Thank You for a Wonderful Year!

If it weren't for you all- my readers, my partners, and my sponsors- 4BabyAndMom would never exist. I cannot thank you enough for your love, support, encouragement, excitement, and loyalty. I am thankful for all of our followers- on Facebook, through blogger/google friends, via email, and on YouTube. I am excited to expand even more over the next year, and am honored to have "met" so many of you. I have learned so much this year, from blogging, to html, to technical mumbo-jumbo, to ethics. I've survived many obstacles, and enjoyed every grreta thing that came my way. As 2010 approaches, I cannot wait to see the blessings God has in store for me, my family, and my readers.

Wishing you all a safe, blessed, and prosperous New Year,

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Calling New or Expecting Moms- Upcoming Events at Babies R Us

Save the Date!! These sessions are packed with tons of great information for new or expectant parents. Click on the events above to find a Babies R Us near you that is hosting these events, or for more information. All events are free.

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Winkflash 5 and 10 SALE + Coupon Code

Click on the image above to take advantage of the great sale going on at Winkflash right now. Develop your beautiful Holiday pictures at a fraction of the price! Get 4x6 photos for only 5 cents each, plus 5x7's for only 10 cents using coupon code SALE510. Don't delay, this coupon code expires on January 11th!

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Taco Bake: Quick + Easy to Make Dinner Recipe

If you're looking for an affordable dinner to make that will fill hearty appetites, Taco Bake is a great meal to add onto your menu!

Ingredients:

• 1 -1.25lbs ground beef (depending on size of family) ($2-2.25)
  
• 2 cups of tortilla chips (less than 1/2 of $2 bag ~$1)
  
• 1-2 cups of shredded cheese (up to $1.88)
  
• 1 packet of taco seasoning ($0.88)
  
• 1 small (~8oz) can of tomato sauce ($0.27)
• 1 can of crescent rolls ($1.88)
  

Total cost: approx: $8

Method:

Brown Meat in large frying/sautee pan.
While meat is browning, lightly grease a 13x9 baking dish.
Set aside, and return to the meat.
Drain excess grease, then add the can of sauce and the Taco Seasoning.
Stir together well, and let simmer on low for about 5 minutes.
Unroll crescent roll into your baking pan to make one solid sheet for a crust.
Pinch seams closed.
Crush about a cup of tortilla chips and layer on top of the crescent roll dough.
Take taco seasoned meat and pour evenly over the crushed tortilla chips.
Add shredded cheese (Mexican Mix or Colby/Monterey are our favorites!) over the meat, and then crush another cup or so of tortilla chips to form an even layer over cheese.

Bake in the oven at 350*F for 20-30 minutes or until top is browned, and crescent rolls on the bottom appear golden.

Serve with sour cream and salsa to compliment on the side or on top.


Family tip:
Kids love to help with the chips and cheese during this meal!

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Raising a Father by Arjun Sen - Do You Know Your Child?

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Raising a Father. All opinions are 100% mine.

"When the child is born, every father signs this unwritten contract 
that for 18 years, I'll be there no matter what. 
Unconditionally, every moment, be present."~Arjun Sen

I know that I was a 'Daddy's Girl', and I know that the time I had with my father growing up was great when it was good, and not so great during the tough times.. but nonetheless, he was my father. My husband has a lot of similar traits- many of the good and a few of the bad- and it's been proven in study after study how a young lady's relationship with her father helps to mold her future relationship. 

It's amazing to me that little Maka called out her dad at only 8 years old, telling him how he's never there for her, and doesn't know her. How he spends more time on his cell phone than with her; that even when he's with her- he's not.

Do you know your child? Does your husband? What's your child's favorite color? Who's their best friend?

The author, Arjun Sen, explains in his book how he took a sacrifice to save the most important relationship in his life. The relationship between him and his daughter, and the eight year journey he's been on in his book, Raising a Father.

Reviewers state that the stories in this book are moments most of us share with our own families, but the author has a way of bringing out the life lessons in the event that opens our eyes to truly enjoy and experience the moments in ways we've never seen before.

As I clicked through Arjun Sen's blog, I took note to an article written called, "10 Ways to Give the Gift of Time This Season". This top ten list provides a great start to those looking to enjoy more minutes with their families, and even how to go "the extra yard".

Reading the other articles on his blog and on the Raising a Father website, as well as listening to the videos on the blog and YouTube, has really encouraged me to want to read the entire book and share it with my husband.

