Aurora "Softy Soakers" Review

My daughter absolutely adores anything that has to do with water. So when I learned about a new product from Aurora, Softy Soakers, I knew they would be right up her alley.

Simply place Softy Soakers in water and the plush expands from practically nothing into a full size, eight-inch plush animal. The initial collection includes the "Fanta-Sea" plush assortment, and based on the response from buyers at this year's winter shows, Aurora sees a huge hit in the making.

The "Fanta Sea" collection (MSRP: $10 each) includes a sea horse, octopus, 

hammerhead shark, dolphin, sea turtle and alligator.

We received the sea horse to check out and from the moment I took it out of the shipping box my daughter was excited! We decided to make this a family event and filled the bathroom sink with water. We all piled in to see the transformation.  At first they don't look like much. They kind of look like someone forgot to add the stuffing and they're flat as a pancake. But in a matter of seconds that all changed.

I loved how quickly these little guys go from flat to 3-D. My daughter does not have much patience at the age of 2, so she wanted to see immediate results. She was not disappointed as she "ooo-ed" at the sea horse transforming before her eyes. Then she loved wrapping him up in a towel to help him dry off. Of course we got him nice and dry and I turned around and she had thrown him in the tub. Whoops... hehe.

This is a really fun toy for kids. It's exciting and engaging to watch it become 3-D. And after a few days you can do it all over again as they do return to their regular shape. You can shop for "Softy Soakers" HERE.

Be sure to follow Aurora on Facebook to stay up to date on news and new products.

We Survived Hurricane Irene

We made it through the hurricane! We were as prepared as we could be. We brought all our outside furniture in, had nonperishable food, flashlights, and extra batteries.

We were very lucky that our area of NJ had minimal damage. We have some water damage in our garage from a spot where our roof leaked. And part of the ceiling in on of the bathroom's is coming down from water getting in. We lost power for a few hours, but were so lucky it came back on! Some of my friends are without power and they are predicting it won't be back on for a week! We also have a pretty large tree down in our yard. It came from a neighbor's yard but fortunately didn't land on anything.

Sadly, my hometown was hit really hard. They are suffering from a lot of flooding. My parents still live there and they got lucky. But many parts of the town are still underwater.

This is a park, softball field, and tennis court. I spent a lot of time there when I was younger.

The water on the roads was very deep! It has dried up a lot, but many roads are still closed.

I hope everyone else got through the storm without damage. If you wrote a post with pictures from your area please leave a link so everyone can check it out!

Shutterfly Photo Books - Review and Giveaway

I am one proud momma, and I love to show off pictures of my little girl. Ever since she was born I have gone crazy with photo mugs, photo calendars, and of course the ever popular photo books. I have photo books from her  first Halloween, first Christmas, first vacation, and many more. A picture is worth a thousand words and a book of pictures tells a priceless story.

I recently had the opportunity to try out Shutterfly's site and create a photo book. I was really excited because the site is fantastic. It's easy to navigate and everything is clearly labeled. They offer a variety of things including announcements, Christmas cards, and photo greeting cards. Photo greeting cards are always a big hit with loved ones!

The upload process was easy and within a few minutes I had an entire album filled with pictures. I then used this album to create my book. There are a wide variety of book themes and styles.  A really cool feature is that you can either have Shutterfly put your pictures in your book for you, or you can do everything custom to how you want it.

I had Shutterfly put my pictures in (they went in by date order) and then I went in and edited whatever I wanted. I was able to move pictures, change the layout, add embellishments, and of course, add text.

The entire process was easy and I had a custom book ready in a few minutes. These books are also really affordable and would make great gifts for grandparents, aunts, uncles, and friends. You can make them for a special occasion or just fill them with your favorite photos. Priceless.

My book hasn't arrived yet, so I can't speak to the quality of the finished product. However, I am optimistic that it will be great! And I will be sure to let you know as soon as it arrives! But the check out process was easy and smooth. And you promptly receive a confirmation e-mail. Overall, a great experience!

GIVEAWAY: TEN lucky winners will receive a code to create a FREE 8x8 photo book (shipping is not included)
 
HOW TO ENTER: Leave a separate comment for each entry and be sure to leave your e-mail address!

MANDATORY ENTRY: Tell me what story you would tell!

