Is Your Child's Diet to Blame for Cold Sores?

~ Tonight I'm pleased to share with you an informative post from guest blogger, Carrie Shannon about cold sores. I found this to be very educational and interesting and hope you do too! ~

While food does not actually cause the herpes virus, it can play a monumental role in triggering outbreaks; more so than most parents are really aware of.
Even if you try your hardest to make sure that your child eats a balanced diet every day, they may not be consuming the right foods. Not to mention, you are not always around your child, and can't really control what they eat at school or at their friend's house. Therefore, it is important to talk with them about why you enforce dietary guidelines, and why it is so crucial that they stick with them.
Dos and Don'ts of the Diet
Are you giving your child a peanut butter sandwich everyday because they love them, and you are trying to make sure they get a lot of protein? Well, you could be triggering their outbreaks.
First of all, peanuts contain high levels of arginine which has the ability to activate a dormant virus. Although a small handful of nuts can be eaten as a snack (never a meal), it is better to eat these raw than in peanut butter.
You are probably wondering what the difference is, right? Well, when you spread that peanut butter on bread, you are immediately adding simple carbohydrates to their meal as well. What do simple carbohydrates turn into during digestion? Glucose! Unfortunately, all types of sugar can trigger herpes.
Therefore, the less sugar in your child's diet, the better off they will be. For those of you that think you are doing the right thing by offering juice or juice boxes, think again! Check the label; if it is not unsweetened, it is no better than soda. Now, just imagine if you are putting jelly on that sandwich too! That would be even more sugar!
The best way to get necessary protein into your child's diet is through sources that are high in lysine, which has the ability to inhibit the virus. Some of these sources include beef, pork, chicken, turkey, fish, bison, lamb and wild game.
With busy schedules and picky eaters, it certainly never hurts to make sure your child takes a high-quality supplement every day either. This will ensure that they get all the vitamins and minerals that they need on a regular basis.
Handling a Symptom
If your child is really young, you will notice a symptom before they are aware of what it is. They will likely experience a little tingling, but you will see redness and probably catch them touching their face a lot. They need to be taught right away to stop touching it, or they will only make it worse.
Symptoms should be addressed right away. Dedicate a drawer in the bathroom or even a Tupperware container to creating a cold sore remedies kit. In it should be cotton swabs or balls and hydrogen peroxide or alcohol.
If your child is at least 8 years old, they will be able to clean the sore themselves. If they are younger, you will need to do it but at least everything will be handy. You won't have to reach for something, realize you are out of it and run to the store in the middle of the night or before work in the morning.
While it is healing, kisses must be kept to themselves. Let them know that although absolutely everyone loves and appreciates their kisses, they will have to bottle them up to save for when the sores go away. Herpes can spread lightning fast through kissing.
Once the cold sore is completely gone, always swap out their toothbrush for a fresh one. Children (and adults), don't always rinse their toothbrush as well as they should, and germs can linger. If they continue to use the same brush, a vicious cycle is created.
Educate
Even a young child can be taught the basics about the herpes virus. While they will not understand anything technical, or why their body continues to produce them now-and-then, they can be taught that there are millions of others just like them going through the same exact thing.
It is scary to feel as though you are different or think that something is wrong; this is natural. They probably have no idea that the vast majority of their friends have had at least one too. The more knowledgeable they are, the more secure they will feel if they are teased, because face it, kids can be unkind.
If you don't understand the virus yourself, ask your pediatrician for pamphlets or for tips on explaining it. There are reports you can access from the Centers of Disease Control (CDC) as well. Of course, you can always just rely on the internet; there is a tremendous amount of information on cold sores available. Just make sure that if you are looking for more technical information, that you use trusted sites, such as Mayo Clinic and Web MD.
Author Bio
Carrie Shannon is the publisher of YourColdSoreRemedies.com, a website devoted to providing information on safe and effective cold sore treatments. One day a cold sore appeared on Carrie's face and she asked "What's the fastest way to get rid of a cold sore?" and YourColdSoreRemedies was born. In her spare time you can find Carrie walking her Yorkies, Oscar and Maggie, near her home in Hermosa Beach, Ca.

TTC Kit from ConceiveEasy Giveaway!

After the birth of my daughter, I expected us to get pregnant again pretty quickly. Yes, I was nursing her exclusively for the first 6 months, but after that I figured it wouldn't take long at all to get pregnant with baby number 2. I couldn't wait to be pregnant again and hoped that my children would be less than 2 years apart. Well, it was a few months after my daughter's first birthday before I was pregnant again. I had a handful of friends who had babies right around the time that I had Maggie and they seemed to all get pregnant months before me! Of course, most of you know that I am pregnant now and due with our second child in May--I can't wait!!

I was just contacted to review a new product from ConceiveEasy. They have created a Fertility Trying To Conceive (TTC) Kit. Obviously now is not a good time for me to review this kit (although I would have loved to have reviewed it a year ago!) but they have been generous enough to offer to give one of these kits away to one of my readers! This is a $152 value! I am so happy to be able to offer this to one of my readers that is TTC right now!

