Saturday's Contests & Giveaways

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

Link: Film Gecko
Prize: 101 Dalmations 2-disc Platinum Edition DVD
Deadline: March 1st

Link: carp(e) libris reviews
Prize:I’jaam an iraqi rhapsody by Sinan Antoon
Deadline: March 1st

Link: dkMommy Spot
Prize: Walking on Eggshells by Jane Isay
Deadline: March 1st

Link: Design Mom
Prize: Prize pack for Expectant Moms ($500)
Deadline: March 2nd

Link: One Chic Mama
Prize: Czela Bellies C-section boy shorts
Deadline: March 3rd

Link: Props & Pans
Prize: Robeez Treds
Deadline: March 3rd

Link: Queen Baby Bean
Prize: Polkadot Papoose Sling
Deadline: March 3rd

Link: Mamas Like
Prize: $20 gift certificate to Allison Strine Designs
Deadline: March 5th

Link: Mums The Wurd
Prize: Kaboost Chair Booster
Deadline: March 6th

Link: The Angel Forever
Prize: $30 to Announcements Galore
Deadline: March 6th

Link: Oh! Baby Buy Products
Prize: $25 to ittikid
Deadline: March 7th

Link: The Kids Birthday Fun Review
Prize: Unicorn Races by Stephen J. Brooks
Deadline: March 9th

Link: A Mom's Review
Prize: NEW Johnson’s bedtime toddler wash & easy grip soap
Deadline: March 9th

Link: Carl Ocab
Prize: Tons of advertising space from some cool blogs
Deadline: March 9th

Link: Home Soda Fountain
Prize: Edition 1 Home Soda Machine from Soda Club USA
Deadline: March 11th

Link: Weary Parent
Prize: Zoobie Pet
Deadline: March 12th

Link: The Daily Grind
Prize: $60 blog design service from RS Designs
Deadline: March 14th

Link: Moms Love Shopping
Prize: $50 gift certificate to Quote The Walls
Deadline: March 14th

Link: An Enchanted Letter
Prize: The Velveteen Rabbit & Peter Rabbit’s Giant Story book
Deadline: March 15th

Review: Highlights High Five Magazine

When I was a kid, I used to love to go to the doctor's office just so I could read the Highlights Magazine. My favorite feature was the hidden picture puzzles. So when I had the opportunity to review their new version called High Five (aimed at 2-5 year olds), I was curious to see how different this magazine is from the original.

Highlights High Five's mission is to "celebrate the early years of childhood by helping parents, educators and other caregivers encourage a child's natural sense of wonder about the world - for children are the world's most important people."

They strive to accomplish this through:

• Promoting reasoning, problem solving and creative self-expression
• Fostering a love of language and a rich vocabulary
• Inspiring young children to be kind, to get along with others and to grow in self-confidence

I received the first three issues of 2008 and looking through them brought back so many wonderful childhood memories. These magazines are every bit as fun, colorful, and educational as I remember. And guess what? They still have the hidden picture puzzle!

I was so excited to introduce this part of my childhood to Girlie Girl and not surprisingly, she loved it, too. Her favorite part was the Let's Do It section where there's all kinds of hands-on activities for our family to enjoy. Even Baby Bug took an interest in the stories and simple illustrations.

All in all, Highlights High Five is just as good if not better than I remember it to be. I'm so thankful to the Parent Bloggers Network for re-introducing me to this great educational resource!

BTW, The Parent Bloggers Network will be holding a Blog Blast on March 7th where you can enter to win a subscription for your children. Don't miss out!

Thursday's Contests & Giveaways

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

Link: Craft:
Prize: $50 to Warm Biscuit Bedding Company
Deadline: February 29th

Link: LI Kids
Prize: Handy Manny Fixing It Right DVD
Deadline: March 1st

Link: Hannah Montana Zone
Prize: 1 year membership to Miley World (aka Hannah Montana)
Deadline: March 1st

Link: FreshVintage
Prize: Custom Family Tree necklace by Lisa Leonard Designs
Deadline: March 2nd

Link: Peekaboo
Prize: Personalized Tee from Little Uni
Deadline: March 2nd

Link: Petit Elefant
Prize: MomSpit
Deadline: March 3rd

Link: Queen Baby Bean
Prize: Polkadot Papoose reversible baby sling in winner's choice of style
Deadline: March 3rd

Link: Pink with Sparkles
Prize: Turtle Set (headband and belt) from Chesapeake Ribbons
Deadline: March 5th

Link: Mums The Wurd
Prize: $200 to Natural Pod
Deadline: March 7th

Link: Mums The Wurd
Prize: Oval Animal Bag from Boon
Deadline: March 7th

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: 5 pack of personalized placemats from Olive Kids
Deadline: March 12th

Link: Couture in the City
Prize: Jackie O Dress from Shabby Apple
Deadline: March 12th

Link: The Daily Grind
Prize: Blog Makeover ($60) from RS Designs
Deadline: March 14th

Link: Japan Photo Guide
Prize: $50
Deadline: March 17th

Link: PopGadget
Prize: Blackberry Pearl 8130 Smartphone
Deadline: ?

Love April Fools pranks? Check out Best April Fools Day Prank Contest.

