIN! Enter to win your very own Buggyguard anti-theft stroller lock!

How to Enter: Visit Buggyguard and let us know which lock character you like the best.

Earn Extra Entries – valid only after completing the first required entry. Please leave a separate comment for each you do.

Giveaway ends October 31. Open to US and Canada residents only.

Thanks to Buggyguard for providing sample and the giveaway prize.

Summer Swepstakes from LOFT and Who What Wear

by Monica on June 21st, 2011  |  5 Comments  |  Shopping

I’ve mentioned before how much I love LOFT for finding affordable, comfortable stylish clothes for my daily look. I also look to Loft for special events as well. Recently I had an opportunity to go shopping for a bridal shower for my future Sister in-law. I knew immediately which store I would hit first, and that was LOFT. I was in and out of the store in less than twenty minutes because I found the perfect dress in no time. It was comfortable, and very versitile so although I bought it for a specific event, I know I will be able to wear it for many different events, even running around town on those days where I feel like I actually can pull myself together! Oh, and did I mention that I lucked out and bought my dress on a 30% off all dresses event?

Another reason I love Loft, they run endless promotions so you will always get a bargain. The white sweater I am wearing is also from Loft, though about 4 summers ago, and it is still my go-to white summer cardigan.

What do you think? Bridal Shower appropriate?  

Now it’s your turn to find a great look from Loft, and to visit them on Facebook on June 21st from 4-5 pm and participate in a Live Chat with co-founders of Who What Wear, Hillary Kerr and Katherine Power, who will answer all of your summer fashion questions. Lucky you will get a Loft Discount Code for participating! So head over to Facebook.com/Loft and “Like” them to get in on the action.  Personally, my big summer fashion question has to do with Maxi dresses. I am only 5’2 and am convinced they aren’t for me. Am I right, or can everyone wear this easy breezy chic look? Hillary and Katherine, I need your help on that one!  So read below for details as to how to get entered in the Summer Sweepstakes.

Summer Sweepstakes from Loft and Who What Wear

There’s always been so much to love about summer — barbecues, beach trips, beautiful days — and now there’s one more reason to love this season! LOFTand Who What Wear want you to enjoy an incredible June, so they’re teaming up to bring you their Summer Wardrobe Sweepstakes. All you have to do is ‘LIKE’ LOFT on Facebook @ Facebook.com/LOFT and enter your email address and you’ll be entered to win a $1000 LOFT gift card!

Even better: the duo will be giving away a $1000 LOFT gift card every week in June — so you have four chances to win! Just think about all the darling day dresses, sweet shorts, and chic sandals you can buy… Plus, if you ‘LIKE’ LOFT, you’ll get exclusive access to see Who What Wear’s first-ever live chat on Tuesday, June 21st from 4-5pm EST. Founders Hillary Kerr and Katherine Power will be answering all of your most important summer style questions – like how to wear this season’s hottest trends so you can look effortlessly cool.

Live chat viewers will also get an exclusive discount code to shop at LOFT for all of those must-have pieces. Now if that’s not enough of a reason to be excited about summer, we don’t know what is! Visit LOFT’s Facebook page @ Facebook.com/LOFT to enter the sweepstakes and submit your style questions now! Hillary and Katherine are so excited to hear from you!

All opinions are my own.

 

LOFT: Get Summer Ready with the Ultimate Getaway Sweepstakes

by Monica on May 19th, 2011  |  5 Comments  |  Shopping

Are you about as ready for summer as I am? The current weather situation across most of the U.S. simply is getting me down! The few brief moments of sunshine we have had in the past few weeks have reminded me that my summer wardrobe is in desperate need of of an overhaul. One of my absolute favorite stores, LOFT, is where I plan to start for some summer retail therapy.  I love LOFT because no matter what stage of life I have been in over the last twelve years or so, I have been able to shop at LOFT and find what I need. I remember going with my mom to LOFT to buy my summer internship wardrobe in college, and feel like now as a SAHM, I am able to find reasonably priced, stylish clothes that are also functional-exactly what I need these days. Let summer begin!

