SOCIAL MEDIA

Friday, February 27, 2015

Merino Kids Review

It's been brutally cold in the northeast lately.  We've had snowstorm after snowstorm and freezing cold record low temperatures.  Not only is it important to keep yourself warm, but your children too.  Young babies cannot have blankets in their crib so you have to take creatives measures to keep them warm.  Merino Kids is here to keep children cozy all winter long.

Merino Kids offers sleepsacks in various fabrics including cotton, sherpa, and Merino wool. Baby pajamas are also available to ensure a restful night's sleep.  Sleepsacks are important to put over your child's pajamas at night to make sure they are warm when asleep.  Blankets are unsafe because they could lead to suffocation, which is terrifying.  The sleepsacks aren't constricting and they allow baby's feet and legs to be free which is important.  The products are available for boys and girls in a variety of colors from ages 0-2, so they will last for some time to come.  Go ahead and buy a few sleepsacks to have in rotation during the winter.  Baby will be happy and cozy and you can't put a price tag on that.

We've been having frigid mornings here in Connecticut and that surely calls for an extra boost of warmth! Scarlett currently only has one sleepsack and I knew it was essential that she has another one.  Her room gets a little chilly at night and I'm always worried about her not being warm enough.  

Scarlett was sent the Merino Kids Baby Sleepsack in honey oat.  This sleepsack is the world's best and #1 top-selling merino sleepsack in the USA and worldwide.  The honey oat color is gender neutral and works for a boy or a girl.  

This isn't Scarlett, but this baby is showing off how cozy warm the sleepsack is.

Scarlett has really been enjoying the sleepsack so far.  I've been putting it on her at night to sleep and in the mornings if it's cold and she always smiles when it's on, so she must be loving it! You may think that the merino wool would be itchy and uncomfortable but it's 100% natural, itch-free, and allergy-safe.  The thick and durable sleepsack is easy to put on and has snap closures that securely stay closed.  I do wish there was a zipper instead because it would save time on putting it on if baby is fussy.  The sleepsack is crafted well and of high quality.  The honey oat color is sharp and bright. 

My daughter is very active and loves to kick her legs around.  She usually only stops moving when she's sleeping, so it was important to me that she have the freedom to move in the sleepsack.  She can freely move but can't slip underneath or wriggle out.  

One element of the sleepsack that I love is the fact that it has an innovative safety belt aperture.  This feature allows you to transfer sleeping baby between carseat, stroller, and nursery to maintain sleep routine.  My family will be going on a road trip in June and a cotton sleepsack would be perfect for Scarlett to wear in her carseat.   

Since the sleepsack grows with your child, Scarlett will be able to wear hers for some time to come.  I love that she'll get so much use out of it. I'm very satisfied with the sleepsack so far and I know Scarlett will love being able to wear it for the remainder of winter and beyond.  

If you're looking to safely keep your child warm, Merino Kids is there to ensure that need. Go ahead and order one today!

*DISCLOSURE* Thank you to Merino Kids for the sleepsack I received in order to facilitate this review.  All thoughts are my own.  
Tuesday, February 24, 2015

Netflix #StreamTeam Feb. 2015 Create Your Own Destiny

It is thought that one can create their own destiny.  From the moment you're born, your path is formed by the choices your parents make for you.  Of course you make your own choices as you go through life, but your early destiny is decided for you.


Netflix is all about creating their own paths and destinies this month.  There are two Netflix original series premiering this month which show kids creating their own destinies.  Teenage mermaids stand out from the crowd in season 2 of Mako Mermaids along with everyone's favorite entrepreneur Richie Rich.  He is back but this time his refusal to eat vegetables has made him a trillionaire.

How do you encourage your children to forge their own paths in your household? My daughter is 11 weeks old and obviously too young to understand creating her own path. When she's older I will advocate her making choices that make her happy.  As long as she's safe and making smart decisions, she can go down her own path.  I will not push her to only have certain interests, friends, or hobbies.  Her life should be her own.  I do think that life is all about trial and error though.  You will sometimes make poor decisions to realize the right choice is right in front of you.



Gather the family around the television this weekend and tune into some programming that will give you insight into people's destinies.

For the little kids:

1. Build and Fix Things: Handy Manny
2. Make a Discovery: Sid the Science Kid
3. Walk on the Moon: Justin Time: Blast Off! S1 E13
4. Explore The Ocean: Octonauts

For the big kids: 

1. Make Sweet Treats: Cupcake Wars
2. Get into Show Biz: Fame High
3. Represent Team USA: The Gabby Douglas Story
4. Master the Kitchen: Chopped

For Teens and Parents:

1. Get the Corner Office: Undercover Boss
2. Travel the World: Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown
3. Walk the Red Carpet: Liz and Dick
4. Run my Own Restaurant: Wahlburgers

Don't forget an icy cold glass of cream soda with a bowl of buttery popcorn to go with it. If you want to make the TV night extra special, indulge in some fresh out of the oven peanut butter cookies.  You can thank me for that suggestion later.