Wednesday's Contests & Giveaways

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

Link: CurlyWurlyGurly
Prize: Coach Handbag
Deadline: February 27th

Link: My Mom Shops
Prize: 50 Personalized Notecards from Whitney English
Deadline: February 27th

Link: LI Kids
Prize: Bratz Kids Fairy Tales DVD
Deadline: February 28th

Link: Pure Spectives
Prize: Organic Cotton Terry Robe
Deadline: February 28th

Link: aPARENTly Speaking
Prize: Gumby DVD
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Pinks & Blues Girls Blog
Prize: phil&teds stroller
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Mommy Doodles
Prize: 9 piece bedding layette set
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Spoiled Pretty
Prize: Starlet Cosmetics Theatrical Palette
Deadline: March 2nd

Link: Oh! Baby Buy Products
Prize: a pair of Nowali Mocs
Deadline: March 3rd

Link: Props & Pans
Prize: a pair of Robeez Shoes (size 12-24 months)
Deadline: March 3rd

Link: LilSugar
Prize: $500 to Ann Taylor Loft
Deadline: March 3rd

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: Fast & Feisty CD for Kids
Deadline: March 5th

Link: Mums The Wurd
Prize: $250 to Zutano
Deadline: March 6th

Link: sassyfrazz
Prize: Skin MD or Gloves in a Bottle
Deadline: March 6th

Link: Goodies For Mom (and baby too)
Prize: "Eat at Moms" Onesie
Deadline: March 7th

Link: Laura Williams' Musings
Prize: FruitfulTime Task Manager
Deadline: March 11th

Link: Harper Collins Kids
Prize: iPod Shuffle
Deadline: end of 2008

Tuesday's Contests & Giveaways

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

Link: Boston Mamas
Prize: GigglyGear Gift Pack
Deadline: February 25th

Link: Living a Mom's Life
Prize: $5 to My Little Monkey Boutique & Time Management for Moms eBook
Deadline: February 28th

Link: carp(e) libris reviews
Prize: Glass Voices by Carol Bruneau
Deadline: February 28th

Link: Oh! Baby Buy Products
Prize: a set of custom Goosie Cards
Deadline: February 29th

Link: The Goody Blog
Prize: Nintendo DS Lite & Professor Layton and the Curious Village game
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Rare Bird Finds
Prize: Handmade jewelry by Sharma Designs
Deadline: March 1st

Link: 5 Minutes for Mom
Prize: The Sky Isn't Visible From Here by Felicia Sullivan
Deadline: March 2nd

Link: Laura Williams' Musings
Prize: Closer Than Your Skin by Susan D. Hill
Deadline: March 3rd

Link: Seven Dogs and a Baby
Prize: a pair of Polliwalks
Deadline: March 3rd

Link: Boutique Cafe
Prize: a pair of Clippies Hair Clips
Deadline: March 4th

Link: Mama Loves Giveaways
Prize: DKNY Handbag
Deadline: March 5th

Link: Baby Toolkit
Prize: Toddler Cookbook by Annabel Karmel
Deadline: March 9th

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: A tee of your choice from Revo Baby
Deadline: March 10th

Link: MomReviews
Prize: Hannah Montana One in a Million DVD
Deadline: March 12th

Link: MomReviews
Prize: Twitches Too DVD
Deadline: March 12th

Link: PC World
Prize: Dream Computer Giveaway
Deadline: March 31st

Monday's Contests & Giveaways

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

Link: The Full Mommy
Prize: ClickStart Computer by LeapFrog
Deadline: February 25th

Link: Mama Likes
Prize: Personalized Teacher Cards
Deadline: February 26th

Link: Living a Mom's Life
Prize: $5 to My Little Monkey Boutique & Time Management for Moms eBook
Deadline: February 28th

Link: 5 Minutes for Mom
Prize: My First Matching Game and Annie Lee puzzle
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Prizes 4 Everyone
Prize: varies from ad space, cash, EC credits, and permanent blogroll links
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Good For The Kids
Prize: Personalized Stamp
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Metropolitan Mama
Prize: Mama Knows Breast by Andi Silverman
Deadline: March 2nd

Link: Metropolitan Mama
Prize: Glamourmom logo top
Deadline: March 2nd

Link: 5 Minutes for Mom
Prize: Isabooties
Deadline: March 7th

Link: Boutique Flair
Prize: $50 to My Precious Peanut Designs
Deadline: March 7th

Saturday's Contests & Giveaways

New giveaway: Customized Photo Greeting Cards

Link: Apartment Therapy
Prize: Soda-Club Seltzer Water Soda Maker
Deadline: February 24th

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: $25 to Oopsie Dazie
Deadline: February 26th

Link: Tangled and True
Prize: 2 Life and Learn Pillows from Deseta
Deadline: February 26th

Link: Green Mom Finds
Prize: BabyBam bamboo and organic cotton onesie
Deadline: February 28th

Link: Laura Williams' Musings
Prize: Call Me Cards from Stuck on You
Deadline: February 28th

Link: teensygreen
Prize: a set of Fabkins Cloth Napkins for kids
Deadline: February 28th

Link: Pennies In My Pocket
Prize: $25 to Little Piddles
Deadline: February 28th

Link: Amanda
Prize: $100 to L'ovedbaby
Deadline: February 29th

Link: LI Reviews
Prize: Gone Baby Gone DVD
Deadline: February 29th

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: Winter Warmth Blanket from Aden + Anais
Deadline: February 29th

Link: emitations
Prize: Palm Tree Necklace
Deadline: February 29th

Link: She Finds
Prize: Yoto Bag for Yogis
Deadline: February 29th

Link: An Ordinary Life
Prize: a pair of Baby Banz Sunglasses
Deadline: March 1st

Link: A Monkey on the Roof
Prize: nina and tom Spring/Easter shirts
Deadline: March 3rd

Link: MomReviews
Prize: Handy Manny Fixing It Right DVD
Deadline: ?

