Now What Baby: All Reviews

Showing posts with label All Reviews. Show all posts

3.30.2011

One Love Organics!

One Love Organics is a brand dedicated to creating supreme products that are filled with exactly what your skin truly needs. They use only the highest grade of ethically sourced raw materials and even go so far as to hand make and hand fill their products. The real selling factor for me was that their products are so pure that you can use them on anyone - even your newborn child.

I really liked all three products I tried from One Love Organics. The Easy Does It Foaming Cleanser was gentle and easy to use. It is made using only plant based ingredients and I found it to be soothing to my skin. The foaming lather didn't leave my skin feeling dry and I would definitely use this on a daily basis. I also thought that the Brand New Day Microderma Scrub and Masque was a really cool product. I loved how effective it was as a facial scrub but still so gentle I could use it daily on my sensitive skin. I thought it was really neat that it could also be used as a body scrub as well. However, my favorite feature of this product was the ability to use it to create distinctly different facial masks. You can simply mix it with 1-2 tablespoons warm water to create a mask or you can change things up by adding ingredients from your kitchen. Mixing the powder with raw honey (my favorite combo) creates a mask that so moisturizing (and healing) or you can mix it with yogurt to get a mask that becomes an astringent & cleanser. It's pretty cool to have one product that has so many possibilities.

My absolute favorite was the Skin Savior. I was just amazed at all the uses it has! I used it mainly as a moisturizer and with this product - a little goes a long way. I would keep it in my purse and use it on my children as well because their skin was getting so dry during these cold months. It also makes a great cleanser because you basically give your face a massage with it and then wipe off with warm water. It was perfect for removing makeup and I loved that it left my skin feeling extremely moisturized. My favorite thing to do with this unique product is to create makeup out of it. You can actually mix it with your mineral powders to create an exceptional foundation. The coverage is easy to adjust based on how much powder you add to this amazing multi-use balm. You can mix it in your hand and then apply with a makeup brush. I loved being able to create basically a light tinted moisturizer for my skin. Once applied you simply set it with a light coat of powder. The more you use Skin Savior the more uses you find for it. I am completely addicted to this wonder product.

Simply Stated - This brand has put such great attention to their products and the result is truly superior results. I use them daily and continue to be impressed with their quality.

One lucky reader will win their own set of all three amazing products I spoke about above complete with the adorable carrying case you see in the picture! To enter to win the Essentials To Go Travel Kit - visit One Love Organics and comment back with the answer to the following question: What do you think are the top 3 reasons not to include water in beauty products? The deadline to enter is April 7th at midnight EST and this giveaway is open to US Residents only. You can increase your winning chances by the methods below: THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.

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Special thanks to One Love Organics for sponsoring the giveaway and providing samples for review purposes.

3.25.2011

A stylish iPad Clutch that makes me happy!

We love having an iPad and I have become shocked by how many uses it now has in our daily lives. However, I never really liked having to tote it around. My purses just keep getting larger to make room for my stuff and the iPad is a space hog. Add in the fact that with two little guys we needed a protective case and you'll understand why I was thrilled to come across the Clutch from Happy Owl Studio. This incredibly stylish case takes away the need for a handbag because it is a functional handbag. You can actually keep your debit/credit cards, your pens, your phone, your keys, essentially all your necessities inside this sleek little case. If that's not enough for you - did I mention it is also very protective? This case is well made and meant to last. The outer is made with genuine leather and the inside lining is soft microfiber around your iPad. I no longer worry about scratches and since it was smartly designed with access to all the ports/buttons - I never need to take it out of the clutch.

I'm beyond impressed with this genius product! I have never seen anything so stylish and functional for the iPad. I was really thrilled with the way you could fold the case to turn it into a stand. This is great for when the kids are watching a movie or when it's charging at night and I want it to display a clock. Happy Owl Studio has gone above and beyond with their clutch - it's something every woman would be proud to tote their iPad in.