I can see the way my daughter worships my husband now, at only three and a half, and can only pray that their friendship and relationship continues to grow, mature, and strengthen as they get older.  I think that this book may have the tools needed to relate, and appreciate, all of the "little things" so many of us let slip away.

I'd love to hear your thoughts.. Watch this video below, and let me know if this book might be something your family could use, or if you know of a man who would be blessed learning more about this product.

Special thanks to Social Spark and Raising a Father for providing me with the opportunity to review this website, author and book. 

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Ahhhh.. Enjoying the last days of 2009

So the kiddies are playing with their new bicycles, and the array of toys that Santa left. We've scoured for missing pieces of board games, and swept up pegs to Lite Bright, and eaten leftovers until we had no room in our bellies.

Last night we baked some cookie-press cookies.. We made Christmas trees with M&M mini's, flowers with jam in the middle, swirly ones with cherries, and boxes covered in colored sugar crystals. The kids had a blast making them, and the cookie press that we used was super easy.

Tonight, we're planning on making some more cookies and trying out the new cookie cutters that we got to review from CheapCookieCutters.com.  For you crafty mommas out there, be sure to enter the YouCanMakeThis giveaway, as it's truly packed with awesome patterns for you to make.. (I'm trying to muster the space to set out my sewing machine and get to work on something this week!)

Although the time together with my family is wonderful, I am missing my normal "schedule" and cannot wait for life to go back to normal again- and more importantly, for the kids to come down from their sugar high!

I hope you are all enjoying what Santa left for you and your kiddo's, and wish you all a very safe and Happy New Year!

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Wendy's New Spicy Chicken Nuggets Review

I was recently asked if I wanted to review Wendy's new Spicy Chicken Nuggets, and was sent a $5 gift card to go and try them. My family loves the regular chicken nuggets, and I love the spicy chicken sandwich, so I jumped at the opportunity.

The Spicy Chicken Nuggets are on the Value Menu- and for only 99 cents- which is cheaper than their regular chicken nuggets at $1.19. (These are the prices at my location, prices may vary by location.)

The new Spicy Chicken Nuggets are made with 100% white meat chicken, and tastes just like the Spicy Chicken Sandwich. They're coated with Japanese style breadcrumbs and packed with a potent array of spices like red pepper, chili pepper, turmeric, paprika and ground mustard seed. You can see the seasoning in the breading! You can choose your favorite flavor dunking sauce, or stick to traditional ketchup like I do.

For 99 cents, these nuggets are a great deal and a great spin on a traditional menu item. Overall, I am definitely pleased with these nuggets.


I was provided a $5 gift card to Wendy's to try this product. All opinions expressed are my own, your personal experience may differ.

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Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays from 4BabyAndMom!

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Spin Master Toy Review for Boys and Girls!

Some really great toys and products found their way into our homes this holiday. SpinMaster, a Canada based toy company, manufactured a good deal of the items at the top of most wishlists: Bakugan, AirHogs, Tech Decks, and Moonsand--just to name a few.

SpinMaster has some great items for kids of all ages, and some were included as top holiday toys by Toys "R" Us, K-Mart, Toy Insider, Time To Play, Fun Fare, Oppenheim Toy Portfolio, NAPPA (National Parenting Publications Awards), New York Times, New York Daily News, Forbes and Bloomberg.

Recently, Spinmaster gave us the amazing oppurtunity to review some of their new products, and my family was totally impressed by what we found. The items we recieved were the Daniella Liv Doll, Flick Trix Finger Bikes, and the Pix O's Super Home Studio.

Liv Dolls

Liv Dolls are Spin Master’s most talked about new toy this holiday season. The next big thing to shake up the doll aisle, Liv dolls offer a unique new combination of amazing design, fun wig play, high end realistic looking fashions, and great online content at a very affordable price. Liv dolls most popular features include:

• 14 points of articulation for greater poseability (versus an industry standard of 5-6) --This is one of the coolest things about these dolls. They can move and pose; your child 's imagination won't need too much help making this doll come to life. My daughter and I had alot of fun posing her for her rock star photo shoot.
  
• · Easy to change wigs so girls can instantly switch hair styles and colors, or even cut and style their doll’s hair--It is super easy (if you read directions . . . if not you will attempt to do it wrong repeatedly until you read the directions and realize how simple it is) Aside from the hair being gorgeous and feeling like real hair, the best part is that it is removable. Unlike the dolls of my childhood, who were forced into uneven bobs and rat nest ponytails, Liv dolls hair is easily remedied. She comes with two looks, more are purchasable separately, or she has a short do that can never get ruined (it's part of her head).
  
