Oral-B Professional Care Toothbrush {Review & Giveaway}

by Kevin on May 23rd, 2012  |  5 Comments  |  For Mama, Giveaways, Reviews

Some things in life are just worth the money.  At first glance, it may seem like a splurge to buy a power toothbrush, but once you try an Oral-B Power Toothbrush you will not ever be able to go back to a normal manual brush.  I have been using the Oral-B ProfessionalCare 1000 for the last two weeks and I have noticed my teeth being whiter and feeling cleaner.

With more than 20,000 pulsations and 8,800 oscillations per minute, removing up to two times more plaque than a manual toothbrush, it is no surprise that the ProfessionalCare 1000 gives me the “post-dentist cleaning” feel every time.  However, there is more than just the powerful spinning brush that makes using a power toothbrush better than a regular toothbrush.  The compact, round brush head surrounds each tooth for a tooth-by-tooth clean.  There is also various replacement heads, providing focus on specific cleaning actions such as Pro White or Precision Clean.  All of the brush heads include indicator bristles reminding you to replace your brush head every three months.  The brush head even contains a pressure sensor that stops pulsations to let you know that you are brushing too hard.

The ProfessionalCare 1000 also has a timer feature that provides a brief signal every 30 seconds ensure that you spend the appropriate amount of time on each of the four quadrants of your month.  Another longer signal indicates when you have reached the doctor recommended time of two minutes of brushing.  If this isn’t enough features for you, there are other ProfessionalCare brushes such as the  5000 with an in-handle smart display and wireless SmartGuide that provides real time feedback to maximize your brushing routine.

Shop! The Oral-B ProfessionalCare 1000 has a suggested retail price of $74.99, but it currently available on Amazon for $69.99 with a $10 mail-in rebate through June 16.  Replacement heads are around $5.00 each, the same price you would pay for a regular toothbrush.  If you are looking for that dentist feel every time you brush and want to remove more than two times more plaque, thus preventing and reversing gingivitis, an OralB ProfessionalCare power toothbrush is definitely right for you.

Win! An Oral-B Professional Care 1000 Power Toothbrush!

How to Enter: Leave a comment telling us you want to win and you’re entered. Super simple!

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

Giveaway ends June 1. Open to US residents only.

Max Daniel: Luxurious Baby Throw {Review}

by Kate on May 15th, 2012  |  5 Comments  |  Baby, Reviews

Max Daniel is soft, chic and luxurious… no, I’m not talking about my son Max Daniel. I’m talking about the baby blanket by Max Daniel Designs. Shortly after Max was born an in-the-know reader told me about Max Daniel the blanket company. I am obviously biased towards this company since it shares a fabulous name with my son, but I was excited to discover that the blankets are fabulous. Max Daniel Designs is a family-owned and operated business based in Los Angeles that has been making cuddly things since 2003. In addition to baby throws and security blankets, Max Daniel also sells adult throws.

Animal Print Baby Throw

My Max Daniel has been cuddling up with the Blue Giraffe Baby Throw.

This is not your average baby blanket. It’s incredibly lush and thick because it is made of double sided plush material. It’s easily the thickest baby blanket we own, but it’s so cuddly that baby will enjoy it even in warmer weather. (Like Max does now in Alabama.) The blanket measures 32 by 36 inches and has a shiny satin trim.

The look of the blanket is definitely distinctive and special- we took Max’s two month pictures while laying on the blanket – and we love the variety of animal prints. There are great choices for girls, boys and gender-neutral surprise babies, too. The Blue Giraffe print has the patterned plush on both sides, but other designs have solid rosebud plush on the reverse.

If you’re looking for a more subtle or simple design (or if animal print just isn’t your thing), check out the Rosebud and Satin blankets.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… The Max Daniel Baby Throw is a super luxurious baby gift that any child would be lucky to own. It’s soft, plush, and perfect for cuddling.I absolutely adore it – and not just because it has a great name. It’s an investment that baby will enjoy for years and years.

Or Not to Buy… The Baby Throw is definitely more expensive than your average blanket. If you can’t splurge on it, we suggest trying the smaller sized Security Blanket which is made of the same material.

