Nursing Made Easy with the Maternity Essentials by Leading Lady! Enter to win a Leisure Sleep Nursing Bra! US 1/1

As every Nursing Mother knows and as many new Mothers will soon find out there is nothing better than a comfortable wardrobe after your little one is born. Whether you had a difficult delivery or an easy one your body has been put through the ringer and the road to recovery is going to be a long one so you want to be as delicate with it as you possibly can with a new baby and possibly even a few older littles running amok.

A comfortable wardrobe, to me, after baby is born, is quite simply a lot of large t-shirts and a ton of yoga pants/sweatpants. Having plenty of wiggle room is key to keeping yourself comfortable after you bring baby home but I remember when I brought my girls home, the one thing I found to be the most important part of my wardrobe, was, a drawer full of comfortable Nursing Bras.

Even if you aren't planning on nursing your baby a nursing bra or two is always a great idea to help those boobies through the changes of those first few weeks/months after having your newest little one and from personal experience I can tell you that finding the perfect one with the best comfort level is a tough job.

I found the perfect fit with the Loving Moments collection by Leading Lady and excited, today, to reveal this review for their expansion from Nursing Wear to Maternity Essentials!

"The Loving Moments Collection that moms already love is expanding to include Maternity Essentials. We're thrilled to introduce our new collection, featuring quality Maternity to Nursing wear-from chic maternity basics to nursing bras for every occasions. Loving Moments is a fuss-free, fashionable collection that celebrates a other's expanding family and fashionably takes her from pregnancy through breastfeeding.  

The new Maternity to Nursing collection will be available only at Wal-mart."

To help facilitate my review I was sent the Loving Moments Leisure Sleep Bra.

Let me say before anything else that the pattern of this bra is cute but so much more so in person.

The best thing about the Leisure Sleep Bra, in my opinion, is the sling design that allows nursing littles to get to dos boobies! I cant tell you how many nights I spent wresting with my top/nursing bra so I could sooth Desi's little hungry belly and found myself and my baby frustrated at the impossible process. The Leisure Sleep bra has eliminated that problem for us and each night when my little wakes up for her midnight nosh I'm thankful for the sling design that allows me and my little the quick access we need! 

Other benefits of the Leisure Sleep Bra include: 

• all day comfort 
• perfect for at home activities and sleep 
• simple breastfeeding at night 
• Great fit with Loving Moments washable nursing pads

As a nursing mama of two I highly recommend the Leisure Sleep bra to any new mama or even the most experienced ones. After all, who doesn't want to make the experience of bonding with your little ones as comfortable and easy as possible?

Along with the Maternity to Nursing Leisure Sleep bra the Maternity Essentials line also includes the following products for mama!

*Adjustable Maternity Leggings featuring two side bands that allow the leggings to grow with mom and baby. These leggings sit on mom’s natural waistline and can be worn from first trimester through third.

*Maternity to Nursing Sports Bra which features dual adjustable side bands to grow with mom as her rib cage expands during pregnancy. Mom is supported and comfortable for everyday wear and light impact activity.

*Maternity Support Band that helps relieve back, hip, and pelvic pain pregnant moms commonly experience. This three-strap, innovative maternity belt can also be used as postpartum belly support after birth.

*Active Crossover Maternity to Nursing Top worn as every mom’s go-to top for pregnancy and breastfeeding. This stylish front wrap maternity top has added length to accommodate mom’s growing baby belly.

*A Maternity to Nursing Leisure Sleep Bra with front wrap cups works perfectly for nighttime, fuss free breastfeeding. Loving Moments’ Washable Nursing Pads (one pack includes 6 pairs) slip easily into the leisure sleep bra and are lightly contoured for a better breast fit.

To find out more about the Loving Moments Maternity Essentials by Leading Lady visit them online.

Visit Walmart.com or shop in stores to purchase your own Maternity Essentials items!

Don't miss a single thing going on at Loving Moments by becoming a follower via Facebook and Twitter!

Want to win a Leisure Sleep Bra in your choice of color/size? Fill out the easy Rafflecopter form below and stay tuned! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway caef2e4416a5f80514cf394c400c19e5320fe8c44d405001a2

Read More

KuKuRuza Gourmet Popcorn Review! 1/7

I know this is going to sound as terrible as it gets but with New Years creeping up on me I've been doing more splurging than usual which in my case means I've been drinking a glass or two more of wine than usual, eating more candy bars than I should and stuffing my face full of greasy junk food. Why? To prepare myself for those New Years resolutions I'm so fond of making and never going through with.

In preparation for the New Year and my resolutions I just gorge myself for the last few days of the year and then promise myself that I'll stick to my diet/exercise resolutions starting the 1st of the year. I do it every year but this is the year I plan to get fit. I'll be 25 in June so I want to make the best of my remaining 20's.