EXTRA ENTRIES:
1. Follow my blog
2. Follow me on Twitter (1 entry) and tweet about this giveaway (1 entry per tweet - one tweet per day)
3. Enter another one of my current giveaways (a list can be found top right - 1 extra entry for each one you enter!)
4. Grab my button and tell me where it is (3 entries)

This giveaway is open to US only.
This giveaway ends on September 8, 2011 at 5:00 pm EST. One winner will be chosen by Random.org and notified by e-mail. Please respond within 48 hours or a new winner will be selected. Good Luck!

BePe Baby Review and Giveaway

I love all things cute. And then add to that functional and unique and you have my attentions. I discovered BePe Baby shortly after my daughter was born. A fellow mommy blogger was telling me about their fantastic infant and toddler slippers. She was raving about how great they are because they have non-slip soles and they don't just fall off like so many slippers do. Clearly this was something I had to check out.

My daughter's first pair of slippers from BePe Baby were sensational. She had just started experimenting with pulling herself up and winter was knocking at our door. I knew these slippers would come in handy in the cold months to follow and she bravely took those first steps. She wore these slippers every day around the house. Whether she was crawling or "walking" the slippers stayed put.

Then last winter I was lucky enough to win a pair from BePe Baby. Our Grape Jelly slippers were still a hit! By this time she is all over the place and needed the traction provided by the no slip bottoms.

So here we are again, looking fall and winter right in the face. And BePe Baby has given me the opportunity to share their slippers with you! My daughter is now 2, but she's on the taller side. So I order a size up in the slippers and got an age 3-4. I wouldn't recommend this. The slippers appear to be very true to size and the 3-4's are too big. I'm sure she'll grow into them soon, but luckily she can still wear her Grape Jelly's from last year for now.

I received Pebbles slippers and I am as thrilled as ever. The fleece keeps little ones warm while the fabric print adds some cuteness! I truly can't say enough nice things about these slippers. They are clearly a hit in my house as my daughter asks to wear them. And they are made to last, as I mentioned she's wearing last years pair and they are in great condition.

They offer a wide variety of colors, styles, and sizes for both boys and girls. And they even have a bunch of other items, like belts, hats, and leg warmers. You should really check out their site! And while you are there check out their Bargain Basket for discounted items.

Receive 20% off your entire purchase, including items from the Bargain Basket, by using code MOMDRAMA at checkout! This code is good until September 30, 2011.

GIVEAWAY: One Lucky Reader will win a pair of BePe Baby Slippers!

HOW TO ENTER: Leave a separate comment for each entry and be sure to leave your e-mail address!

MANDATORY ENTRY: Tell me which style is your favorite.

EXTRA ENTRIES:
1. Follow my blog
2. Follow me on Twitter (1 entry) and tweet about this giveaway (1 entry per tweet - one tweet per day)
3. Enter another one of my current giveaways (a list can be found top right - 1 extra entry for each one you enter!)
4. Grab my button and tell me where it is (3 entries)
5. Follow BePe Baby on Facebook

This giveaway is open to US and Canada.
This giveaway ends on September 7, 2011 at 5:00 pm EST. One winner will be chosen by Random.org and notified by e-mail. Please respond within 48 hours or a new winner will be selected. Good Luck!

Getting Back-To-School!

Steve Madden Legwear makes early morning races to the bus stop comfortable, yet chic. Go from home to your parent teacher conference in this seasons hottest hosiery and leggings! No one would believe that the collection retails for under $25, and can be paired with the sweater dresses, skirts, and even leg warmers!

I am a fan of this new style! I love to throw on a tunic top or short skirt and keep my legs warm with leggins or tights. This look is quick and easy... and totally affordable with the Steve Madden line. Be comfortable and fashionable! 

I had the opportunity to check some of the Steve Madden Legwear out and I am a fan. They fit really well. The come in regular sizes like small, medium, large... and they have a chart to guide you where you would fall. I sometimes find leggins and tights to run small, but these were pretty true to size. I have also found that some leggins are thing and look more like tights because you can see through them a little. The Steve Madden Legwear is high quality! Check them out for this coming school year!

And what would a new school year be without a new backpack?

