Thursday's Contests & Giveaways

For a list of my current giveaways, please see the sidebar.

Link: Half of Me
Prize: Brita On Tap Filtration System and 32 oz. water bottle
Deadline: February 2nd

Link: Out With The Kids
Prize: Putumayo Kids' Hawaiian Playground and Celtic Dreamland CDs
Deadline: February 2nd

Link: Lively Women
Prize: $50 to Target
Deadline: February 4th

Link: Seven Dogs and A Baby
Prize: Yoga Mommies DVD
Deadline: February 6th

Link: Green Mom Finds
Prize: Laptop Lunch System
Deadline: February 7th

Link: FabSugar
Prize: Derek Lam Erin Media Bauletto Bag in Red ($1,450)
Deadline: February 8th

Link: DearSugar
Prize: $500 to Red Envelope
Deadline: February 11th

Link: momsational
Prize: $30 to Baskin-Robbins
Deadline: February 14th

Link: Go Visit Hawaii
Prize: Hawaii-themed fun pack
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Prizey
Prize: $50 worth of CDs and DVDs
Deadline: after 100 people sign-up

Here are some of my favorite giveaways at the Bloggy Giveaway Carnival:

• Zen Stone Plus MP3 Player
• Kodak Easy Share Digital Camera
• Subscription to Real Simple Magazine
• Mommy Cards
• Valentine Coaster & Coffee Mug
• Custom Made Tutu
• $25 to Sephora
• TooFaced Make-Up Palette
• $20 to DoodleBugs Paper
• Pretty Posh Princess
• Digital Media Burning Software
• Busy Body Book
• Hannah Montana Room Decor Set
• Cupcake Themed Tote Bag
• $50 to Land's End
• Wireless Travel Mouse

Wednesday's Contests & Giveaways

For a listing of my current giveaways, please see the sidebar.

Link: SixHours Photography
Prize: two 5″ x 5″ cupcake prints
Deadline: January 30th

Link: Subu Inc
Prize: Teal Me I'm Beautiful Earrings from Uncommon Originals
Deadline: January 31st

Link: carp(e) libris
Prize: a copy of Downriver
Deadline: February 1st

Link: Polkadot Platypus
Prize: a sling in your choice of fabrics
Deadline: February 1st

Link: Props & Pans
Prize: a set of personalized cards from Pose Prints
Deadline: February 2nd

Link: Houses, Couches, and Babies
Prize: 2 dozen cookies with cocoas and teas from Michael's Cookies
Deadline: February 4th

Link: Seven Dogs and A Baby
Prize: $50 to Nina & Tom
Deadline: February 5th

Link: Weary Parent
Prize: Insignia Pilot Video MP3 Player
Deadline: February 13th

Link: Pinks & Blues Girls Blog
Prize: Phil & Teds Vibe Stroller
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Vader's Mom
Prize: a copy of Awaken My Heart by DiAnn Mills
Deadline: ?

Tuesday's Contests & Giveaways

For a listing of my current giveaways including an Insignia Video MP3 Player, please see the sidebar.

If you've already gone through the 500+ giveaways going on at the Bloggy Giveaway Carnival, here are a few more you can enter.

Link: The Kid Birthday Fun Review
Prize: $20 to Oriental Trading Company or $10 to Amazon.com
Deadline: January 31st

Link: LI Kids
Prize: The Game Plan DVD
Deadline: February 1st

Link: Pennies in My Pocket
Prize: 10 gift bags from Pennylane Papers
Deadline: February 1st

Link: Blonde Mom Blog
Prize: a pack of Mable's Labels
Deadline: February 1st

Link: Savvy Sugar
Prize: Apple MacBook
Deadline: February 3rd

Link: Mommy of Three
Prize: $30 to a store of your choice (from the list posted)
Deadline: February 3rd

Link: Mama Loves Giveaways
Prize: OV-Watch Fertility Predictor
Deadline: February 4th

Link: Mom Reviews
Prize: Diaper Tote from Land's End
Deadline: February 6th

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: a onesie and pant set from BabyBam Collection
Deadline: February 8th

Link: momsational
Prize: Brain Quest DVD
Deadline: February 10th

Link: Success For Your Blog
Prize: 8 GB USB Flash Drive
Deadline: February 10th

Link: momsational
Prize: Fun musical toys from Baby Jamz
Deadline: February 11th

Link: mod*mom
Prize: phil&teds 2008 vibe stroller ($599) + doubles kit ($199)
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Celebrity Access
Prize: 3 months Free banner advertisement
Deadline: ?

Review & Giveaway: Insignia Pilot Video MP3 Player with Bluetooth Headphones

This giveaway is now closed. Thank you for your participation.
The winner is Grace of Sandier Pastures.
Congratulations!

As you know, we are a household of electronic lovers - especially MP3s. I believe we have a total of 8 different types among us not including the ones on our cell phones. So you can imagine my excitement when I was offered the opportunity to review the Insignia Pilot Video MP3 Player from Best Buy.



Product features:

• 4GB* internal flash storage holds MP3 files, photos and videos
• Built-in Bluetooth wireless audio lets you listen to your music with compatible Bluetooth headphones (not included)
• Supports MP3, WMA, WMA Lossless, WMA DRM, WMA Pro, OGG, WAV, Audible, MPEG4 (30 fps), WMV (30 fps) and JPEG formats

• 2.4" high-resolution LCD color display with wide viewing angles
• Built-in digital FM tuner with 20 presets; remember songs you hear by saving track and artist data from FM stations broadcasting RDS data
• Features a Secure Digital card expansion slot for additional memory capacity (media not included)
• Custom EQ with 4 presets
• High-speed USB 2.0 interface for blazing transfer speeds
• Rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides up to 25 hours of playback time

The first thing I noticed was that it has a very stylish look. Now if only I could get it out of the packaging! I swear this thing is so packed protected that I feared bodily injury when trying to free it from it's plastic. However, once that was accomplished, setting it up was a breeze. As another reviewer said, "It's so easy, even a caveman could do it." I'm not kidding! The instruction manual that came with it is only a piece of paper because that's really all that's needed.