Today's review is for a company that I've worked with in the past and who has done their best this year to supply me with a cure for my sweet tooth and to also help pack in those last few days of glutton eating that I've been doing. Let me introduce to you, KuKuRuza the Gourmet Popcorn Company!

"If you have a discerning palate and a zest for life, we have something for you. Crafting gourmet popcorn is a passion for us, and you wont find anything less than our best available every day. Nothing gives us more pleasure than finding the finest quality ingredients and transforming them into unique and delicious treats. Our goal is simple: to be the worlds best gourmet popcorn company by providing our customers with the most delicious and unique popcorn varieties."

For my review the wonderful folks over at KuKuRuza sent me a fabulous four pack of their sweet popcorn to try and like my previous experience with KuKuRuza I wasn't disappointed and set to work on what would become my last sweet themed gorge-fest.

My box filled with KuKuRuzas fabulous offerings included their 3 seasonal flavors and one of their most popular flavors:

• Hawaiian Salted Caramel 
• Eggnog Brandy
• Pumpkin Spice Pecan
• Peppermint Cocoa
  
  
  Let me just say, there wasn't a happier family than mine one that box of goodies was opened. We didn't bother with formalities but just tore open the bags and started stuffing ourselves. I don't think there was an occasion that wasn't marked with some of KuKuRuza's delicious popcorn..that is, until it ran out anyways. Even those weird folks in my home who aren't big on sweets were caught with their hands in the bags more than once.
  
  

  

  My favorite? You should know by now that I'm not good with choices but after giving this some serious thought I've decided that although I'm a huge fan of Eggnog the Peppermint Cocoa turned out to be my favorite of the bunch. The Peppermint went so well with the Cocoa and wasn't overpowering like I had originally worried about when receiving the flavor. Honestly, it was the first to be opened and the first to be found empty less than a handful of hours later.
  
  I could go on forever about KuKuRuza and the brief love affair I enjoyed this holiday season but instead I'll give you the news you've been waiting for.
  
  The generous folks over at KuKuRuza have offered one of you lucky readers the chance to win the fabulous assortment sent to me plus 4 mini bags of their most popular flavors, picked at random. Fabulous, right?! Just fill out the easy entries on the rafflecopter form below to enter!
  
  To find out more about KuKuRuza or take a look at their selection of gourmet popcorn you can visit them online here.
  
  Stay in the look with the latest happenings at KuKuRuza by following via Facebook and Twitter! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

The Mystical Oasis Review and #Giveaway! US 1/21

I have to say that I'm a little chagrined lately with all the advertisements on television about the latest and greatest of 2013. Day after day I see the same ads about the same toys, the same great gifts for 'the whole family' and the same big name Jewelers. It seems to me that I saw almost the same exact ads last year and the year before; seems like the differences are in the tiny details and we're buying the same products year after year.

One of the things I love most about our Gift Guide is that everything is unique and I didn't wrap it up and gift it to anyone last year or the year before! Almost every item that we've received to review has come from a small/local business and is handmade on site. The shop that I want to share with my readers today is one such shop and I'm excited to tell you all about The Mystical Oasis Glow and its lovely owner, Heidi.

"Heidi is the sole owner an only designer at The Mystical Oasis Glow. She started her business as a full-time Mom of 3, one of which is special needs. Heidi creates one of a kind pieces of body jewelry as well as mass produced pieces. The mass produced pieces are made to order and all pieces are custom sized to fit your specific needs."

For my review Heidi sent me a wonderful piece from her collection, the Celtic Slave Bracelet.

Isn't it lovely? As I mentioned before it was made with my specific sizing and arrived quickly, fitting perfectly once I removed it from the packaging. I've already worn it out around town a few times and have gotten many compliments, especially from those with similar heritage.

Not a fan of the Celtic symbol? No worries! Heidi's Etsy shop is bursting with designs that will satisfy even the most picky of jewelry lovers and her eye for beauty is evident in every piece whether it be a simplistic design or something more intricate.

Don't miss a thing from Heidi at the Mystical Oasis Glow; become a follower via Facebook or Twitter to keep up on the latest happs.

You can also find Heidi on Google+ 

Want the chance to win a custom sized bracelet ring, your choice of theme, valued at $25 from The Mystical Oasis Glow? Get those entries in on the Rafflecopter for your chance to be a winner!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Watch Your Favorite Little Face Light Up and Give the Gift of Cuddly, Homemade Critters with Its a Zoo!

Tonight's review is going to be centered in large part around my oldest daughter, Sophia, her obsession with all things horse and of an Etsy shop run by a woman with an uncanny understanding of what a child's toy should really be and not the too-many-parts, choking hazard and mass produced impostors found in big corporations.

