The Shopping Mama

Dittybop: Meet Your New Guilty Pleasure

by Kate on May 14th, 2013 | 5 Comments | Reviews

ditty bop (verb): to utter a series of sounds in musical tones; vocalize melodically.

Or, ditty bop (noun): game that requires you to let yourself go, be silly and perhaps make a fool of yourself; vocal charades; may or may not resemble actual music.

No matter how you define it, Ditty Bop the app is FUN.

No Words Allowed!

Ditty Bop is a free social app that requires knowledge of popular music and, ideally, a decent humming voice.

The rules are simple – just choose a song and hum, whistle, beat box or sound it without using words. Then send to a friend to see if they can guess your Ditty Bop!

Playing is simple. Create an account on Ditty Bop, including a user name and, of course a rockin’ Ditty Bopper to represent you. Connect with other users – you can search by user name, request Facebook friends join the fun or play with a random Bopper. Once you have an “opponent” (because you’re in it to WIN), pick your song.

The song library is extensive with everything from popular pop (think Pink, Justin Bieber, Vampire Weekend) to country to R&B to children’s music. I stumped my first random opponent with Laurie Berkner’s “We Are the Dinosaurs”. I’ll give us both the benefit of the doubt and assume a) she doesn’t have children or else she would have recognized it because b) I hummed the tune perfectly.

Now you’re on! Perfect your selected song and then send it to your opponent to guess.

We think this has the potential to be very welcome time suck. It’s fun, mindless and anyone can do it. If you want to join me (and promise not to laugh at my terribly humming), join me! Leave a comment and I’ll share my user name.

Shop! Ditty Bop is currently available for FREE in the Apple Store.

Thanks to Ditty Bop for sponsoring this post. As always, opinions are my own.

Airocide and The Clean Air Revolution {Review}

by Amy on May 13th, 2013 | 5 Comments | Reviews

My two little girls (four and six years old) insist on sharing a room. While it’s very sweet of them to want to be together, there is one huge down-side to the set-up: When one gets sick, it’s almost certain that the other will be sick just days later. When we first received the Airocide for review, I decided to set it up in our bedroom because allergies hit me fairly hard this time of year. The day after I plugged in the Airocide unit, my six year old came down with the flu. Yes, the FLU.

product_airocide1 Airocide is an FDA approved air purifier that completely eliminates all mold, fungi, viruses and bacteria (all major causes of allergy symptoms) that enter its chamber. What’s left is clear, crisp air. You better bet that the minute my daughter got the flu, I moved the Airocide into the girls’ room so it could work its magic. You know what? My little one didn’t get the flu. While we can’t be certain that she stayed healthy because of the Airocide, I can say that the Airocide won’t be leaving the girls’ room anytime soon.

About Airocide and The Clean Air Revolution

“This technology, developed by NASA, clears the air of virtually 100% of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s) – the harmful gasses emitted by products you have around your home, like aerosol sprays, cleaning supplies, disinfectants, hobby supplies, dry-cleaned clothing, building materials, paints and paint thinners, strippers, pesticides and even air fresheners.”

Airocide has been tested over the last 12 years — check out the reduction in bacteria and mold in the following testing areas:

Surgery – average results 73% reduction in bacteria and mold
Office – average results 72% reduction in bacteria and mold
Households – average results 75% reduction in bacteria and mold
Childcare Center – average results 60% reduction in bacteria and mold
Dental Private Practices – average results 81% reduction in bacteria and mold

How Airocide Works

“Airocide draws in harmful airborne pathogens and forces them into a densely packed matrix of highly reactive catalysts that are activated by a high intensity 254-nanometer light. The reaction destroys these harmful pathogens on contact. Nothing is captured so there is nothing to clean. All that exits is crisp, clear air, with zero ozone emissions.”

Our Experience with Airocide

In addition to making our home cleaner and healthier, the Airocide is a no-maintenance machine and has a nice sleek design that blends into the room. There is no assembly required and no filter to maintain or replace. I just pulled the Airocide out of the box and plugged it in! There is also a low hum while the Airocide is running, but it’s actually a plus in my girls’ room because it creates white noise while they are sleeping.

This quick video gives you an idea of how Airocide works and blends into your room seamlessly.There’s also a slew of raving testimonials on Airocide’s YouTube channel.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… After having the flu virus in our house and isolating it to only one person in the family, I am sold on the Airocide technology. With all of the toxins we bring into our homes, it’s more important than ever to purify the air. Airocide is maintenance-free, cutting edge technology that made our flu and allergy season noticeably easier once the machine arrived.