• Insert glass-like eyes --Another way to tell these dolls apart from your standard doll. Their faces are stunning, mostly thanks to these glassy eyes. They really make this doll look amazing. I also like the fact that these dolls look like different characters, they don't all look like the same exact doll in different outfits. Each of the four are unique in looks and in personality. Online, each doll has their own "space" and you can change outfits, read her diary, watch videos' and play games with your Liv Girl!
  
• Detailed, realistic fashions--And they aren't under-dressed, if ya know what I mean! No super short and revealing ensembles. The girls wear sneakers and leggings and look like fashion forward teens but are appropriate for a young girl to admire. This is a real selling point for me, I love that they are not dressed in a way that makes me want to sew doll clothes to cover them up.

Flick Trix Finger Bikes

Spin Master continues to be the leader in extreme sports play with its re-introduction of Flick Trix, the

original die-cast finger bike! With exclusive licenses from companies like MirraCo, Hoffman, Haro, Fit, GT, Mongoose, Redline, Hutch and more, these bikes are all about authenticity! Flick Trix also have a
patented front brake play feature and interchangeable parts like wheels, pedals and grips. Each bike
comes with realistic handlebars for display, or kids can install the included “trick bars” to make it easy to
pull real BMX stunts with ease. Ages 8 and up.

--My son flipped over these, he was already in love with Tech Decks (the finger skate boards) and wasted no time ripping into the package and creating some mini bmx's. His words:"The coolest thing about these bikes are that the chains and pedals really work just like a real bike!" My son is ten, and I think the age limit is pretty accurate. There are some very small pieces ( ie: bolts, nuts, washers) and a younger child may lose them before they had the chance to play with the bike.

PixO's Ultimate Design Studio

The Spinmaster Pixos Ultimate Design Station allows young children to make a wide variety of two- and three-dimensional sculptures and designs with no ink or mess. Designed for kids age four and older, the PixOs Ultimate Design Station is a clean and easy way for children to explore their artistic sides as they create original sculptures. Ages 4+

--Remember those old molds that you placed the cylinder plastic beads on, then lined with wax paper and ironed? Once they melted the beads stayed together in whatever pattern you had created with the beads? PixO's has taken that fun craft and improved on it by making it safer. No ironing. No plug. No heat. Just place, spray with water, and let them air dry.

The PixO's Ultimate Design Station came with everything you needed to get started. Beads in 6 bright colors, a handy compartment up top that keeps them organized and releases them one at a time, the handy PixO Placing Instrument that makes picking up and placing a breeze, and a built in drying fan that dries them quicker. PixO's are a great gift for just about any person under the age of 100 and over the age of 4. (Definitely something you'll want to do with your kids. It will be fun and save a mess.)


The products mentioned above were provided to me, at no cost, by Spin Master LTD. I did not accept monetary compensation for reviewing or writing about this experience, and all opinions expressed are my own.

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Last Minute Gift Idea- YouCanMakeThis EBook Review + Giveaway!

With the holidays season in full swing, we thought it would be fun to showcase some quick and easy gift ideas you can give to friends, neighbors, co-workers, and oh yes…even your family!

Plus, you can enter to win eBooks from www.YouCanMakeThis.com and learn some fun new techniques, tips, and ideas not only for the people on your list, but also creative ways to decorate your home!

You Can Make This has created a free download for some fun gift tags. Each of them coordinate with ideas found as part of the DIY Gift Giving Series videos that can be found at www.youcanmakethis.com/blog , as well as designs and patterns found at www.SWAKembroidery.com and www.YouCanMakeThis.com.

You can also enter to win hundreds of dollars in gift certificates just for watching the videos that are part of the DIY Gift Giving Series and answering a question on the You Can Make This blog!

WANT IT?
Visit YouCanMakeThis.com and check out the patterns available to download to create handmade gifts for the people in your life that seem to have everything- or just for that special person!

WINNER!
This giveaway has closed. Disclosure: The eBook mentioned above was provided to me, at no cost, by YouCanMakeThis.com. I did not accept monetary compensation for reviewing or writing about this experience, and all opinions expressed are my own.

Please visit our WINNERS PAGE to officially claim your prize.

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Fandango + Banana Republic = Free Movie Tickets~This weekend ONLY!