Ever since I took on some stable work to supplement my income Sophie has been obsessed with anything that has even the slightest thing to do with horses. Movies that have a horse anywhere on the jacket, shows that give the slightest glimpse of a horse or passing by a horse while out in the car my girl gets a case of the crazies and starts gabbering a million miles a minute about 'horsies.' I can't tell you how many stuffed animals she has that are horses or how many My Little Pony figurines she has stashed around the house. She even sleeps with them underneath her pillow at night!

When I came across Its a Zoo on Etsy I knew I had to ask to include them in our Gift Guide.

"The wonderful owner of Its a Zoo, Pat, has been sewing since she was 6 years old and in addition to sewing she also possesses the talents to weave and knit, all while homeschooling her young grandson. Pat left the business world to pursue her talents, is a believer that if you don't like what you're doing then you should find a way to stop doing it and that is exactly how "Its a Zoo" got its start.

Quilting is Pat's favorite form of expression and the critters she creates are a fun extension of that. The fabric for each of Pat's animals is selected specificially for their species and personality. By thte time they have been quilted, bathed and fed (stuffing them full) she has their name in her mind. She has such fun to see each of her creations come to life and sometimes finds it hard to let them go!

Its a Zoo is a zoo full of animals hand-crafted with baby in mind but that are also popular with the older children too. They are bright and colorful to look at and very cuddly. In fact, Pat has personally cuddled each one personally just to make sure!

All eyes are stitched on. There are no buttons, bows or moving parts for little fingers to pick at and no choking hazards for even the youngest receiver. All animals are made from top quality cottons with polyester batting. All are washable." 

Pat Abbitt had a shop full of cuddly critters that I couldn't help but admire. Eye catching, uniquely designed and created with the littles in mind, Pat had what I believed to be one of the most ideal children's toys I'd come across in a long time. It didn't hurt that she was able to capture the old-timey, traditional feel I'm always looking for either!

For my review Pat sent me Zeefoam the cuddly Zebra.

He was the perfect fit to introduce to my horse crazy daughter and surprise, surprise, she loved him. I had to gently explain that he was a Zebra and not a horse but he was close enough in her mind and has spent many nights since his arrival in bed with her.

Gosh, how stinkin' cute is Zeefoam, folks?

If you think Zeefoam is as cute as I do then you'll make haste and visit Its a Zoo to purchase your own sweet critter today! Pat has something special for everyone and your child is sure to enjoy her critters just as much as mine did!

Head on over to Its a Zoo on Facebook and start following Its a Zoo so you never miss an update or new addition to the shop!

Also, be sure to add Its a Zoo to your favorite shops on Etsy!

Read More

Bring Home Kris Jingle for the Holidays: Cuddle Barn #Giveaway US 12/20

I was given the opportunity recently to work with a company that I've been coveting for what seems like forever. I've tried on many occasions to reach out and never had any luck until last month when I finally received the green light from Cuddle-Barn to work with them on a review and giveaway for our holiday gift guide.

"Cuddle Barn is the leading designer and manufacturer of animated plush creations. With over 30 years of experience, we are committed to providing unique products for the worlds enjoyment. Our collection features high quality materials, cutting edge animation and entertaining new sounds. Our mission is only one thing: putting a smile on your face."

I was delighted to be able to work with them after many months of hoping and was sent their sweet Kris Jingle to help facilitate my review.

Kris Jingle has really helped to get my family into the Christmas spirit this year. He's such a festive little guy and we just can't seem to resist giving him a squeeze every time we walk by him on the shelf. His sweet little face is irresistible and he's the perfect cuddle choice to anyone who needs a little extra Christmas cheer.

He's not only cute, cuddly and festive but he also sings, "Deck the Halls" quite beautifully.




Don't miss a thing from Cuddle Barn and become a follower via Facebook and Twitter.
To check out all of Kris Jingle's friends and bring the joy of Cuddle Barn to your family you can visit them online!

To receive an additional $5 off of any Cuddle Barn purchase I've been given the discount code Holiday13 for my readers that is good until December 31st!

The good folks over at Cuddle Barn have very generously offered one of you lucky readers the chance to win a Kris Jingle of your own. Just fill out the easy Rafflecopter entries before and you're all set! Stay tuned to see if you've been selected as out winner on 12/20 a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Keurig Vue V700 Brewing System Blogger Opp!