Friday's Contests & Giveaways

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

Link: The Wee Review
Prize: Monkey Baby Blanket from Popart Monkey
Deadline: February 23rd

Link: design boston
Prize: 20-pack Dropps
Deadline: February 24th

Link: Peekaboo Picks Magazine
Prize: Gift Package from Ambajam
Deadline: February 24th

Link: In the Trenches of Mommyhood
Prize: a copy of The Glass Castle or The Sky Isn't Visible From Here
Deadline: February 24th

Link: carp(e) libris reviews
Prize: Essential Elements by Andrew Stevovich
Deadline: February 25th

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: $50 to Ear Candy
Deadline: February 25th

Link: Apartment Therapy
Prize: Crib set, pillow, & blanket from Dwell Studios
Deadline: February 25th

Link: dkMommy Spot
Prize: Herbal Giveaway
Deadline: February 26th

Link: Trendy Mommy Blog Design
Prize: Blog Makeover
Deadline: February 26th

Link: Mom Gadget
Prize: Kindergarten Super Scholar Prize Pack
Deadline: February 27th

Link: Metropolitan Mama
Prize: Sippy Cup, Straw Bottle, Food Jar, & Diaper Bag from Foogo
Deadline: February 28th

Link: Mama Loves Giveaways
Prize: Planatarium Garden Lab
Deadline: February 28th

Link: 5 Minutes for Mom
Prize: Ultrasound Toothbrush
Deadline: March 6th

Thursday's Contests & Giveaways

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


Link: Mamas Like
Prize: The Safe Sippy Cut from Kids Basix
Deadline: February 22nd

Link: Good for the Kids
Prize: Six Ty Beanie Babies
Deadline: February 22nd

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: $75 to Wonderfully Made For You
Deadline: February 24th

Link: LI Kids
Prize: Little Einsteins Race For Space DVD
Deadline: February 25th

Link: LI Kids
Prize: Aristocats DVD
Deadline: February 26th

Link: From Dates to Diapers and Beyond
Prize: $25 to Ribbon Rock Star
Deadline: February 27th

Link: The Girl Indie Blog
Prize: Fabric from Bunte Fabrics
Deadline: February 28th

Link: Pippin Party
Prize: Department 56 Happy Birthday Plates
Deadline: March 1st

Link: Marketing Pilgrim
Prize: iPod Touch
Deadline: March 1st

Wednesday's Contests & Giveaways

My newest giveaways:

• Bizzi2Go Planners (3 winners)
• Bob the Builder On-Site Road & Bridges DVD

Link: ds fanboy
Prize: Cobalt DS Lite
Deadline: February 20th

Link: Work It
Prize: NEAT Receipts Scanner & Software
Deadline: February 22nd

Link: One Chic Mama
Prize: How To Be a Budget Fashionista by Kathryn Finney
Deadline: February 24th

Link: Props & Pans
Prize: Lemonsquare - Music for Kids
Deadline: February 25th

Link: From Dates to Diapers and Beyond
Prize: $20 to Announcements Galore
Deadline: February 25th

Link: A Mom in Red High Heels
Prize: $100 worth of Susan Brown’s Baby products
Deadline: February 25th

Link: Seven Dogs and A Baby
Prize: a crocodile and hippo from Anamalz
Deadline: February 25th

Link: Mama Loves Giveaways
Prize: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Bibs
Deadline: February 27th

Link: Oh! Baby Buy Products
Prize: A gift certificate to My Custom Story
Deadline: February 27th

Link: Green Mom Finds
Prize: Organic Nesting Pillow from Blessed Nest
Deadline: February 28th

Link: Peppers and Polliwogs
Prize: Large Gourmet Basket of Divvies Goodies
Deadline: February 29th

Link: the so called me
Prize: Kimono and matching hat from Westcoast Baby
Deadline: February 29th

Link: momsational
Prize: 4 Interactive Children's Books
Deadline: March 2nd

Link: So A Blonde Walks Into A Review
Prize: Body Surfing by Anita Shreve
Deadline: March 3rd

Review & Giveaway: Bob the Builder On Site: Roads & Bridges

This giveaway is now closed. Thank you for your participation!
The winner is Becca of Waye Out There.
Congratulations!

My daughters are usually pretty big fans of Bob the Builder. So when I had the opportunity to review the brand new Bob the Builder On Site: Roads & Bridges DVD, thanks to Parent Bloggers Network, we were excited.

This one hour episode features Bob, Roley, and Lofty as they explain how roads & bridges are planned and constructed. The cool feature of this DVD is that it mixed live footage along with the animation to help illustrate their points. We found it very educational and informative which is always a great thing for children's videos.

However, the only downside is that I wished the other members of Bob's team were vocally present. It just didn't seem right for them to be there but not speak.

All in all, it was an entertaining video and both my girls loved it. That's the main thing, right?

Would you like a copy for your family? To enter, just leave a comment before February 25th and mention who your favorite character is. That's it! A random winner will be selected and notified on February 26th.

For extra entries, just subscribe to my feed and/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 in case you win!

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

Tuesday's Contests & Giveaways

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

Link: The Wee Review
Prize: Pair of Baby Banz sunglasses
Deadline: February 21st

Link: Goody Blog
Prize: $500 to Merry Maids & Tons of Method Products
Deadline: February 22nd

Link: One Chic Mama
Prize: $75 to Chittypulga
Deadline: February 22nd

Link: Blonde Mom Blog
Prize: Handy Manny & Little Einsteins DVD
Deadline: February 22nd

Link: Lille Punkin' Reviews
Prize: Nee-Pad Pants by Poi Wear
Deadline: February 24th

Link: simple
Prize: Burp Cloth & Bib from Petit Tresor
Deadline: February 24th

Link: Mama Loves Giveaways
Prize: Ski Chick Gift Pack
Deadline: February 25th

Link: Laura Williams' Musings
Prize: copy of Death of a Six-Foot Teddy Bear
Deadline: February 28th