What I really liked about this MP3 player is the FM tuner. It's kind of cool to be able to listen to the local news updates or traffic reports whenever you want to. The reception is crisp and clear and you're able to program 20 of your favorite stations.

Loading music, photos, and videos were a breeze. This player is not compatible with iTunes, however, Best Buy does have it's own Digital Music Store. If you really wanted to, you could burn a CD copy of your iTune purchases, download them to this program, and sync your player. Not a big deal.

It's pretty cool to have a video player on hand especially when grocery shopping with the kids. Anything that keeps them quiet in public for a decent amount of time is always a plus for me! And since it has a media card slot, memory is never a problem.

All in all, I love this MP3 player. And coming from an iPod diehard, that's saying a lot. For the price of $129.99, this presents an affordable option for those looking to take their music on-the-go.

Guess what? I have a brand new, never opened (I'll leave that up to you but be careful!), Insignia Pilot Video MP3 Player & Bluetooth Headphones for one lucky person to win. How cool is that? To enter, just stop by Best Buy before February 1st and see what it's all about. Then come back and let me know what feature interests you the most. That's it! A random winner will be selected and notified on February 2nd.

To earn extra entries, just subscribe to my feed and/or mention this giveaway on your site with a link back here and to Best Buy. Let me know if you're doing the extra credit so I can make sure you're entered properly. PLEASE don't forget to leave a way to contact you.

This giveaway is open to U.S. addresses only. Good luck!

Don't forget to enter my other current giveaways:

• Tessy & Tab Reading Club for kids and a Money Management Toolkit
• A set of personalized note cards from Sweet-Pea Creations
• Backyardigans Surf's Up DVD
• Tee/Onesie from Trendy Tadpole
  

Sunday's Contests & Giveaways

For a listing of my current giveaways and events, please see the sidebar.

Link: Boutique Cafe
Prize: Maggie & the Ferocious Beast DVD set
Deadline: January 31st

Link: Boutique Cafe
Prize: Gourmet chocolates from Endangered Species Chocolates
Deadline: February 1st

Link: Mama Loves Giveaways
Prize: Matching leash & collar set from Lupine
Deadline: February 3rd

Link: 5 Minutes for Mom
Prize: Fairy Castle set from Warm Biscuit Bedding Company
Deadline: February 7th

Link: Love Shak Baby
Prize: Cubino Chair from Mason & Matisse
Deadline: February 12th

Link: Green Valentines Guide
Prize: A Green prize pack ($60)
Deadline: February 13th

Link: mod*mom
Prize: A dozen vegan, allergy friendly, kosher cupcakes
Deadline: February 14th

Giveaway: Backyardigans Surf's Up DVD

This giveaway is now closed. Thank you for your participation.
The winner is Mo of Un-Mainstream Mom.
Congratulations!

If your kids like the Backyardigans, they'll love Surf's Up!

Product Description: "The Backyardigans are a group of five young friends who get together daily to play in the backyard they share. Each day, their imaginations transform that backyard into a different fantastic, photo-realistic landscape, and they go off on a high-stakes quest full of song, dance, and adventure Title Overview: "Surf’s Up!" will be the fifth The Backyardigans home video title. The main episode centers around the Backyardigans as surfers searching for the perfect wave to Afro-pop tunes. The main program of the DVD will include 4 episodes, each approximately 24 minutes in length."

How would you like to win a brand new copy of your very own? To enter, just leave a comment below before February 1st saying which character is your favorite. That's it! A random winner will be selected and notified on February 2nd.

To earn extra entries, just subscribe to my feed or mention this giveaway on your blog with a link back here. Please let me know if you're doing the extra credit so I can make sure you're entered properly. Don't forget to leave a way to contact you if you win!

This giveaway is open to everyone world-wide! Good luck!

Don't forget to enter my other current giveaways:

• Insignia Pilot Video MP3 Player from Best Buy
• Personalized Note Cards from Sweet-Pea Creations
• Tessy & Tab Reading Club for Kids
• Tee/Onesie from Trendy Tadpole
  

Friday's Contests & Giveaways

For my current giveaways and events, please see the sidebar.

Link: ellinghouse
Prize: Born to Love beanie
Deadline: Janaury 26th

Link: Design Mom
Prize: Baby Shower Gift Pack (value $250)
Deadline: January 27th

Link: Apartment Therapy
Prize: ChocolateChocolate Recipe Book
Deadline: January 27th

Link: Mommy Poppins
Prize: Personalized Children's Book
Deadline: January 27th

Link: Parenting Children
Prize: a personalized fruit roll up
Deadline: January 27th

Link: Peekaboo Picks
Prize: a personalized onesie or tee from Baby Candy
Deadline: January 27th

Link: Boo Mama
Prize: Valentine's Day Charm from Bonbon Charms
Deadline: January 28th

Link: DE Reviews
Prize: a Sleepy Wrap in your choice of colors
Deadline: January 29th

Link: LifeHack
Prize: a db clay wallet
Deadline: January 30th

Link: Trusted Tours
Prize: Hand-held GPS System
Deadline: Janaury 31st

Link: teensygreen
Prize: a short sleeved t-shirt, leggings, cardigan, and beret set from Happy Green Bee
Deadline: February 4th

Link: 5 Minutes for Mom
Prize: A personalized towel from Alex Casey Baby
Deadline: February 6th

Link: Z Recommends
Prize: Sharper Image "Now You Can Find It!" system
Deadline: February 8th

Link: Becoming a Secret Shopper
Prize: One year membership to Shop Until You Drop (Mystery Shoppers)
Deadline: February 28th

Link: Family Doin's
Prize: a Pampered Chef silicone scraper
Deadline: ?

