Thursday, March 31, 2011

More Giveaway Winners!

Here are the most recent giveaway winners!!  Thank you all for entering - I wish all of you could win something every time I have a giveaway.  As of right now, we are planning to have baby #2 (L.B.) a week from today, so if I'm not around for a few days you will know why!  I am planning some new things soon - like why I cloth diaper and how to do it on a budget, as well as some new-mom / newborn posts (sleep problems, breastfeeding problems, advice, things like that).  I'm looking forward to adding in some personal posts along with my reviews and giveaways - I hope you all don't mind!

Anyhow, on with the winners!

Curly Girl Winner - Tonya, who said, "My daughter and myself have curly hair and it stays frizzy....ugg"

CJN Flowers and Primitives Crayon set Winner - Marie, who said, "I like So Mommy on Facebook."

Boon, Inc. Fluid Cup Winner - Jennifer C., who said, "I follow Boon Inc on twitter"

Dance First. Think Later. Book Winner - Miraworker, who said, "I entered the OnTray giveaway too!"

Babylegs Winner - GiantSis, who said, "I like BabyLegs on FB - liz t. n."

Congratulations to all of the winners!  I hope you all enjoyed the month of March and our Baby Shower reviews and giveaways!  Since I have a newborn coming, look for more newborn related reviews as well as toddler and parent ones!

Hevea Pacifier Review


There are so many recalled products out there today, that I am VERY hesitant when buying new baby products.  Sometimes it seems like everything is dangerous in some way.  This is making me think a lot about buying more natural products from reputable companies.  Hevea is one company that has definitely impressed me!

About Hevea
Hevea, as a company is trying to be more sustainable by looking for ways to reduce, re-use, and recycle.  Because of this, their products are packaged in cute little boxes made of recycled paper.  The products are manufactured in Malaysia, but don't let that scare you - they have good communication with them to make sure the workers are well-paid and that their rights are respected.

Why choose Hevea?
Their accessories (such as the pacifier holders) are made of organic cotton and include a space on the back to write your baby's name.  The pacifiers and teethers are made of 100% natural rubber, which is biodegradable.  They are BPA, PVC, and phthalate free.  They are stylish, one-piece pacifiers with no plastic pieces to them.  They have no cracks or creases to hold bacteria.  The pacifiers are ergonomically shaped to be gentle against your baby's skin.

My Review
I received the moon and star pacifier for my review, and I will say that I liked the packaging better than the usual pacifier packaging (though I don't normally buy things just because I like the package).  These pacifiers and teethers are very cute and natural-looking.  I really liked the fact that they are one-piece.  That is hard to find in a pacifier these days (the only other one I can think of is a Soothie, and not all kids like those - mine didn't).  I like that these come in an orthodonic nipple shape as well.  Sydney didn't use a pacifier very often as a newborn, but as she got a little older and wanted one frequently, I preferred the orthodonic pacifiers simply because I was worried about the effect on her teeth.  The Hevea pacifier is very soft rubber, which makes it easy for babies to grab and hold onto.  Since it doesn't stay stiff like plastic does, it makes it much more comfortable for a baby to sleep with.  These pacifiers are more expensive ($8.95 for 1) than others in stores, but to me it is with good reason! I like knowing that I am putting a safe product in my child's mouth.

Be sure to check out The Natural Baby Company on Facebook HERE.

**I received a pacifier in exchange for my honest review.**

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Motherlove Review and Giveaway


When I started cloth diapering, I had no idea what I was doing!  I'm pretty sure my husband and mom both thought I was a little crazy when I mentioned wanting to try it out (Sydney was about a year old).  I just saying, "How hard can it be?"  A friend of mine was a HUGE help in educating me on all things cloth and even gave me a few diapers to try (who wants to pay for something that they may hate?) 

After I started cloth diapering, I started reading a TON of information online to help self-educate on more cloth diaper things so that I would do it "right" and buy the "right" diapers, etc.  While researching, I realized that you aren't supposed to use diaper rash ointment with cloth diapers.  Most of the time, it isn't needed (no chemicals in diapers + more frequent changes helps keep those nasty rashes away).  However, every now and then it IS still needed.  For awhile, I would put Sydney in a disposable with diaper ointment because I didn't really know what else to do.  This worked, but I knew there had to be a better way!  So, I started reading other mom comments about rashes and cloth diapers (I rely on the opinions of other moms a lot).