Perfect for you last minute shoppers- great clothes AND movie tickets- what a great combo! Happy Shopping!!

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LetsSayThankYou- To Our Troops for FREE from Xerox!

Xerox is running a fabulous program to be able to show your support to the troops overseas. Choose a thank you card to send, and they print it and ship it for you!

What a great way to brighten up a soldiers day this holiday season!

Just click on the widget below, until it says "Send a Card" and take a few moments of your time to Say Thanks!

Happy Holidays!

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Toys 'R' Us Receives Daily Shipments of the Season's HOTTEST Toys THIS WEEK!

From the Press Release:

The Most In-Demand Products, Including More Than A Million Zhu Zhu Pets™ Hamsters Plus Accessories, Hit Store Shelves Between Now and December 24



WAYNE, NJ (December 17, 2009) – Toys“R”Us today assured last-minute shoppers, determined to find the toys that top their little ones’ wish lists, that its stores will continue to receive daily deliveries of the season’s hottest toys through Christmas Eve, including more than one million Zhu Zhu Pets hamsters plus accessories, and two million LEGO sets. Offering an unparalleled in-stock position of “must-have” toys further establishes Toys“R”Us as THE one-stop destination for self-proclaimed procrastinators and time-strapped parents seeking that elusive, “gotta-have-it” gift.



Daily Arrivals Make Every Morning Feel Like Christmas for Zhu Zhu Pet-Seeking Shoppers

· Now through Christmas Eve, more than one million highly sought-after Zhu Zhu Pet hamsters plus accessories will be available in Toys“R”Us stores*.

· On Friday, December 18, at least 100 Zhu Zhu Pets hamsters will be available at every Toys“R”Us location nationwide when the stores open at 6am*.

· On Saturday, December 19, to the delight of Zhu Zhu Pets fans, hundreds of thousands of the four newest Zhu Zhu Pets hamsters – Jilly, Winky, Scoodles and Nugget – will make their in-store debut (individual hamsters and exclusive four-packs available). The first 50 customers in line when doors open at 6am will have the opportunity to purchase a Toys“R”Us-exclusive four-pack of the newest Zhu Zhu Pets hamsters*.

· Sunday, December 20 through Thursday, December 24, hundreds of thousands of Zhu Zhu Pets hamsters will be available and ready to find new homes for the new year*.

*Quantities limited per person. Check your local store for details.



Stores Stock Shelves with In-Demand Products Round-the-Clock

Following are just some of the other hot toys gift-givers are clamoring for that will be available in Toys“R”Us stores this week, and all at great values!

· 300,000 Bakugan® Traps and Special Attack packs in addition to hundreds of thousands of other Bakugan® items, including thousands of the top-selling, Toys“R”Us-exclusive Bakugan® Battle Brawlers™ New Vestroia™ Maxus Helios™ 7 in 1

· 500,000 NERF products, including NERF N-Strike® Raider Rapid Fire CS-35™, NERF Vulcan®, NERF Recon® and NERF Swords

· Approximately two million LEGO® sets, including the coveted LEGO® Power Miners and LEGO City® sets

· Nearly 500,000 bikes and scooters, including the mom-favorite Little Tikes® 3-in-1 Smart Trike and the top-selling Razor® A Scooters

· Nearly 200,000 Nintendo® Wii and Microsoft Xbox 360 Consoles and hundreds of thousands of exciting Wii and Xbox 360 games



Plus, daily arrivals of tens of thousands of the following select hot items, among others:

· Bendaroos® Building Sticks 500-Piece Set

· ChixOs™ Pink Design-A-Luxury Loft

· Power Wheels™ Quad

· Tag™ Reading System

· Paperoni® Deluxe Studio

· Harumika™ Runway Showstopper Set

· EyeClops Mini Projector

· Smart Cycle® Extreme

“As THE toy authority, we work throughout the year to identify hot toys, establish and maintain a substantial inventory position, and ensure that the season’s top-sellers and ‘hard-to-find’ toys continue to arrive in our stores nationwide during the critical week leading up to Christmas,” said Karen Dodge, Senior Vice President, Chief Merchandising Officer, Toys“R”Us, U.S. “We pride ourselves on offering our customers the best chance of finding the toys they want in-stock at our stores through Christmas Eve while providing the assistance of our toy-trained staff to help them successfully cross off all items on their gift list.”



