Energizer & Crayola Team-up to #PowerCreativity

Crayola Glow Book

Just before the holiday Zion and I had the opportunity to attend a special Power Creativity event in New York City.  For a couple of hours we had a good time checking out really cool new Energizer battery powered art products.  We played with some of Crayola's newest offerings - a wide array of different Energizer powered toys perfect for children of all ages.  We also learned about Energizer MAX Batteries - which hold their shelf life for 10 years!!  A great fact to know considering I've had to toss many dead batteries that did nothing but sit in their box for several months!

 

Crayola Wonder Light-Up Paint Pallette

 

If you are still looking for a few gift ideas for the kids, check out all of the recommendation on Crayola's gift guide!  They have great ideas sorted by age and type!

 

Crayola Digital Light Designer & Sketcher Projector

And while you are stocking up on creative toys for the kids, check out Energizer Flameless Wax Candles.  I love the authentic look, smell and flicker effect of these flameless candles.  I can't wait to use these for my holiday table and decor.  They have different settings as well so I can turn them on and they'll switch off automatically in 4 hours.  For Energizer deals and savings, visit them on Facebook.

Have you ever used flameless wax candles?  What did you think of them?  Have you finished your Christmas shopping?

I wrote this review while participating in a campaign by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of Energizer. I attended an event and received a promotional item to thank me for my participation.

Burts Bees Intense Hydration

Just finished trying out the Burt's Bees Intense Hydration Skincare line thanks to BzzAgent!  I loved trying the Cream Cleanser, Treatment Mask and the Night Cream.

My favorite was the cleanser - which smells like a sunrise - a refreshing citrus scent.

The Treatment Mask was also really interesting - you don't rinse it off, instead you wipe it off and then massage the remaining into your skin.

The Night Cream was a little heavy for my skin, but perfect for protecting dry skin in the Winter.


I received complimentary product for this review via BzzAgent, however; all opinions expressed are my own!!

Beauty Blogger #VoxBox Thanks @Influenster!

Well, I think I've finally used and abused just about everything in my Influenster Beauty Blogger Voxbox! So I'm ready to share "the good, the so-so, and the I think I'll pass" with you lovelies.

1.  Kiss Ever Pro Lashes Starter Kit ($5.99) - This was my FAVORITE product that came in the box.  Not only are the lashes lightweight and easy to apply, they are made from human hair so they look and feel natural.  The adhesive is latex-free and holds for 24 hours!  Falsies were never easier to wear!

2. Bath & Body Works Mini Candles ($3.50) - The candle I received came in the Nutmeg & Spice scent and I seriously wanted to eat it.  I mean, totally delicious smelling.  I've used the candle 5-6 times for several hours and its still not used up.  The scent is perfect for a small space like the bathroom.  I've seen a few sales on the web for these mini candles - but even better you can get a big version of the same scent!

3. Not Your Mother's Kinky Moves Curl Defining Hair Cream ($6.00) - This product I would pass on. I tried it both on my hair which is naturally wavy but fine, as well as my daughter's spiral curls - it didn't really control frizz or define curls for either of us.

4.  Boots No. 7 Beautiful Skin Cleansing Lotion ($8.49) & Night Cream ($13.49) - I thought the lightness of the product was a welcome change compared to most night creams.  It was interesting using the cleanser which is a lotion that you wipe off without ever using water.  I think I'm still on the fence but would likely try more of their product.

5.  NYC New York Color IndividualEyes Custom Compact ($4.99) - I love the portability of having all that you need for a single look in one compact, but I didn't necessarily love the color scheme of mine.  I think the best part of this is the included eyeshadow primer and highlighter.

6.  Goody Simple Styles Spin Pin ($7.29) - These pins are really neat, I just don't have enough hair to really play around with them.  I did use them in Zion's hair but found it to be difficult to get them to hold her hair - she has so much of it.  I think if you have a lot of hair, and reasonably long you might love these!

Overall, I really enjoyed the Influenster Beauty Blogger VoxBox.  I received the products totally free to try but all of these opinions are my own.

Tria Beauty Hair Removal Laser + Discount Code Demo & Update

Lovelies - its time for an update on my quest for hairlessness!  I've been using the Tria Beauty Hair Removal Laser for just a few months and am starting to see results!

So now that you have seen how it works, its time to talk progress!! Here are some progress pictures - warning - if you don't want to see hairy legs or armpit - look away now!! Haha!