One day, I came across a blog giving away the Diaper Rash and Thrush salve from Motherlove.  I entered, thinking I'm never lucky -but still hopeful.  I was so excited when I won!  Motherlove's Diaper Rash and Thrush salve is an all-natural herbal salve made from 96% certified organic ingredients.  It is $9.95 for a 1 oz container.  I know, the price sounds a little high, but it takes VERY little salve each use (plus if you cloth diaper, hopefully you won't need it too often).  I can see that this will last us awhile, even with baby #2 on the way.  I think my favorite part of Motherlove's salve is that there isn't a strong odor like with some diaper rash ointments.  I've had to use this on Sydney a few times, and it usually clears up the rash over night.  Every now and then it will take a day or 2 of use to clear them up.  The container is small enough to toss in your diaper pouch or bag and keep with you in case you need it while out and about. 

Motherlove offers some other products that I'm sure are equally as awesome - including items to help support breastfeeding.  Oh, and I just have to say that their customer service is absolutely awesome.  I had to use supplements to continue breastfeeding Sydney for an entire year, and I took Fenugreek capsules.  They worked, but I felt like I took a million a day!  I talked to one of Motherlove's support "moms" about the problem since baby #2 is due any time now, and she was a big help!  She asked me a few questions to help me decide which product would be best to try.  She was super nice and made me feel better about breastfeeding.  If I end up having similar problems this time, I will definitely be contacting her and trying out the product she recommends.

Be sure to check out their blog HERE for a lot of helpful information!
GIVEAWAY
Motherlove is offering one lucky reader a container of Diaper Rash and Thrush salve! Open to U.S. Residents only.
 
How to Enter:
(1 entry) - 'Like' Motherlove Herbal Company on Facebook HERE
(1 entry) - Follow Motherlove on Twitter HERE
(1 entry) - Follow So Mommy by Google Friend Connect
(1 entry) - 'Like' So Mommy on Facebook HERE
(1 entry) - Share this giveaway on Facebook and tag So Mommy or Motherlove Herbal Company
 
**Giveaway will end April 8th, 2011 at 5 p.m. CST.  Winner will be drawn by a random number generator and contacted by email.  If winner doesn't respond in 48 hours, another winner will be drawn.** 
 
**I received nothing in exchange for this review. Motherlove Herbal Company is providing the giveaway.** 

Sunday, March 27, 2011

MommyParties sponsored by Nutella


I was recently given the chance to host a Nutella Party courtesy of MommyParties.  I was so excited!  I LOVE Nutella, and I was glad to be given the chance to let others try it as well.  I was sent a huge box of awesome stuff (sample of Nutella, coffee mug, coupons, etc) to share with other moms. 

So what is Nutella?  Nutella is a "hazelnut spread with skim milk and cocoa."  I know, that may not sound great to those of you who don't like skim milk (I'm definitely in the no skim milk group), but let me tell you Nutella tastes great!  It is very smooth and chocolately tasting, great on toast, bagels, etc.  I love to put it on toast and add fresh fruit like bananas.  Nutella contains no artificial colors or preservatives, and you can spread it on whole wheat bread and have a glass of orange juice for a balanced breakfast.  I'm not a huge breakfast person, so knowing that I can have this as a simple (healthy) meal makes me feel a lot better. 

Taken from Nutella's website HERE:
A 2005 article summarizing the results of over 30 studies on breakfast consumption by children and adolescents and its relationship with nutritional adequacy and academic performance revealed, among other things, the following:1
  • Kids who eat breakfast are more likely to meet their nutrient intake recommendations over the course of the day than their breakfast-skipping peers.
  • Eating breakfast may positively benefit cognitive function related to memory, academic performance and school attendance.
  • Skipping breakfast has been linked to increased snacking during the day or higher intake of high fat snacks.
We all understand that breakfast is important, but that doesn't make it any easier to get a wholesome breakfast fixed and fed to our kids, right?  That's where Nutella comes in handy!  You can put it on toast or a waffle for a quick, simple reakfast (even on-the-go)!  Sydney LOVES Nutella, and isn't a big breakfast eater either.  This helps make breakfast a no-brainer, especially when we have somewhere to be in the mornings.  I wish I had taken pictures of Sydney after she ate her last Nutella "sandwich" - she ends up with Nutella all over her face!  So far, I've only come across 2 people that didn't love the taste - my stepdad and my younger sister.  They thought it was too chocolatey...and I told them they may be crazy!