This weekend, Toys“R”Us customers shopping for the in-demand toys will also have the opportunity to kick off the final week of holiday shopping by taking advantage of incredible value offerings on Friday, December 18 and Saturday, December 19 while supplies last, including a dozen doorbusters valid from 3pm on Friday to Saturday at midnight, FREE gift cards with select purchases, and savings of up to 70 percent. To accommodate the weekend’s last-minute holiday shoppers, Toys“R”Us stores across the country will open at 6am and remain open until midnight on Friday and Saturday. Extended holiday hours, as well as unbeatable deals and discounts, will continue through December 24**.

**Store hours may vary. Check your local store for details.



About Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and baby products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. It currently sells merchandise in more than 1,550 stores, including 849 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States, and more than 700 international stores in 33 countries, consisting of both licensed and franchised stores. In addition, it sells extraordinary toys in two FAO Schwarz stores in the United States. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com, FAO.com and babyuniverse.com, it provides shoppers with an unparalleled online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. In addition, the company operates ePregnancy.com, an online resource for parents. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs nearly 70,000 associates worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need.

Happy Shopping!!

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1-800Flowers, The Popcorn Factory, 1800-Baskets, and Cheryl&Co Special Deals!

Over the course of the last couple of days I've received the Holiday Lights Centerpiece, the Festive Holiday Basket, and the Snowflake Popcorn Tin from the 1-800-Flowers.com family.

My Holiday Lights centerpiece is on the table in the foyer and it looks stunning during the day or night.. the roses and evergreen provide such a great compliment of soft winter scents. For the size of the piece, it's not overwhelming like some may think. The glow from the candle shines through the snowflake cut outs in the center, and looks so beautiful in the evening.

The Festive Holiday Sleigh was so much more than I expected. Right now, it's sitting on my dining room table, with the runner underneath it waiting to see who we decide to gift it to this Christmas. The sleigh makes such a lovely holiday decoration, I could see filling it with treats or flowers and reusing it every year!

I remember being young and receiving tins from The Popcorn Factory from my grandmother and thinking they were very large. I guess I just assumed it was because *I* was small. When I pulled the Snowflake Popcorn Tin out of the box this afternoon, my daughter really made me chuckle as she said, "Uh-oh, mommy- under the tree isn't big enough for that present!" It was true- this tin is huge! I can't wait to break it open, but my husband asked me to wait until Christmas Eve.

I am absolutely thrilled with the selections I've received this holiday, and hope you will take advantage of the fabulous sales going on right now at 1-800-Flowers, 1-800-Baskets, and The Popcorn Factory!

At The Popcorn Factory:
Save 20% on your order of $100 or more using the promo code: WS20
Save 10% on your order of $50 or more using the promo code: WS10
Or get $5 off of your purchase using the promo code: P71 (expires 8/32/10)
Click here to start shopping!

At 1-800 Flowers:
When purchasing anything off of the Toys for Tots Holiday Collection, be sure to use the code TOYS at the checkout to have your purchase support The Toys for Tots Foundation.

Plus, for a limited time, take advantage on free shipping and/or no service charge on select gifts.

Enter to win our giveaway HERE.

At 1-800-Baskets:
Order now from their exclusive holiday 2009 gift collection and enjoy Guaranteed Christmas Delivery with a Free Shipping Upgrade. Send savory treats and tempting sweets to make this holiday festive, fun – and delicious. No Promotion Code required! Enter our giveaway for your chance to enter NOW!

At Cheryl & Co.:
Shop the best sale prices of the season on the tastiest cookies, desserts and gifts. Plus, shop now and receive FREE SHIPPING at Cheryl&Co.! Hurry, offer ends soon.



Don't forget to participate in the 1-800-Flowers Facebook Secret Santa Application, and spread holiday cheer to all of your friends online!

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Give a 1-800-Baskets Gift Basket this Holiday Season Review + Giveaway!

Most of our family still lives up north, over 1500 miles away, so going home for the holidays is nearly impossible for us.

Every year we search for the perfect presents to send to our relatives, and struggle to find something that everyone will enjoy.

While working with 1-800-FLOWERS, I was informed about the beautiful collection of gift baskets at 1-800-Baskets.

Our family had the opportunity to review the Festive Holiday Basket from 1-800-Baskets. It arrived filled with treats like crisp flatbread crackers, mint cookies, citrus spice appetizer spread, Fannie May Peppermint Bark, Ferrero Rocher Gold-Wrapped Chocolates, caramel medallions, almond French Twists, Smoky Mozzarella Mini Baguettes, Chocolate Starlight Mints, and Old English Toffee. The metal collectible sleigh can be used year after year to bring holiday cheer.