You can choose from 3 different colors - red, blue, and black. The clutch also comes with a detachable strap to make it even more useful for your busy lifestyle. The price is something that I was really impressed with as well. I paid $50 for a basic shell of a case for our iPad. Getting a chic leather clutch that not only protects my iPad but also takes away the need for a new purse for only $79 seems like a steal to me. If you are going to invest in an iPad you realize how important it is to protect that purchase. In my opinion this is the case to go with! When you check out Happy Owl Studio you'll see that they also have a wallet option perfect for the man in your life. It's basically the same as the clutch without the pleating - my husband is now hinting his desire for the black wallet.

Simply Stated: The clutch is brilliant and deserving of my highest praise. I couldn't find one thing to dislike about it and trust me - that's a rarity for someone as nit picky as myself.

One very lucky reader will win a black clutch from Happy Owl Studio! To enter to win visit Happy Owl Studio and comment back telling us which product is your favorite and why. The deadline to enter is April 1st at midnight EST. This giveaway is open to US residents only. As always there are a few extra ways to up your winning chances and here they are: THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.

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Special thanks to Happy Owl Studio for providing the giveaway prize.

3.18.2011

Dingle - The Helpful ice Cream Cone Delivery Dog

Audrey Kinsella's book - Dingle, The Helpful Ice Cream Cone Delivery Dog was a unique type of book. It centers around a special needs dog named Dingle who just wants to help. This is a story that I can see being very helpful to families who have members with special needs. It does a good job of showing how it's ok to accept help and that people, or in this case Dingle, truly want to help. When I read the story to my 5 year old he was very curious about special needs dogs and what they are all about. I think that Dingle should have a sequel that goes greater into depth about all the things he does to help out his master. I liked the way the book showed his desire to help and the way in the end his master learned that his help was something worth accepting. The one thing about the book that bothered me was the way anything said by the characters (in their little speech bubbles) was reprinted below as the story. I seemed a little redundant. I found it a bit confusing at times because it would never say who said what - so you needed to refer to the speech bubbles. My kids enjoyed the story regardless and the only complaint they had was they wanted to see more of Dingle in action.

Simply Stated: I think this book does a perfect job of getting across the message it was meant to share. However, keep in mind it feels more like a teaching aid than a bedtime story.

I was provided a sample of this book for review purposes.

I just can't get enough of this scent!

I am addicted to anything that smells like vanilla. I can't resist the scent of it and have recently become very picky about how it should smell. I believe a well-rounded vanilla should smell natural, subtle, warm, and sweet. I can't stand it when it becomes overpowering or too-sweet and over-the-top. I want it to feel elegant but still remind you a little of the scent when you grandma was baking. Lush's Vanillary encapsulates everything I want in a vanilla perfume. It has that perfect hint of vanilla extract and it is just a comforting aroma to me. When you combine that with the hint of burnt caramel - I'm so in love with this scent. It's not at all strong but it leaves just enough for your skin to smell sensually sweet and warm. I really like that Lush offers it in 4 different sizes. You can go with my favorite option - their 4 oz. solid perfume. I am constantly endorsing solid perfumes because they are so much simpler and more convenient. I keep them in my bag and never worry about a leak (do be mindful that they will melt if you leave them in the heat too long). It's much easier to apply and you no longer end up spraying just a little too much. You can get your own Vanillary 4 oz. for only 9.95 from Lush.

Simply Stated - The smell is amazing and for the price - you cannot beat it!

Special thanks to Lush for providing a sample for review purposes.

20 weeks - This pant has got my back!

You have probably already heard about Sassybax and their awesome line of shapewear. They recently came out with a new addition worth raving about - the Cigarette Pant! Pregnant or not, this is a smoking hot add on that your wardrobe deserves. It is the perfect mix of a legging, the classic silhouette of the cigarette pant, and shapewear. I love it's versatility. You can easily dress this up for a night out or dress it down for a casual look. It is also extremely comfortable. I'm not lying. I'm telling you from my 20-week pregnant body that they are truly comfortable shapewear. When I opened the package and observed that it looked like it was a pair of tights for an 8 year old - I was worried. I thought no way these will fit me and if they do - they are going to suck the life out of me. I was completely wrong. They adapt perfectly to your body and then after wearing go back to their munchkin form. They definitely retain their stretch. I loved the way they improved my body. It seems like the further along I get the bigger my back love handles get (sorry for the visual), so typically tight bottoms give me a muffin top to go with my big belly. These pants smoothed it all out and made my backside look better than ever. Muffin top begone and they even left me panty line free. A really nice feature of the pants is the ability to fold down the top if you like. Currently I like the full coverage of wearing them high but I can see me enjoying this option later down the road.