Here's a little bit of more info about the ConceiveEasy TTC Kit:

News of famous Hollywood mothers and parents-to-be such as Natalie Portman, Victoria Beckham and Tori Spelling fill the supermarket tabloids, along with baby buzz rumors about Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. Those headlines can be discouraging and frustrating for those who experience difficulties conceiving, but the new ConceiveEasy TTC Kit™ can help parents join in on the Hollywood baby boom.

“We are excited to announce the launch of our newest fertility product, ConceiveEasy TTC Kit™, for women who are trying to conceive (TTC),” said Claire Beauchamp, Senior Fertility Specialist at FertiBella ConceiveEasy. “The complete, all-in-one TTC Kit is all you’ll ever need to increase your fertility and help you get pregnant faster with our all-natural solution, without any side effects. Now, for a limited time, moms-to-be can try the new TTC Kit™ and choose to customize their Kit with any combination of an exclusive bonus gift of 20 free pregnancy tests, 20 free ovulation tests, or 10 pregnancy & 10 ovulation tests (a $72 value).”

ConceiveEasy is a natural aid that boosts the body’s fertility level by stimulating ovulation and effectively overcoming the seven most common causes of infertility. The formula has been clinically tested and those using ConceiveEasy showed an increased pregnancy rate of 33 percent. The kit assists women in increasing their fertility rate in just 28 days with no unpleasant side effects or dangerous fertility drugs.

The human body is a delicate organism and even small imbalances and irregularities can prohibit conception. ConceiveEasy’s proprietary blend of ingredients supports and enhances the body’s own reproductive cycle to eliminate common problems with conception that includes a progesterone deficiency, irregular cycles, poor quality mucous in the cervix and hormone imbalances.

The ConceiveEasy TTC Kit™ provides information on how to get pregnant and those with questions can speak with a specialist before making their purchase. The firm is a proud supporter of breast cancer research, with $1 of each kit sold going to benefit the fight against breast cancer.

ConceiveEasy provides new hope for those who have had difficulties in conceiving a child. The blend of natural ingredients enhances the body’s chemistry, helping increase your chances for conception without the use of fertility drugs. The TTC Kit™ allows women to take the first step toward feeling the same joy that celebrity parents in Hollywood are experiencing.

This kit sounds awesome! The winner of this kit will also be able to customize their prize with a bonus gift! These are the options for the bonus gift:

Bonus gift #1: 20 Early Result Pregnancy Tests
Bonus gift #2: 20 One-Step Ovulation Tests
Bonus gift #3: 10 Pregnancy & 10 Ovulation Tests

If you want a chance to win, just use this easy Rafflecopter entry form. Good luck!!

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Betty Lukens Winner!

Congratulations Miranda Welle! You are the winner of this giveaway! I sent you an email so that you can let me know which set you'd like.  

Free Pancakes Today Only!

If you live close to an IHOP, here's your chance to get some free pancakes! Today is National Pancake Day! Hop on in to your local IHOP today from 7am-10pm for a free short stack of their Buttermilk pancakes.

Sunnyside Safari, Plug In Sway & Swing Review and Giveaway

I'm realizing more and more every day that although I have just over 2 months until our new addition arrives, that really isn't a lot of time! I mean, gosh--it's been 2 months already since Christmas!?! So, I'm starting to prepare our house for baby #2 and getting together all the baby gear we'll be needing.

You might remember that I reviewed the  InGenuity™ Cradle & Sway™ Swing from Bright Starts when Maggie was a baby. I LOVE everything about this swing except that it does not have the option to plug into an electrical outlet. I hate buying batteries all the time! Knowing how much I've always loved the products from Bright Starts, I was so excited when I found out that they just released a new swing that has an AC adapter! So, of course, I just had to try it out!

Bright Starts sent me the Sunnyside Safari, Plug In Sway & Swing AND the matching Sunnyside Safari, Bouncer (watch for the review coming soon!) and we were so excited to receive them! The Sunnyside Safari Collection is available exclusively at Walmart retail stores and Walmart.com.  It also includes a travel swing, chair top highchair, playard, and activity saucer. Maggie loves all of the colorful animals! I know she'll be excited to "help" care for her baby brother with these items!

Here's a description of the swing:

Some swings go back and forth. Some go side to side. This one does both—and does it with music, toys, and delightful jungle style. With a seat designed for 180° rotation, allowing three swing directions, the Bright Starts™ Sunnyside Safari™ Plug in Sway & Swing™ uses our unique TrueSpeed™ technology to sense baby's weight and adjust for consistent speed—so it grows along with baby. The swing also boasts a volume-adjustable 20 minutes of melodies and nature sounds, an overhead mobile—even an AC adaptor to save on battery expense. And it features the fun and engaging characters of the Sunnyside Safari™ Collection. Start the fun with Bright Starts!™

Product Features:

· Seat rotates 180° for 3 swing directions

· TrueSpeed™ technology maintains 6 speeds as baby grows

· Mobiles with 2 playtime toys easily pivots out of the way

· 20 minutes of melodies and nature sounds with volume control and auto shut-off

· AC adaptor saves money on batteries

Additional Features:

· Swing time with 3 settings: 30, 45 and 60 minutes

· Whisper Quiet™ operation

· 5 point harness

· Machine washable seat pad

· Non-slip feet

· Product Dimensions: 37”w x 28”d x 40.5”h

· Packaging Dimensions: 18”w x 9.5”d x 25.5”h

I decided to set up the swing on a night when my husband wasn't home. I wasn't sure how that would go, but I was determined to do it! I know I have some readers who are single moms, so sometimes I like to be able to say that I, as a women (who is not very handy,) set it up all by myself! I pulled all the pieces out of the box and had it all set up in about 20 minutes (and this was WITH the "help" of my daughter!) The only tool that you'll need is a screwdriver! If I can set it up almost 30 weeks pregnant, you can set it up too!