Link: ThomasSinfielddotcom
Prize: Custom Blog Design ($300)
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Cool Mom Picks
Prize: $150 to Chittypulga & Fleurville Lexi Diaper Tote
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: $100 to Anne Taylor Loft Maternity
Deadline: March 4th

Link: superdumb supervillian
Prize: Microsoft Student with Encarta 2008
Deadline: March 9th

Monday's Contests & Giveaways

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


Link: Boutique Cafe
Prize: a Tutu and BabyLegs from Saige Nicoles
Deadline: February 20th

Link: Mamas Like
Prize: a Watch from ThreeChickadees
Deadline: February 20th

Link: Boutique Cafe
Prize: DaBib
Deadline: February 21st

Link: petit elefant
Prize: MomAgenda Planner
Deadline: February 21st

Link: Mums The Wurd
Prize: New Hampshire Messenger Bag from Star 50 Handbags
Deadline: February 22nd

Link: Green Mom Finds
Prize: Think Sport Stainless Steel Sports Bottle
Deadline: February 22nd

Link: Oh! Baby Buy Products
Prize: Bay Area Prize Pack worth $450
Deadline: March 2nd

Link: sassyfrazz
Prize: Signing Times or Baby Signing Times
Deadline: March 2nd

Saturday's Contests & Giveaways

My newest giveaways:

• Personalized Labels from Stuck on You
• Just Tell Me What To Say by Betsy Brown Braun
  

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: Birthday/Baby Book
Deadline: February 17th

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: Time To Feed Baby Journal
Deadline: February 17th

Link: Spoiled Pretty
Prize: 10 shades of Boys In The Bottle Nailpolish
Deadline: February 17th

Link: Design Mom
Prize: World Minded Children Giveaway
Deadline: February 18th

Like: dkMommy Spot
Prize: a copy of At Work in Life's Garden
Deadline: February 18th

Link: Two Moms in a Blog
Prize: a Silver or Gold plated bracelet from Brodie Girl
Deadline: February 21st

Link: Skimbaco
Prize: Alli's Originals Baby Shoe necklace
Deadline: February 25th

Link: entrepreneur-hut.com
Prize: $25 Apple Store Gift Card
Deadline: February 29th

Link: mod*mom
Prize: Whole World Ecobook
Deadline: February 29th

Link: momsational
Prize: A set of personalized Flat Notecards from Sarah & Abraham
Deadline: March 1st

Link: titan-poker-bonus-code
Prize: iPod Touch
Deadline: March 14th

Link: Xerpi
Prize: $500 or an iPod Touch
Deadline: ?

Friday's Contests & Giveaways

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

Link: Mommy Knows
Prize: Peanut Shell Baby Sling
Deadline: February 15th

Link: Real Life
Prize: $20 to Announcements Galore
Deadline: February 15th

Link: Tangled and True
Prize: J. Austin Ryan Print
Deadline: February 16th

Link: Our Blessed Arrows
Prize: A pair of Pedoodles Toddler Shoes
Deadline: February 17th

Link: My Personal Reviews
Prize: $20 to Announcements Galore
Deadline: February 18th

Link: Get-Marked
Prize: Before Kids Tee
Deadline: February 18th

Link: One Chic Mama
Prize: a Goody Bag Neutrogena Products
Deadline: February 19th

Link: MomFinds
Prize: Haute Kiley Handbag
Deadline: February 20th

Link: teensygreen
Prize: $35 to Kai Kids
Deadline: February 21st

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: Love Bug Knits Hat
Deadline: February 22nd

Link: 5 Minutes for Mom
Prize: Johnsons Baby Bonding Gift Basket
Deadline: February 25th

Link: momsational
Prize: $25 to Hanes.com
Deadline: February 27th

Link: Teen Lit Review
Prize: Hollywood Nobody by Lisa Samson
Deadline: February 28th

Link: Let's Go Shopping
Prize: $35 to Heels.com
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Chicco USA
Prize: a You & Me Soft Infant Carrier
Deadline: February 29th

Link: superdumb supervillian
Prize: 8 x 10 Classic Quilt Rug from Flor
Deadline: March 3rd

Link: The Silly Wagon
Prize: a Kaiya Eve Pettiskirt and matching Swarovski Crystal barrettes
Deadline: March 15th

Giveaway: Just Tell Me What To Say

This giveaway is now closed. Thank you for participating.
The winner is Cindi@hotmail.
Congratulations!

How many times have I wished that my girls came with an instruction manual on how to handle all those verbal and non-verbal situations. Well, now there's Just Tell Me What To Say by Betsy Brown Braun.

From the book:

Parents are often perplexed by their children's typical behaviors and inevitable questions. This down-to-earth guide provides "Tips and Scripts" for handling everything from sibling rivalry and the food wars to questions about death, divorce, sex, and "whyyyy?" Betsy Brown Braun blends humor with her expertise as a child development specialist, popular parent educator, and mother of triplets. Whatever your dilemma or child's question—from "How did the baby get in your tummy?" to "What does 'dead' mean?" to "It's not fair!"—Betsy offers the tools and confidence you need to explain the world to your growing child.

Just Tell Me What To Say is an essential book which provides hands-on, just give-it-to-me-straight guidance so that parents gain the skills and confidence they need to handle the sometimes challenging situations that inevitably accompany raising children ages 2-6 and beyond.

This informative book talks about most of the situations that we parents will eventually face as we raise our children into adulthood. Here are some of the topics covered:

• Communicating With Your Children
• Discipline Do's and Don'ts
• Sibling Issues
• Children's Eating Habits and Behaviors
• Manners and Social Graces
• Day-to_Day Parenting Dilemmas
• Learning About the Birds and the Bees
• Talking About Serious Illness
• Learning About Death
• Talking With Your Children About Divorce
• Answering Questions About Natural Disasters, Terrorism, and War

How would you like to win copy of your very own? To enter, just leave a comment before February 20th saying what's the hardest question you've ever had to answer for your children or the hardest question you anticipate. That's it! A random winner will be selected and notified on February 21st.