With all the cute styles you are sure to find the perfect one to match your child's personality. I was sent a Hello Kitty backpack to check out. The backpack is a good size... room for all that homework! And it's sturdy. I do remember my backpacks ripping as a child... really it must have been the teacher's fault for giving so much work! But this one feels sturdy and looks great! It's cute and trendy and sure to make a statement!

And while you are out doing your back to school shopping be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the Danielle Nicole "Sydney Shopper." This bag will help you carry everything you need while still looking stylish!

And to keep your feet comfy and cute while strolling the malls... check out XOXO flats that you can find at your local Macy's.

Happy Shopping!!

Cars 2 Races Home on November 1st!

We missed seeing Cars 2 in theaters.  I suppose that is the life of a mom with a 2 year old! But as a Disney  fanatic I am counting down the days until I can catch it on DVD. And that day is coming soon... November 1st!

CARS 2 races to the shelves on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack, Blu-ray 3D™, DVD and Movie Download on November 1, 2011.

BURBANK, Calif., August 18, 2011 — Disney•Pixar’s fast-action summer hit “Cars 2” comes home on Blu-ray Combo Pack, Blu-ray 3D, Movie Download and DVD -- November 1, 2011.  Celebrating the 25th anniversary of Pixar Animation Studios, the high octane in-home release invites families and fans of all ages to come along on a journey around the world with the #1 animated film of the year and introduces an exclusive all-new animated short “Air Mater,” featuring the fan favorite character spinning his tales in an exciting adventure high above Radiator Springs.  The must-own animated release also includes fascinating commentary from award-winning director John Lasseter and “Hawaiian Vacation,” the delightful animated short that accompanied the film in theatres. The immersive “Cars 2” bonus features include an one-of-a-kind interactive “World Tour” map that takes viewers through nine different locations, including those featured in the film and more.  A global thrill-ride, it allows viewers to go behind-the-scenes with the Pixar artists and filmmakers as they circle the globe finding inspiration for the most international of all Pixar films to date.  “Cars 2” is also the first Pixar film to be released in spectacular Blu-ray 3D.

Academy Award®-winning filmmaker John Lasseter, chief creative officer for Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios, returns to the driver’s seat as director. “Cars 2” is produced by visual effects industry veteran Denise Ream (associate producer, “Up”; visual effects executive producer, “Star Wars: Episode III — Revenge of the Sith”).  Oscar®-winning composer Michael Giacchino (“The Incredibles,” “Up”) provides the electrifying score with a surf-rock-meets-spy-thriller flavor and a variety of global accents, evoking a sense of thrills, mystery and emotion. Brad Paisley, Robbie Williams, Weezer, French singer Bénabar and Japanese girl band Perfume lend their diverse musical talents to the film’s soundtrack. The film features an all-star vocal cast including Owen Wilson who reprises his role as hotshot racecar Lightning McQueen.  Larry the Cable Guy provides the voice of Mater (proprietor of Tow Mater Towing and Salvage), Lightning McQueen’s best friend and the heart and soul of Radiator Springs.  Bonnie Hunt is back as Sally, the baby-blue Porsche 911 Carrera whose motor races for Lightning.  Acclaimed actor Michael Caine makes his Pixar debut as Finn McMissile, a top British spy who mistakes Mater for an undercover American agent with a genius disguise.  Emily Mortimer brings charm, cleverness and cachet as Holley Shiftwell, a rookie field spy who knows every trick in the manual.  Versatile actor John Turturro gives a free-wheeling performance as Francesco Bernoulli, the world-renowned Italian racing champ who is Lightning’s chief rival. Tony Shalhoub, Joe Mantegna, Peter Jacobson, Jason Isaacs, Eddie Izzard, Paul Dooley, Cheech Marin, John Ratzenberger, Franco Nero and Vanessa Redgrave also lend their vocal talents.  Real-life Formula 1 racing champ Lewis Hamilton and NASCAR racer Jeff Gordon add a touch of authenticity with their cameos in the film.

Safe Sippy 2 by Kid Basix Review

My daughter has been using the Kid Basix Safe Sippy for as long as I can remember. It was one of the first sippy cups she tried and it worked for her, so we stuck with it! What I love about Kid Basix is the design behind their products. The Safe Sippy is made of stainless steel that is lightweight. It then has a protective sleeve that is easy for kids to grasp. It also has a handles to assist those kids who are just beginning to drink independently. Really, it boils down to two things... the Safe Sippy is safe and functional. What more could a mom want?