Prize:

Keurig Vue V700 Brewing System Value $149

Bonus variety box includes:

• 1 Barista Prima Italian Roast Coffee
• 1 Café Escapes Milk Chocolate Hot Cocoa
• 1 Celestial Seasonings® Sleepytime Herbal Tea
• 1 Celestial Seasonings® Southern Sweet Iced Tea
• 1 Gloria Jean's® Hazelnut Coffee
• 1 Green Mountain Coffee® Breakfast Blend Travel Mug Coffee
• 1 Green Mountain Coffee® Nantucket Blend Coffee
• 1 The Original Donut Shop® Extra Bold Coffee
• 1 Timothy's® Columbian Decaf Coffee
• 1 Tully's® French Roast Coffee
  *Selections may vary based on supply

Info:

-FREE Link with announcement (Twitter or Pinterest)

Announcement Here

-Giveaway date:   Jan 31 - Feb 21, 2014  (Closing Jan 24, 2014)

-Co-host $10.00

10 Links  (no google links)

2 Co-host pages

-Extra links $1.50 (no google links)up to 4 links

Send payment to melisurveys1978@gmail.com

Sign up here

Read More

Put the Fun Back Into Decorating for Christmas with LinkyDoodles! FLASH #Giveaway US 12/19

To be completely honest there has been quite a bit of contention in my household this month, as Christmas has been fast approaching, and within the last week or so its really come to a head. The source of all the contention? Putting up our darn Christmas tree.

I'm a stickler for holiday traditions and putting up a Christmas tree has been a tradition in our home ever since I can remember so when my Mama refused to put up our tree this year I was quite upset. Her reasoning, mainly, was that the second we put a tree up would be the second it came crashing down due to having 7 naughty kittens and 2 equally naughty children under the age of 5. While I agreed to a point I wasn't and still am not able to get over the upset this has caused me. Tradition is important to me, especially so now that I have my own children, so we came to a compromise. We decided to put up a tree but leave out the ornaments...in large part because my toddler managed to break them all to bits last year. So, now we have our plain Jane tree with nothing but the lights and I am somewhat happier.

Well, almost plain Jane! I was given the opportunity this month to work with a fantastic company by the name of LinkyDoodles and was sent a package of their sweet Cherry candy chains to help facilitate my review!

 "Move over ornaments. There's a new twist on candy canes this Christmas and its linking memories and sweet new family traditions like never before! Called Santa Bait by some of the youngest elves, LinkyDoodles Candy Chains are edible "C" shaped candy canes that families link together, piece by piece, to decorate the Christmas tree, mantel and table in festive garlands that harken back to a simpler time and create lifelong memories. Linkydoodle candy chains are the worlds only linkable candy, linking together Christmas holiday celebrations with a sweet new family tradition."

Even though our tree is a bit bare this Christmas the LinkyDoodles did a fantastic job making our sad looking, lights only, tree look bright and festive and thanks to their unique C shape they were super easy to link together and put up as well. My girls had a great time linking the up and stringing them around the tree..well, Sophie did anyways. Desmond was just happy to put her new teeth to good use and be our taste tester while we did all the 'real' work!

No worries if you're going treeless this year or if you've managed to wedge as many decorations as possible onto yours and find yourself out of room. LinkyDoodles is perfect for hanging on the mantel, using to decorate the table for guests and for many other unique decorating uses. Check out the LinkyDoodle napkin ring below!

Keep yourself in the loop with LinkyDoodles by following via Facebook and twitter!

The wonderful folks are LinkyDoodles have generously offered one of you lucky readers the chance to win your own package of LinkyDoodles in either Peppermint or Cherry flavor. That's over 5 feet of fun for you and your family this Christmas! Just get those entries in on the Rafflecopter form below and stay tuned!








a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Karma in the Kitchen Seasonal Truffle #giveaway! 12/20 US

Have you ever eaten something that tasted so heavenly that you knew deep down it had to be sinful? I was given the opportunity during the course of our gift guide to work with a woman who has mastered the art of crafting goodies that will leave you feeling guilty with just one little bite of her sweet creations.

 Ladies and gentlemen, I'm being polite but I really just mean ladies *wink wink*  let me introduce to you a little Etsy shop I've come to love, Karma in the Kitchen.

"Meet Karma Decker. Karma has been in the kitchen since she was old enough to pull a chair up to the counter. A wife and mother of 5 sons, Karma routinely uses baked goods to win the favor of her unruly brood. A professional baker in a former life, she now enjoys baking in smaller bathes, ordering desserts at restaurants and calling it "research", and thinks no gathering is complete without refreshments."

The lovely Karma went crazy generous when sending out my review items and sent me two boxes of her delectable, seasonal Truffles. I received both the Fall Assortment and Holly Jolly Assortment to help facilitate my review.

My truffles, all 36 scrumptious pieces of them, arrived quickly and wrapped in the cutest hand-made wrappings complete with twine to give it that quaint old-fashioned feel I am so fond of.

My first thought when I placed my first truffle from the selection before me (I tried Holly Jolly first) was that I should be ashamed of myself. The guilt gnawed at me while I let the truffle melt on my tongue and I realized, after a minute, that I had absolutely no reason to feel guilty. None whatsoever. After stuffing my face with a few more truffles I decided that Karma was just way to good at what she does. No way should I feel guilty for eating chocolate but darn if this woman didn't whip up some magical treats!