Or Not to Buy… The hefty price tag of $799 makes this amazing technology a major splurge. While the Airocide technology is not inexpensive, the actual cost of ownership is only $.65 a day including maintenance costs.

Shop! You can purchase the Airocide, risk-free, here: https://www.airocide.com/order. You can find Airocide on Facebook and Twitter as well.

Disclosure: Opinions here are my own and uninfluenced by receipt of product.

Dogeared Jewels at Zappos.com {Review}

by Kate on May 9th, 2013 | 5 Comments | For Mama, Reviews, Style

Every mom will tell you it’s not the gift but the thought that counts. Instead of picking one or the other, you can get both with Dogeared Jewels. The simple necklaces are packaged with a sentimental note that expresses a sweet message for mama (or any recipient).

Mom Sparkle Heart Necklace

You are always in my heart. Wear your necklace as a reminder of how much I love you!

The Mom Sparkle Heart Necklace is a simple, classic heart shape charm on an 18 inch chain. There’s a 2 inch extended so you can adjust the length a bit. The heart charm is very small but full of detail and texture to provide interest.

It’s perfect for layering and I’ve paired it with another simple necklace. It goes with, literally, everything so I find myself wearing it day after day.

All of the Dogeared Jewels necklaces at Zappos are affordable and well worth the price. There’s a necklace for every occasion, but they are perfectly suited for Mother’s Day in particular.

Shop! Zappos.com has a great collection of Dogeared Jewels, including the Mom Sparkle Heart Necklace. Get Gold-Dipped Sterling Silver for $68 and Sterling Silver for $62.

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We are delighted to include Dogeared Jewels from Zappos in our Mother’s Day Gifts Galore Giveaways. Enter the New Mama Prize Package and the Every Day Extraordinary and for a chance to win a Mom Sparkle Heart Necklace.

Thanks to Zappos for providing a sample and the giveaway prize. Photos by Catherine Murton for The Shopping Mama.

Put a Spring in Your Step with LAMO Footwear

by Kate on May 9th, 2013 | 5 Comments | Shopping, Style

The origins of LAMO Footwear are planted firmly on the beach. The brand, based in Southern California, found its stride with comfortable sheepskin boots but has expanded its casual collection to include a variety of shoes that are perfect for everyday wear.

“The LAMO lifestyle look is relaxed, comfortable ~ yet with an edge and a definite eye for the trend.” We picked a few different women’s shoes from the spring and summer collection to put together outfits that reflect the LAMO aesthetic. Easy to wear, fun and in style.

You’ll be singing in the rain in LAMO Tall Rainboot ($149).

Spring Showers by theshoppingmama featuring a heart umbrella

We love the combination of statement jewelry, maxi dress and casual sandals. The Up Tied Sandal ($55) is available in navy or black.

Casual Maxi Dress for Summer by theshoppingmama featuring gap handbags

Go bold with patterned shoes like the Marina Stingray Moccasins ($75).

Colorful Spring Look by theshoppingmama featuring j crew

Shop! LAMO Footwear is available online where you’ll find everything from flip flops to moccasins to sheepskin boots. The prices reflect the quality and craftsmanship and we know you’ll love the comfort factor!

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We are delighted to include LAMO Footwear in our Mother’s Day Gifts Galore Giveaways. Enter the Treat Yourself Giveaway for a chance to win a pair of Sheepskin Sandals.

Thanks to LAMO for providing samples and the giveaway prize.

Funktion Mommassentials: Baby Stuff, Your Style {Review}

by Kate on May 8th, 2013 | 5 Comments | For Mama, On the Go, Reviews

Without question our lives change after baby (understatement of the year), but our sense of – and commitment to – style doesn’t need to. Funktion Mommassentials is a line of accessories created to allow mom to carry a bag designed for her and not for baby. The collection provides all the function you expect from a diaper bag while still carrying your beloved handbag.

Mommassentials

The Mommssentials is available as a complete set ($149) and is also sold individually.