My daughter weighs 22 1/2 pounds and this swing says that it will work for babies up to 25 pounds. After helping me set the swing up, she was eager to try it out and I figured, why not?! I'll put it to the real test and see just how well it would work for a heavy baby. I've been eating so much this pregnancy, I'm not so certain I'll have a petite little thing again!

I got her in the swing, strapped her in, and turned the swing on. Was it able to swing her weight?? You bet! Now, of course she was excited, sitting forward, and moving around so it wasn't the smoothest ride, but that is to be expected. Next we strapped in her baby doll to watch her swing and it was a nice, calm, smooth ride!

The swing works very quietly, unless of course you want to put on the music and nature sounds this swing plays, which are lovely! You will notice a very slight increase in sound from the swing motor when you adjust the speed. Once the swing settles in to the correct speed (which is just a few seconds) the sound is VERY minimal. I actually found the slight sound of the motor to be soothing and calming myself. Unless you are standing directly next to the swing though, you shouldn't notice any sound coming from it if you have the music/nature sounds turned off. If you do however decide to turn the music/nature sounds on, there is also a volume adjust button so you can get that just right.

Like I said, one of my favorite features of this swing is that it comes with an AC adapter. It does however give you the option of putting batteries in as well, if that is your preference. The cord is really thin and hardly noticeable!

This swing also pivots so you can have your child swing forwards and backwards or side to side. The cute animal mobile easily pushes out of the way when you need to take your child out of the swing.

I love this swing! I couldn't ask for more and I can't wait to use it with our son! Not only does it have all of the features I'm looking for, but it also is priced at under $100, which I certainly appreciate! I'm actually really glad that I have it set up and ready to go a few weeks early too. I'm going to keep it in our living room so that Maggie and I can practice with her baby dolls on letting the baby sleep in the swing. Hopefully by the time the real baby comes along, she'll have it down!

Bright Starts has generously offered to give one of my readers their own swing! This is an amazing prize and I'm so happy to be able to share it with one of you! If you'd like a chance to win it, just use the easy Rafflecopter entry form. Good luck!

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Barney: Clean Up, Clean Up DVD Review and Giveaway

Get Swept Up In All-New Barney^™ Fun!

BARNEY: CLEAN UP, CLEAN UP

Available On DVD, Digital Download And

On Demand March 6, 2012

From Lionsgate And HIT Entertainment

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Who says being tidy can’t be fun? Let preschool favorite Barney™ show cleaning up is enjoyable when everybody works together in Barney: Clean Up, Clean Up, arriving on DVD, Digital Download and On Demand March 6, 2012 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment. This release is accompanied by 19 fun songs including everyone’s favorite “Clean Up, Clean Up” song and an all-new game, ”Clean Up Time,” found only on DVD! Barney and his friends prove that kids can have a great time being cleaning machines!

Trusted by moms and adored by children, Barney displays sharing, caring, imagining, dancing and learning on television and online and through live events, home entertainment, toys and publishing. The Emmy^® award-winning series, Barney & Friends^™ is one of the top-rated preschool shows today, airing on PBS KIDS^® and Sprout^®.

SYNOPSIS

Barney™ shows how to make cleaning fun; from painting the caboose, to washing windows, to putting away toys! See Riff™ learn new tricks when his litterbot leaves him in a heap of a mess. All the friends help BJ out of a big spill, and they work together to host a fancy tea party. Everything’s better with friends, and when teamwork helps with clean-work, the world sparkles and shines!

Episodes include:

• “Litterbot”
• “All Aboard!”
• “The Nature of Things”

DVD BONUS FEATURES

• “Clean Up Time” Game
• “Clean Up, Do Our Share” Music Video
• “Clean Up, Clean Up” Karaoke Song

VOD AND DIGITAL BONUS FEATURE

• “Glad To Be Me” Bonus Episode

What We Thought:

This DVD arrived at the perfect time! I have just started teaching Maggie about cleaning up her toys after she's finished playing.  We've been singing the Barney "Clean Up" song and now she has a movie to watch that shows her just how much fun cleaning can be! Barney is one of her absolute favorite characters so if cleaning up is fun for Barney and the gang, than it must be fun for her too! She loves this DVD and has already watched it a few times! If you are teaching your child about cleaning, or if you have a child who loves Barney, you must check out this DVD!

One of my readers is also going to win a copy of this brand new DVD! Just use the easy Rafflecopter entry form. Good luck!