They would also make awesome work-out pants because the fabric just wicks away moisture. I will definitely be sporting these to my Pilate's class. You can choose from white or black (or go for both). After trying these out in black I am adding the white pair to my birthday wish list. Sassybax's Cigarette Pants are perfect for any woman. I love that this is a piece of clothing that works pregnant or not pregnant. It will be a staple that I can always wear. You can get your own pair online from Sassybax and while you are there check out their other amazing options for your body.

Simply Stated - This one gets a top notch rating from me! I was really impressed with the quality, versatility, and the comfort. I really love that I can wear them pregnant or not!

Special thanks to Sassybax for providing a sample for review purposes.

3.17.2011

Lipstock

When something truly excels at what it sets out to do - it really doesn't need any frills to get attention. Lipstock Cream does just that with simplistic elegance. As you can tell by the clean, modern design of the tube - they truly understand the concept of less is more. I am so impressed with this smartly created lip conditioner. It does exactly as promised and provides your lips with superior moisture. When I wear it my lips instantly feel hydrated. I love that it is without color, without scent, without even a taste to it. I hate when I put a product on my lips and then everything somehow ends up tasting like it. It goes on feeling light, non-greasy, but you can feel an instant difference. Created with ingredients like green tea, vitamin E, organic shea butter, organic avocado oil, organic beeswax, grapeseed oil and even watermelon seed oil - this is one product that delivers as promised. It's long lasting and even provides your lips with a subtle shine. It's even handmade in the USA with 100% natural and USDA certified organic ingredients. I'd say this one is a keeper and will now always be found in my purse. It would make a great gift too - it actually comes wrapped up like a piece of candy (so cute). Get some for yourself from the Lipstock site. Your lips will thank you!

Simply Stated - It does everything and is everything I could want in a lip cream. My only complaint is that I wish it was a little bit cheaper. While $15 isn't too steep it will make me want to stretch each tube as far as I can. So, hands off kiddos!

Special thanks to Lipstock for providing the giveaway prize and a sample for review purposes.

Dream Big, Little Pig

Not only is Kristi Yamaguchi an Olympic Champion, 2 time World Champion, and a winner of Dancing with the Stars, but she also wrote an inspirational children's book. This woman can clearly do anything she puts her mind to and definitely abides by her personal motto "Always Dream". Her book - Dream Big Little Pig does a great job of applying that motto to the world of a cute pig named Poppy. So many things that Poppy wants to do don't quite work out the way she envisions but when she loses herself in something she loves - she succeeds. It's easy to read this to my children (even though they are boys) and to get them to clearly grasp to message, Dream Big! While neither of them are expressing a desire to follow in Poppy's dreams they are confident about pursuing their own. Connor wants to be a super secret spy (and you do not know that because I was sworn to secrecy) and Jackson is torn between an exciting career as Batman or Spiderman. No matter what your child has for a dream, this book is excellent at teaching kids not to give up, to keep trying, believe in themselves, and most of all to dream big. It's definitely another success for Kristi Yamaguchi! You can get your own copy online here and start sharing this inspiring story with the little dreamer in your life.

Simply Stated: I loved the clear message of this story and when you add in the adorable illustrations - I'm a fan. It's one that is definitely worth sharing with your child.