Bottle Holder: insulated to keep baby’s bottle at a safe temperature and protects your bag from spills
Changing Pad: generously sized with pocket to keep diapers
Wipes Case: stylish way to hold the ultimate diaper bag essential!
Grab Bag: drawstring bag to hold extra clothes, cloth diapers or anything else you need to grab on the go
Paci Purse: colorful little container protects baby’s must have pacifier
Clutch: grab and go with this classic clutch designed to replace your wallet
Cosmetic Case: a little something to keep your somethings organized

Funktion Changing Pad

We’ve been using the Changing Pad for on the go diaper changes and to wrangle diaper change necessities. The Changing Pad folds into a slightly-larger than diaper size package but unfolds into a deceptively large pad for baby. The changing pad is cushioned and provides a large area for squirmy babies to rest. The pocket on the front is large enough to hold a few diapers, small container of wipes and even diaper ointment.

While we think the Diaper Pad is modern and stylish for moms, it’s also perfect for dads. A few weekends ago while I was out of town and my husband was on solo-daddy-duty, the Changing Pad was his constant companion. He tossed it in the stroller or right into the minivan so he was always prepared.

The Changing Pad is perfect for the transition from the newborn stage when you have to tote everything and the kitchen sink and the toddler phase when you don’t need anything but diapers. Stock it, toss it in your favorite handbag and you’re ready to go.

Shop! The Changing Pad is $29 – a perfectly affordable gift for moms. Visit FunktionMoms.com to purchase and check out the complete line.

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We are delighted to include Funktion Mommassentials in our Mother’s Day Gifts Galore Giveaways. Enter the New Mama Giveaway for a chance to win a the Complete Mommassentials Set.

Thanks to Funktion Moms for providing the sample and giveaway prize. Photos by Catherine Murton for The Shopping Mama.

Shop Kohl’s for Mother’s Day!

by Maureen on May 7th, 2013 | 5 Comments | Fashion & Beauty, Shopping, Style

It’s The Northeast Girl back again to help you find that perfect Mother’s Day gift! While I know we all find our own ways to show our moms just how much they mean to us all year long, I still think it’s wonderful that we continue to take one specific day and make it all about them. I mean, who doesn’t love a little extra attention and pampering?! Being a mom to Ava for the past 4+ years has simply been a privilege. She’s taught me so much and my love for her is just unconditional.

(Image Credit: T.Lohse Photography)

In our house, we always make sure to include Ava in our holiday preparations and celebrations so when I went to Kohl’s this weekend to see if we could pick out the perfect gift for my mom and mother in law, I took my little sidekick right along with me. She’s pretty sure her Grandmom and her Mimi would both love either a new barbie or a hot pink watch, so while she might not be quite ready to really pick the presents, it was still fun to take her with me for the day.

Shopping Kohl’s for Mother’s Day

I went to a Kohl’s that was only a few miles from my home and I think no matter which store you stop in to this week, they have got you covered! There are plenty of displays and pre-picked ideas ready and waiting to help make your decision easier! Kohl’s has a department for just about anything you’re looking for to try and show mom see how much you appreciate her. Does your mom like jewelry? They’ve got something for every budget and most, if not all of it, is on super sale. Does your mom like to stay fit? They have an activewear section and athletic shoes at door busting prices. Does your mom love having the perfect loungewear ready and waiting for her after a long day? (This would be me…). Well, Kohl’s has everything you need from pajamas, slippers, and comfy lounge clothes. Let’s see, does your mom like to keep up with the trends all while keeping an eye on her budget? Well, Kohl’s has some high profile designers with some great lines at great prices already in stores ready for you to check out. They also have bags, accessories, make up, perfume, jewelry boxes…and the list goes on! I’ll also show you some of my top pics for things in the home and kitchen department. Kohl’s was stocked full of something for everyone!

Below I’m going to share with you my picks to help you navigate your way through Kohl’s this week when searching for that perfect gift! While I was walking through the store, I also noticed that a lot of their gift options are already pre-packaged so nicely and have so much appeal even before you wrap them. Which reminds me, Kohl’s also has a gift bag, wrapping paper, and card section in store! They also have item scanners in most departments where you can price check your items to double check everything you chose. There was plenty of staff on hand to answer an questions I had and give me any advice or extra help if I needed it.

Best Mother’s Day Gift Ideas from Kohl’s

So sit back, and take a look down below and see all the great things that caught my eye while I was in Kohl’s this weekend! This, my friends, is only the tip of the iceberg and there’s plenty more out there for you to see. I hope you enjoy my top picks and let us know what you pick up when you’re there! The deals on these top brand names are just too good to pass up!

Have a great week and thanks for checking in with me again!

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Shop! It’s not to late to shop for Mother’s Day! Visit your local Kohl’s to shop for these and other great gift ideas.