Monday, February 23, 2015

HALO Review

It's imperative that babies feel secure from birth.  They need to feel close to their parents in order to properly thrive, grow, and develop.  Make sure that you interact with your child and hold them tight as much as possible so they feel loved.  Sometimes babies need a little more than you can realistically provide, and that's when HALO steps in.



HALO offers wearable blankets that replaces loose blankets in the crib that can cover your baby's face and interfere with breathing.  This is the only 2-in-1 adjustable swaddle that allows for swaddling arms in and out for baby's comfort.  The blankets come in patterns and colors for both boys and girls in a variety of sizes.  You can choose from materials such as micro fleece, 100% cotton, 100% cotton muslin, 100% organic cotton, and plushy dot velboa.  Besides just sleepsack swaddles, HALO offers SleepSacks, SleepSack gifts, comfortluxe sleepwear, and much more.  If you're going to a baby shower anytime soon, any item from HALO makes the perfect gift.  

Recently, HALO has come out with a new product called the SwaddleSure that makes swaddling so much easier.  My daughter Scarlett must have about 6 swaddles at this point. We have a few fleece ones and some cotton too.  She's now 11 weeks old and still wants to be swaddled virtually all the time.  Scarlett sleeps much more soundly when swaddled and also feels secure too, which is important to me as a mom.  I truly think that if our house was on fire, the only thing Scarlett would want to save would be her swaddles.  That's how much she loves them!

Scarlett was sent a pink SwaddleSure in the newborn size to review.  She couldn't be any happier to have that review job! This swaddle is a lightweight cotton and is perfect for upcoming cool summer and spring nights. Since we're in Florida visiting my parents now, it's the ideal time for her to test out the SwaddleSure  The pink color is cute and perfect for Scarlett because she's a girly girl.  The top of the swaddle says "Back is Best" with some sweet flowers above the wording.  You can choose a SwaddleSure for your son or daughter as they come in patterns and colors for both boys and girls.  The product is available in two sizes, newborn and size small.


Just hanging out at Grandma's!

With traditional HALO SleepSack Swaddles, baby's arms go into the sack and then they are zipped up.  The swaddle pouch allows you to put baby into the pouch and then velcro the swaddle wings across baby's chest. There's also a bottom piece of fabric that you take from the bottom and velcro on top of the pouch to keep it secure.  When Scarlett isn't swaddled and is crying and screaming to be put into one, it can be time consuming to put her arms through the holes in the traditional sleepsack swaddle.  She doesn't realize you're trying to help her and is frustrated at what you're doing.  The swaddle pouch is a lot quicker to put on and saves you from getting screamed at too, which is a plus.

So far both Scarlett and I seem to be enjoying the SwaddleSure.  What I've noticed is that there seems to be more room in the bottom sack part of the SwaddleSure than there is in the traditional sleepsack swaddle.  I'm not sure if it's the way I'm putting it on her, or if there's just more room built in.  Whatever the case, Scarlett enjoys the freedom and loves to kick her legs around inside it.  With our regular SleepSack Swaddles, her hand sometimes breaks out and makes her cry.  I would have to redo the velcro portion, and this can be exhausting especially at 2 AM.  She hasn't had as many breakouts in the swaddle pouch which is fantastic.  

Since she's in the newborn size, it won't fit her for that much longer.  I definitely will be ordering the next size up in the animal print pattern in the near future.  Scarlett will be so excited for more swaddles as they are her favorite thing in the world.  I hope HALO will introduce fleece SwaddleSures for freezing cold winter nights! I know mothers everywhere would welcome that product to help keep their babies warm.

I highly recommend the SwaddleSure and will certainly be using their products for some time to come.  Your baby deserves to be happy and secure and HALO will be there to help with that every step of the way.

*DISCLOSURE* I was sent a HALO SwaddleSure in order to facilitate this review.  All thoughts are strictly my own.  

Friday, February 20, 2015

Hearty Winter Soups

There's nothing that I enjoy more than a comforting soup on a cold night.  Some of my favorites include chicken noodle soup, tomato and rice, and of course minestrone.  I had broccoli and cheese soup for the first time recently and really enjoyed it.  What are some of your go-to choices?


Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Dune Jewelry Review

I've mentioned previously how I love unique, custom items that can't be bought at any retail store.  The fact that I have something created just for me that nobody else has is exciting.  I feel that everyone should spoil themselves and have an item made exclusively for them. Dune Jewelry knows all about custom items.