Be sure to visit the Nutella website for more information, tips, and even a coupon!

Winner, Winner....

What you've all been waiting for...WINNERS!

Mimi's Babies - The winner of the adorable zebra shoes/headband set is...Marie, who said, "My favorite item from their Etsy store is the "Hot Pink Aqua Monkey Earflap Crochet Beanie Hat with Detachable Three Layer Multi Color Flower". Madelyn would look adorable in this! I liked Mimi's Babies on Facebook and also follow So Mommy on GFC. Last, I shared this on Facebook. Madelyn would love this one!!!"

GoGo Natural - The winner of one Dinkledooz diaper is...Samantha, who said, "GFC: Baby and the Chi's - go....chic@gmail.com"

The Juppy - The winner of the Baby Walker is...Nicole T, who said, "GFC Follower!"


Zizzies and Izzies - The winner of 2 Fleece soakers is...Kristi, who said, "I Follow So Mommy by Google Friend Connect."

Congratulations to all of the winners! 
Be sure to check the "Current Giveaways"
tab for more giveaways!

Friday, March 25, 2011

OnTray Review and Giveaway


I won an OnTray awhile back from a blog, and I have gotten so much use out of it that I just have to share it with you all!  It's definitely a useful product for moms to have!

What is OnTray? 
It is a patent-pending tray that can be clipped onto a grocery cart!  It can be filled with snacks, coupons, crayons, or many other items!  It has a slide on lid to keep things inside until you need them.  OnTray is microwave and dishwasher safe (both a major plus for parents).  OnTray is mom invented and manufactured in the USA.  It comes in green, pink, yellow, and blue and retails for about $7.


My Review
I use this a lot (with and without Sydney)!  If Sydney is with me, it is used to hold snacks for her to munch on while I shop, and if she isn't I use it told hold my grocery coupons.  It is very easy to clip on - so far it's fit all the carts I've used without any problems.  I'm sure some kids will be able to knock it off, but Sydney never has.  I love that it has a lid and easily fits in a diaper bag or a purse.  I think this is an awesome product!  Very simple and straight-forward to use and clean.  Oh, be sure to check out the OnTray blog here!

Buy It Now - Get FREE SHIPPING on your order now - Just use code "SOMOMMY" at checkout.  Paypal will charge you shipping, but as long as you use the code it will be refunded quickly!

GIVEAWAY
OTray is offering one lucky reader a their own OnTray! Open to U.S. Residents only.
 
How to Enter:
(1 entry) - 'Like' OnTray on Facebook HERE
(1 entry) - Follow OnTray on Twitter HERE
(1 entry) - Follow So Mommy by Google Friend Connect
(1 entry) - 'Like' So Mommy on Facebook HERE
(1 entry) - Share this giveaway on Facebook and tag So Mommy or OnTray
 
**Giveaway will end April 1st, 2011 at 5 p.m. CST.  Winner will be drawn by a random number generator and contacted by email.  If winner doesn't respond in 48 hours, another winner will be drawn.** 
 
**I received nothing in exchange for this review. OnTray is providing the giveaway.** 

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Babylegs Review and Giveaway


Babylegs is definitely a product that I recommend to ALL moms!  They are so functional and can be used for a LONG time (Sydney is 2 years old and still wears them)!  If you haven't heard of Babylegs, you may love me after this post!
About Babylegs
"In April of 2005, a young mom was confronted with a diaper rash that just wouldn't quit. The rash needed some fresh air to heal, but she was also concerned about keeping her daughter warm. In a moment of inspiration, she snipped the feet off of a pair of socks and fitted her daughter from hip to ankle with a cool set of leg warmers. These leg warmers not only kept her daughter warm, but also protected her from the elements, made diaper changing and potty training easier, and protected her soft knees while crawling. With some fun designs and some grassroots marketing support, the functional and fashionable leg warmers that began as a solution to keep little legs warm quickly became much more.  BabyLegs® leg warmers quickly became a parenting essential across the world because of their utility, practicality, and stylish appeal. Our continued desire to provide products that provide style and protection for little legs and feet eventually led us to expand into children's hosiery with the introduction of baby socks and girls tights" (From Babylegs website).
My Review
Obviously, I love Babylegs!  Sydney has worn them since birth, and L.B. already has a good stash started so that she can wear them as soon as she gets here!  When Sydney was younger, I was always getting compliments on her legwarmers, but no one had ever heard of them.  I have introduced many, many moms to Babylegs and their usefulness (and cuteness).  Babylegs made my life a lot easier, and I'm going to tell you how. 