My Perfect Summer Getaway Sweepstakes

Lucky for you, you can embrace the feeling of sunshine with all of LOFT‘s new arrivals and enter their “My Perfect Summer Getaway” Sweepstakes for the chance to win an unforgettable summer vacation for two – inspired by LOFT’s design team’s favorite destinations – plus 8 other prizes, including a $1,000 LOFT gift card! Entering is about as easy as putting on those wedge sandals – just ‘LIKE’ LOFT’s Facebook page for a chance to win!

Enter today and don’t forget to find your summer vacation style at LOFT. Your ultimate summer getaway awaits…

About the Sweepstakes

‘LIKE’ LOFT on Facebook to enter for your chance to win an unforgettable summer vacation for two OR eight other prizes including a $1,000 LOFT gift card! This contest runs from May 9th to May 30th, 2011.

Serena & Lily World Repair Kit: Review + Giveaway

by Monica on May 16th, 2011  |  5 Comments  |  Giveaways, Life, Reviews, Spring Into Spring

Serena & Lily is a wonderful brand of home decor for babies, children and the family alike. They also offer a wide assortment of interesting and unique toys, gifts, fabrics, decor and furniture for the home and your family.  I love getting the colorful catalog in the mail and seeing all of the new and exciting items.  One of the items I saw recently caught my eye. It is the World Repair Kit for kids. I was happy to learn more about it.  With a little guy getting older, it is important to me that I teach him about the world around him, both near and far; and I like this healthy and not overwhelming way to introduce him to some “heavier” topics.

About the World Repair Kit

  • Quick facts about environmental issues, conservation, protecting endangered species and more.
  • Hands-on ways to help those in need of food, shelter, clean water, education and health care.
  • Great ideas for volunteering, planning creative fundraisers and hosting World Repair Parties.
  • A Resource Guide connecting you to amazing non-profit organizations.
  • Everyday ways to find your passion and get inspired to be the best world citizen you can be!
  • 100% of net proceeds go to the Serena & Lily Foundation, funding youth initiatives around the world.


We’re Repairing the World

The World Repair Kit from Serena & Lily comes in a sturdy box with loads of goodies inside. There are a lot of little fun facts concerning world issues and places around the world. It also gives kids and families ideas for making a difference in their own communities. I love the stamps that accompany the guidebook so that kids can stamp the “Did it? Stamp it!” icon in the corner of the pages.  The main book is set up to look like a tour guide book, and is cleverly designed to help kids see that there is so much more to the world than what happens in their neighborhood or school, without being scary or intimidating. That said, I have a 3 year old, and most of this is pretty  far out of his league as far as what I am ready to have to explain to him (world hunger, malaria, etc.). But, there are also pages that I can share with him now such as “Find the good in everyone”, or “find your passion”. Concepts that I definitely want him to learn at an early age. The recommended age for this kit is 8+ and I think that is probably a good fit. I think this would be a fantastic gift for a child around that age!

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… I think this is a great gift idea for a elementary aged child. 100% of the net proceeds go to the Serena & Lily Foundation, which funds youth initiatives around the world, so it is a gift you can feel really good about.

Or Not to Buy… The only reason I can think of not to purchase this is if your kiddos are still babies, you aren’t ready for this kit. But you will be before you know it, and it is a wonderful way to help you kids learn about being an active global citizen.

Shop! Visit Serena & Lily and take a look at the World Repair Kit, which retails for  $24.95, as well as other fantastic decor and gift items. We also love the Serena & Lily Gypsy Tote, in particular.

Win!  A Serena & Lily World Repair Kit !

How to Enter: Visit Serena & Lily and check out all the great products. Leave a comment telling us how you would use the World Repair Kit with your family.

Bonus Entries – valid only after completing the first required entry. Please leave a separate comment for each you do.

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Giveaway ends May 30. Open to US mailing addresses only.

Sample products and giveaway prize provided by Serena & Lily.

Ingrid & Isabel Pregnant & Post-Partum Mama Must Haves {Spring into Spring Giveaway}

by Monica on May 5th, 2011  |  5 Comments  |  Giveaways

With Mother’s Day right around the corner, take a moment to do a little shopping for the Mother to be, or new Mama in your life. Ingrid & Isabel has some great fashion choices for pregnant moms and new mamas. I personally had both of these items we are giving away to one lucky reader, and loved them both!  I love that Ingrid Carney was a pregnant mama who came up with this fantastic idea and has been able to make it into such a pregnancy staple. Read her story below. Plus, how cute is it that the company is her name and her daughter’s together?