Dune Jewelry is a jewelry line made with beach sand from your most cherished coastal memories.  You can choose from rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets that are made from your choice of thousands of sands worldwide spanning all 7 continents.  Dune Jewelry's signature sand beads featured on the item of your choice offer a unique piece that would make the perfect, memorable gift.  

If you're looking for the perfect anniversary gift for your wife, why not give her a bracelet featuring sand from your Caribbean honeymoon? She'll absolutely love the incredibly thoughtful and meaningful gift.  You can even submit your own sand to be featured in the jewelry if the area isn't listed in the sandbank.  Whether you're treating yourself or someone else to a gorgeous custom piece of jewelry from Dune jewelry, the recipient will be very happy. 

When I initially found about this company I was really excited.  I had never seen such beautiful jewelry with a fantastic twist.  What's really special is not only will people have memories of their vacations, but they will be reminded of those good times every time they look at the jewelry.  Whether you went to Mexico for the first time this summer or Fiji 25 years ago where you met your husband, the memories will come flooding back to you thanks to a gorgeous bracelet or ring.

Each sandbead is more stunning than the last

I was sent the Sandbead 3 Bead Bracelet for review.  Since this bracelet features 3 sandbeads, I had to pick three different locations to fill the beads.  I knew I wanted the piece to be special and meaningful and took my time in deciding the places.  Finally, I settled on Curacao, Divi Little Bay in St. Maartin, and Honeymoon Beach in St. Thomas.  I chose those areas because I went to St. Thomas and St. Maartin with my husband years ago and loved it, and just went to Curacao with my family last summer.  All of these locations are important to me and I knew I had made excellent choices.

The bracelet came out more beautiful than I ever could have imagined.  It fits well and I absolutely love how it looks on.  Since there are three different sands in the beads, all of them have a different look which adds personality to the bracelet.  The piece is quality made and I can tell a lot of time and dedication goes into creating it. I can certainly see this being a conversation piece. 

Everytime I look down at the bracelet I'll be reminded of my happy times and memories from my trips.  What could be better than that? If you're looking to preserve a special time in your life, Dune Jewelry is here to make that dream a reality.

*DISCLOSURE* Thank you to Dune Jewelry for providing me with a complimentary bracelet in exchange for this review.  All thoughts are my own.
Saturday, February 14, 2015

The Children's Place Review

Even before my daughter was born I was shopping and preparing for her arrival.  Some would say I went overboard and purchased way more clothes than I needed.  It's hard to resist adorable baby clothes and the cuteness clothing factor was certainly turned up high each time I went shopping.  It's important to me that my daughter not only have stylish baby clothes, but good quality too.  When's the last time you bought new clothing for your child?



The Children's Place is a retailer of children's apparel and accessories.  The store is comprised of sections for girl and boy babies and toddlers, and older girls and boys too.  If you're looking for stylish clothing, you've definitely come to the right place. Whether you need an Easter dress for your daughter for church, or a new shirt for your son, there's a diverse mix of options for any gender and age range.  Since the store always has sales and promotions going on, you'll walk away a satisfied customer.  If you're in need of new clothing for your children, why not stop by The Children's Place today?

My mom used to shop for me at The Children's Place when I was a kid, and now the tradition continues with Scarlett.  It's easy to see why anyone would love the store as the clothes are quality made, affordable, and cute!

I went into the store today on a mission for some clothes for my daughter in larger sizes. Immediately, I was drawn to the back sale wall where I saw a big sign announcing "1.99." I couldn't believe that everything in that section was $1.99, I was shocked.  Instantly, I became like a kid in candy store going nuts at how inexpensive everything was.  A hoodie that was $28 was now $1.99 and pajamas that were $18 were the same price! I started grabbing things left and right like my life depended on it.

I also noticed that jeans were on sale for $5.99 too, regularly $17.  How could I not stock up? It would be crazy not to.  I grabbed some 6-9 month, 12-18, and 18-24 sizes, that way my daughter will be prepared when she starts fitting into those sizes.  I commented to the store employee about how amazing the sale was.  She said she's never seen prices so low and they are pushing the stock out to get ready for the incoming summer clothes.  I told her I'd probably never do this well again!

Cute pajamas for a cute girl.

The first two pajamas are 12 month size, which is perfect for her to wear later this year.  I couldn't resist the adorable sheep and cupcake prints.  I've never seen pajamas as cute as the ladybug ones on the right, I just had to have them! They are 0-3m which fit Scarlett very well right now.  I'll be sad when she outgrows them.  

Ladybug girl modeling her new jammies

A shirt that says love with cupcakes on it. What more could you want in this world besides cupcakes?