Thursday's Contests & Giveaways

For a listing of my current giveaways & events, please see the sidebar.

Link: Oh! Baby Buy Products
Prize: a Gigi Blanki of your choice
Deadline: January 25th

Link: Peekaboo Picks Magazine
Prize: The Sweetheart Cookie Kit which includes the Snow Angel Sugar Cookie Mix, sweetheart cookie cutters, sprinkles, measuring spoons, and a colorful snack plate by Kids Central Kitchen
Deadline: January 25th

Link: Houses, Couches, and Babies
Prize: 1) 40z. bottle Siliskin, (1) 8oz. bottle Siliskin, and (1) Silibib
Deadline: January 25th

Link: A Mom in Red High Heels
Prize: Park Avenue Pink Lip Gloss
Deadline: January 28th

Link: Gift Rap
Prize: Maxtor OneTouch 4 Mini 160GB Portable External Hard Drive
Deadline: January 28th

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: $50 to Tote and Tee
Deadline: January 28th

Link: Table of Five
Prize: $50 to Target
Deadline: January 30th

Link: Mama Loves Giveaways
Prize: $50 to Hanes
Deadline: January 30th

Link: Sons are a Heritage from the Lord, Children a Reward from Him
Prize: Stephen Joseph Quilted Bag with free monogramming
Deadline: January 31st

Link: Mommy Knows
Prize: Two Pippalily baby slings
Deadline: January 31st

Link: mod*mom
Prize: 3 whole foods gift baskets
Deadline: January 31st

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: a Zosephine Messenger Bag
Deadline: January 31st

Link: Mamanista
Prize: A pair of shoes from See Kai Run
Deadline: January 31st

Link: Tip Junkie
Prize: a custom bauble necklace with your Word for 2008 by Executive Homemaker
Deadline: February 1st

Link: Robeez
Prize: 6 pairs of Robeez Tredz & $500 gift certificate
Deadline: February 4th

Link: From Dates to Diapers and Beyond
Prize: A pair of Love Note Earrings from Cherry Creek Designs
Deadline: February 4th

Link: Shoe Blitz
Prize: $100 to Heels.com
Deadline: February 4th

Link: momsational
Prize: BOB Screentime Controller
Deadline: February 8th

Link: Green Mom Finds
Prize: a Moby Wrap in organic cotton
Deadline: February 8th

Link: My Mommy Bracelets
Prize: various cool bling and other prizes
Deadline: February 14th

Link: FeeFiFoto
Prize: Your favorite photograph incorporated into a landing page on FeeFiFoto (yes, that's a photo of my girls!)
Deadline: February 14th

Link: Celebrity Baby Blog
Prize: $100 to Tiny Prints
Deadline: ?

Wednesday's Contests & Giveaways

For a list of my current giveaways and events, please see the sidebar.

Link: Subu Inc.
Prize: Geometric Baby Boots
Deadline: January 24th

Link: Great Green Baby
Prize: Organic Cotton Onesie
Deadline: January 24th

Link: Oh! Baby Buy Products
Prize: Gigi Blanki 14x16" security blanket
Deadline: January 25th

Link: Cool Mom Picks
Prize: Spot on Square Hiya Crib
Deadline: January 25th

Link: Hostess With The Mostess
Prize: Modern Dose Panton S Chair
Deadline: January 25th

Link: The Laughs Will Go On
Prize: a hi-chair bib from Poi Wear
Deadline: January 26th

Link: Props & Pans
Prize: Pair of shoes from Polliwalks
Deadline: January 26th

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: $25 to JC Naturals
Deadline: January 27th

Link: Buzz Sugar
Prize: one full year of Netflix service
Deadline: January 27th

Link: The Purse Forum
Prize: Teresa Hobo Handbag in Cream
Deadline: January 31st

Link: Prizey
Prize: 4 outfits from Little Capers
Deadline: Jan 31st

Link: superdumb supervillain
Prize: a medallion starter set from Compass Kidz
Deadline: February 3rd

Link: From Dates to Diapers and Beyond
Prize: Love Note Earrings from Cherry Creek Designs
Deadline: February 4th

Link: All Aboard Toys
Prize: a Jumbo Sesame Street Plush
Deadline: February 4th

Link: So a Blonde Walks Into a Review
Prize: $75 to Peternity
Deadline: February 5th

Link: Tops 2 Bottoms
Prize: T-shirt from Planet Mom
Deadline: February 12th

Link: fashion & beauty
Prize: daily Aussie product prizes and a 10-day trip for 2 to Australia valued at $12,000
Deadline: February 27th

Link: Deal Hunter's Paradise
Prize: Sandisk Sansa c250 2GB MP3 Player
Deadline: April 1st

Review: Barney & Friends Celebrating Around The World

You either love him or hate him. Either way, it looks like Barney's here to stay with a brand new DVD - Celebrating Around The World.

Product Description: Everyone's favorite purple dinosaur continues his dino-mite 20th year anniversary with the all-new, direct-to-DVD special "Celebrating Around The World." Young explorers take a super-dee-duper adventure with Barney, BJ, Baby Bop and Riff to Brazil, Kenya, India, Japan, and Ireland where they learn about different cultures, including traditional music and dance, and explore the ways people celebrate around the world.