About Ingrid & Isabel

People often ask how I came up with the BellaBand and I’ll never forget the day. I was newly pregnant and dressing for work when there it was: my belly popped! I wasn’t big enough to fill maternity wear, yet there was no possibility of buttoning my pants. Safety pins were bulky, rubber bands were uncomfortable, larger sizes looked sloppy, and when my blouse rose it exposed my poor attempts to hold up my pants. I panicked, thinking, “How can I keep my pants up and hide the fact that they don’t fit?” Finally, I tried a tube-top over my waistband. It was thick and not sized properly for a growing belly, but it worked! I un-tucked my blouse, left for the office and no one knew my pants were undone.
In the coming weeks I found myself wearing my new accessory almost daily. I wore it over unbuttoned jeans that still fit around my hips, cute maternity I had yet to fill, and later with low maternity waistbands that constantly fell down around my hips. That’s when I wondered if other women might want something like this.
Eventually, I introduced the BellaBand. And my inspiration, you might say, was my sweet daughter Isabel, now age nine-that once pesky bump in my belly.
I want women to enjoy getting dressed every day during pregnancy. Let’s celebrate our changing bodies and dress with confidence because we deserve to look and feel beautiful.

Pregnant & Post Baby Must Haves

Capri Belly Legging

Our Belly Leggings are made of a luxurious, ultra-soft knit that stretches to gently hug your hips, legs and belly. Our high seamless waistband gives your belly full coverage and room to grow. Available in full and capri lengths.Made with your changing body in mind, you can wear the waistband folded at the waistline in early pregnancy, up high and over your belly for full coverage as you grow, and, when it’s more comfortable, folded around the lower hips for under-the-belly support in your last weeks of pregnancy. Also great for body support after baby arrives.Layer with tunics, dresses, skirts or a comfy long t-shirt.Did we say how soft they are? So soft.

BellaBand

The great thing about the BellaBand is from the moment you find out you are pregnant, to well after baby is home, you will be able to use it. I have a 15 month old and just got it out the other day to wear with leggings. I couldn’t find a long enough tank to wear with the leggings to kind of cover my heiny, so I threw on the BellaBand to give the illusion of a tank! Genius!

At the beginning of your pregnancy, you can continue to wear your “normal” pants unbuttoned with the Bella over the waist to keep them up, then it also hold up maternity pants which have a tendency to want to slide down, especially once the belly gets big! And once you are transitioning back to your normal clothes, it helps once again. Like I said, I got mine out just the other day, and baby girl is now 15 months old. And no, I don’t have pregnancy weight anymore, thank you very much!

I love all the pieces on Ingrid & Isabel almost enough to want to be pregnant again. Almost…..

Shop! Check out all the great maternity styles at Ingid & Isabel for an expecting mama. You can search the Store Locator for an online retailer, such as Diapers.com, or locate a shop near you. The Belly Leggings are $52 and the BellaBand starts at $26.

Win! A BellaBand AND a pair of Bella Capri Leggings, both perfect for spring!

How to Enter: Visit Ingrid & Isabel and leave a comment with another item you would like, or would have liked during your pregnancy.

Bonus Entries – valid only after completing the first required entry. Please leave a separate comment for each you do.

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Giveaway ends May 19. Open to US residents only.

Thanks to Ingrid & Isabel for providing the giveaway prizes.

2-n-1 Potette Travel Potty

by Monica on March 6th, 2011  |  5 Comments  |  On the Go

Go With: Kalencom 2-in-1 Potette Plus

Why We Like It: My son has been potty trained for almost a year, and we have yet to have to use a public restroom thanks to this product. We used it frequently at the beginning, now it is just nice to always have on hand “just in case”.   If you are heading out of town by car,or even out running around on a day to day basis, this is a must. Especially if you are driving solo with more than one child, you can stop and let one go potty without having to get baby number two out of the car, and I promise there is no mess! The liners have an absorbent pad in them, so the liquid is soaked up instantly. Just toss in the trash and be on your merry way.  You will thank me for this one.

Go! The Potette plus is available at Amazonand other retailers for $14.99 or less.  It comes in a variety of colors.

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We’re On the Go in March. Check out all of our travel picks.

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