The Holly Jolly Assortment has 18 delicious chocolates in the following flavors:

Eggnog Creams dipped in white chocolate and dusted with nutmeg. Peppermint Truffles covered in dark chocolate and sprinkled with crushed candy canes. Milk and Dark Chocolate Ganache and Chocolate covered caramels!

The Fabulous Fall Assortment was equally as delicious and was split (somewhat) evenly between my chocolate-addicted Mama and myself.

Like the Holly Jolly Assortment the Fabulous Fall Assortment is 18 truffles in the following flavors:

Pumpkin Spice with cream centers made with pumpkin puree, cinnamon and nutmeg before being dipped into dark chocolate. Spicy Caliente truffles start with dark chocolate ganache then the cayenne pepper and cinnamon are added for a flavor that an be tasted AND felt. Apple Cider Caramels are a soft combination of apples and butter. Chocolate Kissed Salted Caramels and Peanut Butter truffles round out the Fabulous Fall Assortment.

I'm starting to feel guilty all over again just by talking about these things! Sadly, they didn't last long in my house with all the chocolate-hungry folks lurking around but I know who I'm going to trust my chocolate needs with from now on. Karma in the Kitchen has more than earned my business in the future and if you've been looking for the perfect gift for your chocolate lover, for any occasion, then Karma has got everything you need.

If you're still looking for a gift or two and know the receiver has a sweet tooth then I recommend Karma in the Kitchen. Karma's truffles are made the old fashioned way, right in her own kitchen. No mass produced, ready-made substances with unpronounceable chemicals or artificial colors or flavors. Real cream, sugar, fruits and nuts are cooked together and then poured onto a marble slab. The candy is then worked until it transforms into a silky smooth, heavenly fondant. Candy made like this is a dying are taught to Karma by her Mother.

Wouldn't you rather give the gift of home-made this year instead of the go-to big corporations that sell mass-produced, impersonal gifts?

Karma has outdone herself and is generously offering one of you lucky readers the chance to win a Holly Jolly AND Fabulous Fall Assortment for yourselves. I bet you simply can't wait to get your entries in on the rafflecopter below and see who'll be drawn as our winner!

In the meantime head on over to Karma's Facebook page and don't miss out on the latest news from Karma in the Kitchen by becoming a follower. While you're at it make sure you never miss a tweet by following via Twitter.








a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Learn the Signs and Minimize Your Risk! $100 American Express #Giveaway US 12/31

We as people go to great lengths to protect ourselves and our loved ones from harm. We purchase vehicles with the greatest safety ratings available, we arm our homes with the latest technologies meant to ward off and protect against intruders, keep first-aid kits close at hand in case of emergencies and take a no-substance stance against harmful products like cigarettes and alcohol.

Our efforts to protect ourselves against harm are all well and good but are we really doing as much as we should be? For example, there is one leading cause in the deaths of men and women in the US that is most often overlooked and that, folks, is Heart Disease.

Every year in the US 600,000 deaths are caused by heart disease in men and women. More than half of that number is heart disease in MEN.

Heart Disease is the number one killer in American and treatment i.e medications are among the most expensive in the world. Heart Disease is the silent killer we never see coming. Learn the early signs of Heart Disease and what you can do to minimize the risk to you or your loved ones!

This helpful infograph is brought to you by NorthWestPharmacy.com

Want to win a $100 American Express Giveaway?

As stressed as I've been during the last two months I can only imagine how stressed many of you must be. Wouldn't it be awesome to take away some of that unwanted stress by winning an extra $100? With their lowest price guarantees and outstanding customer service, you can purchase everything on your prescription list from NorthWest Pharmcy with ease!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Spoil Your Pooch Rotten This Christmas with Signature Bonz US 12/15

Lets be honest, shall we? You stuffed yourself silly at Thanksgiving, didn't you? You ate an entire turkey leg to yourself, flooded your mashed potatoes with gravy and ate so much green bean casserole that you had to walk around with your jeans unbuttoned for the rest of the afternoon/evening.

So, now that we've admitted to be absolutely spoiled rotten with all the delicious food that was cooked and brought to the table so far this holiday season lets dive right into the point, shall we? I know you've seen them sitting there, with their eyes trained on your plates and their noses lifted in the air, drawing in the scents of your meal. They've been patient and they've begged and yet they've made off with only the unwanted scraps off your plate.

Oh, yes, I'm talking about your oh-so-loyal canine. You've been spoiling yourself but where's the love for your best bud, your partner in crime? Give the dog a literal bone this year or better yet give them Signature Bonz!

Signature Bonz was created by a mother and daughter team, who were dedicated to making a healthy dog treat that their canine would actually eat. She was one to not even sniff at the ordinary dog bone. After years of mastering delicious, all natural dog treats, that their dog just loved, they decided to focus on appearance. Signature Bonz now creates delicious edible works of art that bring fun to treat giving for both pet parent and their dog. From a unique doggie birthday cakes and delicious dog treat pastries, to custom dog treats, you will be sure to find a treat to satisfy your furry friends needs.