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

Thursday's Contests & Giveaways

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


Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: Preschool/Kindergarten Super Scholar Pack from School Zone
Deadline: February 15th

Link: Sk*rt
Prize: a Fabulous Prize from Shutterfly
Deadline: February 15th

Link: Lille Punkin' Reviews
Prize: Your Baby Can Read DVD Set
Deadline: February 17th

Link: My Wooden Spoon
Prize: $25
Deadline: February 17th

Link: My Brand Name Baby
Prize: Flash Me Baby Flashcards
Deadline: February 17th

Link: aPARENTly Speaking - Caption Contest
Prize: a stack of hot-off-the-press baby books
Deadline: February 17th

Link: Megret
Prize: $25 to 4 Princess Bows
Deadline: February 19th

Link: Girl Indie Blog
Prize: Baby Sling from ModMum
Deadline: February 20th

Link: Mamas Like
Prize: Children's watch from ThreeChickadees
Deadline: February 21st

Link: The Silly Wagon
Prize: Chenille Chef Set of Ice Cream Cones
Deadline: February 22nd

Link: Mom Logic
Prize: Nursing Cover from The Mommy Cover
Deadline: February 23rd

Link: momsational
Prize: Motionbox Premium Membership + 3 Flipbooks
Deadline: February 24th

Link: momsational
Prize: Hannah Montana "One in a Million" DVD
Deadline: February 25th

Link: momsational
Prize: Twitches Too DVD
Deadline: February 26th

Link: momsational
Prize: A set of No-Iron Clothing Labels
Deadline: February 26th

Link: 5 Minutes for Mom
Prize: $75 to MyUbby
Deadline: February 26th

Link: sassyfrazz
Prize: BrainCandy DVD Set
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Amanda
Prize: $100 to Loved Baby
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Marketing Pilgrim
Prize: iPod Touch
Deadline: March 1st

Giveaway: Handy Manny Fixing It Right DVD

This giveaway is now closed. Thank you for your participation.
The winner is Andrea of Andrea's Blog.
Congratulations!

Handy Manny is back with a brand new DVD - Fixing It Right.

Product Description: Hop up and jump into fun with Handy Manny and his loyal, lovable talking tools. Working together, they'll get the job done right before you can say, "Gracias, mi amigo!"

Cheer on Manny and his tools as Rusty heroically overcomes his fear of heights to lead the team, repair a jungle gym and make a grateful new friend. Pat surprises everyone, including himself, when he's the one who finds a clever solution to a really big problem. And Dusty solves that oh-too-familiar mystery - "Where do socks go?" - when a clothes dryer seems to be "eating" them. Join Manny and his gregarious gang of can-do helpers and you'll discover how cooperation and creative thinking make Fixing It Right fantastic fun for everyone!

This DVD is scheduled to be released later this month but you can win a copy right here! To enter, just mention who the fix-it person is in your family before February 19th. That's it! A random winner will be selected on February 20th.

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

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

Tuesday's Contests & Giveaways

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

Link: Boutique Flair
Prize: Apron & Glove set from Carolyn's Kitchen
Deadline: February 13th

Link: Hostess with the Mostess
Prize: Sweet Treats from Michael's Cookies
Deadline: February 14th

Link: The Full Mommy
Prize: Beansoup Apron
Deadline: February 14th

Link: teensygreen
Prize: Broken Plate Pendant
Deadline: February 14th

Link: GoodyBlog
Prize: $250 to SpaFinder and Comfort Zone Products
Deadline: February 15th

Link: Chased by Children
Prize: Shirt from be.ology
Deadline: February 15th

Link: Mommy Cracked
Prize: $20 to Announcements Galore
Deadline: February 15th

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: 5 CDs from Bingo Records
Deadline: February 15th

Link: Modern Mama's Fabulous Favorites
Prize: Boca Beth Beginner Set
Deadline: February 15th

Link: Out With The Kids
Prize: WorryWoo Monsters
Deadline: February 15th

Link: Our Seven Qtpies
Prize: Kaboost Chair Booster
Deadline: February 17th

Link: Amanda
Prize: Custom Shirt from Girl Mogul
Deadline: February 17th

Link: Props & Pans
Prize: a Kusakizome onesie and your choice of two hair accessories by Tomo & Edie
Deadline: February 18th

Link: Mamanista
Prize: a pair of BabyLegs from Mom4Life
Deadline: February 18th

Link: Doodlebug Designs
Prize: Customize Blog Theme
Deadline: February 21st

Link: Boutique Flair
Prize: $50 to Gigi Blanki Co.
Deadline: February 22nd

Link: MomLogic
Prize: Polly Pocket Ultimate Pool Party
Deadline: February 25th

Link: MomLogic
Prize: Magic Wings Mariposa doll by Barbie
Deadline: February 25th

Link: mod*mom
Prize: Child's Sun Protective Swim Set from baby banz
Deadline: February 29th

Link: mod*mom
Prize: Healthy Heart Gift Basket
Deadline: February 29th

Monday's Contests & Giveaways

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

Link: Good for the Kids
Prize: Ty Beanie Babies Blue's Clues and Max and Ruby Set
Deadline: February 13th

Link: Sew Christine
Prize: Handmade Handbag
Deadline: mid-February

Link: Adventures in Mommyland
Prize: Conair Nail Dryer
Deadline: February 16th

Link: Oh! Baby Buy Products
Prize: A set of pacifiers from Elodie Details
Deadline: February 16th