Shop! Max Daniel Baby Throw Blankets are $70 for Animal Prints and $58 for Rosebuds and Satin. Security Blankets are $26. Purchase directly from Max Daniel or shop our affiliate Amazon.

Thanks to Max Daniel for sending Max Daniel a blanket.

JumpSport iBounce Kids Trampoline {Review & Giveaway}

by Kate on May 14th, 2012  |  5 Comments  |  Giveaways, Reviews, Toys

My kids are crazy. Crazy in a good, active, healthy kind of way so I am always looking for new avenues for them to use some of their energy and get exercise. With summer just around the corner, the challenge is now more important than ever as they’ll be home all day and we’ll be dealing with unpredictable weather. The JumpSport iBounce Kid’s Trampoline is an awesome solution that keeps them entertained and active. And just when you thought the kids trampoline couldn’t get any better, JumpSport added  the amazing Tablet Mount and Hop-A-Long with Rompity Roo DVD.

JumpSport iBounce Kid’s Trampoline Bundle

Let your little ones entertain themselves with a smile on their face! The JumpSport Kid’s trampoline is a fun and engaging way for toddlers to exercise! Their personal-sized trampoline will provide them with years of fun, safe and energetic bouncing. This is something they will use every day and it is easily assembled in as little as 15 minutes!

The bungee cords provide a soft and lively bounce while the handle bar adds stability so little ones can work on their balance and motor skills. With a JumpSport iBounce Tablet Mount, your kids will be able to exercise while watching the Hop-Along with RompyRoo video — also available as an eBook on most platforms. Let the grand adventures begin!

Included with bundle:

  • JumpSport iBounce™ Kids Trampoline
  • JumpSport iBounce™ Tablet Mount
  • Hop-A-Long with RompidyRoo™ DVD

Jumping on the iBounce Trampoline

I don’t think I can possibly use words to describe how much fun my kids have bouncing on the trampoline. Instead, I’ll share this series of photos of my 3 year old getting her jump on.

Does she look like a pink dressed blur? That’s because she’s moving, moving, moving! Awesome. This girl has an endless amount of energy and when she’s not occupied she uses that energy for evil (i.e. drawing on the walls, waking her sleeping brother, or scaling the pantry). I love setting her up with the Hop-a-Long with RompidyRoo movie and knowing that she’ll be active and safe for awhile.

iBounce Kids Trampoline with RompidyRoo Review

Assembly. The trampoline comes unassembled, which I will admit made me a little nervous. I mean, my kids are going to jump on it so if its not assembled correctly they’ll take a tumble. Luckily, the directions were straightforward and together my husband and I had it assembled in about 20 minutes.

Trampoline. The trampoline is a triangle shape that’s intended for kids 2 to 5 years old. The trampoline is made of a steel frame and elastic cords and has an 80 pound weight limit. The weight limit is impressive for the little trampoline, but I’ll admit I’m bummed to be well over the limit. I want to bounce, too! The trampoline is lightweight and easy to move from room to room. It fits well into a corner in one of our rooms and it’s taken up less space than I imagined.

Tablet Mount. One of the unique features of this bundle is the inclusion of a Tablet Mount so your child can follow along an interactive workout featuring the kangaroo RompidyRoo or any other program on your tablet. The mount is compatible with iPads, Kindle and Nook tablets in landscape mode. It doesn’t fit as easily with the iPad case on our iPad, but it’s doable.

RompidyRoo DVD. The fun little movie to get kids bouncing comes in DVD form, so we downloaded it to our iPad so the kids can watch it on the trampoline. You can see a preview of the movie here. In addition to encouraging activity, the movie incorporates basic counting so your tot will exercise her brain, too.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… The iBounce Kids Trampoline with Tablet Mount and DVD is a great way to get kids moving this summer. The weather can be unpredictable, but you can encourage bouncing and exercise with the Trampoline inside. The Tablet Mount is an awesome addition to the Trampoline because kids can watch the RumpidyRoo DVD or other shows that keep them entertained and moving.