"Be still my heart! These were exactly the kind of treats my heart had been longing for! Now, I no longer have to feel like I'm inadvertently treating my furkids like second class citizens here in the lost world! The box of mixed Christmas treats were so dog-gone cute and apparently pretty tasty because the dogs gobbled them down in an instant! I love the fact that Signature Bonz has Hanukkah treats and savory offerings as well You can even order your pets' birthday cake from them!" Read Jayedee's full review at Life in the Lost World here!

To learn more or order some holiday treats for your own furkids, please visit Signature Bonz on Etsy. They'd love to connect with you via their Facebook and Twitter pages too!

The wonderful folks at Signature Bonz would like to offer one of you lucky readers a chance to win a cute holiday assortment of doggie treats too (yours may differ from those shown above but will be equally adorable and tasty!) Just get those entries in on the Rafflecopter form below and stay tuned!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Looking For The Perfect Gift For Him? Wyoming Creative Has You Covered! US 12/16

The men in our lives are tough nuts to crack when it comes to gift giving. Whether its anniversaries, birthdays or holidays we, the women, are left scratching our heads in the department stores when we're tasked with finding our men the perfect gifts. Wyoming Creative has you covered this Christmas with unique, hand-stamped creations.

Wyoming Creative, proudly a one woman business, is run by Kelsey McDonnel and focuses on hand stamped jewelry and gifts. Adding text to her unique creations brings her much joy; knowing just a few words can be powerful, loving and kind An artist at heart, Wyoming Creative was born of a need to have someplace to showcase and share her jewelry with the world. Wyoming Creative offers guitar pick necklaces, personalized fishing lures, aluminum, copper and brass bracelets and other custom pieces. While a good many of Wyoming Creative's pieces are perfect for him, there are also wonderful, personalized gifts for anyone in the family. dd

"The pieces I had the pleasure of reviewing are the Hooked on You Fishing Lure and the Joyful Noise Guitar Pick, which Kelsey has combined into a wonderful gift set for us; making it a perfect gift for him or a fabulous stocking stuffer." Read Lilah's full review for Wyoming Creative here! 

Wyoming Creative has generously offered one of you lucky readers the chance to win a Hooked on You and Make a Joyful Noise gift set! To get your entries in just complete the easy rafflecopter links below and stay tuned!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

This is the Year for Following Through with Those New Years Resolutions!

I always hate being the bearer of bad news but folks its getting to be that time of the year again. Its true that Santa is readying up his sleigh and his little helpers are working their tushies off to have his deliveries ready to go come Christmas Eve but if you fast forward a little bit you'll realize that New Years is coming up fast.

Surely we haven't forgotten that shortly after stuffing ourselves with goodies from Thanksgiving and Christmas we'd have to be making that list of New Years resolutions!

If you're like me then I'm sure that little revelation was like a cup of ice water being thrown in your face..thinking back about all the big family meals we've shared with friends and family since Thanksgiving and then all the stress induced munching we've done through all the Christmas shopping we've trekked through. Are you, at this very moment, calculating the extra pounds you've accumulated since then? I know I sure am and like many of you one of my own NYR is to lose some of the extra pounds during the course of the next 6 months to a year. I've recently been scouring the internet for dieting tips and advice and have been able to find some great resources. One that I find myself going back to often is the Dr.Gullo Diet Program which is home to a plethora of dieting tips and resources for those looking for information related to their dieting goals!

Unfortunately though, for me, I've always been terrible at sticking to my diets. I make my resolutions then I get it into my head that I'm going to eat sensibly, take the girls out in the stroller for a long walk each day and cut out the soda but in the end I'm always caving and still  haven't lost an ounce. I have people telling me I have an excuse because I've recently had two children but I wave their niceties off and say over and over again that I just need to get my butt in gear.

You know what they say about good intentions and all that jazz. I've never been good with making my own diet plans and do much better with something structured but at this point there are so many do's and don'ts as well as diets like Atkins and the Green Coffee Bean diet. How do you begin to choose and how do you determine which diet is real and which is a scam?

Its just my luck that I happen to be someone with massive indecision problems who also happens to be looking on the internet of all places for tips on dieting! I guess in my case I just need to shuck the indecision and jump in feet first!

Read More

Say it Loud and Proud with Hallmark! 12/15 US

Some folks are so hard to buy for, honestly! They're the ones that say, year after year, that they don't want anything. They don't need anything. They have everything they could ever need or they have their good health and that's all the, their families and that's all they need. They leave you exasperated.

What do you get for someone who refuses to cooperate and get with the program during the holidays? Why, you make a trip to Hallmark and let their selection of gifts for him, her, children and family as well as their plethora of touching cards say it all!