-They can be worn with onesies, t-shirts, or simply a diaper to keep your baby warm while keeping diaper changes super easy. 
- During really cold weather I put Babylegs under Sydney's jeans for added warmth.
- During the crawling months, they prevent carpet burns!
- In summer months, they can provide light protection from the sun.
- As your child gets older, they can be used as armwarmers.

I can't say enough about how useful Babylegs are!  Seriously, we love them!  They look cute with dresses, onesies, and diapers!  If you have a summer baby, all you need is a diaper and some Babylegs for playtime during the day! Add a cute onesie and you're ready for a day out.  How easy is that?  We were sent a pair of Babylegs Juicy Tights and 2 pair of Babylegs (one was the Fluttering Butterflies).  I like how cute the tights are, but I still prefer the original Babylegs legwarmers!  Be sure to check out the clearance section and keep an eye on the Babylegs Facebook page for good deals and giveaways!






Buy It Now
Casey at Babylegs has offered So Mommy readers a discount of 20% on purchases from 3/23/11 - 4/8/11.  All you have to do is use coupon code "SOMOMMY" at checkout!  Trust me, you're gonna want to get in on this deal!

 
GIVEAWAY
Babylegs is offering one lucky reader a Babylegs grab bag - these would be great as a gift to a new mom or as a gift in your child's Easter basket! Open to U.S. Residents only.
How to Enter:
Mandatory Entry (must do for other entries to count) - 'Like' Babylegs on Facebook HERE
Extra Entries:
(1 entry) - Follow Babylegs on Twitter HERE
(1 entry) - Follow So Mommy by Google Friend Connect
(1 entry) - 'Like' So Mommy on Facebook HERE
(1 entry) - Enter another giveaway on So Mommy (1 entry for each giveaway you enter)
**Giveaway will end March 31, 2011 at 5 p.m. CST.  Winner will be drawn by a random number generator and contacted by email.  If winner doesn't respond in 48 hours, another winner will be drawn.** 
**I received Babylegs in exchange for this honest review.** 

B.F.F. Review + Free Shipping Code!

 
 
Recently, I won a bright and beautiful nursing cover from B.F.F. (Breast Feeding Friend).  B.F.F. makes quality nursing covers and nursing pads to help the breastfeeding mom.  Her covers are lightweight, yet still cover efficiently which is great for any breastfeeding mom that wishes to be discreet. They cost $16+shipping, and she has several fabric choices!  One thing I like about her covers, is that they don't have the stiff part around the neck (helps it stand out so you can see your baby better).  Without it they can be stuffed into diaper bags for on-the-go much easier.  That makes this one of those diaper bag necessities if you ask me!  It can also double as a light-weight blanket in a pinch!
 
 
 

She also makes reuseable nursing pads.  I have not been able to try any of these, but I am hoping to soon!  I would love to see how they compare to "normal" disposable nursing pads.  B.F.F. makes their nursing pads with super absorbent, but breathable flannel inner and fleece outer to help keep those "oops" moments away!  These are available in regular weight and heavy for super soaking.  They are only $6+shipping!

B.F.F. is offering So Mommy readers free shipping on their orders! Just mention "somommyblog" when placing your order!

Free Umbrella from Kidorable!

From March 21 through April 4, Kidorable is partnering with the Children’s Cancer Research Fund to help you support a great cause (and get a great free gift, too). 

When you make a minimum of a $20 purchase from Kidorable, you can use coupon code "CCRFUMB2" at checkout to get a free umbrella!   You will need to add the umbrella you want to your cart before checking out.  Plus, Kidorable will donate 10% of their purchase to the Children's Cancer Research Fund, bringing kids health, hope and happiness by revolutionizing the way childhood cancer is treated worldwide. 
So head on over to get your kids some great rain gear for the Spring and help others while you do it!