Often times you order stuff from online or a catalog, and hope and pray that the person that receives it is pleased with the size or the quality of the products. The measurements of the gift baskets are in the description, but seeing it in real life is a completely different experience.

The Festive Holiday Basket I received was much larger than I had thought. In fact, it literally took my breath away when I unwrapped it. I've received gift baskets and fruit arrangements in the mail from other companies during the holidays, but nothing I've ever received compared to this holiday assortment.

Want it?
Visit 1-800-Baskets to find the perfect gift for the person on your list that already has everything. Plus, if you order now, your order will upgraded to expedited shipping to ensure Guaranteed Christmas Delivery. See details here.

WIN IT!

This giveaway is open to residents of the US and will end on December 22th, at 11:59pm EST. One winner will be chosen at random using Random.org. Disclosure: The product above was provided to me, at no cost, by 1-800-BASKETS (a 1-800-FLOWERS entity) so that I could review it. I did not accept monetary compensation for reviewing or writing about this experience, and all opinions expressed are my own.

WINNER!

Please read the WINNERS POST for more information on how to claim your prize! Thank you to everyone who participated & Happy Holidays!

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Three Peas Co. Couture Clothing Sale + Giveaway!

From tots to teens, Three Peas Co. has the cutest and most stylish children's couture on the market. Whether you're looking for something for the holidays, the New Year, or that special event, Three Peas Co. has what you need.

Back in February, Abbigaile had the opportunity to review a beautiful three piece pink leopard print bow, flowered tank and matching pettiskirt. After we did our review, I had a few friends and readers message me and ask me how often she actually wears her outfit. Honestly, she wears it often. From the grocery store to the school to pick her big brother up, to dress up time or special occasions, Abbie LOVES her "princess skirt" and "pretty top".

Three Peas Co. has the largest selection of couture clothing for boys sizes newborn through 8, and girls- from newborn through size 16+!

If you have a tween, they may have seen Three Peas Co. outfits on stars like Noah Cyrus and Keana Texeira, or in the pages of Pop Star Magazine- what a special treat under the tree this year for your fashionista!

Want it?
Visit Three Peas Co. and save 10% off of your entire purchase using the shopping code blog10 until 12/31!

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Hasbro's Girls Toys Review + Giveaway

If you've had time to take a peek at our Holiday Gift Guide already, I'm sure you'll agree that Hasbro has some amazing products this season. They have some really great new Strawberry Shortcake, My Little Pony, and Baby Alive releases that are too adorable for words. Let me introduce you to a few of the great products that will really excite you little darling this season:

MY LITTLE PONY PONY FRIENDS Assortment

This fall, the MY LITTLE PONY brand will introduce a whole new look to its core cast. Girls will love the new look of each pony in the MY LITTLE PONY PONY FRIENDS Assortment. PINKIE PIE, RAINBOW DASH, TOOLA-ROOLA, STARSONG, SWEETIE BELLE, CHEERILEE and SCOOTALOO all feature bright colors, fun-filled hairstyles, and new sizes that reflect their age. For example, SWEETIE BELLE is the youngest pony in the collection, making her the smallest pony in the group. Each figure in the PONY FRIENDS Assortment comes complete with her very own activity book, giving girls the opportunity to get to know their favorite pony up close and personal! Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com. Each sold separately. Ages 3 & up. Retail Price $5.99.




STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE SWEET SURPRISE Doll

Can I tell you, I just about flipped when I saw this doll! She is adorable, as all Strawberry Shortcake dolls are, but this doll really brought me back to my childhood. When I was younger I had a Strawberry Shortcake doll who smelled exactly the same as this doll--just like real strawberries. I kept that doll until I was in high school, and the scent never faded. The new Strawberry Shortcake Sweet Surprise Doll is more amazing than any Strawberry Shortcake Doll I had as a kid though, this doll is jam-packed with accessories and all sorts of fun surprises.