 ~Like this giveaway? Please click the Top Mommy Blogs banner below. This casts a vote for my blog today and helps me continue to get great giveaways to share with you!~

Angelina Ballerina: Ballerina Princess DVD Review and Giveaway

Let Your Inner Princess Shine In This All-New Release

ANGELINA BALLERINA^™:

BALLERINA PRINCESS

On DVD, Digital Download and On Demand

March 6, 2012

From Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Once upon a time there was a graceful mouseling ballerina who loved to dance, and put on magical performances with her friends. Her royal mouse-ness is back doing what she does best – charming and entertaining aspiring young dancers – in Angelina Ballerina™: Ballerina Princess, a new, five-episode collection on DVD, Digital Download and On Demand March 6, 2012 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment. Leap into the fun as everyone’s favorite dancing mouseling tracks a mysterious tutu, learns that every role is important, uses creativity and dance to tell a story and more!

SYNOPSIS

Join Angelina Ballerina and her friends for enchanting adventures filled with princesses, princes, kings and queens. Dancing their way through Chipping Cheddar, Angelina encounters a bad fairy, uncovers a Cinderella-like mystery, treats the king and queen to a regal performance and brings an epic tale to life on stage! With secrets, spells, dance and celebrations, it’s a royally good time for all!

Episodes:

• “Angelina’s Big Part”
• “Angelina and Polly’s Two Hour Show”
• “Angelina’s Fancy Tutu”
• “Angelina and the Carnival”
• “Angelina’s Indian Lunchtime”

DVD BONUS FEATURES

• Angelina’s Stupendous Dress Up Game

What We Thought:

I have to admit, Angelina Ballerina is not Maggie FAVORITE Hit Show (that position is held as a tie between Barney and Shaun the Sheep) but she still enjoys watching this cute little ballerina perform! In fact, it has just been within the past 2 weeks that Maggie has really gotten into dancing (and it's so cute to watch her!) so I think as her love for dancing grows, Angelina Ballerina may very well take the #1 spot!

Maggie had an exciting day yesterday, so we decided to pop in this new DVD to help her unwind before bed. She sat in her little pink bean bag chair and really seemed to like watching this DVD. I can't wait for a few more months when she can really tell me with words how much she likes these movies, so I can share that with you! I was cleaning around the house while she watched, but the clips I caught were really very cute! Angelina Ballerina always puts a smile on my face! Don't forget to look for this new DVD available starting March 6th!

One of my lucky readers will also win this DVD! Just use the easy Rafflecopter entry form. Good luck!

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Nature's Sleep Twitter Party

If you like Twitter parties, I've got details on the Nature's Sleep Twitter Party that is coming up! Here they are:

PRIZES:

• One Pair of Nature’s Sleep Memory Foam Slippers
• Nature’s Sleep Memory Foam Pillow – Winner’s Choice
• Nature’s Sleep Memory Foam Pillow – Winner’s Choice
• Nature’s Sleep Memory Foam Pillow – Winner’s Choice
• Nature’s Sleep Memory Foam Queen Size Mattress Topper
• Nature’s Sleep Memory Foam Queen Size Mattress Topper
• Nature’s Sleep Memory Foam Mattress – Winner’s Choice

 

DATE: March 6, 2012 at 8 pm EST

You can RSVP here: http://makobiscribe.com/2012/02/join-us-for-a-natures-sleep-twitter-party.html

 They would love for you to tweet : Sign up for the #memoryfoam twitter party on 3/6 8pm ET to win @natures_sleep mattress http://wp.me/p1vKv2-4YY

 

ALSO - They would love for you to sign up to win a mattress of your own by pushing the purple button on their home page http://naturessleep.com

Chalooby Winner!

Congratulations to Erin Lawrence! You are the winner of this giveaway! I've sent you an email on details for claiming your prize. Enjoy!

Dr. Deepak Chopra & Tara Stiles Yoga Transformation DVDs Review

Dr. Deepak Chopra & Tara Stiles

Yoga Transformation: Weight Loss & Balance

and

Yoga Transformation: Strength & Energy

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

World-renowned spiritual leader and authority in mind-body healing Dr. Deepak Chopra, and Tara Stiles, founder of Strala yoga studio in NYC and author of Slim Calm Sexy and Yoga Cures (releasing in April) bring their mind, body and spirit philosophy to home audiences as Lionsgate releases two all-new fitness DVDs – Yoga Transformation: Strength & Energy and Yoga Transformation: Weight Loss & Balance. Dr. Chopra – international speaker and bestselling author of more than 55 books with more than 30 million copies sold – teams with personal yoga instructor, Tara Stiles, to introduce a combination of yoga and meditation to rejuvenate and transform the mind and body in tandem. Released on December 6th, each DVD includes the full workout and meditation, along with a series of special features highlighting the benefits of yoga and meditation.