Well, Kid Basix knew what more a mom could want and developed the Safe Sippy 2. I was recently given the chance to check out this cup for this review. Basically, the Safe Sippy 2 has the same design as the Safe Sippy with added features to make the cup even more functional. I didn't know it was possible to make a more functional sippy cup, as the Safe Sippy holds a good amount of liquid, is spill proof, has handles. But Kid Basix knew what I didn't... but was soon going to find out.

At Kid Basix, we know that nothing irks parents more than buying something for their children that doesn’t last. That’s why we created The Safe Sippy2™ convertible sippy-to-straw cup in stainless steel. It’s safe, versatile and durable. So when your child says he or she is too old for a sippy cup and wants a straw bottle like the “big kids,” you can reach for the straw adaptor instead of your wallet.

This new design makes the cup functional for a longer period of time. It grows with your child, which is great since this cup is made to last! Once I tried the super cool straw adapter with my daughter she was hooked. Now she often asks for the straw.

The Safe Sippy 2 also comes with a dust cap to help keep it clean while it's tucked away. And a very useful travel plug. I needed this on a recent trip when the Safe Sippy was tipped and flipped all over the place in a bag. It saved us from any leaks.

The Sage Sippy and Safe Sippy 2 are really easy to clean. I love how smooth the surface is and that there aren't any nooks and crannies to try and get clean. And they are dishwasher safe!

I have been and continue to be a fan of Kid Basix's products. They offer several different designs for different ages. From a bottle to a sports cup. I would highly recommend that you check out their products. You can also purchase them from many retailers, including Amazon. And they are available in a variety of bright, fun colors.

Carmex Review and Giveaway

I am a Carmex fan. I trust my lips to few, but Carmx has proven itself with me again and again. I find myself using chap stick year round. Whether it's the bitter winds of winter or the brutal summer sun, I must have protection for my lips to keep them happy!

What I love most about Carmex is their variety. They offer chap sticks, lip balms, shimmers, anything your lips  desire. And now they are offering more great flavors to really make you smile!

I have always been a huge fan of the original flavor. It tingles on your lips and feels so fresh. You can really feel it working. But when Carmex sent me this package I had to give them a try. They both have SPF 15 (perfect for beach days) and all the moisturizing ingredients found in your favorite Carmex products. But they also have 3 additional moisturizers that are not in the original line. Extra moist and delicious!

Lime Twist and Vanilla are the two new flavors, and both are exceptional. And you know what, even with the added flavor you can still feel it tingle! The Lime Twist was my favorite. It may in part be because it's summer and really added some freshness. It's light and enjoyable and you could smell the lime when you opened it. My husband did claim the Lime Twist as his after I tried it.... major bummer for me! The Vanilla was also light, but not as light. It came across as more of a winter flavor to me. Is it weird that I seasonalize my flavors?

I would recommend that you check out Carmex... and if you're already a fan look for these fun flavors! Carmex is available at Walgreens, Walmart, and CVS.

GIVEAWAY: One Lucky Reader will win a prize pack just like mine to check out these new flavors (It has an awesome blanket that is nice and soft and fleecy)!
 
HOW TO ENTER: Leave a separate comment for each entry and be sure to leave your e-mail address!

MANDATORY ENTRY: Check out Carmex and tell me your favorite product or one you would like to try!

EXTRA ENTRIES:
1. Follow my blog
2. Follow me on Twitter (1 entry) and tweet about this giveaway (1 entry per tweet - one tweet per day)
3. Enter another one of my current giveaways (a list can be found top right - 1 extra entry for each one you enter!)
4. Grab my button and tell me where it is (3 entries)
5. Follow Carmex on Facebook
6. Follow Carmex on twitter

This giveaway is open to US only.
This giveaway ends on August 31, 2011 at 5:00 pm EST. One winner will be chosen by Random.org and notified by e-mail. Please respond within 48 hours or a new winner will be selected. Good Luck!

*Carmex contacted me and sent this kit for review. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own and were not influenced in any way. I really just love Carmex :)

More S'mores!