Or Not to Buy… Our iPad has a thick protector on it that makes it heavier and wider so takes a little effort to make it fit in the tablet holder. After some active bouncing and jumping, it does tend to fall over to the side. It wouldn’t be an issue without the case, but we don’t trust our kids with an iPad without a case!

Shop! The JumpSport iBounce Kids Trampoline Bundle with Tablet Mount and RumpidyRoo DVD has a recommended price of $150. It’s currently available from our affiliate, Amazon, for $130.

Win! JumpSport iBounce Kid’s Trampoline Bundle with Tablet Mount and DVD!

How to Enter: Visit JumpSport and leave a comment with your favorite feature of the iBounce.

Earn Extra 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 25. Open to US residents only.

Naturepedic & MightNest: A Shout Out

by Shannon on May 7th, 2012  |  5 Comments  |  Shopping

I don’t feel we pay one another enough compliments, so oftentimes when standing in line at the grocery store or at the coffee shop for my morning tea, I’ll let people know if “you look great in that color” or “that skirt is awesome!”  I once saw an elderly lady with the legs of a 20-year-old.  I told her she had “great gams” and she almost cried.  She said I had made her year.

I also feel we don’t give companies enough kuddos when they’ve done a great job.  Therefore, I want to take a moment to shout the praises of Naturepedic and MightyNest.

We recently played “musical beds” in our house as toddler boy moved from a crib to a regular bed.  We moved preschool girl’s full mattress to his floor (for safety) and she needed a new mattress.  I struggled with the decision of conventional mattress vs. organic and, after talking with some amazing folks at Naturepedic, knew that I needed to go with my gut and invest in the 2-in-1 organic cotton ultra mattress.  In an effort to make the organic option fit our budget, I was looking for free shipping to our “remote” location and discovered that Mighty Nest is a Naturepedic vendor and ALWAYS offers free shipping on orders over $75.

Because shipping was free, I was expecting a long delivery time, but delivery was so quick (approximately 10 days, if that) I was out of town for the original delivery date.  So, while in Florida with four kids under foot, I called MightyNest to reschedule delivery.  My cell call was interrupted by either kids or a dropped call (I’m not sure).  Approximately three minutes later I called the 800 number again.  The wonderful representative answered by saying, “Is this Shannon?”

Never in my life have I called an 800 number and been greeted by name! 

Of course, everyone was very accommodating in rescheduling the delivery date.  I have the ultimate apology to make in that I don’t remember the name of the amazing representative I spoke with that day, but I have complete faith that MightyNest will always take care of their customers to the highest degree.

The mattress arrived the day after our return from Florida and I couldn’t wait to open the box.  When I opened it I found a high quality mattress that was proudly made in the USA, but I was more impressed with what I didn’t find – no odors, no off-gassing, no signs of toxic chemicals.  I feel great knowing preschool girl will be sleeping on this for years to come.


In addition to feeling I’ve received a quality product, I also feel good about the purchase and the companies with which I did business (this from the woman who once tried to return a CAR, not because I didn’t like the car, but because the salesman and dealership were so horrible).  Both Naturepedic and MightyNest provided immediate, courteous, and accurate responses to my questions and concerns and I will recommend both to everyone I know.

Do you have a business that you praise?  If so, leave a comment below to let others know.

Shop RedEnvelope for Mother’s Day

by Kate on May 4th, 2012  |  5 Comments  |  Reviews

When it comes to mamas (or at least me), you can’t go wrong with a custom gift because everything’s cooler with your name on it. If you’re looking to personalize a gift for Mother’s Day, RedEnvelope is a great online shopping destination worth a look. In case you’re not familiar with it (and you should be!), “RedEnvelope offers a unique and wide-ranging collection of thoughtful gifts for every occasion and everyone on your list — around the clock, all year round.” We love many of the unique Mother’s Day gift ideas and think you will, too.