VeggieTales is a happy compromise

Finding something that both the kids and I can agree upon for car ride musical accompaniment can be quite the challenge. Jackson wants to listen to that Gummi Bear song and Connor would be happy to listen to Johnny Cash on repeat. Most of the songs I might put on are not necessarily something I want to catch my little guys singing to themselves in the classroom. VeggieTales Hosanna! CD was a good fit for our family. It's filled with 10 top worship songs sung by your favorite vegetable characters along with Amy Grant & Mark Hall. I was surprised by how many of the songs I recognized from our church and even more impressed when I realized Connor was singing the words (he apparently is retaining something from Sunday school). I used to watch VeggieTales at church when I was younger and I was always a fan of the cucumber. It's his voice I think because it was pretty fun to hear him singing some of the songs on the CD. It's pretty much impossible not to at least smile when you listen to it. Jackson keeps saying "you like him? he funny singer". I'm a fan of this CD and for the time being we all agree on what to listen to in the car.

You can pick up a copy of Hosanna! online at the VeggieTales website for only $9.99.

Simply Stated: It is worth the price every time I see my boys singing along with the CD and it really is an adorable listen.

3.07.2011

Celestial Moisturizer uses the power of Vanilla Water

A good moisturizer can be hard to find. One of my all time favorite brands Lush has created a moisture filled solution that keeps my skin looking fresh all day. I am hooked on Celestial - it's wonderfully soothing and calming to my sensitive skin. It goes on light, cool, creamy, and then it locks moisture in for the entire day. There is no greasy residue on my face! The secret weapon to this high preforming treat? Vanilla Water. Vanilla is my all time favorite scent but I had no idea that natural vanilla spice oil is actually really good at preventing redness and reactions. It not only smells incredible but it also soothes & locks in moisture. My husband is even hooked on this moisturizer. He is always asking me for something to help with his dry skin and once I let him try this one out - he only wants to use it.

You can get Celestial for yourself from Lush for only $22.95.

Simply Stated: We gave it a 5 heart rating for it's amazing hydrating powers, lovely light scent, and working so well with sensitive skin. It gets the job done - no complaints.

3.03.2011

Build a Dream Playhouses

This is probably the coolest thing I have ever seen made of cardboard. I am beyond impressed with Build a Dream Playhouses. We received this big flat cardboard box and within about 2 minutes it was a full on play kitchen. I honestly put off opening the box for a little while because I anticipated lots of bending, folding, and cramming tiny tabs into little holes. There was none of that. It was the easiest thing I have ever assembled. You just pull it open and pull down the fridge shelves and counter tops. Voila - your work is over. We have not painted ours yet but that is because it's been too rainy to go outside and paint lately. I couldn't wait any longer to share this cool company with you - so forgive the lack of color on our kitchen (we will get to that as soon as the weather allows).

Pretty much the instant we had this baby together my sons had brought out all their play kitchen supplies. They were having quite the time playing in this instant kitchen. I am impressed with how durable it is - my 2 year old hasn't destroyed it yet. I also think it is very cool how functional it is - they cabinet doors actually open to put their supplies in and the fridge also opens to allow food storage. They can bang on the stove top with their pans and it holds strong. I've seen cardboard playhouses before but never a kitchen, especially one with this attention to detail.

The amount of work (zero) needed to create a cool play space for your little one is really appreciated by me. This is something that would make a unforgettable gift and I know I will be ordering another option from their selection when my kid's birthdays roll around this year. If a play kitchen is not your child's thing - they also offer a snack shack, cosmic cruiser, a wagon (looks like an ice cream truck to me), a castle, and a dream machine (a cool car). There is definitely something to please pretty much any little one.

I actually had to struggle to get my son to attend school after we first put the Pop N'Play Kitchen together. I know you are thinking you have to struggle to get your kid to school everyday but my oldest son never complains about going to school. He just kept saying - "Jack is so lucky, he gets to stay home and play with the kitchen all day. I wish I could stay home and play too". I'm sure at some point the thrill may wear off but at least I didn't invest $200 into a big plastic kitchen that is now taking over our home (this is certainly more eco-friendly too - seeing as how it was made from 80% recycled products and now it is 100% recyclable). You can actually fold this kitchen back up if you want to for easy completely flat storage. I'm pretty thankful to find a toy that gives me that option - even more impressive is to have that option in a toy so big that it is taller than both of your children.

Simply Stated: I loved it's limitless creative options, especially that it could be decorated by your children + the ability to fold flat is truly a gift. My only drawback was the price - it is cardboard and at up to $70 for some options it can get a little steep for this mom.