This weekend we went to visit my in-laws for a couple of days. One of my favorite things about visiting them is that we always sit by the fire. Which means... s'mores!

Little Miss loved them! But she was a little bothered by the stickiness of them.

We all had a great time!

My Squirmy Wormy #SlipOnHUGGIES

I was talking to my grandma the other day and she asked what the toughest thing about my daughter was at this stage. I was a little happy to say that right now my biggest challenge is changing her diaper. I mean, she's in her terrible two's! Shouldn't there be something worse on the top of my list. I mean, sure, we have our meltdowns and periods in time out. But I seriously DREAD diaper time. My husband and I fight over who's turn it is when he's home. It's such a production!

As soon as we utter the word "diaper" the drama starts. She runs away and tries to hide. Well, you can run but you can't hide! Then I pick her up and she goes wet noodle. Oh fun. Once she's on the changing mat I have to hold her down... please note that I have opened the wipes and the new diaper before this process started because there is no way I would be able to do either of those things while holding her down. This is where the kicking starts. And she kicks hard!

Whoa is me. So I have spent many days trying different things to get her to lay still during a diaper change. The best thing I could figure out was the iPad. She absolutely loves to get her hands on my iPad, so during diaper changes I put on a fun app or a video on YouTube and she tends to lay still. I am not above bribery either. I sometimes promise a snack if she's good. Or I let her hold one of her favorite toys. Every once in awhile me singing to her will work. But I don't think she's too crazy about my voice. So I tend to get a better response with the toy, promise of a snack, or the ever popular iPad.

So the other day I was watching TV and I saw an ad for the Little Movers Slip on Diapers. These immediately caught my attention as I thought wow... that would make my life easier. I would love to be able to just slip them on her. And potty training is.... hopefully... right around the corner. So this style could be really beneficial for getting her ready for potty training and using pull ups.

I am really intrigued by these new diapers and will be looking for them the next time I am out and about. But I am also interested in knowing what you do to tame the squirmy wormy during diaper time?

The Huggies® community brings parents together so that you and your babies fully enjoy every day, whatever the day presents. Enjoy the ride with Huggies®.

More info on Huggies: http://www.huggies.com

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I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Huggies blogging program, for a gift card worth $35. For more information on how you can participate, click here

The Fox and the Hound - 2 Movie Collection Review

On August 9th, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment releases THE FOX AND THE HOUND & THE FOX AND THE HOUND 2 as a 2-Movie Collection on Blu-ray Hi-Def & DVD Combo Pack in celebration of the 30th Anniversary of the original film. 

In the tradition of heart-warming films, such as Bambi and Dumbo, comes Disney’s classic tales that taught us the power of friendship in The Fox and the Hound and The Fox and the Hound 2, in a special 30th Anniversary 2-Movie Collection.  For the first time ever in high-definition, consumers can now experience the brilliant, humor-filled adventures of best friends Copper and Tod in an all-new digitally restored version of the original 1981 film, arriving to stores on August 9, 2011.  

 Featuring an all-star cast of voice talents, toe-tapping music and fantastic bonus features, consumers can take home two of Disney’s beloved “tails.” The Fox and the Hound and The Fox and the Hound 2, 2-Movie Collection features both movies in a single 3-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack.  This release provides families with the value, versatility and opportunity to enjoy their favorite movies how they want, when they want and on the entertainment platform of choice – whether it’s in the home, on a portable device and/or in the car. 

 

My daughter was so excited to watch this movie because she loves dogs! It's was really fun to see her connect with the movie. She would point out when the dog was sad and when Copper leaves until Spring she started asking where "woof" went. She really enjoyed the film and was excited when I told her she could also watch the second one!

I also enjoyed the movie. This is an old classic and brought back memories of watching it when I was younger. While it is a little sad at time, it's also very heartwarming! It's fun to see the relationships of all the animals. Big Momma (the owl) watches over Tod even once he finds a home. The wood pecker and the other bird are hysterical! And even Copper finds a relationship with the stubborn old hunting dog, Chief.

The movie is full of action and adventure. You often find yourself on the edge of your seat as Tod has to escape the hunter. You also can find your eyes welling up with tears, both from sadness and heartfelt moments. It's a great family film!