The love shirt and first pair of pants are both 6-9m, which will fit Scarlett this summer.  You could pair many different tops with the jeans which make them extremely versatile and they'll last her into the beginning of fall.  For the second top and jeans, they are both 9-12 months which will fit her for both fall and winter.  The first outfit would go great with a pair of sneakers or even sandals, while the second outfit would go great with boots or sneakers too.  



Perfect outfit for cooler weather later this year

Both the hoodie and pants are 9-12m size which is ideal for cooler weather towards the end of the year.  The adorable hoodie is fleece lined to keep my little angel baby warm.  This outfit would be fabulous with a cute onesie underneath and sneakers for a casual look when hanging out with mom.

A variety of tops which are an excellent example of the diverse styles offered by The Children's Place

All of the tops except for the first one are 9-12m and Scarlett will able to wear them this fall. Each one is just cuter than the next and I can't wait to see how ridiculously sweet she'll look in them. Who wouldn't want to make everyday happy, fabulous, and fun?  The jeans I bought in the same size would work well for these tops.  You could even pair them with colored leggings instead if you desire.  The first top is for the summer at 6-9m.  I have a jean skirt that I'd like to have her wear with the shirt and pink sandals too.  I cannot wait to see her in the outfit, it'll surely be picture worthy!

The bright mix of colors would make any baby happy 

How can you say no to a shirt that says "awesome like mom."? You can't.  Of course Scarlett will be awesome like her mom, it's inevitable.  This shirt is also 6-9m so it'll be another summer option for her.  I can already see her wearing it with cute capri pants and sandals.  You can't forget the pink sunglasses either! She'll certainly be the cutest girl on the block in this outfit.  The other two outfits are 12-18m, so they'll be able to fit her for some time in that size range.  The silver star on the bottom shirt adds an extra touch of fun.

This shopping trip was so much fun and I couldn't have found better deals.  All in all I saved $170.  I don't think I've ever saved this much in my life, or paid so little for clothing! Everyone loves a great bargain, right? 
The ultimate in savings!

I'm really satisfied with the outfits I chose and Scarlett will be one stylish baby in them.  The clothing is great quality and I can tell it will hold up well in the wash.  All I have to do is wait for her to be old enough to wear them!

Head on over to The Children's Place now to grab some great deals for your little one.  Who knows what kind of deals you'll score!

*DISCLOSURE* I received a gift card in order to facilitate this review.  All thoughts are strictly my own.  





Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Valentine's Day from this cutie!

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Drink Arizona Giveaway

Arizona Tea has been a favorite beverage brand in my family for many years now.  I remember when I was growing up, my dad always drank both the green tea and lemon iced tea.  Now that I'm an adult and have my own family, we regularly have a huge jug of green tea in the fridge. It's just too good to resist and that light, refreshing flavor is not to be beat. If you haven't experienced Arizona Tea before, it's time to indulge.


Drink Arizona is America's #1 selling iced tea brand and it's easy to see why.  The brand doesn't just produce regular iced tea, oh no.  Delight your taste buds with such beverages as Arnold Palmers, organic teas, energy drinks, flavored lemonades, juice blends, water enhancers, and so much more.  There are even beverages for children to enjoy.  You'll surely find something that will make your mouth happy.  Go ahead and indulge in an icy cold glass of raspberry iced tea, you deserve it.

One of the newest beverages to the Arizona Tea family is Bethenny Frankel's Skinnygirl Sparklers.  These delicious sparkling water drinks are mixed with real fruit juice.  It's important to drink water on a regular basis, but sometimes you want a little flavor too. Bethenny certainly understands this which is why she's produced flavors like pink grapefruit, pineapple coconut, tangerine mango, and strawberry lemonade, just to name a few.  Each bottle contains only 5 calories, 5% juice, 6 essential vitamins, super fruit extracts, and green tea polyphenols.

It's so hard to pick a favorite! I love all of the different colors each flavor offers.

If you're looking for flavor, you've come to the right place.  The sparklers don't have any unnatural additives, ingredients, or preservatives.   With just the right amount of fizziness, you can enjoy that delicious sparkling taste without the guilt. Some sparkling waters don't taste anything like the intended flavor, but these taste exactly like the corresponding fruit. Warmer weather will be here before you know it.  Can't you just imagine indulging in an icy cold bottle of strawberry lemonade or pineapple coconut? It'll be the most refreshing thing.  

If your fridge doesn't currently have Skinnygirl Sparklers in it, it's time to introduce these delightful beverages to the bottom pull-out drawer.  It'll be a meeting to remember!