One lucky reader will win their choice of any playhouse from Build a Dream Playhosues!! 1)Visit Build a Dream Playhouses and comment below with the answer to the following question: Which playhouse would you pick and why? 2) You MUST like Build a Dream Playhouse on Facebook (just click the link here and then press the little like box on their page). The deadline to enter is March 10th at midnight EST and this giveaway is open to US residents only. Be sure to include your email in your comment or we will not be able to let you know if you are the winner!

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18 weeks: Damo Momo makes maternity style look easy & affordable!

I'm just at the point in my pregnancy where I look like I've been eating way too much junk food. In all honesty - I probably have but if people would look a little closer they would see it is actually a baby bump. When I shop for maternity clothing right now I'm looking for 3 things - comfort, hiding my lump, and that it will still look good when my lump is a very clear big bump. Unfortunately for me, it is not that easy to find something that fits those 3 requirements. When I found Damo Momo I was thrilled. They nailed my maternity wish list to a T! They completely grasped the concept of an elegantly flowing garment that is also extremely wearable. I can see me wearing almost all the items in the collection to the park with my boys or being able to dress them up for a night out with my husband.

One thing about Damo Momo that sets them apart from other brands is their commitment to the environment. All of their products are made with eco-friendly fabric and dyes. Their clothing is all produced locally in California and they even use renewable resources to get the job done. I got the chance to try out the "Twinkle, Little Star" Maternity Shirt and I was extremely pleased. I liked the way it was thoughtfully cut to allow some flow in the midsection. The fabric is VERY soft and comfy - it's made using bamboo and organic cotton jersey knit. The fabric has just the right amount of stretch but it still maintains it's shape. I appreciated the longer length in the back - this is great for me because I am always bending over to pick up something or some child and it keeps my backside from being exposed. Maternity jeans tend to slide down on me for some reason.

While the top fits me very well right now - I can tell that it will also look good as I continue to get larger. I can even see wearing this after baby arrives because the cut is very forgiving to post baby weight. I could easily dress this top both up and down - so I appreciate it's versatility as well. Check out the full line of Damo Momo options - there is something for every expectant mother and there are also some seriously cute baby clothing. I am loving the adorable panda inspired apparel (especially the hat). I would strongly recommend Damo Momo because of the quality, the way the company cares for the environment, the style, and the affordability. The cute top I'm wearing only costs $29.99 and that gorgeous evening gown above is only $98 (if you have ever shopped for a flattering full length maternity evening gown you know what a steal that is). So expectant mamas and parents of little ones - you can shop Damo Momo online here.

Simply Stated - I was really impressed with how soft and affordable the clothing is but I wish the top was a tiny bit longer in the front.

3.02.2011

Give that old coupe a little pick me up!

My boys both love the Cozy Coupe from Little Tikes. They have a warm place for the foot-powered vehicle and have been playing with it for years. When I learned about the Cozy Coupe Trailer I was really interested because it seemed like such an easy way to add even more fun to their little red car. When the box arrived on our doorstep both little guys were bright eyed with excitement. It didn't take long to install (granted I put my husband on it). I was concerned that it might not work well with our older version coupe but we had no difficulties. The connector screwed right into the bottom rear of our coupe and then the boys were off with grand schemes of what they could now tote along on their journeys.

You can easily attach and un-attach the trailer from the coupe. It basically has a kid style hitch. My two year old even grasped the concept. So....what did they haul? At first it was their toys, then they decided it would be fun to haul the snacks for a picnic, they hauled book bags, stuffed animals, leaves, rocks, and of course at some point they Connor had to try hauling his little brother. It's another quality toy from one of our favorite brands and it's a affordable way to bring new life into an old favorite. I don't know if your children are like mine but they absolutely love pulling random stuff around. Connor especially likes to pretend he's loading up for a camping trip. They also have a girly colored trailer so that your little princess won't have to compromise on matching to join in on the fun!

Simply Stated: I liked that it gave one of our classic toys a facelift and instantly made it feel new to my boys. At only $30 - it's money well spent.

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