And the adventures only continue with The Fox and the Hound 2. This picks up in the middle of the Fox and the Hound. It's after Tod and Copper become friends, but they are still young. It's a story with a lesson as Copper and Tod's friendship is tested and mistakes are made. It's a good movie to teach loyalty and being true to your friends. This one is a bit more humorous and lighthearted, but still lots of fun!

Mars Needs Moms on 3D Blu-ray and DVD TODAY!

On August 9th, Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment releases MARS NEEDS MOMS 

on 3D Blu-ray, 2D Blu-ray, & DVD!

This Fall, families will not want to miss the chance to own MARS NEEDS MOMS, the story of a young boy’s intergalactic adventure to find his Martian-nabbed mother as it arrives into living rooms across the country in a Blu-ray™ Combo Pack with 3D, DVD, Movie Download and On-Demand August 9, 2011. From Disney and Academy Award®-winner Robert Zemeckis (Best Director, Forrest Gump, 1994), comes the craziest adventure in the galaxy— complete with out-of this world special effects and jam packed with bonus features, it’s a thrilling journey that’s pure fun. 

Take out the trash, eat your broccoli — who needs moms anyway? Nine-year-old Milo (Seth Green) finds out how much he needs his mom (Joan Cusack) when she's nabbed by Martians who plan to steal her mom-ness for their own young. In a race against time and oxygen, his quest to save her knows no bounds. And with some unexpected help, Milo just might find his way back to her — in more ways than one. 

My family was so excited to check out this movie. We set up a whole movie night... we ordered pizza, had special treats, and stayed up late to watch it all together. Admittedly, the film was geared for children a little older than my daughter (who's 2). While Toy Story can keep her attention the whole time, this lost her attention after about 15 minutes. 

While my daughter moved on and played around us, my husband and I were totally into the film. I would see this movie being ideal for about ages 7 and up. It's a darker movie that takes place in space with aliens, perfect for that preteen crowd. The main characters - Milo, Gribble, and Ki - are all fantastic. Gribble was my favorite. He's goofy yet always looking out for his buddy, Milo. And Ki was so unique! She's caring and artistic and brave. 

My husband and I Really enjoyed the film. It did make me well up at times. Milo's love for his mother just illustrates how powerful "that crazy love thing" is. And a mother being willing to give up her own life for her child's is so real. As a mother I was really able to connect with the feelings and messages being portrayed. As a movie junky I was really able to dive into the adventure that fills this movie. Definitely check it out!

Kidorable Rain Boots Review and Discount!

Kidorable is one of my favorite brands for kids. How they combine fun, imagination, style, and function just amazes me. As parents, we know the daily struggles of getting out kids to put on the hats and gloves or wear a raincoat. Kidorable takes these completely functional products to a whole new level! 

They have a variety of themes for your little one to pick from. Everything from firemen to ballerinas to frogs or ladybugs. Dinosaurs, pirates, cats, or mermaids... there is a style for every personality! If your child is anything like mine, they will no longer fight the hats and gloves but will ask for them and wear them around the house just for the fun of it!

We have a bunch of Kidorable products in my house. My daughter loves them! But we don't have any of their rain boots. So when the opportunity arose for me to check them out for myself, I jumped at it and ordered the ballerina style to match my daughter's raincoat and umbrella.

As soon as we opened the box she started asking to put them on. So I handed them over to see what she could do. She sat down and easily slipped each boot on and stood up proudly. I love that she can get them on herself because she is in that independent phase where she wants my help as little as possible.

I am thrilled with the quality of these boots. The inside lining is soft and allows for the foot to slide in. Once it's in the foot seems to be secure. I ordered a size up so that she could grow into them and her foot is not sliding out. The rubber exterior seems sturdy and the design is fantastic! She loves them and so do I.

Now I just need to figure out how to get her to save them for rainy days and not want to wear them all day every day!

From ballerinas to butterflies, from frogs to firemen, we have styles that enrich growing imaginations.  August 8-22, you can get 20% off these adorable boots when you use coupon code SCHOOL at www.kidorable.com.

ApronsandSmocks.com Review

I enjoy cooking. Yes, I am fessing up to it. Before I had my daughter I used to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. I would experiment with new recipes frequently, and baking was pretty much a weekly event. But once I had my daughter my time to cook was drastically cut. This made cooking kind of turn into a chore. But now things are starting to turn around.