Baby Bug is a big fan of Barney, especially the music. She enjoys the colorful and upbeat songs, dances, and props. That's why I knew this video would be a big hit with her. However, what really surprised me is that I enjoyed it, too.

There are some familiar songs as well as brand new ones which will undoubtedly become Barney classics. Our favorite destination was Japan where the Cherry Blossom Festival is held complete with authentic kimonos and traditional Odori dances.

This video is scheduled to be released on January 29th for $13.49 and is definitely one you'll want for your collection.

Thank you to the Parent Bloggers Network for this great review opportunity!

Tuesday's Contests & Giveaways

For my current giveaways and events, please see the sidebar.


Link: Metropolitan Mama
Prize: a signed copy of The No-Cry Sleep Solution for Toddlers and Preschoolers by Elizabeth Pantley
Deadline: January 23rd

Link: Z Recommends
Prize: Sterling Silver Children's Bracelet from Julian & Co.
Deadline: January 23rd

Link: Sweet Life in the Valley
Prize: Polka Dot & Daisies Thank You Cards
Deadline: January 24th

Link: The Beat
Prize: a copy of Little Lulu Goes Shopping
Deadline: January 25th

Link: aPARENTly Speaking
Prize: Baby Books
Deadline: January 25th

Link: Blonde Mom Blog
Prize: a onesie from ChildishClothing.com
Deadline: January 25th

Link: Hostess With The Mostess
Prize: S-Chair from Modern Dose
Deadline: January 25th

Link: An Ordinary Life
Prize: Gloves in a Bottle
Deadline: January 25th

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: $50 to Kangaroodle
Deadline: January 26th

Link: A Mom in Red High Heels
Prize: an Expecting Mama Prize worth over $300 from Georgia Tees
Deadline: January 27th

Link: Seven Dogs and A Baby
Prize: Jessie doll from T.I.M dolls
Deadline: January 28th

Link: LI Kids
Prize: Harry Potter DVD Game
Deadline: January 29th

Link: sassyfrazz
Prize: Kaboost - portable high chair booster
Deadline: January 31st

Link: Our Seven Qtpies
Prize: Groovy Plates by Boon Inc.
Deadline: January 31st

Link: Inspirational Christian Stories, Poems, Gifts
Prize: Amazing Grace Angel Bible Tote
Deadline: January 31st

Link: Temptalia
Prize: Grand Prize - a trip for two to Jackson Hole for 4 nights at Hotel Terra, the entire Origins Organics line and other green prizes
Deadline: February 25th

Sunday's Contests & Giveaways

For my current giveaways and events, please see the side bar.

Link: Metropolitan Mama
Prize: a "surprise" pair of Stride Rite shoes
Deadline: January 22nd

Link: Mom Gadget
Prize: The Prada MV519 Tessuto Sports Bag
Deadline: January 27th

Link: Peekaboo Picks
Prize: Card File and 2008 Calendar from Cecily Ink
Deadline: January 27th

Link: Fussy Baby
Prize: A Stowers New Baby Gift Basket (value $65)
Deadline: January 25th

Link: Pennies In My Pocket
Prize: $50 to Quotes the Walls
Deadline: February 8th

Link: mod*mom
Prize: Your own coffee table book by blurb
Deadline: February 14th

Link: Mother May I
Prize: Nintendo DS Lite
Deadline: ?

Review & Offer: SENSEO Gourmet Coffee Maker

I love coffee. I can barely function in the morning until I have my first cup of java. That’s why when I found out about a great offer from Senseo Gourmet Coffee, I jumped at the chance.

Offer: The people at Senseo are offering a free Coffee Pod System, a bag of Senseo coffee pods, and a coffee pod canister (value $70 +). All you need to do is pay for the shipping & handling ($15). To find out if you qualify, just fill out their short survey and you’ll get your results immediately.

After filling out their relatively short online survey, I was immediately notified that I had qualified. I sent my $15 via PayPal and then waited for it to arrive. It took about 4 weeks and it arrived I was pleasantly surprised.


The coffee system has a very modern look and built well. It came with everything that was promised and the instruction manual was easy to understand. It took up very little space on my counter which is also a plus!

Before you brew your first cup, you MUST flush out the system. This is a one-time thing. Let me warn you though, the flushing noise is a little louder than you’d expect. It took me by surprise and I almost dropped my cup!

Once that’s done, you can now start brewing. The whole system was very easy to use and I love the idea of being able to place your cup under the spout and make just one cup of coffee because this eliminates the need to wash a coffee pot.


The downside is that it’s designed to only use the Senseo coffee/tea pods and I’m not sure how readily available they are in your local grocery stores. You may purchase them online for various prices and quantities.

Bottom line: It’s a very good deal and the coffee tasted great. It has a stylish design and it’s easy to use.

Thank you to Almost Somewhat Positive for letting me know about this!

Friday's Contests & Giveaways

For my current giveaways & events, please see the sidebar.

Link: Laura Williams' Musings
Prize: $25 to Hanes (3 winners)
Deadline: January 21st

Link: Design Mom
Prize: a place setting by Mini Moderns
Deadline: January 21st

Link: Take Cover, Mothergoosemouse
Prize: iPod Shuffle
Deadline: January 21st

Link: Mums The Wurd
Prize: $50 to Just Ducky Originals
Deadline: January 21st

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: $25 to Ribbon Rock Star
Deadline: January 22nd

Link: FitSugar
Prize: $150 to Nike
Deadline: January 24th

Link: FabSugar
Prize: Marni Medium Balloon Tote
Deadline: January 24th

Link: Boutique Cafe
Prize: one Re-Run Messenger Bag and one Re-Run MicroPod
Deadline: January 24th

Link: The Mom Blogs
Prize: Chocolates for 3 Months from The Amazing Chocolate Club
Deadline: January 31st

Link: Crazy Hip Blog Mamas
Prize: Oreck XL Ultra Vacuum Cleaner
Deadline: January 30th

Link: Adventures of a Twenty Something Mother
Prize: a pair of BabyLegs
Deadline: February 1st

Link: mod*mom
Prize: duvet/sham/sheet set, utility bag, poster or height chart from kideko
Deadline: February 14th

Link: Doll Diaries
Prize: Magazine subscription to Barbie or Hot Wheels
Deadline: February 16th

Link: Parents With Style
Prize: a Dutchess Bag by Lexie Barnes
Deadline: ?