"It seems that whenever there's a significant event in my life, Hallmark is somewhere to be found. Whether its an adorable greeting card weloming baby into the world or the annual Christmas Keepsake Ornament, Hallmark is always here's to help us celebrate those special moments.
This year, I was sent a special selection from the "elves" at Santa's OTHER workshop--Hallmark HQ--to tell you all about." read Jayedee's full review here! 

To learn more, you can head over to Hallmark on the web. They'd love to connect with you on Facebook, Twitter and Youtube!

The good folks at Hallmark would love to add to your family celebration too and are offering one of my readers a fantastic North Pole Communicator and a pack of new greeting cards to send holiday wishes to their loved ones, too! Just fill out the easy rafflecopter entries below and stayed tuned!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Don't Be Afraid to Be Unique with Blue Sky Collection! US 12/23

With the holidays closing in I can sympathize if you admit to binge eating, stress baking or losing a clump or two of hair. There's so much to do, so many people to see and too many gifts to buy. I bet there's a list about a foot long somewhere within your peripheral vision that is waiting to be completed and unless I miss my guess there's at least 2 people on that list of yours that you have absolutely no idea what to get for.

No worries your secret(s) is safe with me and I'm even feeling cheerful enough to give you a little tip to make things a little bit easier! Get that clicker-finger ready to go and get ready to get your shop on at Blue Sky Collection.

Whether you're looking for a stylish, handmade Burberry Plaid Dog Collar or a unique, personalized gift for a birthday, you'll find an exceptional selection on our website! Were committed to providing a marketplace offering interesting, high-quality, hand-picked gifts and accessories for every occasion, person or pet in  your life. We know that you put a lot of thought into every item you purchase and its our mission to provide you with an extraordinary place to find those gifts. 

Not convinced you'll benefit simply on my say-so? Then you can head over to read Jayedee's review for a darling Circle of Life Soapstone Sculpture by Blue Sky Collections at LifeintheLostWorld!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Give the Gift of A Good Nights Sleep with Soaring Heart's Organic Wool Pillows! US 12/17

Have you bee guilty of shopping till you drop this holiday season? Have you frequented crowded shopping malls, grocery stores and boutiques for that mile long list of gifts you've written up this year only to go straight home to bed? Have you gotten up with your children in the mornings and begged for just one more minute of interrupted sleep?

If you've answered yes to any of these questions then I've got a simple solution I think will benefit anyone who is craving that amazing nights sleep we've all been dreaming of in the midst of the holiday rush. Let me tell you about Soaring Heart the Natural Bedding Company.

"Comfort and craftsmanship are values we build into all our work at Soaring Heart. Sine 1982 our artisan craftsmen have been exquisitely handcrafting, stitch by stitch, all of our organic mattresses to be the ultimate in comfort and support. We use only the hightest quality, organic ingredients: premium Pacific Northwest Wool, American grown long-fiber organic cotton, and the only fully certified organic latex in the world. Come experience the rest of your life."

For my review I was sent one of Soaring Heart's Organic Wool Pillows.

Soaring Hearts springy-soft organic wool pillows are made by combining over 30 years experience at the forefront of their industry with time-test materials. Their organic wool, a blend of eight breeds of sheep's wool is gathered from small farms along the California and Oregon coasts, is resilient yet yielding, which makes for a wonderful pillow. When you include the additional benefits of wool, such as moisture, mold and dust mite resistance, thermal regulation--keeping you cool in the summer and warm in the winter--and antimicrobial properties, you might just have the perfect pillow! 

I'll admit that when I first received the pillow I wasn't that enthusiastic about going to bed that night. The pillow was firmer than anything I'd ever slept on and I wasn't optimistic but decided to give it a sporting chance before turning up my nose. To my surprise it actually turned out to be the most relaxing pillow I'd ever laid my head on. I relaxed gradually, giving the pillow a chance to prove itself, and was out like a light shortly afterwards. I woke up the next morning unable to recall having woken up through the night, the only exception being when Desmond woke up for her routine nursing sessions.

Since then I've moved my former favorite, a cloud like pillow, to the bottom of the stack and now sleep with my Soaring Heart Wool pillow on top. I don't even let my toddler lay on it as the care instructions state specifically that wool cannot be washed (however it can be spot cleaned with a spray bottle of rubbing alcohol and dried outside in the sun) and I'm deathly afraid she'd find a way to soil the cover!

Be sure to to never miss a thing from Soaring Heart by becoming a follower on Facebook!
Keep yourself up to date with the most recent news and tweets by following via Twitter!
Go pin crazy and follow Soaring Heart on Pinterest!