Wednesday, February 11, 2015

Product of the Year USA Giveaway #POYUSA2015

Look around your home and you'll see a variety of products ranging from health and beauty to laundry care and even kitchenware.  It's evident that you have items that you use on a daily basis and other ones that you don't use as much, or even have forgotten about. Everyone's guilty of buying products that look good but the results don't wow us.  Wouldn't it be nice to use everyday items that you know are excellent and will always make you happy?


Product of The Year USA is the world's largest consumer-voted award for product innovation. Established 26 years ago in France, the award operates in 39 countries with the same purpose; to guide consumers to the best products in their market and reward manufacturers for quality and innovation.  In the United States, the POY is supported by the votes of over 40,000 consumers.  The award accepts entries each year from consumer packaged goods that demonstrate innovation and were launched within the previous year. There's a category for every product including food, household care, personal care, etc.  It's always an exciting time for consumers because they get the chance to try new products that are award wining.

Well, it's that time of year again! The 30 winning products for 2015 were just announced last night and you'll certainly be pleased with the products selected. 

I think I've died and gone to product heaven! 

There's such a diverse mix of products here to excite any consumer and make them happy. You have Tide, Dial, Always, Viva, Crest, and so much more.  I personally was very excited to know that Tide and Dial were included among the winners, as those are two brands I use a lot.  What struck me as interesting was the fact that paint and hardware products were included in the line-up.  I don't automatically think of those type of products as everyday consumer items and it surprised me to see them there.

When you familiarize yourself with the winning products from POY each year, it gives you a chance to learn about new products from your favorite brands that you didn't know about. I use Dial soap in each bathroom of my home, but had no idea that they had a new body wash and soap scent.  Without POY I doubt I would have realized the new scents and now look forward to trying them.

I think it's wonderful that an award like this exists.  It's important that products get the recognition and praise that they deserve.  I can't wait to see what products are chosen for 2016!





Tuesday, February 10, 2015

Godiva is Your Chocolate Headquarters for Valentine's Day

Valentine's Day is just four days away now.  Instead of purchasing ordinary candy for this love-filled day, why not spice things up with Godiva chocolates instead? Your taste buds will be blanketed in heaven and your stomach will absolutely love it.



Godiva offers the most luscious caramels, milk/dark chocolates, pralines, ganaches, and fruit and nut candies that you'll ever sink your teeth into. If you haven't indulged in Godiva candies before, you're surely in for a real treat.

Go ahead and cook a delicious meal with your significant sweetie and then indulge in some Godiva and a glass of wine afterwards.  With Godiva on the dessert menu, it'll certainly be one February 14th that you'll remember for years to come.

I'd suggest purchasing Godiva's 36 piece Gold Ballotin Box of candy.  Once you open that beautiful gold box, you'll never think of candy in quite the same way again.  The collection contains 36 pieces of rich, decadent candies including caramels, ganaches, pralines and more.  There's certainly a piece of chocolate for everyone's taste preferences. If you're like me you'll go straight to the caramels and ganaches!
I'll try to not eat the entire box at once, but it might not be possible.

This day of romance only come once per year.  Let Godiva make the day as delicious as possible with their fantastic treats.

*DISCLOSURE* I was provided with product samples in exchange for this post.  All thoughts are my own.  
Monday, February 9, 2015

Stride Rite Review

There's nothing more fun than having a daughter.  Even before Scarlett was born I was buying clothes, shoes, and accessories for her.  It's impossible to resist purchasing pink sparkly boots or a leopard print jacket for an infant! I have so much fun with Scarlett's clothes and everyday is like a fashion show when dressing her.  Of course you have to have the perfect shoe to go with a cute outfit and Stride Rite is there to help with that.

Stride Rite is one of the first brands I think of when I envision shoes for children.  The company offers ridiculously cute shoes for boys girls, and babies.  Whether you're looking for pink sneakers, a sparkly boot, a flower themed sandal, or even black dress shoes to go with your son's school uniform, Stride Rite has it all.  Their shoes are long lasting, durable, and stylish.  There's nothing more adorable than a baby in a pair of silver sparkly Stride Rite sneakers.  Why not plan ahead and have your child pick out a new pair of sandals or Mary Janes for this upcoming summer? A pair of shoes from Stride Rite makes the perfect birthday or even baby shower present for any baby or toddler.  

Now that my daughter is practically 9 weeks old, I knew it was time to introduce Stride Rite shoes into her closet.  She already has a lot of shoes, but her wardrobe was surely begging to have Stride Rite be initiated into the shoe family.  When I was browsing through the baby section of the website, I couldn't handle it.  All of the adorable sparkly, pink shoes were just too much for me to bear! 