Girls will love to play with STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE's hair and makeup with the SWEET SURPRISE STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE doll. Fill the applicator with water, pop it in the freezer, and once it’s cold use it to “apply” pretty eye shadow, lipstick, and an adorable berry on her cheek! Girls can comb STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE's long, red hair and style it using the included clips and barrettes with SHIMMER SHINE hair extensions. Add final touches of glamor to the Sweet Surprise Strawberry Shortcake doll with shiny mylar sticker accessory sheets. The poseable Strawberry Shorcake Doll stands 11 inches tall and features the classic strawberry scent. No batteries required. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com. Ages 3 & up. Retail price $22.99




MY LITTLE PONY NEWBORN CUTIES PINKIE PIE'S PLAYHOUSE
(HASBRO/Ages 3 years & up/Approx. Retail Price: $44.99/Available: Fall 09)
NEWBORN PINKIE PIE loves to spend time with her pony friends at the MY LITTLE PONY NEWBORN CUTIES PINKIE PIE’S PLAYHOUSE playset. This adorable dollhouse features two floors full of pony fun! Explore the upstairs bedroom where PINKIE PIE can rest in the pink quilted bassinet. Girls will be delighted as they press the special button to turn on a light and play a soothing pony lullaby. Downstairs, NEWBORN PINKIE PIE and friends can freshen up in the bathroom or take a break and relax on the indoor swing. This MY LITTLE PONY playset comes complete with a NEWBORN PINKIE PIE figure and additional adorable accessories including a teddy bear, bottle, and play toy. Requires three “AAA” batteries, included. Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and on HasbroToyShop.com.


WANT IT?

Visit Hasbro's Toy Shop and take advantage of some of their great deals. Right now they are offering FREE shipping with most orders $50 or more and are also giving a FREE GIFT with qualifying orders of $25 or more!

This giveaway is open to residents of the US and Canada and will end on December 21st, at 11:59pm EST. One winner will be chosen at random using Random.org. Disclosure: The product above was provided to us at no cost by Hasbro. All opinions expressed are my own. I did not accept monetary compensation in writing or reviewing this product.

WINNER!

Please read the WINNERS POST for more information on how to claim your prize! Thank you to everyone who participated & Happy Holidays!

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Hasbro's Boys Toys Review + Giveaway

Got a young boy at home who loves sports,robots, and action figures? Me too!! Guess who's got you covered this year? Hasbro's new toys this season are sure to capture your little man's attention. A new lineup of high quality NERF products, as well as new Planet 51, Astro Boy, and Ben 10 products have arrived just in time for this holiday season and they can be found at the Hasbro Toy Shop or at retailers such as Toys R Us and Amazon.com. Here's just a few of their new items:




NERF NFL VORTEX MEGA HOWLER Football

Tell your receiver to get ready to run with the NERF NFL VORTEX MEGA HOWLER football, the farthest flying footballs! Allowing for ultimate performance, a three-fin tail provides long distance aerodynamics and finger grips help you get a solid grasp on your game. As you watch your pass sail through the air, the cool whistling sound will let everyone know your team is on its way to a touchdown. VORTEX – THE FARTHEST FLYING FOOTBALLS! Choose from the Green Bay Packers, the New York Giants, the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Dallas Cowboys, the New England Patriots or the Indianapolis Colts. This football far outshines it's price tag, it truly is a steal at $9.99! Available at most major toy retailers nationwide and HasbroToyShop.com .


PLANET 51 BUMP AND GO ROVER
(Ages 5+/Approx. Retail Price: $29.99/Available: November 2009)
Set out on your own adventure with the Planet 51 Bump and Go Rover! Chuck’s trustworthy robot companion will zip along with you as you set out on your own adventures here on Earth!




BEN 10 ALIEN FORCE™ DIGITAL CAMERA
(Approx. Retail Price: $19.99/Available: Now)
Capture all your adventures here on Earth with the Ben 10 Alien Force™ Digital Camera (Status LCD Screen). This easy to operate digital camera can take over 70 pictures and features Ben with his signature Omnitrix and fierce alien graphics. Complete with a clip, you can take your camera everywhere with you and make sure you never miss a moment of action! (1.3 megapixels; Photo Editing Software and USB Cable Included)


Astro Boy® 3 3/4" Action figures Assortment
(JAZWARES/Ages 5+/Approx. Retail Price: $6.99/Available: October 2009)
The adventure and excitement of Astro Boy are brought to life with the Astro Boy action figures. Recreate your favorite scenes from the movie or use your imagination to dream up your own adventures with the characters from the film. The 3 3/4" detailed figures are available as Astro Boy (in various movie stages), Peacekeeper, Soldier, Trashcan and Drone. (Each figure sold separately)


WANT IT?