My daughter is at the age where she really likes to help mommy. And helping in the kitchen is one of her favorite things to do. So my time in the kitchen is starting to increase, and it's even more fun now with her helping me!

I was recently given the opportunity to check out ApronsandSmocks.com, which is a site full of aprons, smocks, chef apparel, and more. When I started looking I immediately thought this site was geared towards restaurants, but really it's a great site for a variety of things!

The first thing that struck me was how affordable the aprons are. I checked out a 3 pocket apron that is listed for only $5.75. They offer a variety of styles and colors. And then... you can have them personalized!

I decided to get a three pocket bib apron in purple. I then had "Mommy's Kitchen" embroidered on the top in hibiscus. The apron arrived last week and I was impressed. The material is high quality. It's got a substantial feel to it, it's not too heavy but it's a nice feel. The three pockets are great! I was kind of surprised how useful they were. I was able to keep a measuring spoon that I was using in one pocket and I put a recipe card in the other so I didn't have to keep walking across the kitchen to check out what I needed next.

And the embroidery looks great! I am really excited to wear this apron often. It's useful and looks great. My husband said I looked cute :)

I would definitely recommend you check out this site. Whether you are looking for a functional apron for yourself or a gift, this is the place to look. And they even have aprons for kids! I am definitely thinking about purchasing one for my daughter and having it personalized. This way she can use it when she helps me cook and when she does arts and crafts!

Peaches!

This weekend peach season arrived! I had never been peach picking before, so we decided to give it a try.

So now we have all these peaches and I am in need of some recipes! Does anyone have any good ones they could share?

Are You a Fashionista?

Little Miss is!!

I wrote a post a few days ago about my daughter's sense of style. I thought this picture pretty much shows her personality and style. She's crazy, funny, happy, creative, and basically just amazing! I love her outfit and I love her!

Costume Super Center Review

Ok, so I know today is only the first day of August. But I am already getting excited about fall! I really love fall and everything that comes with it. Apple picking, pumpkin picking, festivals, and of course... Halloween!

Halloween takes on a whole new dimension when you have kids. My daughter's first Halloween was so much fun and so exciting. It was definitely more fun for her dad and I then her! And now that she's two it just keeps getting better. She has even been telling us what she wants to be!

Now, I am the typical mom if a little girl who wants to dress her as a princess or fairy. But when we asked her  what she wanted to be she didn't even hesitate before saying "dinoboo"! Which means dinosaur. Luckily for me Costume Super Center, which has an amazingly huge selection of costumes, had a fabulous dinosaur that I felt could work as a boys Halloween costume or a girls.

Introducing the Dragonsaurus Child Costume!

I am really impressed by this costume. I had read some of the reviews on the site that suggested ordering up in size. I have found this to be true basically across the costume board. I always order up. So this is a size 4-6. It's a little big on her in that the legs and arms are long. But I am happy with that because there is room to wear warm clothes underneath and she can use this for dress up for a couple of years. So I'm glad I ordered the size I did.

My husband immediately commented about the quality. This costume is listed for $22.97 and looks and feels like it cost a lot more! It's all one piece and zips up the front. The head fits her perfectly and doesn't fall off on it's own. It's soft and looks so comfortable. It was a 90 degree day when we tried this on and my daughter refused to take it off! She was having the best time running around "rarrring" at us. And she looked ADORABLE!! I am really thrilled with this costume and I will happily have my little girl wear it on Halloween. Though I may add a big pink bow to the top!

Costume Super Center is a great place to shop for all your costume needs. They carry everything from animal costumes to your child's favorite characters. They have costumes for all ages from infant to adult. I love that they offer reviews right there so you can see what other customers thought. They have really great prices and my item shipped quickly. Check it out and make sure you and your family are ready for Halloween!

Winners!

Random.org has chosen our winners for the Seventh Generation and Hatley Giveaways!!

Seventh Generation - #85 Emmy's Closet

Hatley - #38 MStrickland96

Congratulations to our winners! E-mail notifications have been sent. The winners will have 48 hours to respond or we will have to choose another winner.

Thank you to everyone who entered!