I finally settled on the Stride Rite Crawl Glittery Girl and the Keds Champion Toe Cap Lace.  Both of these shoes were so beyond cute that I pretty much died.  Scarlett is a girly girl and I knew she'd enjoy rocking these kicks whenever she could.  I picked 3-6m sizes for both, so she would have ample opportunity to wear them.  At first, I thought about picking the 0-3m size so she could wear them right away, but since she is already two months old she wouldn't have much time in them.  
I don't work at being cute, it just comes natural.

I absolutely love these boots and will honestly be so sad when they no longer fit. They offer a suede outsole with a pretty light grey color.  If you're looking for sparkles, you've come to the right shoe as the upper part of the shoe is all silver sparkles.  I love the way the sparkle contrasts with the grey, it's such a fun shoe! The band of grey dots around the middle of the shoe offers an extra touch for your little fashionista.  

Even though Scarlett is not yet 3 months old, the boots do fit her but they are a drop big. That's great though because she can wear them for the rest of the winter and spring.  The shoes zip and unzip easily and they don't feel too tight around her feet either.  Don't worry about quality as the shoes are well made and would last if given the chance.  Pair these boots with a black sweater and little jeggings and your baby will be stylin'! Make sure she's home by 6 PM sharp though.

It's just a dotty kind of day


If you're looking for a versatile, comfortable shoe for your baby girl, the Keds Champion Toe Cap Lace is an ideal pick. Everyone had a pair of classic white Keds growing up, this is a more modern twist on that shoe.  These adorable sneakers go with practically anything you pair them.  Moms, that will certainly make dressing baby easier in the mornings! I love the combination of the pink dots and laces with the brown background of the shoe, it works so well together.  

I really like the way they look on Scarlett and look forward to her wearing them.  They are easy to get on and off her feet.  Just like with the boots they are slightly big, but will fit her soon enough.  I would pair these with a cute hoodie and jeans (like above) and your baby will be the star of the neighborhood in no time.

As Scarlett gets older, I'll certainly be making her feet happy and buying her Stride Rite shoes.  Their quality and variety of colors and patterns will keep me coming back for more. Keep them in mind for all of your child's shoe needs.

*DISCLOSURE* Thank you to Stride Rite for providing me with complimentary shoes in exchange for this review.  All thoughts are my own.  





Friday, February 6, 2015

Fattycakes NY Review

The world would be a very boring place without cookies.  I feel that everyone should indulge in their favorite cookie at least a couple times a week. There's nothing quite like a freshly baked, warm cookie and a glass of milk.  If you're looking to make your stomach happy, go ahead and have a chocolate or peanut butter cookie.

Fattycakes NY brings you the most delicious and unique cookies ever with nationwide delivery available, even though they are based out of NYC.  Your taste buds won't know what hit them when they get ahold of these cookies.  Have you been craving a cookie that you can't get just anywhere? The Fattycake cookie will definitely live up to your cookie aficionado standards.  It includes chocolate chips, oats, pretzels, potato chips, and sandwich cookies.  The sweet, salty, and crunchiness will keep you coming back for more.

Other delicious flavors of cookies are offered like the chipwich, which is a chocolate chip cookie sandwich with cream in the middle, and build me up buttercup which is a peanut butter chocolate brownie cookie with peanut butter cups.  Cookie cakes are also available in any cookie flavor Fattycakes offers.  If you're looking for a sweet treat that is unlike anything you've had before, Fattycakes NY is where it's at.

My stomach received the most tastiest invitation to try some Fattycakes cookies earlier this week.  Of course I very rarely turn down cookies, so I was very excited for this cookie-portunity.

These cookies have a permanent date with my belly


I received eight cookies in total; 2 chipwiches, 2 betty jo's, 2 drunken piglets, and 2 build me up buttercups. The sweet treats looked so good that I had to indulge as soon as I received the package!

So far, I've only sampled two cookie flavors; the chipwich, and the build me up buttercup.  I do have to tell you up front that the cookies are sweet, but satisfy that sweet tooth.

The chipwich is a classic combination of two chocolate cookies with rich and thick cream in-between.  This is one sandwich cookie that you won't soon forget.  I felt that the cookie as a whole was very fresh, as if it cooled from the oven and was instantly served to me on a plate.  The cookies were soft and melt in your mouth delicious, and the chocolate was prominent and sweet.

I would have been happy with just a plain old chocolate chip cookie, but that's not what Fattycakes is about.  The cookie was sent over the edge with the cream, which gave the cookie extra personality and an additional layer of sweetness.  The cream is very sweet though, I do have to warn you.  Pair this cookie with an icy cold glass of milk and you have yourself a real treat.