Link: momsational
Prize: Power Rangers Operation Overdrive 4 & 5
Deadline: February 21st

Link: momsational
Prize: Snow Buddies DVD
Deadline: February 23rd

Link: Commuter Chronicles
Prize: $50 to iTunes
Deadline: March 9th

Sunday's Contests & Giveaways

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

Link: Serious Eats
Prize: An edible box of Charles Chocolates
Deadline: February 11th

Link: Oh! Baby Buy Products
Prize: Pocket Snails DVD
Deadline: February 14th

Link: Popular Baby Products
Prize: an Aqua Paisley Small Portrait Bow Keeper and a Turquoise and Brown Tutu from Miss Priss Tutus
Deadline: February 14th

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: A Medallion set of your choice from Compass Kidz
Deadline: February 15th

Link: Blonde Mom Blog
Prize: Aardvark Adventure Stories Book (your choice)
Deadline: February 15th

Link: Mama Loves Giveaways
Prize: Doggy Spa Package from Harry Barker
Deadline: February 16th

Link: Design Mom
Prize: A sheet set from Serena & Lily & a copy of Nursery Style
Deadline: February 18th

Link: Moms Love Shopping
Prize: Personalized Place Mats from Olive Kids
Deadline: February 22nd

Link: momsational
Prize: Peruvian Finger Puppets
Deadline: February 22nd

Link: 5 Minutes for Mom
Prize: Oreck XL Ultra Vacuum Cleaner
Deadline: February 27th

Modern Mom is holding 30 giveaways in 30 days. Go check it out!

Friday's Contests & Giveaways

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

Link: Tangled & True
Prize: 5 Letterpress Notecards from INK+WIT
Deadline: February 9th

Link: Ellinghouse
Prize: Pair of Kipiis Bib Clips
Deadline: February 10th

Link: Apartment Therapy
Prize: WallCandy Chalkboard Panels
Deadline: February 11th

Link: Apartment Therapy
Prize: Skip Hop Via Messenger diaper bag
Deadline: Feb 11th

Link: The Artful Parent
Prize: The Creative Family: How to Encourage Imagination and Nurture Family Connections
Deadline: February 12th

Link: Petit Elefant
Prize: Pure & Honest Kids diaper bag
Deadline: February 13th

Link: Mommie Daze
Prize: Valentine's Day Gift Pack from Victoria's Secret
Deadline: February 14th

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: Happy Baby, Healthy Mom Pregnancy Journal
Deadline: February 15th

Link: Oh! Baby Buy Products
Prize: Smart Mom Jewelery, glass bottle from Nurture Pure, Rileyroos shoes, Natursutten natural rubber pacifier, hardback book and CD
Deadline: February 18th

Link: FiddyP
Prize: iPod Portable Speakers
Deadline: February 22nd

Link: 5 Minutes for Mom
Prize: Oreck XL Ultra Vacuum Cleaner
Deadline: February 28th

Link: PickPackGo
Prize: Kodak EasyShare 8.0 MP Digital Camera
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Debunot
Prize: Free custom blog design from The Blog Cafe
Deadline: ?

Thursday's Contests & Giveaways

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

Link: Neil Duckett
Prize: Canon IXY Digital L4 Camera
Deadline: February 8th

Link: Blonde Mom Blog
Prize: $25 to Little Piddles
Deadline: February 8th

Link: aPARENTly Speaking
Prize: Juno Baby DVD
Deadline: February 8th

Link: Babyshopology
Prize: Girl's dress from Shabby Apple
Deadline: February 9th

Link: Film Gecko
Prize: Twitches Too DVD
Deadline: February 9th

Link: MomReviews
Prize: $30 to Baskin-Robbins
Deadline: February 10th

Link: Our Blessed Arrows
Prize: Pregnancy Pillow
Deadline: February 10th

Link: Metropolitan Mama
Prize: MyVitalFiles Home Filing Folder System
Deadline: February 11th

Link: Seven Dogs and A Baby
Prize: a pair of infant shoes from Umi
Deadline: February 12th

Link: Gift Rap
Prize: Red Heart Bottle Stoppers
Deadline: February 12th

Link: Girl Indie
Prize: A set of Flat-Style Photo Cards from Baby Lane
Deadline: February 13th

Link: Vogue
Prize: a Make-Over with the editors of Vogue
Deadline: February 13th

Link: sassyfrazz
Prize: Silibib
Deadline: February 14th

Link: Crooked Eyebrow
Prize: A pair of tweezerman tweezers and guide
Deadline: February 15th

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: a BambooBaby Gift Set 3
Deadline: February 15th

Link: sassyfrazz
Prize: Tutu from Fuzzy Me
Deadline: February 16th

Link: Superdumb Supervillian
Prize: Sterling Silver Photo Charm from BabyFaces
Deadline: February 17th

Link: ScribbleScratch
Prize: Necklace from Lori's Jewelry
Deadline: February 17th

Link: momsational
Prize: The Aristocats Special Edition DVD
Deadline: February 20th

Link: The Nest
Prize: $200 Casio digital camera or a $548 Hayden-Harnett designer handbag
Deadline: ?

Review: Sleep Symmetry System

Back to sleep.

That's the way I was taught to always remember that a child must be placed facing upward when lying down. It's a simple statement that carries a powerful meaning. However, because children are now constantly sleeping in this position, another concern has arisen - Positional Plagiocephaly.

According to Dr. Ricardo Hahn, "Positional Plagiocephaly occurs when an infant's head is flattened from lying in the same position for too long. Because baby's heads are soft to allow for rapid growth in their first year of life, their skull is susceptible to direct pressure from beds, cribs, strollers, carseats, etc. that force the bones to shift in a certain direction. It usually occurs in the first 8-12 weeks after birth."