Giveaway: Shrek the Third DVD

This giveaway is now closed. Thank you for your participation.
The winner is Brit of And baby makes 3 . . .
Congratulations!

Hey all you Shrek fans! I've got a copy of Shrek the Third DVD to giveaway. To enter, just leave a comment below before midnight, January 22nd saying who your favorite character from the movie is. That's it. A random winner will be selected and contacted on January 23rd.

To earn extra entries, just subscribe to my feed or blog about this giveaway with a link back here. Also, please leave a way to contact you in case you win.

This giveaway is open to everyone world-wide. Good luck!

Product description: "When Shrek married Fiona the last thing he had in mind was becoming the next King of Far Far Away. But when Shrek’s father-in-law, King Harold, suddenly croaks, that is exactly what he faces. Recruiting Donkey and Puss In Boots for a new quest, Shrek sets out to bring back the rightful heir to the throne. Meanwhile back in the kingdom, Fiona's jilted Prince Charming storms the city with an army of fairy tale villains to seize the throne. Fiona and a band of princesses must stop him to ensure there will be a kingdom left to rule!"

Thursday's Contests & Giveaways

For a list of my current giveaways & events, please see the sidebar.

Link: My Mom Shops
Prize: $100 to Nina & Tom Family Fashion
Deadline: January 17th

Link: My Mom Shops
Prize: a $175 Dante Beatrix baby tote
Deadline: January 17th

Link: My Mom Shops
Prize: $110 to Three Lovelies
Deadline: January 17th

Link: My Mom Shops
Prize: a set of clothing from Little Showoffs
Deadline: January 17th

Link: My Mom Shops
Prize: $100 to Warm Biscuit Bedding Company
Deadline: January 17th

Link: Props & Pans
Prize: The Backyardigans - Born to Play CD
Deadline: January 19th

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: $50 to the Chocolate Cake Club
Deadline: January 19th

Link: Lil Sugar
Prize: $300 to Barneys New York
Deadline: January 20th

Link: Spoiled Pretty
Prize: 6 Plexi Pop Nail Colors
Deadline: January 20th

Link: Seven Dogs and a Baby
Prize: Cariboo Blanket
Deadline: January 21st

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: $30 to Sher's Wares
Deadline: January 21st

Link: Mama Loves Giveaways
Prize: DaBib (yellow)
Deadline: January 22nd

Link: A Frog in My Soup
Prize: Vanilla Travel Set from Sweet Pea Cakes
Deadline: January 22nd

Link: Mums The Wurd
Prize: $50 to Warm Biscuit
Deadline: January 23rd

Link: Woman's Day Sweepstakes
Prize: 2-carat diamond bracelet
Deadline: January 25th

Link: The Goody Blog
Prize: a Dazzle Stroller from Silver Cross
Deadline: January 30th

Link: Mamanista
Prize: $100 to Vincent Shoes
Deadline: February 4th

Link: The Bag Forum
Prize: the Thomas Wylde Mustang Bag
Deadline: February 22nd

Link: 5 Minutes for Mom
Prize: AMF Mustang Pedal Car
Deadline: ?

Review: Puffs Plus Lotion With Vicks

Here in Hawaii, we don't have your typical winter cold. However, that doesn't mean we don't get sick once in a while. And since it's flu season, what better time than now to review the Puffs Plus Lotion from Vicks.

From the site: Puffs Plus with the Scent of Vicks combines soothing lotion with the comforting scent of Vicks. The lotion contains aloe, chamomile, and vitamin E; the scent of Vicks contains eucalyptus, menthol, and camphor. This great combination offers soothing comfort when you need it most.

When you first smell it, you may think the scent is a little strong. However, if you're congested, you'll be thankful for the vapor action. Believe me.

A while ago I had a slight cold probably due to all the germs on the airplane. Luckily, I had this handy travel pack of 12 2-ply tissues with me. These ultra-soft, Vicks scented tissues were exactly what I needed. Not only did the vapor help clear my congestion a little but it also eased the soreness of my nose from all the blowing.

My girls, on the other hand, did not really care for it. However, what kid likes to blow their nose in the first place? For them, the Vicks Vapor Rub usually works a lot better. The warm soothing feel helps them get a good night's sleep. It was something my Mom used on me and now it's something I use on them.

Bottom line: Great product, however, probably better suited for adults than kids.

Tuesday's Contests & Giveaways

For my current giveaways and events, please see the sidebar.