Peanut butter and chocolate are two flavors that you can never go wrong with.  The build me up buttercup cookie surely satisfied and made me smile.  This treat offered both of my favorite flavors in one cookie, which I loved.  The peanut butter cups were evenly distributed throughout the cookie so each bite had peanut butter goodness in it. I also thought the chocolate flavor was very noticeable too.  Sometimes peanut butter overshadows chocolate, but not in this case. This was certainly a memorable cookie!

I look forward to trying the rest of the cookies soon.  They surely won't last uneaten in my kitchen for very long.  What are you waiting for? Place an order with Fattycakes NY today!

*DISCLOSURE* Thank you to Fattycakes NY for providing me with complimentary samples in exchange for this review.  All thoughts are my own.


Thursday, February 5, 2015

Modere Review and Giveaway

I'm always up for trying new products.  I am brand loyal in some aspects, but I do find myself wanting to experiment and purchase products that I haven't used before.  How can you know if you like something if you haven't tried it before? It might give you the results you've been after!

Modere offers everyday essential products in categories such as household cleaning, men and women's personal care, and health and wellness.  All products are non-toxic, all-natural, and made in the USA.  Surf on over to the household cleaning section and you'll see dishwasher packs, cleaning wipes, and laundry packs.  Men and women's personal care offers hair, body, and skin products to make you feel your best.  If you're looking to get into better shape and take care of yourself, why not add some health bars or protein powder into your morning breakfast routine? There's truly something for everyone to enjoy at Modere. What will be your something?

I was sent several products from Modere to try.  My thought process for choosing the products was to select everyday items that would improve my life.  I picked a hair repairing mask, dishwasher packs, and a toner.

The dishwasher pack canister sort of matches my countertops! 

When you're a mom you can't regularly go to the spa, but there's no reason why the spa can't come to you! When my daughter was sleeping the other day I decided to have a quick spa moment in my bathroom.  I first started off with using the hair repairing mask when I was in the shower, then the toner after I got out.

The hair repairing mask is perfect for someone like me.  I'm a stay at home mom to my 8 week old daughter.  My days definitely aren't glamorous by any means, but it's important to me to still feel good about my appearance.  I love how you only need to spend five minutes a day applying it in the shower.  Everyone can dedicate five minutes to something, but why not dedicate it to having beautiful and nourished hair? 

I felt that the mask was thick and applied easily to my hair the first time I used it.  My hair is usually dry and since I blow-dry it almost daily, I need all the hydration and moisture I can get.  This nourishing hair treatment revives your hair and gives it the shine it deserves.  Not to mention it smells great too!

From the minute I rinsed it out, my hair felt luxurious and soft.  I could tell that it would look fantastic once blow-dried.  Once I dried my hair I instantly noticed a difference.  It looked incredibly healthy with a visible shine, and I was very impressed.  I don't think my locks have looked that good in a long time.  It definitely needed a boost and this hair mask treatment now has a permanent spot in my shower.  If you're looking to improve the quality of your hair and give it the nourishment it needs, this hair repairing mask is definitely for you.

Since I also suffer from dry skin, I knew the toner would be the perfect food to feed my skin.  This product is a gentle, rich toner with peptides and botanical extracts that are specially formulated for dry skin.  You are recommended to use the product twice daily for optimal results.  From the first time I used it, I really liked it.  My skin felt revived and woken up instantly, and there was no greasy residue feeling left behind either.  Since I live in the northeast, the winter weather can really take a toll on your skin.  The toner is the perfect way to bring back the moisture and hydration your skin craves.  

I was intrigued to try the dishwasher packs because not only were they scented, but free of chlorine, dyes, and phosphates too.  These dishwasher packs have a red pear with magnolia scent and I was actually excited to do dishes for the first time in my life! The pack fits easily and securely into the soap compartment of my dishwasher.  Once the cycle was done and I opened my dishwasher, I was hit with a fabulous cloud of red pear and magnolia! It was like a bath and body works store had a grand opening inside my dishwasher.  The dishes came out sparkling clean with no food residue left behind.  The best part was that they even smelled like the scent too.  How fun is that? 

The pack container fits conveniently underneath my kitchen sink for easy access.  I will certainly be using these until they run out, and then I'll be sad!  My dishes have never looked better and I owe it all to Modere.

If you're looking for fabulous products to enrich your life, I highly recommend heading over to Modere's website.  Get that credit card ready to order your new favorite products.







Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Bodycology Giveaway

Valentine's Day is just around the corner.  How is that possible? I feel like it was just New Year's Day! If you don't have a special Valentine in your life this year, that's ok.  You can still treat yourself to some delicious chocolates or fabulous smelling bath and body products.  It's important to pamper yourself from time to time, and Valentine's Day is the perfect opportunity to do so.