Visit Hasbro's Toy Shop and take advantage of some of their great deals. Right now they are offering FREE shipping with most orders $50 or more and are also giving a FREE GIFT with most orderson items $25 or more!



This giveaway is open to residents of the US and Canada and will end on December 21st, at 11:59pm EST. One winner will be chosen at random using Random.org. Disclosure: The product above was provided to us at no cost by Hasbro. All opinions expressed are my own.I did not accept monetary compensation in writing or reviewing this product.

WINNER!

Please read the WINNERS POST for more information on how to claim your prize! Thank you to everyone who participated & Happy Holidays!

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Clorox Green Works Natural Detergent and Stain Remover Review

How many of you hate laundry? **Waves hand furiously from my work desk** I complain about laundry more than any other household chore, and cannot wait for the day that I have a machine big enough to keep up with my family. I am always on the quest for products that make my most hated task easier, quicker, or more pleasant.

We've started making strides to live healthier and in the process, we've started weeding out a lot of our cleaning products that contain harsh chemicals and replacing them with "greener" alternatives. I've researched ingredients in many beauty products and common household cleaners, but for some reason never really thought about the chemicals that are present in our laundry detergent and cleaners.

As I've mentioned before, my kids have very sensitive skin. I am very sensitive to smells in detergent and fabric softener, and have stuck with my current brands of detergent and softener for well over 6 years now.

Thanks to our friends at MomCentral, our family was given the opportunity to try and review the brand new Clorox Green Works Natural Detergent and Stain Remover.

When I first received the cleaners, I smelled it to see how overwhelming the scent was. Frankly, it was light and airy, (not floral at all), and not the least bit nauseating. This alone was a BIG plus for me.

I read a little bit of the bottle and found out that Green Works laundry cleaners are great to use with high efficiency washers as well as regular machines (which is what I have); and it's safe for both colors and whites. The bottle read, "Green Works laundry cleaners are plant-based that clean with the power you expect from Clorox." I definitely hoped so, as I need a heavy duty detergent for my messy family's clothing.

I decided to try the Stain Remover on Brian's work pants, as the knees get filthy every single day. I sprayed his pants, threw the load in, added the detergent, and walked away. I then read the bottle, and the directions say to start the washer first, add the detergent, then the clothing.. Oops. I hoped for the best, and let the machine continue.

The clothes came out fresh smelling, and after they emerged from the dryer I noticed that the colors were still vibrant, and the stains were gone. Needless to say, I was very impressed at the quality of the cleaners combined. (Another big plus!) All in all, I must say that I am very impressed with the results I've had so far using this detergent and stain remover.

What makes these cleaners different from other cleaners on the market is that these natural Green Works products don't leave harsh chemical residue behind on your clean clothes- your clothes are truly CLEAN. The Laundry Detergent is 95% natural, and is recognized by the EPA for safer chemistry.

Clorox Green Works Natural Laundry Detergent is offering a $3 off coupon on their website, plus if you don't like it, Clorox offers a 100% money back guarantee. Find a store that sells new Natural Laundry Detergent and Stain Remover here, and let me know if you've tried this product and what your experience was.




"I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Clorox Green Works and received a bottle of Green Works Natural Detergent and Stain Remover to facilitate my review and a $20 thank-you gift certificate."

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Great Gift Ideas with The Popcorn Factory- Review and Giveaway!

Are you still looking for a great gift idea for your boss, family, or friends? View the online catalog at The Popcorn Factory for great gift ideas that fit every budget.


This year celebrates The Popcorn Factory's 30th year popping delicious, shareable gifts for your family, clients, or workplace.

Include a personalized message, photo labels, and gift tags, or add your company's logo to a tin or lid. Spread the cheer this year with The Popcorn Factory.

Want it?
Save 20% on your order of $100 or more using the promo code: WS20
Save 10% on your order of $50 or more using the promo code: WS10
Click here to start shopping!

This giveaway is open to residents of the US and will end on December 16th, at 11:59pm EST. One winner will be chosen at random using Random.org. Disclosure: The product above was provided to me, at no cost, by The Popcorn Factory (a 1-800-FLOWERS entity) so that I could review it and the Secret Santa Application on Facebook. I did not accept monetary compensation for reviewing or writing about this experience, and all opinions expressed are my own.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR WINNER!

Please read the WINNERS POST for more information on how to claim your prize! Thank you to everyone who participated & Happy Holidays!

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