Link: My Mom Shops
Prize: a pair of shoes from See Kai Run
Deadline: January 17th

Link: My Mom Shops
Prize: $100 to Arte Bebe
Deadline: January 17th

Link: Are We There Yet Mom?
Prize: Princess Charm Bracelet from Trendy Tatters
Deadline: January 18th

Link: Hostess with the Mostess
Prize: a contemporary "Badu Box" from Interior Style Home
Deadline: January 18th

Link: Boutique Flair
Prize: a pair of Angelic Genius J'Adore Milk Tees from AngelicGenius.com
Deadline: January 18th

Link: Boutique Flair
Prize: one-of-a-kind Gail Schneider Designs tank top
Deadline: January 18th

Link: From Dates to Diaper and Beyond
Prize: a Kiehl's Creme de Corps gift pack
Deadline: January 21st

Link: Bleeding Espresso
Prize: $30 to Amazon.com
Deadline: January 21st

Link: Zen Trend
Prize: COACH Handbag
Deadline: January 25th

Link: Mamanista
Prize: a pair of shoes from See Kai Run
Deadline: January 31st

Link: Woman's Day Magazine
Prize: $200 to Gifts.com
Deadline: February 14th

Link: Tuni & G Blog for Hot Moms
Prize: $150 to Tuni & G
Deadline: ?

Monday's Contests & Giveaways

Over at An Island Life, we're coming together for a Valentine's Day Goody Swap. Come and join us!

Link: Homemaker of the 21st Century
Prize: Bitten Jeans by Sarah Jessica Parker
Deadline: January 17th

Link: Bloggy Giveaway
Prize: $75 to CocoBlu Studio
Deadline: January 18th

Link: Did You See That?
Prize: Flirting With Forty by Jane Porter (read it, loved it!)
Deadline: January 18th

Link: Classy Mommy
Prize: Exploring Signs DVD from the My Baby Can Talk Series
Deadline: January 19th

Link: Mums The Wurd
Prize: 1 year subscription to One True Media
Deadline: January 20th

Link: From Dates to Diapers and Beyond
Prize: $100 American Express Gift Card
Deadline: January 20th

Link: Tops 2 Bottoms
Prize: T-shirt of your choice from Planet Mom
Deadline: February 12th

Link: Mile High Mamas
Prize: a bag from Pink Lemonade Boutique Bags
Deadline: ?

Saturday's Contests & Giveaways

For my current giveaways, please see the sidebar.

Link: Apartment Therapy
Prize: Fern Living Wall Sticker
Deadline: January 14th

Link: Mom4Life
Prize: Downtime Sleepy Hat
Deadline: January 15th

Link: Mom Gadget
Prize: Internet Password Organizer
Deadline: January 16th

Link: Mums The Wurd
Prize: As I Grow DVD Set
Deadline: January 16th

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: $45 gift certificate to Bambina Ballerina
Deadline: January 16th

Link: The Laughs Will Go On
Prize: Straplettes for Nursing Mothers
Deadline: January 17th

Link: PetSugar
Prize: Jonathan Adler pet bed
Deadline: January 17th

Link: From Dates to Diapers and Beyond
Prize: Pure Essentials Gift Pack
Deadline: January 18th

Link: Wise Bread
Prize: Prisoner of Love Necklace
Deadline: February 7th

Link: mom*mom
Prize: toast 8 titanium software from Roxio
Deadline: February 8th

Review & Giveaway: BOB Screentime Controller

This giveaway is now closed. Thank you for your participation.
The winner is Carrie of Life is Like a Mountain Railway.
Congratulations!

"Children spend more time watching television than any other activity . . ." The National Institute on Media and the Family

I admit it, on occasion I have been guilty of using the television as a baby sitter. I really do try to limit the time the girls spend watching the tube but sometimes I just can't help turning it on so I can tune out. So who can blame them when they start to rebel once I come to my senses and pull the plug?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children’s screentime should be limited to one to two hours of quality programming per day. However, young people spend an average of three hours per day watching television, 49 minutes per day playing video games and more than an hour per day using the computer for something other than schoolwork.

This is where BOB The Screentime Controller comes in. BOB puts an end to child-parent conflicts about screentime by setting limits to how long a child is allowed to watch television. Once that limit is reached, electronics are shut off. The great thing about this device is that you can use it on any electronic device that has a screen. And it can be programmed to monitor 6 different users.

How would you like to win BOB (value $99) for your family? To enter, just leave a comment below before January 15th mentioning how many hours you think your family watches television on a daily basis. That's it. A random winner will be selected and notified on January 16th.

As usual, you may earn extra entries by subscribing to my feed or by mentioning this giveaway on your blog with a link back here and to BOB The Screentime Controller. Let me know if you're doing/did the extra credit so I can make sure you're entered properly. Don't forget to leave a way to contact you in case you win!

This giveaway is open to US & Canada only. Good luck!

Friday's Contests & Giveaways

For a list of my current giveaways, please see the sidebar.

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: Chow Hound gift package for your pet
Deadline: January 11th

Link: Classy Mommy
Prize: Downtime Sleepy Hat
Deadline: January 12th

Link: carp(e) libris
Prize: The Meat and Spirit Plan by Selah Saterstrom
Deadline: January 14th

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: A pair of Itzy Bitzy shoes in Sydney style (hot pink)
Deadlie: January 15th

Link: Mommy Knows
Prize: $100 to The Baby Marketplace
Deadline: January 15th

Link: Mom Finds
Prize: $100 to Onlineshoes.com
Deadline: January 16th

Link: momsational
Prize: Organizational System from Day Runner
Deadline: January 23rd

Link: Crazy Hip Blog Mamas
Prize: $100 to the Container Store
Deadline: January 23rd

Link: Mamanista
Prize: Be Small Diaper Bag in your choice of design
Deadline: January 24th

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: Oreck XL Ultra Vacumn Cleaner
Deadline: January 24th

Link: momsational
Prize: Comfy Easy PC & 2 game titles
Deadline: January 31st

Link: Goldsmith Jewelry Sweepstakes
Prize: a pair of $1,500 diamond earrings
Deadline: February 4th

Link: Blonde Mom Blog
Prize: a hip outdoor portable playmat from Gobaby.com (value $60)
Deadline: ?