DEEPAK CHOPRA & TARA STILES - YOGA TRANSFORMATION: WEIGHT LOSS & BALANCE

In Weight Loss & Balance, Stiles leads a challenging yoga, designed to deeply stretch and strengthen key muscle groups for total body toning while burning fat. Continue the mind-body transformation with Chopra as he leads the meditation to promote balance in everyday life. The program includes:

• Weight Loss Yoga Workout (50-Minutes): Move with your breath as you flow through strong poses and burn fat in a yoga program led by Tara Stiles
• Meditation Practice (15-Minutes): Take a moment to focus and clear your mind while you put Deepak’s meditation into practice

DVD Special Features:

• Introduction to Meditation (8-Minutes): Open your mind to Deepak’s teachings as he explains the practice of meditation and its advantages
• Mindfulness of Food (6-Minutes): Learn the real meaning of hunger and how to enjoy its nutrients, become aware of your body’s needs and eat consciously
• The Balance of Yoga (12-Minutes): Deepak introduces viewers to the real meaning of yoga and getting in touch with the deepest part of yourself
• Transformation Through Yoga (7-Minutes): Deepak speaks about the importance of inner transformation and taking control of your life through self-awareness
• The Breath of Yoga (5-Minutes): Deepak and Tara demonstrate the importance of the breath and consciousness during physical yoga
• The Flow of Yoga (4-Minutes): Deepak and Tara expand on the meaning of flow in physical yoga and everyday life by connecting your body, mind and spirit

DEEPAK CHOPRA & TARA STILES - YOGA TRANSFORMATION: STRENGTH & ENERGY

Intended to sculpt and strengthen key muscles through power pose yoga, Strength & Energy features a 50-minute yoga workout led by Stiles. The DVD also includes meditation exercises from Chopra that will enlighten and encourage personal commitment, while bringing energy to the forefront. The program includes:

• Power Pose Yoga Workout (50-Minutes): Stretch and strengthen key muscle groups with powerful yoga poses designed to tone the entire body
• Meditation Practice (15-Minutes): Take a moment to focus and clear your mind while you put Deepak’s meditation to practice

DVD Special Features:

• Introduction to Meditation (8-Minutes): Open your mind to Deepak’s teachings as he explains the practice of meditation and its advantages
• Transformation Through Yoga (7-Minutes): Deepak speaks about the importance of inner transformation and taking control of your life through self-awareness
• The Breath of Yoga (5-Minutes): Deepak and Tara demonstrate the importance of the breath and consciousness during physical yoga
• The Flow of Yoga (4-Minutes): Deepak and Tara expand on the meaning of flow in physical yoga and everyday life by connecting your body, mind and spirit
• Strength, Power & Flexibility (1-Minute): Deepak and Tara discuss the true meaning of these words and how they relate to physical and spiritual yoga

What I Thought:

Well, I have to admit that I don't practice meditation, at least not Dr. Chopra's form of meditation. I don't consider him a spiritual leader in my Christian faith.  Therefore, I did not do any of the meditation exercises on these DVDs. I can however say that the yoga on these DVDs is great! It is easy enough for a beginner like myself to do and they've both been exercise DVDs that I've really enjoyed. I find that Tara is very easy to follow along with and very encouraging throughout the DVDs.  I love to alter my workout routine and I've loved throwing these in the mix!

You can buy these DVDs online at Amazon.com and I've also noticed them for sale at my local Walmart, so I'm sure you can find them at many retailers!

Initials, Inc Review and Giveaway

Do you love personalized products? Maybe you love bags of all shapes and sizes. Well, today I'm going to introduce you to a home party company that specializes in that! It's called Initials, Inc. I hadn't heard of Initials, Inc until a few weeks ago when I was contacted by them. Maybe you've been to one of their parties, or maybe you're just learning about them too. Here's what they have to say about their company:

What started out as a personal journey for these two women has today turned into a multi-million dollar, nationwide, life altering company for families all across America. In 2005 these dynamic sisters quickly found themselves at the common crossroads of work and family. Shortly after the birth of their first children, they knew that their professional journey was about to take an exciting and unknown detour. Armed with a strong entrepreneurial background of creating their own path, this was an exciting time for both sisters.

Setting down their briefcases and picking up a burp cloth was the first step. Literally, starting something from nothing was the second. As new mothers, they found themselves wanting to be there for their families, but still having a desire to find something that would stir their souls creativity, fill their well socially and allow them to contribute to their homes financially. With numerous conversations, brainstorming sessions and prayer…they found it. Beginning hundreds of miles apart (in Georgia and Texas) both Britney and Ivy each found a niche in their communities for personalized products and gifts that celebrated the individual. Jumping into this new endeavor with one simple embroidery machine each and an incredible drive to create success on their own terms, these sisters started their personal home based businesses. A few months, and many extremely excited women later, Initials, Inc. was founded.

Launched officially as a Direct Selling Association party plan company in early 2005, Initials, Inc. is now represented by thousands of Independent Creative Partners throughout the United States. The Georgia based Initials, Inc. is a premier personalized handbag and accessories company in the Direct Selling Industry and is consistently experiencing phenomenal growth in both sales and recruiting. The core company message of ‘There’s only one you!’ is celebrated through amazing personalized products, top in category career path and an abundance of opportunity for all that seek more for themselves and their families!

Initials, Inc sent me my own personalized Resort Tote to review. I decided on the Black Diamond Resort Tote with the traditional monogram in Candy Green color (what can I say--I love green!) I didn't really study the dimensions on this bag closely before it was sent to me and I was honestly surprised at how big it was when I pulled it out of its shipping box! The dimensions are 24"W x 18"H x 10"D.  I can fit SO much in this bag! This bag is going to be perfect for trips to the pool, park, or beach this summer. I'm sure I could fit at least 4 beach towels, plus snacks, drinks and more into this bag! I've also found that I can use it to hold my laptop, purse, diaper bag, with room for lots more when I plan on being gone all day.  The bag is also very durable and I'm sure will last me for years! It's wonderful!