To help prevent this, the Symmetry Sleep System positions your child on their back in such a way that their head rests gently to the side. The simple sleep indicator then reminds you to alternate the position of your child each time you lay them down to maintain equal pressure on the developing skull. Also included is a specially designed caliper to monitor the symmetry of your child's head.

I was sent a system to review but had no one to try it out on. So I decided to give it to my SIL since she recently had a baby boy. The main thing she liked about this system is that it was comfortable. After all, if the baby refuses to sleep in it, then what's the point? The sleep indicator was also a plus because when you're trying to function on minimal sleep, you need all the reminders you can get.

The Symmetry Sleep System was released late 2007 and can be purchased at Toys-R-Us for $79.99.

If you'd like more information on Positional Plagiocephaly, please view the following Q&A with Dr. Richard Hahn. If you have more questions, please feel free to email me and I'll make sure he receives them.

How can I tell if my baby is suffering from Positional Plagiocephaly?

Usually, the back of the baby's head, on the side will be noticeably flat. The ear on the flattened side may be pushed forward or the ears will be asymmetrical. A parent-friendly caliper can be used to measure the symmetry of baby's head.

What is Flat-Head Syndrome?

Flat-Head or Flattened-Head syndrome is just another name for the condition.

What causes Plagiocephaly?

The most common cause of Plagiocephaly is a baby's sleep position, caused by the long hours they spend lying on their back. Premature babies are more prone to Plagiocephaly because of their extremely soft skulls. Plagiocephaly can also develop in babies with neck muscles that are too tight (torticous) or before birth from pressure in the mother's womb.

Why have the incidences of Plagiocephaly increased?

Doctors have noticed an alarming increase of cases of Plagiocephaly in the past 15 years. This increase coincides with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) “Back to Sleep” campaign advocating that babies sleep on their backs to prevent SIDS. Although the 1992 “Back to Sleep” campaign has increased the incidence of flat head syndrome, the prevention of SIDS is still the top concern and by teaching the right prevention methods, Plagiocephaly too, can be prevented.

What can I do to prevent my baby from developing Plagiocephaly?

In addition to continuously repositioning your baby using the TOTS method (tummy time, opposite side of the crib, turn your baby's head and switch arms) Dr. Plagio, a leading family physician, of the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California has partnered with Basic Comfort, the leading expert in sleep aides to bring to fruition the Symmetry Sleep System. This clinically designed sleep positioner prevents Plagiocephaly by taking the pressure off an infant’s skull while also providing a reminder system for parents to keep track of baby's sleep position.

Can the Symmetry Sleep System be used in harmony with the “Back to Sleep” campaign?

Yes. While preventing Plagiocephaly, the Symmetry Sleep System works in conjunction with SIDS prevention by preventing baby from rolling onto its stomach and also keeps baby's airways unobstructed.

How did the Symmetry Sleep System come about?

The Symmetry Sleep System is the result of three intense years of investigation and development conducted by the University of Southern California and Dr. Plagio. The Symmetry Sleep System was prototyped and patented by the Alfred E. Mann Institute for Biomedical Engineering with the six-fold increase in cases of Plagiocephaly since 1992. Dr. Plagio decided to partner with the leading expert in infant sleep aids to bring back the number of case to pre-1992 levels. While there are corrective measures available, many of them are extremely expensive and may not always be covered by insurance companies.

Does Plagiocephaly go away naturally?

Sometimes. In some cases Plagiocephaly does go away naturally, but without some sort of intervention there can be permanent medical damage. Some cases of Plagiocephaly do not correct themselves, even when found early. Correction might require the use of a very expensive helmet, even which might not prevent cases of facial abnormalities, problems with chewing, eating and vision.

Is Plagiocephaly mainly a cosmetic issue?

No. Although some physicians believe that Plagiocephaly is a self-correcting condition and concentrate only on SIDS prevention, cases of facial abnormalities, problems with chewing, eating and vision may occur without early intervention.

What treatment options are available for Plagiocephaly?

The best treatment is PREVENTION. The TOTS recommendation and the Symmetry Sleep System can be used to prevent Plagiocephaly before corrective treatments are needed. Corrective treatments usually involve a helmet to reshape the head BUT these devices are very expensive and may not always correct the deformity. To add insult to injury, many insurance companies refuse to pay for these treatments saying they are purely cosmetic.

Wednesday's Contests & Giveaways

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

Link: Subu
Prize: The Astraea Necklace
Deadline: February 7th

Link: Tangled & True
Prize: Drool Baby Set & Sibling Tee from Resa Design
Deadline: February 8th

Link: The Full Mommy
Prize: a Camp/School Pack from Mabel's Labels
Deadline: February 8th

Link: Kinky Solutions
Prize: $100 to Amazon.com
Deadline: February 8th

Link: Rare Bird Finds
Prize: Birds Nest Necklace from LesChic Boutique
Deadline: February 9th

Link: Classy Mommy
Prize: 2 pairs of Robeez Tredz
Deadline: February 10th

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: $30 to 3ButtonsN2Bows
Deadline: February 10th

Link: My Brand Name Baby
Prize: Design Your Own Tutu
Deadline: February 10th

Link: Green Mom Finds
Prize: Stubby Pencil Studio “Green to the Letter” Gift Basket
Deadline: February 12th

Link: Rockin' Mama
Prize: The Scholastic Treasury of 100 Storybook Classics
Deadline: February 13th

Link: Mom Views
Prize: 2 year subscription to Hybrid Magazine
Deadline: February 13th

Link: The Opinionated Parent
Prize: Very Derryberry CD
Deadline: February 15th

Link: mod*mom
Prize: 12 whole world books with cd + 1 grand prize ($240)
Deadline: February 29th

Link: momsational
Prize: an InGrid “Home Kit” PLUS one year of monitoring
Deadline: March 1st

Review & Giveaway: Clean Well Hand Sanitizers

As a flight attendant, I love anti-bacterial cleansers that don't require water. After all, with 300+ passengers and only 6 lavatories on the plane, sometimes it takes a while to get in there to wash my hands. And believe me, I wash my hands constantly!