Review: Pampers Diapers & Baby Wipes

A while ago I had the opportunity to review Pampers Cruisers Diapers and Baby Wipes. I was thrilled to do so because who doesn't love free diapers?

Ever since Girlie Girl was born 6 years ago, I have always bought Huggies. I'm not sure why. I guess it's because it's what my sister used on her kids and I've always felt that a diaper is a diaper. Therefore, I really wasn't expecting Pampers to be any different. After all, how different can a diaper be?

At first glance, I noticed that the side tabs were a lot narrower than I'm used to. I wondered if this would result in less coverage and more leakage. It didn't. In fact, not only did stay in place, but it also made Baby Bug more flexible without leaving elastic marks on her legs (she has really chubby legs). We didn't have a single accident and that diaper can sure hold a lot! hee hee

The Cruisers come in sizes 3 - 7 and can accommodate kids up to 41 lbs plus.

As for the wipes, they were a little softer than the Huggies brand and because of this, it was a little harder for me to use when changing Baby Bug's diaper. I'm sure it was a lot more comfortable for her but it didn't slide on her butt as easily. I really liked the smell, though. It was great for wiping up the kids when they got messy.

All in all, I thought Pampers Diapers and Wipes were really good. It is something I would recommend to all parents.

Join their Gifts to Grow Program and receive free samples, valuable coupons, and a chance to win a year's supply of diapers and training pants!

Rating: ****

Wednesday's Contests & Giveaways

For a list of my current giveaways, please see the sidebar.

Link: I Make Money on Facebook
Prize: A brand new iPhone
Deadline: January 10th

Link: Hostess With The Mostess
Prize: A prize pack from Write On and More (value $145)
Deadline: January 12th

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: $25 to the Milk Factory
Deadline: January 13th

Link: SavvySugar
Prize: A brand new MacBook
Deadline: January 13th

Link: spoiled pretty
Prize: a personalized collection of products from Profound Beauty
Deadline: January 13th

Link: Mama Loves Giveaways
Prize: Baby Butler Hands-Free Bottle Holder
Deadline: January 16th

Link: Boo Mama
Prize: Oreck XL Ultra Vacuum Cleaner
Deadline: January 22nd

Link: momsational
Prize: Triumph Advance Deluxe Convertible Car Seat by Evenflo
Deadline: January 22nd

Link: The Blessed Nest
Prize: Mini Sewing Machine
Deadline: January 26th

Link: Contest for Moms
Prize: The Veggie Tales: The Pirates Who Don't Do Anything
Deadline: January 31st

Tuesday's Contests & Giveaways

For a list of my current giveaways, please see the sidebar.

Link: My Personal Review
Prize: $10 to Target
Deadline: January 11th

Link: Mums The Wurd
Prize: Land's End Diaper Bag
Deadline: January 14th

Link: Peppers & Polliwogs
Prize: the All New 2-CD Set: Meet Miley Cyrus and Hannah Montana 2
Deadline: January 16th

Link: SheFinds
Prize: a new 15" LCD Flat Screen TV
Deadline: January 16th

Link: momsational
Prize: Nikon CoolPix P5100 12 Megapixel digital camera
Deadline: January 21st

Link: Sandier Pastures
Prize: A brand new blog design by RS Designs
Deadline: January 27th

Link: MAC Cosmetics Sweepstakes
Prize: A $1,000 M•A•C gift card and the complete Originals collection
Deadline: January 31st

Monday's Contests & Giveaways

Check out my current giveaways located in the sidebar.

Link: The Laughs Will Go On
Prize: a Super Brite Diaper Cover from Bummis
Deadline: January 7th

Link: Props and Pans
Prize: a Clifford DVD Set - Playtime with Clifford & Be My Big Red Valentine
Deadline: January 8th

Link: Metropolitan Mama
Prize: copy of Mothering Your Nursing Toddler by Norma Jane Bumgarner
Deadline: January 8th

Link: teensygreen
Prize: A pair of organic BabyLegs from The Silly Wagon
Deadline: January 10th

Link: Sweet Life in the Valley
Prize: a custom fit ocean blue & green tutu from Princess Tots
Deadline: January 10th

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: $50 to Kids Magical Wonder
Deadline: January 11th

Link: Are We There Yet?
Prize: an item of your choice from Under My Umbrella
Deadline: January 11th

Link: Seven Dogs and a Baby
Prize: Boon Snack Ball & Squirt
Deadline: January 13th

Link: Laura Williams' Musings
Prize: The Geography of Bliss: One Grump's Search for the Happiest Places in the World
by Eric Weiner
Deadline: January 14th

Link: As Yet Untitled
Prize: The Daring Book for Girls
Deadline: January 14th

Link: Boutique Flair
Prize: a glamorous one-of-a-kind Gail Schneider Designs tank top
Deadline: January 18th

Link: Boutique Flair
Prize: A pair of Angelic Genius J'Adore Milk Tees from AngelicGenius.com
Deadline: January 18th

Link: Let's Go Shopping
Prize: A cosmetics gift pack from David Scott Cosmetics (value $78)
Deadline: January 21st

Sunday's Contest & Giveaways

For a list of my current giveaways, please see the sidebar.