The only drawback to the bag is that it is spot-clean only. With kids, it seems like everything gets dirty in this house and I'm worried about how I'll keep this bag looking new. To be honest with you, if the bag gets dirty enough, I will probably try to wash it in the bathtub and hang it up to dry--I'll update you on how that goes when the time comes!

There are all kinds of great products you can get from Initials, Inc like blankets, bins, flip flops, and of course all kinds of bags that you can personalize to make uniquely your own! Check out all they have to offer by visiting their website at http://www.initials-inc.com .  You can also find info on hosting your own party or becoming your own independent sales consultant on their website! If you're looking for a way to earn some extra income, this may be just what you're looking for!

One of my lucky readers will also win a $50 Gift Card to use at Initials, Inc! Please note, they are unable to ship outside of the United States. The gift card can be applied to order totals which includes order and shipping and, as always, personalization is FREE! If you'd like to win, just use the easy Rafflecopter entry form below. Good luck!

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Foxy Originals Necklace Winner!

Jennifer Markerink--you are the winner of this giveaway! Congratulations! You should be receiving the necklace soon.  I'm sure you'll love this prize! 

A Soldier's Tale CD Winner!

Congratulations to Lydia Powell! You are the winner of this giveaway! You should receive your CD soon.

Coming Soon From Bright Starts!

Look at what we just recently received to review AND give away!

Yes, my daughter is very excited about these new products for her baby brother!! I am working on setting them up, and getting the review written. It should be up in a few days. Are there are questions/concerns that you'd like to see me address?

Earthy Crunchy Mama Winner!

Congratulations to Hannah Horne! You are the winner of this giveaway! You should be receiving an email soon with details on claiming your prize. Enjoy it!!

Cheap Boutique Winners!

There were 2 winners for this giveaway! They are:

• Sarah Holtzclaw Boudreaux
• Sandy Schade VanHoey

Congrats ladies! You should receive an email soon with details on claiming your prize.

New Toys from the Baby Einstein Company!

Calling all parents of children ages 0-2 (and grandparents, aunts, uncles, caregivers, etc.)! In celebration of 15 years of making babies happy, The Baby Einstein Company announces the launch of new toys and gear which captures the serenity, sights and sounds of the sea.

Known for their award-winning infant products, this new Baby Einstein line includes Sweet Sea Dreams Mobile, Sea Dreams Soother, Baby Neptune Activity Saucer, Music & Discovery Travel Mirror, Peek-A-Scene and Count & Discover Treasure Chest.

Babies will love and be entranced by these new developmental toys and gear with soft lights, big shapes, bright colors and sweet melodies designed for self-discovery and the natural curiosity of early learners.

These new toys and gear are eligible for The Baby Einstein Rewards Program, a customer loyalty program created just for families and powered by Disney Movie Rewards.

Check out the redesigned www.babyeinstein.com today!

New Baby Coming - Nursery Room Decorating

Today, I'm pleased to bring you a guest post from Megan Gates on Nursery Room Decorating--something we're getting ready to do again in our house!

Megan Gates is an active blogger who provides written work to the blogosphere pertaining to NYC Rentals, Hamptons Homes, home improvement and the latest architecture, design, fashion and travel.  Follow her on twitter @MEGatesDesign.

A new baby is coming into your home, what an exciting time! Decorating the nursery for this new baby is also an exciting and important task that some new parents may find a little daunting. There are several easy ways to approach this interior design project that will make this a fun and relaxing time. 

Start by picking a theme for the nursery. Use your favorite cartoon character, animal, flowers, or nature scenes. Be artistic and creative by painting a mural. Choose your favorite color paints and pick out some stencils to help you create the exact image you want on the wall(s). You can be very creative by making this space a warm soothing, serene sanctuary for your child. You can also use a quicker technique if painting isn’t your best skill by using wall decals. Nursery wall decals and wall stickers are affordable and a fast way to replicate the look of a hand-painted mural. Also, try to think ahead will this nursery have to change color and theme in the next few years? If so, try using more neutral paint colors and fewer wall decals for easier transitions.

Next decide where you want the baby’s furniture to be placed. The baby’s crib is the most important part of the nursery’s design. The best location would be to center the crib against the wall. If you have a smaller room, consider angling the crib to give you more space. Try not to place the crib near any windows to avoid drafts. Place the changing table closest to the crib for easy access to change those wet diapers. Look into purchasing a rocker or rocker recliner for more relaxed comfortable feedings. Walk around the room and try to envision yourself changing a diaper and handling a feeding. Does this layout and flow of the room work best for you?