SAVE $100 on a Tria Hair Removal Laser from 11/21-11/27!

Use Code: SHOP100 at checkout!!

 These are Left & Right Armpits after 2nd October Treatment.
Here is my right armpit before and now:

I think you'll agree there is less hair overall and in general it is finer than before.

These are Left & Right Legs after 2nd October Treatment.
Remember that my Right leg is one treatment behind my left (purposefully for the comparison!)

Overall, several sessions in I'm seeing some results.  The biggest change is in the frequency of shaving. I used to have to shave my armpits EVERY day, now I'm getting away with once or twice a week.  My legs used to be every other day, now I can shave them once every 3-4 days.  That is great for someone who would like to still feel confident but doesn't have time to shave every day!

My only challenge with the review so far has been staying consistently on schedule with my treatments.  It has surprised me how long it takes to do each leg, and sometimes I have to charge the laser after just one leg, so I have to fight to keep with my every two week regimen.  I'm still very pleased with the results, so hopefully I'll have even more great results next month when I check in again!

I received complimentary product for this review as a part of the Tria Beauty Blogger Review program, however; all views, opinions and results are my own!

babyhuddle! U.S. Launch!

Hey lovelies! Check out this great resource for parents that is launching today in the U.S.! babyhuddle is an online parenting community, one-stop shop and resource guide all in one.  They launched in the UK in 2011 and have been growing like crazy!  I had a few days to test out the site ahead of the launch, and its been super easy to use, and a great way to ask questions, organize lists of items that would help others, and find new and interesting products that other parents recommend.

Here is a screen shot of my profile ... I created a couple of lists, and have asked/answered a few questions as well.

You can follow specific parents that you find on babyhuddle with lists/answers you find valuable.

Here are some of my pluses and minuses of the site:

(+):

• Super easy to use and efficient, clean interface.
• You can create great bundles of products in your lists - which is great to use as a resource for friends that are expecting for the first time, or to keep track of things you found invaluable during different stages.
• Great information, and answers from parents.

(-):

• I couldn't find a way to add any products that weren't already listed on the directory - and there were some things that I'd love to have added to my lists, so I hope that will be a future option.

Though this isn't the first parent community site I've come across, it does offer a few unique ways of sorting and gaining valuable information from other parents.  I also feel that it is less cluttered and overwhelming than a lot of the other resources out there - I encourage you to take a look at it yourself
and see what you think of it!

Make sure you check out my lists - "Help for sleep deprived parents" and "Breastfeeding Easily & Successfully" for some of my favorite products that got me through that first year with Zion!

Visit babyhuddle on: Facebook // Twitter // Pinterest

I was compensated for my time in writing/reviewing Babyhuddle, however; all opinions and views expressed in this post are my own.

Hand Made Twitter Handle Necklace + Giveaway by Lauren Nicole Gifts

Hey lovelies! I have a special treat for you today!  Check out this gorgeous hand-stamped sterling silver necklace created by Lauren Nicole Gifts!

Lauren Nicole Gifts is a great place to find gorgeous hand-stamped jewelry and other unique and personalized gifts.

Lauren Nicole Gifts specializes in custom, hand stamped, and monogrammed jewelry that is hand made just for you. Our original line of jewelry includes baby footprint and hand print necklaces, child's signature and artwork necklaces, and mommy jewelry. We have a unique collection of monogrammed, initial, and wax seal jewelry.

Check out a few of my favorite items from the shop below:

1.  Wedding Charm Necklaces - a beautiful way to celebrate that special day!
 2. Mommy Necklaces - a perfect Mother's day gift!

3.  Handprint Cuff-links for Dad - use your child's actual hand prints!
4. Children's Artwork Jewelry - made with your child's original artwork!

I was so excited to get my very own twitter handle necklace in the mail, especially after seeing a few at BlogHer in August.  It arrived in a cute little box and included a bonus Jewelry cleaning cloth.

I really couldn't wait to put it on after it arrived.  I love the chain, it's honestly the perfect length for me. It has a delicate, high quality, look and feel to it.

Hand Stamped Sterling Silver Twitter Handle Necklace - The solid sterling silver pendant measures 3/4" to 1.25" long depending on the length of the name. The pendant can be hand stamped with up to 16 characters (punctuation, dots and spaces count as characters). The charm comes on a sterling silver chain with a freshwater pearl charm (the pearl can be upgraded to a gemstone - gemstones may vary in shape depending on what we have in stock).