Bodycology wants every woman to feel beautiful.  That's why they offer a diverse mix of affordable bath and body products in fantastic scents that will make you smile.  There are so many scents available in lotions, body sprays, body washes, and sugar scrubs.  How about wrapping yourself in such wonderful scents as toasted sugar, blackberry vanilla, charmed apple, or sweet seduction? There's a scent that each person's nose will surely enjoy.  Any product from the line makes the perfect gift for yourself or someone else. 

If you've been searching for some new bath and body products, why not consider Bodycology's Scarlet Kiss? 

Three new products that will make your way first into your bathroom, then into your heart.

This mysterious blend of rich pomegranate, luscious peach and warm vanilla creates an alluring scent that will set the mood for an affair to remember.  Top notes of juicy pomegranate, peach skin and macintosh open this oriental scent, leading to mid tones of red peony, osthmanthus and marshmallow creme.  The dry notes end with rich vanilla rum, oakwood, and scarlet musk.

Every lady would enjoy having a new body cream, body wash, and fragrance mist.  Scarlet Kiss offers a set that you'll love.

The moisturizing body cream is formulated with shea, cocoa butter, jojoba butter, vitamin E and aloe vera.  This luxurious cream penetrates skin to leave it feeling soft for hours.  Rub some cream all over to make your skin happy.

Your skin will leave to be moisturized and hydrated with the body wash that contains vitamin E and grape seed extract.

Don't leave home without enveloping yourself with a spritz of the fragrance mist.  For a splash of fragrance and energy, spray lightly on wrists, neck, and shoulders.  The conditioning and hydrating honey and aloe vera provide a burst of refreshment.  

Keep Bodycology products in your bathroom drawer for easy access at all times.


Monday, February 2, 2015

Pampers Swaddlers is Here For Your Baby Every Step of The Way #DDDivas #PampersFirsts #Sponsored

Before having my daughter, I had no experience with young babies or infants.  I babysat for many years in college, but it was always for young children.  I preferred that since there were no diaper changes and they could tell me what they wanted.  Since I had no experience with babies, I had never changed a diaper in my life.  Providing your baby with a quality brand of diapers is the first best thing you can do as a parent.

Once in the hospital, my husband and I were given Pampers Swaddlers for our daughter throughout our stay.  I had no idea that this brand was the #1 diaper choice of hospitals in North America, and the first diaper worn by millions of babies.  The diaper was not only easy to put on but was secure as well. It fit her well and there were no leaks.  I wasn't sure what to expect in the first few hours and days of Scarlett's life in terms of diaper leaks, but luckily that wasn't an issue.  

Pampers Swaddlers wraps baby with superior comfort, protection, and blanket-like softness in size newborn to size 6.  The diaper helps to take care of babies during all the precious first moments they share with their parents. You can feel confident putting your baby in Swaddlers because it offers up to 12 hours of overnight protection.  There will be no guessing if baby needs to be changed because the diaper has a color changing wetness indicator on the front.  The absorb away liner pulls wetness and mess away from baby's skin, leaving them happy and comfortable longer.  

There was nothing more special than enjoying our daughter's first days.  She was so tiny and precious and I loved every single moment of it! It's hard to believe that she will already be two months old next week.  Pampers understands that there's nothing more joyful or rewarding than those firsts shared by babies and parents.  In honor of this special journey, they have released a compilation video  entitled "Firsts". This video highlights those wondrous "firsts", including a couple's first sonogram, to bringing baby home from the hospital. You can guarantee that this compilation showcases those moments that you'll remember forever.  


This video is absolutely beautiful and I loved it.  Pampers did such a great job on capturing all of those important firsts that no parent wants to miss or do without.  It's scary how quickly babies grow and change. You just want them to stay little forever even though that's not possible.  My daughter is 7 weeks old and I'm so happy to have the opportunity to stay at home with her.  Just the other day she smiled for the first time! I was lucky that I had my phone nearby so I could record it.  I'm so looking forward to more of her firsts; including first words, the first time she laughs, and of course the first time she rolls over, crawls, and then eventually walks.  

Just a few days before she gave me a real smile for the first time! I think she was just practicing here. :)

If you're around on Wednesday, February 11th, why not hop on over to the Pampers Twitter party? The party will be at 9 pm EST, and you can RSVP here.  To participate, follow your hosts @DoubleDutyDivas, @BridgetteLA, @CeceliaMeccca, @AngieKcom, @WhatMommiesNeed, @RamblingChick, and the sponsor @Pampers. I can guarantee you'll have a great time!

Don't forget to stay in the loop of everything Pampers by following them on Twitter and liking them on Facebook

*DISCLOSURE* This review was made possible by Double Duty Divas and Pampers.  I was provided product free of charge to facilitate my review, but all opinions are 100% mine.