Now it’s time to add accessories to make the nursery feel warm and comfortable. Decorate with soft lighting, shelving, and curtains to compliment the theme you chose. Always keeping in mind the baby’s safety by hanging shelving at appropriate heights and using safety brackets in the wall. Never hang shelving or other wall décor over the crib. Use soft lighting, it will be easier on you and the baby’s eyes for nighttime feedings and diaper changes. Use stuffed animals that compliment your bedding colors. Frame pictures of family members and or pieces of art that you love. Accent colors by adding the child’s name in block letters on the wall or shelving. Start a library for your child and add a painted bookshelf to the room. The nursery bedding you select should complement the color scheme chosen for the walls and flooring. Bedding is usually sold in sets and can include a comforter, bumper, dust ruffle, and sheet. 

Use these tips above and your creative imagination to create a warm, peaceful nursery that will welcome your infant home.

~Thanks Megan!

Step2 My Clubhouse Bonus Entries!

You may have seen the post on my Facebook page a few days ago that we are reviewing AND giving away Step2's brand new My Clubhouse! This clubhouse retails for $199.99 and is available exclusively through ToysRUs.  I'm still working on taking pictures, video, and typing up the review but it will be available soon! I can't wait to share it with you!!

In the meantime, because I'm so excited about having the opportunity to give one of these away to one of you, I have a "bonus entries" opportunity for you!

I want to show Step2 how much I and my fans appreciate this fun giveaway AND their awesome products. We have a handful of products from Step2 and they are all terrific! They have all held up really well no matter what my daughter throws (sometimes literally!) at them!

So, here is your chance to get EXTRA entries into the Clubhosue giveaway. You have two options. They are:

1. Take a picture of your child(ren) playing with one of their Step2 Toys. If you do not own a Step2 toy, you can also take a picture of them/you at the store standing next to a Step2 toy that you'd love to own.  Pictures submitted will be put into a short video that will be uploaded to YouTube, therefore, please only send pictures you took yourself and you are willing to share with my fans. 1 Picture entry per family. You CAN however send me more than 1 picture to be included in the video, but you may only claim the 5 extra entries once.
2. Submit a quote that can be used in the video about why you love Step2, your favorite Step2 product, ect. You're first name, your last name initial and City/State will be included in the video when the quote goes up. You are limited to 1 quote per family.

Depending on how many people submit pictures/quotes they may not all be used.  All entries WILL be verified. Please make sure you are sending emails to thriftyniftymommy@yahoo.com with your picture and/or quote. Any person(s) found to be cheating will be disqualified from this and all future giveaways.



*SORRY, BONUS ENTRIES FOR THIS GIVEAWAY ARE NOW CLOSED*

Not Finding Out!

If you've been a reader of this blog for a little while now, you probably remember that when we first found out we were pregnant with baby #2, we decided we were going to wait to find out the sex of our baby until he/she was born. Well, around week 24 we caved and just couldn't wait anymore. We found out that we're having a BOY!

One of the big reasons we decided to find out was because I had a VERY big gut feeling that we were having a boy and we have plenty of items for a girl, but nothing for a little boy. I decided that if we knew the sex of our baby, I would be able to purchase items for him/her and anyone who wanted to purchase gifts for our little one would be able to do the same.  I think all moms get to that nesting period where they just have such a need to feel prepared--and that's how I've been feeling!

Of course, it was just a few weeks after we caved in that I found out about this awesome website that would have solved my "problem." The website is called Not Finding Out.  Here's a summary of how the service works: 

I’d like to introduce Not Finding Out (www.notfindingout.com), the only online baby registry and shopping website that caters to expecting parents who are not finding out whether they’re having a girl or boy. The goal of Not Finding Out is to help to preserve what was once the most magical line ever uttered by a doctor; either, “It’s a girl!” or “It’s a boy!” 

 

How does Not Finding Out, or “NFO” do it? Basically, www.notfindingout.com operates like any other baby registry but with a pretty brilliant (patent-pending) twist. NFO pairs almost all of their inventory into complementary girl and boy versions. So, you register for that super soft snuggly blanket you want, you just don’t know whether you’re going to need the pink or blue one.

 

How do people shop for you? When an NFO item is ordered for a Not Finding Out mom, a beautifully wrapped Preview Card is mailed to her or can be taken to a baby shower so that Mom knows what item was purchased and receives the “gift” before the baby is born. The actual girl or boy version of that gift is shipped straight to her as soon as she has her baby. Shoppers can also still shop online like a normal baby store and buy any product and check out like normal.

So how does Not Finding Out know whether they’re sending girl or boy items to their registrants? Very easy. NFO registrants get a Shhh! Card in their Registry Welcome package that they take to their healthcare provider to complete and send back directly to NFO so there’s zero chance that the registrant ever sees it. NFO gets all the right gifts lined up so when Mom has her baby and someone from the family lets Not Finding Out know, they ship the box and the new baby is equipped with all those precious girl or boy items. 

The result? Not Finding Out handles the problems of expecting parents who want to preserve the surprise of their baby’s sex! And the range of goods carried by Not Finding Out covers everything from clothing, bath, potty, gifts, essentials, sets, to even bedding! What a fun way to have your baby’s nursery delivered to you in the gender-specific version you want! Very fun.

Not Finding Out even has a whole “Shower Kit” that they’ll send to registrants or shower hostesses so that they can plan a fun Not Finding Out shower since there’s a little more guessing involved than there are with other showers! Not Finding Out has done a great job of supporting those Not Finding Out parents in their decision to preserve the surprise of whether they’re having a precious baby girl or boy.