Clean Well products are made with all-natural Ingenium - a patented formula proven to kill 99.99% of harmful germs that can make you sick including Samonella, resistent Staph, and Listeria. Their products come in a variety of sizes and scents so there's something for everyone.

One of the biggest pluses for me is that it doesn't require water. Sometimes when you're out and about, a sink may not be readily handy especially when I have the kids with me. It's always the case that once I get everyone settled in their boosters and high chairs, I suddenly remember that they didn't wash their hands. One squirt of Clean Well and we're all set.

The only thing I didn't really care for is the initial feel of the sanitizer. At first, it felt a little sticky no matter how much I tried to rub it in. Eventually, the feeling disappeared and my hands felt clean and soft again.


Out of the three scents - Orange Vanilla, Lavender Absolute, and Ginger Bergamot - I preferred the Orange Vanilla one. I didn't really care for the other two. But then again, that's just my personal preference.

The Starter Pack (in your choice of scents) sells for $9.99 and the Hand Hygiene Set can be purchased for $38.99.

All in all, this is a great product to help fight germs. However, I wish that it was available in more appealing (to me) scents.

If you'd like to win some of these products for yourself, check this out!

From now until February 29th, share a photo of one your messiest moments and you could win some cool Clean Well products. Stop by Shutter Sisters for all the details.

Thank you to Clean Well and the Parent Bloggers Network.

Tuesday's Contests & Giveaways

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

Link: One Chic Mama
Prize: Monogrammed Laptop Messenger Bag
Deadline: February 5th

Link: Mindful Momma
Prize: Siliskins Bottle Protectors
Deadline: February 7th

Link: Metropolitan Mama
Prize: Favorite Family Meals Cookbook
Deadline: February 7th

Link: teensygreen
Prize: Kissy Kissy Pocket Pouch
Deadline: February 7th

Link: sk*rt
Prize: $100 worth of prizes including a Brennan's New Orleans cookbook and three new games from Hasbro
Deadline: February 8th

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: Handbag from Kimberlee Faith
Deadline: February 8th

Link: Dear Dr. MOZ
Prize: Hanes Mix & Match Collection
Deadline: February 8th

Link: Bloggy Giveaways
Prize: Boca Beth Backpack Set
Deadline: February 8th

Link: One Chic Mama
Prize: Pippalily Baby Sling
Deadline: February 8th

Link: Out With The Kids
Prize: Maggie & The Ferocious Beast DVD
Deadline: February 8th

Link: Modern Mama's Fabulous Favorites
Prize: Diaper/Wipe Pouch & 2 Expression Pacifiers
Deadline: February 9th

Link: Pampering You
Prize: a copy of the book We Are More Than Beautiful
Deadline: February 10th

Link: Boutique Cafe
Prize: Smoy Noho PhotoCuff, 4-frame bracelet
Deadline: February

Link: Kretschmar
Prize: $1500 to Best Buy
Deadline: February 15th

Link: Mom Logic
Prize: Fashionable Hospital Gown
Deadline: February 18th

Link: momsational
Prize: Evenflo Triumph Convertible Car Seat
Deadline: February 18th

Link: Everything Moms
Prize: I Love You More
Deadline: February 23rd

Link: My Fashion Life
Prize: Freedom Necklace from Nomination Italy
Deadline: February 24th

Link: mod*mom
Prize: Green Works Cleaning Product Gift Basket
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Baby Girl Bracelets by Sher's Wares
Prize: $30 gift certificate
Deadline: February 29th

Link: beano
Prize: $500 gift certificate to Target, KMart, Wal-Mart, or Sears for purchase of kitchenware
Deadline: March 28th

Monday's Contests & Giveaways

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

Link: DE Reviews
Prize: Baby sling from Slingcarrier.com
Deadline: February 7th

Link: Money Blogger
Prize: iPod Nano
Deadline: February 8th

Link: Melinda Zook
Prize: $50 to My Charmed Life
Deadline: February 8th

Link: Seven Dogs and A Baby
Prize: Lille'baby Eurotote
Deadline: February 8th

Link: Goody Blog
Prize: a Digital Camera and other cool prizes
Deadline: February 8th

Link: MyMommyBracelets
Prize: various cool items including jewelry, clothing, & staionary
Deadline: February 13th

Link: momsational
Prize: The Naked Brothers Band DVD
Deadline: February 13th

Link: Kaboose
Prize: $500
Deadline: February 14th

Link: Baby Star
Prize: a lovely blanket, burp and quick change set
Deadline: February 14th

Link: momsational
Prize: Dora the Explorer: Undercover Dora DVD
Deadline: February 15th

Link: momsational
Prize: Brain Quest DVD
Deadline: February 16th

Link: momsational
Prizes Busy Body Book
Deadline: February 17th

Link: Peekaboo
Prize: a personalized, hand painted, children's keepsake chest of your choice from Stacie Dale Designs (value of $265) plus a $40 gift certificate to Alli's Originals to spend on your personalized jewelry piece of choice
Deadline: February 29th

Link: Woman's Day
Prize: BlackBerry 8100c Red Pearl Cell Phone
Deadline: March 14th

Link: Woman's Day
Prize: Coby Digital Key Chain
Deadline: March 14th