Mother’s Day Gifts from RedEnvelope

Floral Measuring Cups

Languages of Mom Necklace

Family Tree Wall Art

Seahorse Family Canvas Tote Bag

Personalized Family Name Throw Pillow

Personalized Family Pillow

We had the opportunity to personalize a gift from RedEnvelope so our couch is now featuring a large throw pillow with our names. The pillow comes in two sizes –  18 inch square or oblong at 12 by 18 inches – and a variety of colors. I opted for a neutral ivory cover that has dark (almost black) writing. The top line has our family’s last name and the second line has all of our first names. My kids love seeing their names on the pillow! The pillow cover is made of thick canvas and fit perfectly over one of our pillows. I hope we have a chair or bench in an entry way at our next home because this would be the perfect way to welcome guests.

Undoubtedly one of the benefits of shopping online is the ability to send a gift directly to the recipient without having to step foot in a post office. RedEnvelope sent email updates at every stage of the process so there was no doubt when the package was delivered. I love the “it’s arrived!” email notification. RedEnvelope gifts can be packaged in signature red box with grosgrain ribbon and, of course, a gift message in a red envelope.

Shop! Mother’s Day gifts from RedEnvelope are available in a variety of prices for every budget. The Name Pillow is $49.95.

We received a sample to facilitate this review.

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Chuggington: Wilson and the Ice Cream Fair DVD {Giveaway}

by Kate on May 4th, 2012  |  5 Comments  |  Giveaways, Reviews

We are back with another fun Chuggington giveaway. This time we’re offering up the brand new – not even available for purchase yet – DVD Wilson and the Ice Cream Fair. If your little ones love watching the Chuggington television show, they’ll flip for this hour-long story featuring familiar Chuggington characters is a fun, perfect for summer, tale.

Wilson & The Ice Cream Fair

In this collection, the brave young trainee makes a special delivery to the ice cream fair, helps Frostini create a new flavor for the mayor’s banquet, and tries to prevent a massive ice cream meltdown on the hottest day of the year. There’s fun in the ice cream factory, a brave rescue at the Safari Park and an adventure in the ice caves, too! Alongside good friends, like Koko and Brewster, and helpful Chuggers like Old Puffer Pete and Mtambo, the trainees discover important lessons about responsibility, cooperation, paying attention, overcoming fear and so much more!

Watching Chuggington

My five year old son thinks he’s really mature, and if you ask him he’d say he’s too grown up for Chuggington. However, his actions tell a different story! The first time we popped Wilson and the Ice Cream Fair in the DVD player, my son’s little bottom was planted on the couch. He was completely enthralled and entertained watching Wilson struggle to deliver ice cream before it melts. The entire DVD is about an hour long and he actually watched the whole thing. That’s saying a lot for my too cool for school, very active five year old. My daughter also enjoyed the stories but she was up and about more and doesn’t have the attention span to sit and watch anything for an hour. For viewers like her, the DVD is broken into 6 episodes so you can watch a bit at a time.

Just like the television show, this movie is one I’m happy to have my kids watch. My son hears friends talking about more mature shows and asks to watch programs that include language and behavior I don’t want him to see. That is just not an issue with Chuggington because the subject matter is totally appropriate, the language is kid-friendly and the story includes positive messages.

Shop! The new Chuggington DVD Wilson and the Ice Cream Fair will be released May 15, and it is available for preorder now on Amazon. There’s also a Wilson and the Ice Cream Fair book that is a fun companion to the movie.

Win! Wilson & The Ice Cream Fair DVD!

How to Enter: Leave a comment for a chance to win this great new DVD.

Giveaway ends May 18. Open to US residents only.

I am a Chuggington Conductor and received a sample. I was not compensated for this post.

Flowers for Mother’s Day from ProFlowers.com

by Kate on May 4th, 2012  |  5 Comments  |  For Mama, Reviews

We all like to get creative and come up with unique gifts no matter the occasion. But, sometimes it’s best to keep it simple. And when it comes to Mother’s Day you can’t possibly go wrong with flowers. ProFlowers.com is a great option for Mother’s Day plants and flowers.