Monday, March 21, 2011

Dance First. Think Later. Review and Giveaway



"Be yourself; everyone else is already taken." -Oscar Wilde

"DANCE FIRST. THINK LATER."618 Rules to Live By
By Kathryn & Ross Petras
"The right quote at the right time can change everything-Steve Jobs once read "Stay hungry. Stay foolish." on the back cover of The Whole Earth Catalog, and those four words came to guide his life.  Pithy but profound nuggets of big-picture wisdom can give anyone direction, courage, and inspiration."
"Created by Kathryn and Ross Petras, whose books and calendars have over 5.6 million copies in print, "Dance First. Think Later." (Workman; March 2011; ISBN 978-0-7611-6170-7; $8.95) is a collection of the greatest life wisdom from an unexpected group of speakers, doers, and thinkers. There are 618 rules to live by-funny, thoughtful, offhanded, clever, and always profound." (PR Email Information)

•    "Spend the afternoon. You can't take it with you."-Annie Dillard
•    "If everything is under control, you are going too slow." -Mario Andretti
•    "The only time to eat diet food is while you're waiting for the steak to cook." -Julia Child
•    "Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened." ―Dr. Seuss (Theodor Geisel)
•    "Don't think. Thinking is the enemy of creativity." ―Ray Bradbury

My Review
I love quotes...I have since I was in high school.  Every notebook I owned was either covered in quotes, had quote stickers, or was a collection of quotes in itself.  My 13 year old sister is much the same now.  When I was contacted about the book "Dance First. Think Later." I was very excited!  I knew that this would be an enjoyable book for both of us, and it has been!  There are quotes by well-known people as well as some I had never heard of, but all of the quotes were great.  I like to pick this book up when I'm having a frustrating moment and read a few random quotes.  It never fails to make me laugh (usually at myself)!  This would be a great gift book for any quote lover, graduate, newlywed, etc.  These qoutes focus on things that everyone has faced or will face at some point in their life.

GIVEAWAY
Workman Publishing is offering one winner a copy of "Dance First. Think Later."
 Open to U.S. Residents only.
How to Enter:
(1 entry) - Follow So Mommy by Google Friend Connect
(1 entry) - 'Like' So Mommy on Facebook HERE
(1 entry) - Enter another giveaway on So Mommy (1 entry for each giveaway you enter)
 
**Giveaway will end March 31, 2011 at 5 p.m. CST.  Winner will be drawn by a random number generator and contacted by email.  If winner doesn't respond in 48 hours, another winner will be drawn.** 
**I received the book "Dance First. Think Later." in exchange for my honest review.** 

Boon Inc. Review and Giveaway


I'm sure we have all seen products made by Boon by now - they are those brightly colored, unique-looking products that always seem to have a useful purpose!  When I was registering for baby showers when I was pregnant with Sydney, I remember seeing the Flo water deflector/spout cover and thinking it looked like a very neat product (more useful than the huge duck spout covers).  We got it, and still use it!  I love it - since it is a water deflector, it keeps the water in a soft flow - not as loud as a normal faucet.  Plus, it doesn't look like a kids spout cover, which is a plus in my book!  When I was offered another Boon item for review and giveaway, I was excited!  I knew it would be perfect for the month of March and our Virtual Baby Shower! 



A Little About Boon
"It's funny how such a simple thing can lead to so much. It all began with a messy toddler bathtub. Designer Rebecca Finell's wheels started turning and the Frog Pod was born.  But the problem solving didn't stop there. She had lots of ideas for other parenting innovations so she sought out a partner, Ryan Fernandez—who could create a successful business—and together they founded Boon Inc. Today Boon offers a wide range of products that help parents all over the world.  We're committed to creating nothing but the most innovative gear—and keeping it affordable. Our design studio is always in motion, tackling one parenting challenge after another. And don't forget our commitment to quality and safety" (from Boon, Inc.'s website HERE). 

Here are some of Boon, Inc.'s products that I think are awesome!  The first is their "animal bag" which stores stuffed animals by making them into a chair for your kids!  Sydney has several stuffed animals that she doesn't play with constantly and I can't wait to get one of these bags for them!  Next, is the bug pod for the bath tub.  These are great because they can easily scoop up toys in the tub, and then they hang and allow the toys to dry.  Next, I think their potty chair is neat!  No "bells and whistles" on this potty, but it does have a place for toilet paper so that your child can reach it easily.  Sydney doesn't like noisy potty chairs (personally neither do I), so this one is right up our alley!