So what do you think!?  Do you want one too?  Here's your chance!  One of you are going to win a $75 Credit to Lauren Nicole Gifts!! (You can use it on your own Twitter Handle necklace - or anything else you love from the shop!)
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Check out Lauren Nicole Gifts // Twitter // Facebook

I received a complimentary necklace from Lauren Nicole Gifts to review via ThetaMom, as always all opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Glade Expressions #IGotItFree

Have you guys tried any of the new Glad Expressions products?  Last month I participated in a BzzAgent campaign and had the chance to check out the Fragrance Mist and Oil Diffuser for FREE!

I just wanted to share a couple things here with you - first - have you signed up to be a BzzAgent yet?  Go do it! Its really fun (and FREE) to try new products that are catered to your interests!

And second - next time you are in the market for delicious scented products to make your home inviting - give these a try.  There were three scents available and my preference is the tropical smell of Pineapple Mangosteen, but maybe you'd like the others!

I wasn't totally won over by the oil diffuser - though the look of it is great - the scent wasn't strong enough for a lasting impact - but the fragrance mist is great!

I'm not getting paid to endorse this - just sharing my experience!

This Post Sponsored By:

Celebrate Diversity Divine Baby Luxury Baby Quilts

Hey lovelies! I'm taking a short break from the regular Monday, "Pinning" party to give my hands and wrists some healing time.  In the mean time, I'm back with a vlog to share with you about Divine Baby luxury baby quilts.  I had the privilege of reviewing one of these gorgeous heirloom quality blankets with my daughter Zion, and I think that you would really love them.

Divine Baby luxury baby quilts are a great way to celebrate your child's heritage.  The blankets are heirloom quality, made of 250 thread count cotton and stitched beautifully!  They currently come in four different styles, featuring vibrant colors and designs.

The Divine Baby Story: 

"Divine Baby is a unique line of baby products that celebrates the beauty of cultural diversity through timeless, heirloom-quality keepsakes. We know how precious your children are to you, and we believe that all babies benefit from nurturing moments shared with those who love them. Our gorgeously illustrated board books, ultra-luxurious baby blankets and other products are meant for families to share and to pass down through the generations."

How do you celebrate your family heritage with your child?  Which divine baby blanket is your favorite!?

We received complimentary product from Divine Baby for this review, as always all opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Tria Hair Removal Laser Update Slow Hair Regrowth Already!

Hey friends! I'm back with an update on my quest to be armpit hair free!  Yep, time to let you know how my first experience with the Tria Hair Removal Laser has gone and any results.  Since I'm resting my hands and wrists as much as possible, I'm sharing via vlog today.  

Next update in two weeks will show you progress pictures after two treatments!  I am excited to see the change in hair growth and hear what you guys think.

I received a complimentary Tria Hair Removal Laser to review as a part of the Tria Beauty Blogger program, all opinions expressed are my own.

Picky StickyBaby Month Onesie Stickers Giveaway Baby Portrait Ideas

via Picky Sticky

One thing that I wish I had done during Zion's first year was a monthly milestone picture.  There are so many amazing baby portrait ideas for how to do this - but none of them make it easier than this creative product I want to share with you today!

Picky Sticky Baby Month Onesie Stickers allow you to turn any ordinary onesie or t-shirt into a creative milestone marker which you can use in all of your creative baby portrait ideas.  

 

Just peel and stick!!  I love that this product was designed by a Mom, and with other moms in mind.  Here are some of my favorite Picky Sticky designs:

            
L-R: Primary Fairy, Creature Feature, Fuddy Buddy

Which one is your favorite?  Let me know in a comment below for a chance to win a pack of your choice of Picky Sticky baby month onesie stickers! Don't have kids?  These are a great baby shower gift for any expecting mama, so enter anyway!

Before you start entering this fun giveaway - I want to show you a few other great products from the Picky Sticky shop:

            
L-R: Belly Stickers, Year Stickers, Milestone Stickers

Stickers for the expecting mama - which can be put directly on the belly or on a cute tee or tank, stickers for your young child, and stickers for the major milestones or holidays (not shown).

I thought it would be funny to put a Zero on my shirt since I'm currently TTC.  ;)

Don't have kids?  These are a great baby shower gift for any expecting mama, so enter anyway!

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

This post is sponsored by Picky Sticky - I received complimentary product for my review, however; all opinions expressed in this post are my own.