Great Mother’s Day Gifts

You can’t go wrong with a classic: two dozen red roses

I’d love to get this plant (wink, wink): Fragrant gardenia plant

Love this modern monochromatic arrangement: Purple tulips

Ordering is Easy

After finding your favorite bouquet, you can pick from several vases that best fit and coordinate with the floral arrangement. For example, if you opt for the colorful Mom’s Garden bouquet, there’s a choice between four vases or no vase at all.

After deciding on flowers and a vase, you can select the delivery date. You can even pick a Sunday flower delivery date to have your arrangement arrive right on Mother’s Day. Of course, the delivery fee will depend on the date you chose so if you are watching your budget you can make a savvy delivery decision while still gifting a generous arrangement. The ordering process is simple and straightforward and the customer service follow up emails are superb. You’ll get a delivery confirmation email so you get a head’s up before you get a “Thank you” phone call from mom.

Shop! If you’re looking for Mother’s day flower ideas, check out ProFlowers.com. Act fast to get the best selection and choice of delivery date. 

Thanks to ProFlowers.com for providing a sample.

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Tad Carpenter iPhone Cases by Case-Mate

by Laura on May 3rd, 2012  |  5 Comments  |  For Mama, Reviews

I’m a relatively new mom.  (My son just turned one!)  I’m still in the phase where I rarely put on makeup, wear jewelry, or assemble an outfit that’s any more complicated than a dress, a bra, and underwear.  I’ve started working through my extensive bag collection just to have a daily accessory that Charlie can’t chew on, pull off, or otherwise destroy.  So, I was pretty excited to try the Tad Carpenter iPhone cases from Case-Mate because I knew they would be a great way to jazz up the one accessory that is always in my hand.

About Case-Mate

We’re about happiness by design. It means we’re not just in the business of creating coveted accessories for mobile devices, even though that is what we do. Everything we do is designed to make people happy. From an ever-growing collection of innovative products to our passionate team who makes it happen, it’s all about happiness.  Our products can be found in 76 countries and have garnered top awards and praise. As we grow, our entrepreneurial spirit continues to drive the Case-Mate culture. After all, it’s what helped us build the world’s leading mobile accessories brand.

About Tad Carpenter

Filled with whimsical illustrations and colorful creations, Tad’s designs are created with a fanciful, fun approach.  Tad, who has been illustrating since he was a young child, is a storyteller at his core. Each design tells a visual story from his use of bold color to his unexpected character design. … His Case-Mate collection includes six designs filled with passion and quirky illustrations. For Tad, whose focus is adding whimsy and fun to our daily environment, the partnership brings his spirited drawings to the digital center of our everyday lives.

Bold, colorful, interesting

I’m no Lady Gaga in the fashion department, but I do find myself drawn to things (especially accessories) that make a statement.  My necklaces are always bright, big, and chunky.  My bags always have a graphic or a ruffle.  So it would make sense that my iPhone would reflect that love of flare.  The first case I tried on was the Honey Bear print, which was covered in images of that iconic holder of bee nectar.  I loved that it combined a modern look with such a kitschy image that anyone could recognize.  But the cover that has been gracing the backside of my iPhone since the moment I snapped it on is Tad’s Owl Forest print.  It’s a very mod look with owls and trees, in bright yellows, greens, and blues.  I love it!  On a practical note, the cases are sturdy and hard, but not huge and bulky like some of the more intense cases out there.  My iPhone still looks sleek and small but has a little pizzazz to it, especially since the case itself has a glossy clear shell over the art.  It’s easy to keep clean AND it looks nice?  What mother wouldn’t appreciate that?!?

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… These would make a great Mother’s Day Gift or just a great anytime gift for the lady who likes to make a statement…with her phone.  There is definitely something for everyone at Case-Mate!

Or Not to Buy… If I come up with a reason not to buy one of these cool cases, I’ll let you know, but I really need to get back to my Angry Birds game.

Shop!  The entire Tad Carpenter Collection, as well as other collections by a variety of other cool artists, is available straight from Case-Mate at their online store and our affiliate Amazon. The Tad Carpenter cover is $35.

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Thanks to Case-Mate for providing a sample.
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