My Review
I was able to review the Fluid sippy cup by Boon, Inc.  This sippy cup was created so that kids could hold onto it easily (and any way they want).  It is spill-resistant, but not spill-proof.  If held upside down, it will drip.  That means that your child can actually drink out of it.  Any spill-proof cups we've tried were pretty dificult to drink from, so I'm glad this one is only spill-resistant (just wanted to make that clear).  It also has an angled spout so that your child doesn't have to tilt their head back as far to drink from it.  It's dishwasher safe and only 2 pieces.  It is super easy to clean and put together.  Sydney LOVES this cup.  She prefers to wear it as a bracelet while she drinks from it.  It seems to be very easy for her to drink from and hold.  I'm sure this cup would work well for younger kids as well.  My only issue is that it doesn't fit into the cup holders on most of our diaper bags, but since it has kind of an odd shape, it stays sitting upright inside the diaper bag without any spilling issues.

If you like their products, be sure to visit their blog and vote for them in the Crisbie Awards!
Sorry about the blurry picture - moving toddler :) 


GIVEAWAY
Boon, Inc. is offering one winner a Fluid sippy cup!  Winner picks color from: pink/white, blue/green, orange/teal.  Open to U.S. Residents only.
How to Enter:
(1 entry) - 'Like' Boon on Facebook HERE
(1 entry) - Follow Boon, Inc. on Twitter HERE
(1 entry) - Follow So Mommy by Google Friend Connect
(1 entry) - 'Like' So Mommy on Facebook HERE
(1 entry) - Enter another giveaway on So Mommy (1 entry for each giveaway you enter)
**Giveaway will end March 31, 2011 at 5 p.m. CST.  Winner will be drawn by a random number generator and contacted by email.  If winner doesn't respond in 48 hours, another winner will be drawn.** 
**I received a Fluid cup in exchange for my honest review.** 

Friday, March 18, 2011

My Baby's Green Cloth Diaper Review


Awhile back, My Baby's Green had a 50% off sale and I took that opportunity to try out their AIO cloth diapers, organic fitted diapers, and the Sweet Knee Bun Glaze.  My Baby's Green is fully operated by a WAHM to three (ages 23 years, 17 years, and 17 months)!  Her goal is to provide quality Eco-friendly, organic products to other parents.  Her cloth diapers are made in the USA!  The owner is very quick to respond to any questions about her products, which is great since I had a few questions about the diapers.  She also has SUPER quick shipping - even during the 50% off sale!  I was amazed by how quickly my orders arrived.  Be sure to check My Baby's Green out on Facebook to stay up to date on sales.

On to my review...

AIO Cloth Diapers - Ok, these are better than AIO if you ask me.  They can be stuffed like a pocket diaper, or you can just snap the insert to the diaper like an AIO.  These diapers come with a bamboo/microfleece insert (which is super soft).  These diapers have an adjustable rise which should fit babies from 10-35lbs.  My 26 lb daughter uses them, and they fit great.  This diaper does have velcro closures, but they overlap so that it fits even skinny kids like mine very well.  If I use an extra insert with this diaper, it usually works overnight.  Every now and then my daughter will leak through it at night time, but she is a heavy wetter. It works fine during the day, and is a pretty trim fitting cloth diaper.  My hubby does have trouble getting this diaper on correctly.  For some reason when he puts it on, the "wings" start drooping and if I don't fix it the diaper will leak.  We have yet to figure out what he's doing wrong, but I don't have this problem (must be a guy thing haha).  Diaper is being discontinued and is selling for under $9 now!



Organic Fitted Cloth Diaper - This diaper is being discontinued and is currently selling for $5.15 which is an awesome price!  This diaper is made from cotton/fleece and is approximately size small/medium.  It has soft elastic around the legs, and hook and loop (velcro) closure.  This diaper fits Sydney and works great.  The rise is a little short for her, but we haven't had any issues because of that.  This was the first fitted diaper I ever bought, and I love the absorbancy of it.  The velcro is extremely sticky on this diaper, and I plan to remove it this weekend so that I can use the diaper with a snappi.  If you are looking to try fitteds, I would recommend getting a few of these since the price is amazing!


Sweet Knee Bun Glaze - I bought the Bun Glaze during the 50% off sale as well. I have been looking around for cloth diaper safe rash relief, and decided to try this one.  Bun Glaze is a non-medicated alternative to diaper rash ointments.  There are no "barrier-type" ingredients like petroleum, so the skin is able to breathe even when using this glaze.  This is a VERY daddy-friendly glaze.  You simply pump the glaze onto the area and you're done!  No touching needed!  This is also great is you have a sensitive child or a bad rash.  Sydney had a prett bad rash a little while back and she didn't want to be touched, so this glaze was a miracle! 