Soaring Heart has generously offered one of you lucky readers the chance to sleep soundly this Christmas by giving away one of their wonderful Organic Wool Pillows. Just fill in the easy entries on the Rafflecopter form below and stay tuned to see if you're chosen as our winner!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

Mini Tweet Boutique Jewelry Tray #giveaway! 12/15

Here at Slow Road to Insanity we're no stranger to sweet (sometimes sassy) and blossoming, not to mention a little moody and often times bossy, teenage girls. We know, for example, that girls of any age are drawn to things that shine and sparkle.

Which is why for those girls, you know, the ones who have gobs of necklaces, rings and earrings, there's Mini Tweet Boutique.

"Mini Tweet Boutique, located in beautiful Jupiter FL, provides high quality handmade items for all ages. We have beautiful, one of a kind jewelry boxes and baby keepsake boxes, both of which can also be used as shadow boxes to display cherished items. Our jewelry trays are also one of a kind and are made with colorful designer papers and embellishments.

Some of the themes they've done in the past are mermaids, pirates, fairies, outer space, under the sea, princess, creepy critters and horses. Our newest line features gift boxes of all shapes, sizes and color combinations. These boxes are tastefully decorated with designer papers, ribbons and floral embellishments. Just place your item and the box and you have a "gift within a gift." Of course, Mini Tweet Boutique also loves working with clients on custom orders as well!"

For review I was sent Mini Tweet Boutique's beautiful Blue Jewelry Box with a lovely Floral design.

How sweet is that? In addition to being a jewelry box this lovely box can also be used as a shadow box for those memories you hold dear. In my case it can definitely be used either way as I have a substantial cache of jewelry but also a substantial collection of memories I'd want to put on display for my daughters.

Decisions, decisions and why, oh, why was I cursed with indecision at birth?!

Don't miss out on the latest news from Mini Tweet Boutique and become follower on Facebook !

Mini Tweet Boutique has generously offered one of you lucky readers the chance to win one of their beautiful Jewelry Tray's (pictured below.)

Want to win it for yourself or a certain jewelry fanatic you just so happen to know? Just fill out the easy entries on the Rafflecopter form below and get those entries in!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More

BaaMoo Baby Pink Ribbon Tag Comfort Elephant #Giveaway! Ends 12/8 Worldwide

I've been agonizing over gifts for my girls this year. I've decided on about a million toys/books and then changed my mind about another million times By the skin of my teeth I finally decided on a few gifts for both Sophie and Desi but there are still a few gaps I've been looking to fill.

I didn't want to give them a ton of high-tech gadgets but wanted to also throw in a few traditional, entertain-yourself types of gifts as well but in today's toy industry its been a bit harder than I imagined. Almost everything requires assembly or batteries, something I was none to thrilled about. I spent countless nights on my computer wondering where the good ole days went when you could buy your children thought-invoking and imagination powered toys.

As our readers know we've been hosting our our Holiday Gift Guide here at Slow Road to Insanity, Naturally Frugalicious and Life in the Lost World and we've had a great response from our outreach to Etsy shops thus far. Here in our family we've wanted to put a special emphasis on supporting small businesses this year and with that said I have found some perfect shops to help with my no-batteries needed mindset.

Today's review is for a wonderful little Etsy shop called BaaMoo Baby!

"BaaMoo Baby is a small company based in the North East of England in the UK that designs and makes original handcrafted items for babies and children. 

BaaMoo Baby specializes in making quality handcrafted keepsake items to treasure including personalized memory cushions, quilts, bunting and soft toys, as well as making play mats, soft furnishings and is always happy to take custom orders."

For my review I was sent BaaMoo Baby's Pink Fleece Ribbon Tag Comfort Elephant.

The Ribbon Tag Elephant was almost too sweet not to immediately hand over to baby Desmond and is the approximate measurements for the Ribbon Tag Elephant is 22cm by 22cm, the perfect size for those little hands to grasp and love on. These sweet little guys are polyester filled and one hundred percent machine washable.

BaaMoo Baby is also happy to customize these darling little Elephants for you and also gives you the option of sending in your old baby clothes to make a memory keepsake! I'm so conscious of how fast my babies are growing that I'm constantly trying to find ways to preserve memories and would love that BaaMoo Baby gives their customers that option.

Whether your giving to your own little one or looking for a special gift for the child(ren) of a friend or relative BaaMoo Baby has got you covered.

Make sure you never miss an update from BaaMoo Baby by following via Facebook or Twitter!

On top of sending me a Pink Fleece Ribbon Tag Comfort Elephant BaaMoo Baby has generously offered one of you readers the chance to win one of these cuties for yourself!

*Note* The giveaway item is for one personalized fleece ribbon tag elephant in either a.)  pink with pink ribbons, b.) blue with blue ribbons or cream with cream, yellow and orange ribbons. Winners choice will also come with your name of choice embroidered on the ear!

To enter simply fill out the rafflecopter form below and stay tuned to see if you're our lucky winner! a Rafflecopter giveaway

Read More