I LOVE this idea and plan to take advantage of it when baby #3 comes along! I wish I had known about it sooner! You can connect with Not Finding Out on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest!

*This is a paid posting. I only share paid posts for companies I can happily endorse and believe my readers would like to hear about.*

Ava Anderson Non-Toxic Review and Giveaway

Two nights ago I took a nice, long, relaxing bath. I can't remember the last time I had a bath! Normally I am rushing to get in and out of the shower before my daughter can get into much trouble. My time was made 10x better because I got to try out some great products from Ava Anderson Non-Toxic.

Ava Anderson Non-Toxic was founded by Ava in 2009 (at 15) with the help of her parents, to share products that are not harmful for humans and the environment. She now has 1,300 consultants in 48 states and is one of the fastest growing direct sales companies in the country. Ava was recently honored as “Emerging Entrepreneur, 2011” finalist by Entrepreneur Magazine. In addition to growing a business with an important social message, their consultants are growing strong businesses as well.

Ava’s quick growing success has been monumental and she has been featured in Glamour, Seventeen (“Pretty Amazing Girl” pick by the Editor) People, Aol Stylist, WWD, Italian Vogue, and many more. She has been endorsed (never paid) by Alicia Silverstone and other high profile celebrities interested in anti cancer and environmental issues. For stay at home moms looking for a way to supplement their income, you could consider becoming a consultant to earn extra money while educating others about their clean, safe products.

Here is a list of Ava's current lines:

avaBODY – hand & body lotion - hand sanitizer - lip balm - hand soap - shower gel - body scrub

avaSKIN –cleanser – toner –moisturizer – exfoliator – eye makeup remover pads – eye cream - lip scrub

avaFACE – lip glosses – lipsticks – mascara - foundation – blush - brushes

avaSUN – sunscreen – lip balm with spf – moisturizer with spf

avaHAIR – shampoo – conditioner – style cream – deep conditioning treatment

Ava Anderson sent me some of her Lemon Sugar Body Scrub and also a container of her Body Butter. The scrub smells SO good and left my body feeling refreshed. I put the body butter on after I toweled off and the next morning I could still feel its moisturizing effects on my skin. It's awesome! I'm loving using this products and would love to try some of the other items in the Ava Anderson Non-Toxic line of products! You can see all that she has to offer by visiting her website at  http://avaandersonnontoxic.com/

One of my readers also has a chance to win a gift package, just like the one I received--a $31.95 value! If you'd like a chance to win, just use the easy Rafflecopter entry form. This giveaway is open to residents of the US only. Good luck!

~Like this giveaway? Please click the Top Mommy Blogs banner below. This casts a vote for my blog today and helps me continue to get great giveaways to share with you!~

Jeffy's World Winners!

There were 5 winners for this giveaway! They are:

• Mary Renshaw-Grace
• Renski Pipski
• Candida Milliron Sawa
• Ed Shult
• Holly L. Caulfield

You should each receive an email from me! Please respond to claim your prize. Congratulations!

Shopthegiftbasketstore.com Winner!

The winner of this giveaway is Rebecca Xavier. Congratulations! I just sent you an email with the info you'll need to redeem your prize. Enjoy!

HOTmilk Sexy Maternity Lingerie

Okay nursing moms (or soon to be nursing moms!)--have you heard of HOTmilk Lingerie? I've already nursed one baby and will soon be nursing our second child, but I just learned about them a few weeks ago. I wish I had heard of them sooner!

When I was breastfeeding my daughter, I had a handful of nursing bras/tanks but they were all not very supportive and definitely NOT much to look at. Matching panties--forget it!  I'm not sure who decided that nursing moms don't want to look sexy, I still do--don't you? Apparently that message had not gotten through to  lingerie companies--until Hot Milk came along!

HOTmilk is a maternity and nursing lingerie company that originated in New Zealand that has rapidly grown to become a global leader in sexy pregnancy and breastfeeding lingerie. HOTmilk celebrates the sensual, sexy woman inside the loving mother with sexy pregnancy and nursing lingerie and sleepwear.

HOTmilk sent me one of their nursing bras and matching panties in the Eclipse style to try out and I can't tell you how excited I was to finally have something nice to wear for my husband--and myself! This is what I was sent:

When I tried it on it was at night before bed. I was immediately in love with the set, but didn't get to wear it for long. The fit is perfect and I love how it looks. My husband said that this set gets 5 stars and his stamp of excellence! He was very excited about it!

I decided that I wanted to wear this set all day long to see how comfortable it would be, so I did just that the following day. I honestly mean it when I say, this set is not only sexy and feminine but very comfortable and figure flattering! I wore it all day long and loved it! I am going to be wearing this set a lot!

You can get nursing bra and panties like this set at HOTmilk, and you can also find night ware and items for dads! I'd love to try out their nighties and pjs next! HOTmilk has been nice enough to offer a coupon code to all of my readers! Just use code "JA30SAL" to save 20% on your next order! Visit HOTmilk at www.hotmilklingerie.com today!

*This is not a paid posting. Thanks to the company for the complimentary review items.*