Link: Mom 4 Life
Prize: a pink Secure2me baby blanket
Deadline: January 8th

Link: The Flip Flop Momma
Prize: Land's End Diaper Bag
Deadline: January 8th

Link: Mom Gadget
Prize: A set of three New Mother Journals
Deadline: January 8th

Link: The Silly Wagon
Prize: a pair of BabyLegs
Deadline: January 10th

Link: Lipstick, Powder 'n Paint
Prize: an OlayRegenerist Gift Basket
Deadline: January 10th

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: Mr.Oscat CD for children
Deadline: January 10th

Link: MomReviews
Prize: NoThrow Bottle Strap
Deadline: January 11th

Link: PT-LawMom
Prize: Shrek the Third DVD
Deadline: January 12th

Link: Classy Mommy
Prize: a Downtime Sleepy Hat in your choice of size or color
Deadline: January 12th

Link: momsational
Prize: A Wordsies shirt of your choice,“What the Dickens” Audiobook, Momager Calling Cards & box of stationery, NoThrow tether
Deadline: January 17th

Link: Boutique Cafe
Prize: Kitchen Folio from momAgenda
Deadline: ?

Contests & Giveaways

Link: Design Mom
Prize: $100 worth of products from LobotoMe — {goods to keep ME sane}
Deadline: January 6th

Link: Mommy Cracked
Prize: a framed print of your choice from Olive Kids
Deadline: January 7th

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: a Bizzimom planner
Deadline: January 9th

Link: Queen Baby Bean
Prize: $30 gift certificate
Deadline: January 10th

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: A Downtime Sleepy Hat from Downtime Shop
Deadline: January 11th

Link: Our Seven Qtpies
Prize: a Tattoo Ring from Twisted Silver
Deadline: January 13th

Link: Everything Moms
Prize: The Lost Memoirs of Jane Austen
Deadline: January 25th

Link: ModernCat
Prize: a Bella Bed from Bella Creature Comforts
Deadline: January 31st

Link: Thingamababy
Prize: $50 gift certificate to Vincent Shoes
Deadline: January 31st

Link: Craft Magazine Sweepstakes
Prize: Janome Memory Craft 6600P Sewing Machine (MSRP $1999)
Deadline: February 29th

Contests & Giveaways

For my current giveaways, please see the sidebar.

Link: Circuit City Sweepstakes
Prize: Zune MP3 player
Deadline: January 5th

Link: carp(e) libris
Prize: Delta Pearls, a book by Judith Bader Jones
Deadline: January 6th

Link: Vader's Mom
Prize: A Soldier's Promise by Cheryl Wyatt
Deadline: January 7th

Link: Mama Loves Giveaways
Prize: FamilyStories Making Spirits Bright
Deadline: January 8th

Link: Marketing Mommy
Prize: Lands' End Diaper Bag
Deadline: January 8th

Link: Seven Dogs and a Baby
Prize: momAgenda or Whomi Clarity planner
Deadline: January 8th

Link: MomFinds
Prize: Sterling Silver Baby & Toddler Bracelet by Boon Inc.
Deadline: January 9th

Link: Tangled and True
Prize: varies
Deadline: A prize a day until January 14th

Link: FeeFiFoto Blog
Prize: Mommy Has To Stay In Bed by Annette Rivlin-Gutman
Deadline: January 15th

Link: momsational
Prize: Designer Boulevard Ivy Backpack Diaper Bag (value $360)
Deadline: January 15th

Link: MommyKnows.com
Prize: Two $100 gift certificates to The Baby Markeplace
Deadline: January 18th

Link: Neopets Plushie Sweepstakes
Prize: Plushie Collection
Deadline: January 31st

Link: My Wooden Spoon
Prize: Hamilton Beach 4.5-qt. Eclectrics Stand Mixer, Pineapple Yellow
Deadline: January 31st

Link: Pennies In My Pocket
Prize: Blog Make-Over by RS Designs
Deadline: January 31st

Link: Beauty Secrets Revealed
Prize: Spa Kit from Girlz Night (value $65)
Deadline: January 31st

Link: The Big Bald Blog
Prize: $100/month for 2008
Deadline: February 1st

Link: Your Prom
Prize: Beaded Storm watch (value $100)
Deadline: March 1st

Review & Giveaway: The Hawaiian House Now

This giveaway is now closed. Thank you for your participation!
The winners are Sew Swank & are we officially old now.
Congratulations!

The Hawaiian House Now by Malia Mattoch McManus & Linny Morris, is a beautiful 192-page hardcover book highlighting the most amazing homes in Hawaii.

Taken from the book:

"From dramatic oceanfront homes to old cottages full of memories, Hawaiian houses combine architecture and location to create a sense of relaxation. As people from all over the world (Polynesians, New England missionaries, East and Southeast Asians) have put down roots in the islands, they have combined international motifs with a more traditional Hawaiian ambiance—to produce an informally eclectic style that is perfectly suited to contemporary lifestyles.

The Hawaiian House Now takes the reader on a tour of 21 specially photographed homes throughout the islands of Oahu, Hawaii (the Big Island), Maui, and Kauai, including houses that update the “aloha spirit” of traditional Hawaii; town houses in Honolulu; country houses; fantasy houses that express a personal vision; houses that blend the indoors and outdoors; original architectural statements; and, of course, beach houses."

Words just cannot convey the beauty of these full-paged color photographs. Each time I thought I saw the most beautiful home I've ever seen, I would turn the page and there would be another one even more gorgeous. The outdoor architectures really make the most of Hawaii's natural beauty.

This book sells for $40 and is currently on backorder for 3 weeks. However, I have 2 copies to give away to some very lucky winners! To enter, just leave a comment below before January 8th saying what your favorite thing about Hawaii is. That's it! A random winner will be selected on January 9th.

As usual, you may receive extra entries by subscribing to my feed or by mentioning this giveaway on your blog. Please let me know if you're doing/did the extra credit so I can make sure you're entered properly. Also, PLEASE leave a way to contact you if you win.

This giveaway is open to everyone world-wide. However, please note that since these books are very heavy, they will be sent out to the winners via Media Mail.

Good luck!

Thank you to Maggie of HNA Books for this great opportunity!