CJN Flowers and Primitives Review and Giveaway!


A little while back, I won a set of 8 snowmen crayons from CJN Flowers & Primitives.  I thought they were really cute, but I wasn't sure how well they would go over with my 2 year old.  So now that we have had time to try them out, I wanted to share my thoughts (and this neat Etsy store) with you all!  This isn't actually something a "new" mom would need, but I'm including it - if you have an older sibling you will want these...you will also want these when your new baby is learning to color! 

CJN Flowers and Primitives offers unique, handmade items such as beautiful jewelry and magnets, crochet hatskids crayons, baby gifts, and more!   I just love her necklaces!  But, back to the crayon set I won!  When I opened the package, Sydney was excited about the "no-men."  She didn't realize they were crayons at first, but as soon as she did she started coloring with them.  I actually love these crayons because I don't have to worry about them rolling all over the place.  The 8 "main" colors are included - no need to give your young child 20 or 30 crayons at first!  We keep these crayons in a small pouch so that we can carry them out with us.  When we go out to eat, we don't have to chase crayons all over the table!  The size of the crayon is a good size for young kids to be able to hold on to, but the drawback is that they are smaller than the normal crayon, so you need to watch and make sure your child isn't putting them in their mouth.  Sydney has never tried to, but I'm always with her when she is coloring.  I would recommend these crayons to any mom (or dad) out there who is tired of chasing crayons!  These would make a great party favor, also!

Here are some pictures of her beautiful items.






GIVEAWAY
CJN Flowers and Primitives is offering one lucky reader a set of 8 Spring crayons (pictured above) - these would be great in your child's Easter basket! Open to U.S. Residents only.
 
How to Enter:
(1 entry) - 'Heart' CJN Flowers and Primitives on Etsy
(1 entry) - 'Like' CJN Flowers and Primitives on Facebook HERE
(1 entry) - Follow So Mommy by Google Friend Connect
(1 entry) - 'Like' So Mommy on Facebook HERE
(1 entry) - Enter another giveaway on So Mommy (1 entry for each giveaway you enter)
 
**Giveaway will end March 31, 2011 at 5 p.m. CST.  Winner will be drawn by a random number generator and contacted by email.  If winner doesn't respond in 48 hours, another winner will be drawn.** 
**I received nothing in exchange for this review. The crayons were a prize from a giveaway.** 

Thursday, March 17, 2011

Curly Girl: The Handbook Review and Giveaway

About "Curly Girl: The Handbook" by Lorraine Massey

CURLY GIRL is the unrivaled bible for everything related to the care, management, and styling of curly hair and you’ll find it in the January issues of Glamour and Cosmopolitan magazines and on NBC’s “Today Show”. This book includes a whole chapter devoted to hair care and management for curly kids and it also includes a wealth of helpful tips for busy parents on the go (fathers aren’t excluded, there’s a whole chapter for curly men as well).
 
An unbelievable 65% of women have curly or wavy hair, but you would never know it. That’s because so many curly- and wavy-haired women blow-dry their hair straight, hide it under hats, pull it back with rubber bands, disguise it with weaves and braids, or flatten it with anything they can find. Too many of us are at a loss about how to properly care for our hair. In CURLY GIRL, Lorraine Massey shows how to work with your curls instead of against them.
 
Some useful links:
Lorraine Massey’s book tour: http://bit.ly/gkQ288
Going curly saves time and money: http://bit.ly/ggsRlE
Curly hair in the news: increase in sulfate-free products, controversy over the Millionaire Matchmaker bashing curls, backlash against Brazilian hair-straightening


My Review
I was very excited to review this book, especially since I have a curly haired neice and a mostly curly haired daughter.  I was definitely not thinking about myself when I got the book, but once I started reading it - I realized that I needed it for myself as well!  "Curly Girls" is a wonderfully simple guide to taking care of curly hair.  I've always thought that curly hair was difficult or not as pretty (I grew up when straight hair was best), but after reading this book I realized that none of that is true.  Curly hair can be pretty as well!  This book also give help for those with frizzy hair - which is definitely the area I needed help with.  "Curly Girls" describes the different types of curly hair and how to deal with each type.  Oh, there is even an instructional DVD that goes along with the book. 