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We are delighted to include Kohl’s in the Mother’s Day Gifts Galore giveaways. Enter the Every Day Extraordinary giveaway for a chance to win a $100 Kohl’s gift card.

7 Shoes We Love from Naturalizer

by Kate on May 6th, 2013 | 5 Comments | Fashion & Beauty, Shopping, Style

There’s nothing like a new pair of shoes to brighten your wardrobe. Despite what you may think, you don’t have to sacrifice for fashion. And, frankly, the day-to-day life of a busy mom simply doesn’t allow for cramped toes, straps digging into your heels or painful balls of your feet. Luckily, Naturalizer has been creating comfortable and stylish shoes for women for more than 80 years!

We’ve checked out the new styles for spring and summer at Naturalizer to find our best bets for real life.

7 Shoes We Love

Click through for a closer look at our favorites.

Peeta Sandal

Upton Flat

Norton Wedge

Alka Sandal

Dhani Dressy Sandal

Hanover Boat Shoe

Naya Hillary Flat

Peeta, Brown Leather/Multi (reg. $89, sale $69.99). Versatile dress sandals that go from day to evening with ease.
Upton Flat, Black & White (reg. $69, sale $59.99). Shoes are an easy way to hop on this season’s hot black and white trend.
Norton Wedge, Red (reg. $75, sale $59.99). A wedge is a must have for summer and we love the bright red color of this pair.
Alka Sandal, Platina (reg. $60, sale $49.99). Add a little metallic bling to basic sandals.
Dhani Sandals, Brandy Tan Leather (reg. $89, sale $79.99). Crisscross straps add some fun, flair and fashion to these dress sandals.
Hanover Boat Shoe, Turquoise (reg. $75, sale $59.99). A modern and comfortable twist on a summer classic boat shoe.
Naya Hillary, Mustard Yellow ($125). These bold shoes prove flats don’t have to be boring.

And, for good measure, here’s a bag we adore for summer. How fun is this?

Leoda Straw Handbag, Orange (reg. $39, sale $31.20)

Shop! Naturalizer shoes are available online at Naturalizer.com. If you want to try on and enjoy the shoes in person, check the Store Locator to find a location near you.

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We are delighted to include Naturalizer in our Mother’s Day Gifts Galore Giveaways. Enter the Mom’s Night Out Giveaway for a chance to win a Pair of Shoes.

Thanks to Naturalizer for providing the sample and giveaway prize.

Uncommon iPhone Case {Review}

by Kate on May 5th, 2013 | 5 Comments | For Mama, Reviews

I never leave the house without my iPhone. I admit that I am totally addicted. Between the Instagram, Facebook and access to news and sports websites… I just can’t live without it. The apps and the way I use my phone make it mine, and I think it should look like it’s mine. There is no shortage of iPhone cases on the market, but nothing beats the originality and personality of the Uncommon Customizable iPhone Case because you can upload your own photo.

Your Child’s Art = Personalized iPhone Case

Creating an iPhone case is simple and fun. You simply take a photo or scan the artwork that you’d like to use and upload it to GetUncommon.com. You can select the type of device and case you want to make and then alter the design to be perfect. You can even rotate the image and add text.

I uploaded a (very) abstract finger paint masterpiece that both my 4 and 6 year old worked on. It may not find its way to a museum wall, but obviously I love it because they made it. It’s colorful, fun and definitely reflects my day-to-day life as a mom.

The case itself is a two-piece Capsule case with a slim fit, a raised case to protect the screen side, access to all the buttons and switches. I’ll admit that I get a bit nervous without a mega heavy duty case on my iPhone with kids around, but the Capsule provides enough protection to give me peace of mind that it won’t shatter at any moment.

Shop NOW for Mother’s Day

While you’re adding an iPhone case personalized with your child’s art to your Mother’s Day list, go ahead and get one for the other mamas on your shopping list. We think it’s the perfect gift for connected grandmothers – they adore our children’s masterpieces as much as we do. Order by May 6 and choose UPS Next Day Air to receive cases for Mother’s Day! Check out the details at GetUncommon.

Shop! Uncommon iPhone cases are $35 to $40, iPod Touch cases are $30 to $35 and iPad cases are $60.

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We are delighted to include Uncommon in our Mother’s Day Gifts Galore Giveaways. Enter the Mamarazzi Giveaway for a chance to win a $50 Gift Credit.

Thanks to GetUncommon for providing a sample and the giveaway prize. Photos by Catherine Murton for The Shopping Mama. Art by my kiddos.