Wheels on the Bus go - clash, boom, bash! LeapFrog Touch Magic Learning Bus letters toy

Last week, I had the opportunity to gloat a bit about our sneak preview of the fantastic new LeapFrog Touch Magic Rockin' Guitar - which Zion has been jamming on daily!  This week - I want to share with you another great product in their new Touch Magic line - the LeapFrog Touch Magic Learning Bus!  This is my favorite new alphabet learning letters toy I have come across!

What sets the Touch Magic Learning Bus apart from other alphabet learning toys is the modern feel.  You know everything is "touch screen" now - and it just has a stronger appeal to our little ones who have been exposed to the excitement of tablets and smartphones.  It is also a brilliant design when you take into account - again - the lack of cracks that toddler drool/mess/ickies can get into (and never get out!)

Music & learning fun with every little touch!

• Touch and learn with 200+ learning and musical responses

• Switch between three modes: Learning, Letter Exploration   

and Music, which includes fun sing-along songs about the alphabet, motion and more.

• Explore 40+ touch points including letters, piano keys and more!

Our favorite feature on the Touch Magic Learning Bus are the adorable passengers!  Each of the cute little characters on this letters toy play a special instrument - and when you are using the bus in music mode - they can play along with their instrument when you press them.  Another fun musical feature is the mini keyboard and drum symbols at the bottom of the bus.  The wheels on this bus go clash, boom, bash!

I'm also impressed that Zion, at 2 years, really gets into the game mode - where she can hunt for either a letter or an object according to what is asked.  This Learning Bus letters toy keeps her attention and strong focus for anywhere from 10-20 minutes at a time - which is perfect for her age.  We loved having the opportunity to explore the features and enjoy this new learning tool/toy!

This post is sponsored by LeapFrog. I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective, and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

So You Think You Can Jam? LeapFrog Touch Magic Rockin' Guitar + Contest

We're big fans of music in our house - and dancing - and jamming.  Zion has a set of instruments that she loves to dig through every day, regularly filling the house with her own melodies and beats.  So when I learned of the LeapFrog TouchMagic Rockin' Guitar Contest I was pretty excited - mostly because I know she could totally win it!

Better still - we have had an awesome first look at the LeapFrog Touch Magic Rockin' Guitar!!  I'm gonna give you a spoiler right now, we are BIG fans of LeapFrog at our house.  Zion owns quite a few of their toys - and it's no wonder why she loves them, they are truly built with education, durability and fun in mind!  Here are a few details about her new favorite instrument - the Touch Magic Rockin' Guitar:

The Rockin’ Guitar brings musical fun and helps to develop preschool skills with every little touch.  Kids can choose to play solo without a backup, play along with a band or select electric or acoustic guitar to play 10 built-in songs including: Rockin’ Robin, Itsy Bitsy Spider, If You’re Happy and You Know It,  Pop Goes the Weasel and more. Plus, kids can customize their play experience by adding guitar riffs, silly sounds and drums creating 100+ musical combinations to make every song unique.  

So far Zion's favorite song is to play is "Pop Goes the Weasel."  Can I just tell you that CUTE OVERLOAD is an understatement as she sings along and strums away?

When we first opened the box - I have to admit, I felt a little out of touch with technology for a hot second - I may have even had to read the instructions.  I was nervous that Zion would get frustrated by the lack of actual guitar strings to strum.  Turns out - she picked up the motions quite easily after a couple of times playing with it.  Now when she plays - she really gets into it - doing spins, holding it like a pro - and strumming away at the same time.

One of my personal favorite features on the Touch Magic Rockin' Guitar is the ability to make the play along songs turn very "chipmunkish" by strumming fast.  Zion and I both giggle whenever it happens.  I am certainly impressed with the fact that without any cracks or creases - the guitar can be easily cleaned and wiped down.

Right now Leap Frog is hosting a contest - not just any contest though - a Rockin' Guitar Contest!  Record your kiddo jamming on either their Touch Magic Rockin' Guitar or crafty homemade one - then upload it to the contest website and get your peeps to start voting! Five grand prize winners will get a $500 giftcard!  Go check it out and vote for Zion, and post up some competition for her!  Each week those who vote get entered to win a $100 Leap Frog Touch Magic Prize Pack!!  How awesome is that!?  The contest JUST started (8/1) and runs through 11/30/12!

This post is sponsored by LeapFrog. I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls Collective, and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.