The author is the founder and co-owner of Devachan, a group of salons specializing in curly hair.  She is also the co-creator of DevaCurl products - but you wouldn't realize this by reading her book.  She does not endorse her products throughout the book (which was impressive and wonderful if you ask me).  I hate reading books that constantly tell you to ONLY use their products.  She doesn't do that at all!  If you have curly hair or a child with curly hair, this book will definitely help you out!

GIVEAWAY
Workman Publishing is offering one lucky reader a copy of the book "Curly Girls" as well as a travel kit from DevaCurl! Open to U.S. Residents only.
 
How to Enter:
(1 entry) - Tell me what your main issue with curly hair is
(1 entry) - Follow So Mommy by Google Friend Connect
(1 entry) - 'Like' So Mommy on Facebook HERE
(1 entry) - Enter another giveaway on So Mommy (1 entry for each giveaway you enter)
 
**Giveaway will end March 31, 2011 at 5 p.m. CST.  Winner will be drawn by a random number generator and contacted by email.  If winner doesn't respond in 48 hours, another winner will be drawn.** 
**I received "Curly Girls" from Workman Publishing in exchange for an honest review.** 

Diaper Cakes and More


I recently won a washcloth lollipop from Diaper Cakes and More, and it was so adorable that I just had to share with you all!  I don't have a picture of the actual washcloth lollipop that I won (Sydney took it all apart VERY quickly), but it was similar to the one pictured below just in a different container.


Each washcloth was curled and attached to a baby spoon and individually wrapped to look like little lollipops.  Mine was in a cute green vase.  I had never seen a washcloth lollipop before this one, and I think these would be adorable as baby shower decorations!  The perfect accessory to a diaper cake!

Shelly at Diaper Cakes and More makes diaper cakes, towel cakes, washcloth lollipops, washcloth cupcakes, hairbows and more.  She also does custom orders, so if you are looking for a specific theme, just ask!  Her prices are very reasonable as well!  Her mini cakes (pictured below) are around $6-8 each!  I LOVE the cute hippo cake!



DISCOUNT CODE

Shelly has offered to give my readers a discount on their orders!  Use code MARCH10OFF when ordering and you get $10 off a $25 purchase.  This is an amazing deal so don't miss out!

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

rub dub


Green Toys are made in the USA using recycled milk jugs!  When I first started reading about Green Toys, I was very impressed by their products and how environmentally concious they were!  I'm excited to share this review with you!  If you are ever looking for a fun, green toy - look no further than Green Toys!


About Green Toys
Starting with recycled milk jugs: We use recycled milk containers as the main ingredient in creating our toys. Yes, the exact plastic milk jugs that you and your family drink from every day. When you finish your milk and toss the container in the recycling bin, these milk containers are collected at your curb by a local recycling company, who then sorts them from all the other types of plastic. Next, the milk containers are reprocessed into super clean fresh plastic. For you plastic geeks, the plastic material we use is called high-density polyethylene (or HDPE). This material is considered one of the safest, cleanest plastics around.

Every step of the Green Toys process happens in California.  California is known for their strict toy safety and environmental laws.  Green Toys are made 100% in the USA, even the raw materials are local.  Green Toys even strives to keep their toy packaging as Earth-friendly as possible by using a minimal amount of recycled corrugated boxes and no cellophane or twist-ties.

Green Toys products are tested by nationally recognized, independent, third-party labs (located, yes, in the USA.) They contain no traceable amounts of Phthalates or BPA. They are also designed without any external coatings, eliminating the fear of lead paint (taken from their website HERE).

My Review
I was sent this awesome dump truck for my review.  Yes, I do have a daughter, but she LOVES trucks and trains like any other kid!  To be honest, sometimes I get tired of all the girly stuff!  The dump truck arrived and was much bigger than I imagined!  It is a good size for a toddler to push around and enjoy.  My nephew finds this truck every time he visits my house.  Sydney likes to fill the truck with necklaces, and my nephew fills it with blocks usually.  This is a VERY sturdy toy truck (my nephew has sat in it several times even though I've tried to explain to him that he doesn't quite fit haha).  It sells for about $24.99, which is comparable to similar toys I've seen in Target, and this one is environmentally friendly - with no worries of BPA or lead paint!  This has been a huge hit with the little ones in my family. 


Here are pictures of two of my favorite toys from Green Toys.  They also have dish sets for kids and many other items that you should check out!



**I was provided a Green Toys toy dump truck in exchange for my honest review.  No other compensation was given.**